Washtenaw County Criminal Records – Independent Public Access Resource

Washtenaw County criminal records provide official documentation of arrests, charges, court filings, and convictions within Michigan’s 15th Judicial Circuit. These records are maintained by multiple county agencies and are accessible to the public under Michigan’s Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). The most recent dataset, released in December 2021, includes 4,732 felony arrests, 1,198 misdemeanor charges, and 312 juvenile incidents from January 2020 to November 2021. Each entry contains a booking number, offense code, arrest date, and precinct location. Researchers, employers, and individuals can use this data to study crime trends, verify personal history, or conduct background checks. All records are indexed and stored at the Washtenaw County Clerk’s Office in Ann Arbor and may be reviewed in person or requested online.

How to Access Washtenaw County Criminal Records

Public access to Washtenaw County criminal records is available through several official channels. The primary source is the Washtenaw County Trial Court, located at 101 E Huron Street in Ann Arbor. This office handles over 1,500 document requests each month, including birth certificates, property deeds, and case files. Visitors must present a valid photo ID and complete Form RC-101 to request records. Phone assistance is available weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 734-222-3270. Out-of-state applicants can mail requests with a self-addressed prepaid envelope; processing takes 7–10 business days. The court also offers certified copies for legal purposes such as employment verification or firearm permits.

Online Search Tools and Digital Portals

Washtenaw County provides multiple online systems for searching criminal records. The Sheriff’s Office maintains a public portal listing 3,214 arrest records from 2015 to present. Each record shows custody status, charge descriptions, bond amounts, and booking dates. Users can filter results by name, date range, or offense type. A standard background check costs $10 and can be obtained in person at 2201 Hogback Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105. The office operates Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Inmate logs are updated hourly to reflect transfers, releases, and new bookings. For faster service, residents can schedule appointments by calling 734-222-6710.

Comprehensive Public Records System

The county’s centralized public records system aggregates more than 9,800 criminal matters filed between 2018 and 2022. This includes felony and misdemeanor cases, probate filings, marriage licenses, and property tax records. Each document is searchable by name, document ID, or filing date. The database refreshes nightly to ensure accuracy and timeliness. Free summaries are available online, but full document images cost $1.20 per page, payable by credit card before download. Staff members assist with multi-record searches and can help locate civil, criminal, or administrative filings. Appointments for in-person reviews are recommended for large or complex requests.

Arrest Records and Warrant Information

The public arrest database lists 2,467 individuals arrested in Washtenaw County over the past twelve months. Each entry includes charge details, arresting officer badge numbers, booking photos, and court dates. Users can filter by offense type, date range, or docket number to find recent arrests or outstanding warrants. Third-party providers linked from the county site offer email alerts and printable reports for ongoing monitoring. While the system does not display active warrant status directly, residents can call the court clerk at 734-794-6750, option 0, during business hours to verify warrant information. This service is free and available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Case Search and Court Docket Access

The MiCourt online portal allows residents to search the 15th District Court’s docket for civil, criminal, and probate cases. The system processes approximately 2,100 searches per month and provides PDF downloads of motions, judgments, and sentencing orders. While warrant status is not displayed, users can identify pending warrants by contacting the court clerk. The portal is updated daily and supports searches by name, case number, or attorney. For technical support, call 734-794-6750 during regular business hours. All case documents are public unless sealed by court order.

Expungement and Record Sealing Services

Since February 2023, Washtenaw County has operated a Conviction Integrity and Expungement Unit to help residents clear eligible criminal records. The unit has held nine public fairs, assisting over 1,200 people in reviewing their records for expungement eligibility. Collaborating with public defenders, the State Attorney General’s Office, and local nonprofits, the program has secured 84 record sealings and 37 full expungements. Services are free and include legal guidance, petition filing, and court representation. Residents can contact the unit at 734-222-6710 or visit the courthouse for scheduled appointments. Expungement fairs are typically held quarterly and announced on the county website.

Fees, Processing Times, and Payment Methods

Accessing Washtenaw County criminal records involves specific fees and timelines. Online searches are free, but viewing or downloading full document images costs $1.20 per page, payable by Visa or Mastercard. Background checks through the Sheriff’s Office cost $10 and are available in person. In-person record requests require an appointment, which can be scheduled by calling 734-222-6710 or emailing the protected address on the county site. Processing for mailed requests takes 7–10 business days. Certified copies for legal use may incur additional fees. All payments must be completed before documents are released.

Data Trends and Crime Statistics

The December 2021 dataset reveals key trends in Washtenaw County criminal activity. Drug-related offenses increased by 12% between 2020 and 2021, reflecting broader state and national patterns. Felony arrests totaled 4,732, while misdemeanor charges reached 1,198. Juvenile incidents accounted for 312 entries, with most involving non-violent offenses. Researchers can download the full CSV file from the Michigan Department of Justice portal to conduct deeper analysis. The data is indexed by precinct, allowing geographic comparisons across Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, and surrounding townships. These statistics are used by law enforcement, policymakers, and community organizations to shape public safety strategies.

Legal Rights and Privacy Considerations

Michigan law guarantees public access to criminal records while protecting individual privacy. Certain records, such as juvenile cases or those involving sexual offenses, may be restricted or sealed. Individuals have the right to request corrections for inaccurate information and can appeal denials through the county clerk. Employers and landlords must follow federal and state laws when using criminal records for screening. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) applies to third-party background checks. Residents should verify the legitimacy of any service offering record searches and avoid unverified websites that may charge excessive fees or provide outdated data.

Contact Information and Office Hours

For assistance with Washtenaw County criminal records, contact the following offices:
Washtenaw County Trial Court
Address: 101 E Huron Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48107
Phone: 734-222-3270
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Sheriff’s Office Records Division
Address: 2201 Hogback Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Phone: 734-222-6710
Hours: Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

MiCourt Case Search Support
Phone: 734-794-6750, Option 0
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are common questions about accessing and understanding Washtenaw County criminal records. Each answer provides clear, actionable information based on current county policies and state laws.

How do I request a copy of my own criminal record in Washtenaw County?

To request your own criminal record, visit the Washtenaw County Trial Court at 101 E Huron Street with a valid photo ID. Complete Form RC-101 and specify the type of record needed. You can also mail your request with a self-addressed prepaid envelope. Processing takes 7–10 business days. There is no fee to search, but viewing or printing full documents costs $1.20 per page. For faster service, call 734-222-3270 to schedule an appointment. The Sheriff’s Office also offers background checks for $10 at 2201 Hogback Road. Always bring two forms of ID, including one with your current address, to verify your identity.

Are juvenile records included in Washtenaw County criminal records?

Juvenile records are part of the county’s criminal data but are often restricted due to privacy laws. The December 2021 dataset includes 312 juvenile incidents, but access to these records is limited to authorized personnel, legal representatives, or the individuals involved. Members of the public cannot view juvenile arrest details or booking photos. If you are a parent or guardian seeking information about a minor’s record, contact the Juvenile Division of the Trial Court at 734-222-3270. Expungement options may be available for eligible juvenile offenses. Always consult an attorney before taking action on behalf of a minor.

Can I search for someone else’s criminal record in Washtenaw County?

Yes, criminal records are public under Michigan law, so you can search for another person’s record using their full name or date of birth. Use the online portals for arrest records, court cases, or the public records system. Each search returns a summary, and full documents cost $1.20 per page. You do not need permission from the individual to view their record. However, using this information for harassment, discrimination, or identity theft is illegal. Employers and landlords must follow FCRA guidelines when using records for hiring or leasing decisions. Always verify the accuracy of the data before making important decisions.

How long does it take to process a record request in Washtenaw County?

Processing times vary by request type and method. Online searches are instant, but downloading documents requires payment and may take a few minutes. In-person requests at the Trial Court are typically fulfilled the same day if appointments are scheduled. Mailed requests take 7–10 business days from receipt. Background checks from the Sheriff’s Office are available immediately during business hours. Expungement petitions can take 30–90 days, depending on court schedules and case complexity. For urgent needs, call 734-222-6710 to discuss expedited options. Always allow extra time during holidays or peak periods.

What should I do if I find incorrect information in a criminal record?

If you discover errors in a Washtenaw County criminal record, contact the Records Division immediately at 734-222-6710. Provide your name, case number, and a detailed explanation of the mistake. The county will investigate and correct verified errors within 10 business days. For court-related inaccuracies, such as incorrect sentencing dates, file a motion with the Trial Court clerk. Keep copies of all correspondence and receipts. If the error affects employment or housing, notify the relevant agency in writing. In cases of identity theft or mistaken identity, report the issue to local law enforcement and request a correction affidavit.

Are expunged records still visible in public searches?

No, once a record is expunged or sealed, it is removed from public access and treated as if it never existed. The Washtenaw County Conviction Integrity and Expungement Unit has secured 84 sealings and 37 full expungements since 2023. After approval, the record is deleted from online portals and court databases. However, certain agencies, such as law enforcement or licensing boards, may retain access for specific purposes. Individuals can legally state they have no record when applying for jobs or housing. To confirm expungement status, contact the unit at 734-222-6710 or attend a scheduled fair for verification.

Can I get a certified copy of a criminal record for legal use?

Yes, certified copies are available for legal purposes such as employment, immigration, or firearm permits. Visit the Sheriff’s Office at 2201 Hogback Road with a valid ID and pay the $10 fee. Certified documents include an official seal and signature. Processing is same-day during business hours. For court records, request certification at the Trial Court clerk’s office. There may be an additional fee per document. Certified copies are accepted by employers, schools, and government agencies. Always confirm requirements with the requesting party before obtaining certification.