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City of Grand Rapids
The City of Grand Rapids Community Development Department administers the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission (MIDC) Program for eligible criminal defendants in the City's courts. Through the program, the City works to ensure that indigent defendants receive constitutionally required legal representation consistent with the standards established by the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission.
The MIDC was established under the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission Act (Public Act 93 of 2013) to improve the quality and consistency of indigent defense services throughout Michigan. The Commission has adopted statewide standards governing the delivery of indigent defense services, and the City of Grand Rapids is committed to implementing and maintaining compliance with those standards.
The program takes a holistic approach to indigent defense by supporting access to legal representation and other services that help ensure fair and effective outcomes.
Eligible defendants may have access to services such as:
Availability of services is subject to eligibility requirements and applicable MIDC standards.
Click here to apply for an attorney.
Attorneys interested in participating in the City's MIDC Program can access application materials, program requirements, reimbursement information, and other resources below.
Attorney Resources
Continued Legal Education
The City of Grand Rapids implements the standards established by the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission (MIDC) and approved by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).
The MIDC standards include:
View the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission Standards
The Michigan Indigent Defense Commission (MIDC) is a statewide agency created by Public Act 93 of 2013 to establish standards for legal representation provided to individuals who cannot afford an attorney in criminal cases.
Eligibility for indigent defense services is determined by the court based on financial information and other factors established under Michigan law and the MIDC Indigency Standard.
Court-appointed attorneys are assigned through established procedures. Requests for a different attorney are handled by the court in accordance with applicable law and court policies.
If you have concerns about your attorney's representation, you should raise those concerns with the judge as soon as possible. You may ask the judge to appoint substitute counsel; however, the court determines whether substitute counsel will be appointed based on applicable law and the circumstances of the case.
Individuals may also submit feedback regarding the MIDC Program using the Program Feedback Form (Coming Soon). Feedback helps the City monitor program quality and compliance with MIDC standards.
Visit the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission website for statewide standards, publications, and additional resources.
Quick Links
Contact
Michigan Indigent Defense Commission (MIDC) Program
Community Development Department
City of Grand Rapids
Phone: 616-456-4694
Email: midc@grand-rapids.mi.us
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