SE Oakland News

A plan to add a third probate judge in Macomb County, Michigan, has been signed into law, thanks to the efforts of State Rep. Tom Kuhn. Currently, the county's two full-time probate judges are struggling to manage the increasing caseloads.

"Probate court considers cases involving the most vulnerable people in times of greatest need," said Rep. Kuhn. "Macomb County needs another judge to ensure high-quality, efficient service. While current judges and staff have made an exemplary effort managing increasing caseloads, news of this addition will certainly be a great early Christmas gift to both the courts and the families who rely on them."

Analysis conducted by the Michigan State Court Administrator Office (SCAO) as far back as 2019 has indicated that Macomb County should have a minimum of 3 to 4 probate judges to effectively manage its caseload. This recommendation was reaffirmed earlier this year when the SCAO updated their analysis based on current caseloads.

Rep. Kuhn, who has been practicing law for over 35 years, was joined by State Rep. Doug Wozniak, the sponsor of the bill, as well as the Macomb County courts and the Michigan Supreme Court in supporting this legislation. The new probate judge will be elected in 2024 and take office in 2025.

The addition of a third probate judge will help alleviate the burden on the current judges and ensure that the needs of the community are met in a timely and efficient manner. It is a significant step towards providing high-quality service to the most vulnerable individuals in Macomb County.

This decision has been widely welcomed by the legal community and the families who rely on the probate court system. With the support of various stakeholders, the implementation of this plan will bring positive changes to the local judiciary.

Macomb County can now look forward to a future where its probate court system is better equipped to handle the increasing caseloads and provide the necessary assistance to those in need. As Rep. Kuhn aptly put it, this addition is indeed an early Christmas gift to both the courts and the families they serve.

To learn more, click on this link: https://gophouse.org/posts/rep-kuhn-plan-to-add-a-macomb-probate-judge-signed-into-law