Traffic Laws FAQs – Speed and Speed Limits

Traffic Laws FAQs – Speed and Speed Limits

May 9, 2024 | Blog, Driving, Michigan Laws

Michigan Traffic FAQs – Speed/Speed Limits

  • Know the laws before you make the call.
  • Know the laws if you get pulled over.
  • Know who to call if you need legal defense if a violation turns into a DUI or worse.

Question: My Uncle has a country place that no one knows about. He says it used to be a farm before the motor law. Please provide me with the state law, act or policy that outlines the speed limits on unmarked rural roads. It is our understanding that the speed limit on an unmarked rural dirt road is 45 mph and 55 mph on an unmarked rural paved road.

Answer: MCL 257.628 of the Michigan Vehicle Code sets the statewide maximum speed limit on all unposted highways at 55 mph. Gravel roads are included in this. Gravel roads are currently excluded from the process of lowering posted speeds through a Traffic Control Order due to the changing conditions of these roads. The Basic Speed Law, MCL 257.627, adequately covers these changing conditions by requiring drivers to “drive at a careful and prudent speed not greater than nor less than is reasonable and proper, having due regard to the traffic, surface, and width of the highway and of any other condition then existing.”

Question: Under what conditions may a police officer exceed the posted speed limit?

Answer: MCL 257.632 of the Michigan Vehicle Code states that an officer may exceed the speed limit “when traveling in emergencies or in the chase or apprehension of violators of the law or of persons charged with or suspected of a violation…”

The Michigan Point System

Each traffic violation has a point value, which is set by law in the Michigan Vehicle Code.

Read about it here

DUI Charges?
Sometimes it’s cheaper in the long run to fight them
Call to Fight for your Rights (248) 357-2550

RED ALERT

Distracted driving law now in effect:

Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed into law a bill making it illegal to manually use a cell phone or other mobile electronic device while operating a vehicle on Michigan roads. Under the law, a driver cannot hold or support a phone or other device with any part of their hands, arms, or shoulders.

Even if a cell phone or other device is mounted on your dashboard or connected to your vehicle’s built-in system, you cannot use your hands to operate it beyond a single touch.

As a result, you cannot manually do any of the following on a cell phone or other electronic device while driving:

  • Make or answer a telephone or video call.
  • Send or read a text or email message.
  • Watch, record, or send a video.
  • Access, read, or post to social media.
  • Browse or use the Internet.
  • Enter information into GPS or a navigation system.

Hands-free Law Guide

Michigan State Police Legal Update

Disclaimer: This Frequently Asked Questions page is provided solely as a means of providing basic answers to questions about the Michigan Vehicle Code and is not designed or intended to provide a basis to contest a citation for a violation of the code. The positions stated are only those of the Michigan Department of State Police and are not binding on any other law enforcement agency or any Court. If our position is supported by case law then it will be enumerated within the answer provided. Source of Information – Traffic Laws FAQ

You’re too stupid to store a gun properly

You’re too stupid to store a gun properly

Apr 20, 2024 | Blog, Know Your Rights, Michigan Laws, Your Rights

The Biden administration once again defends a ban in federal court, arguing that people who use marijuana should be prohibited from purchasing or possessing firearms.

They claim that this restriction is supported by historical precedent and that individuals who consume cannabis while owning guns pose a unique threat to society.

One of the reasons behind this argument is that such individuals are viewed as unlikely to store their weapons properly before using marijuana.

Attorneys for the Justice Department responded to a series of prompts from the judges, asserting that the firearm ban for marijuana consumers is justified based on historical analogues to restrictions on the mentally ill and habitually drunk that were imposed during the time of the Second Amendment’s ratification in 1791.

What the CDC Thinks

US Supreme Court:  US v. PATRICK DARNELL DANIELS, JR. (2023)

State of Ohio vs Weber (2020) – At home drunk with a shotgun

 

DISCLAIMER
This post may contain re-posted content, opinions, comments, ads, third party posts, outdated information, posts from disgruntled persons, posts from those with agendas and general internet BS. Therefore…Before you believe anything on the internet regarding anything – do your research on Official Government and State Sites, Call the Michigan State Police, Check the State Attorney General Website and Consult an Attorney – Use Your Brain.

Is a Verbal Agreement Legal?

Is a Verbal Agreement Legal?

Apr 2, 2024 | Blog, Michigan Crime, Michigan Laws, Your Rights

Is Oral Legal?

Verbal agreements, also called oral contracts, can be legal and enforceable in Michigan, but with some limitations.

Here’s a breakdown:

Generally Enforceable: Michigan law recognizes verbal contracts as valid if they meet the standard elements of a contract: offer, acceptance, and consideration (exchange of something of value).

Statute of Frauds: However, there’s a law called the Statute of Frauds that requires certain contracts to be in writing and signed to be enforceable.

These include:

  • Agreements that won’t be performed within one year of making the agreement.
  • Promises to answer for the debt of another person.
  • Selling real estate.
  • Selling goods for over $1,000.

Difficulties in Court: Even if your verbal agreement isn’t subject to the Statute of Frauds, it can be difficult to enforce in court. This is because there’s no written record of the agreement, so it becomes a “he-said, she-said” situation.

To Sum it Up: Verbal agreements can be legal in Michigan, but it’s always better to have a written contract, especially for important agreements. A written contract provides clear evidence of the terms and reduces the risk of misunderstandings or someone backing out of the agreement.

If you’re unsure whether your verbal agreement needs to be in writing or you need help enforcing a verbal agreement, it’s best to consult with an attorney.

Attorney Michael Komorn

Attorney Michael Komorn

State / Federal Legal Defense

With extensive experience in criminal legal defense since 1993 from pre-arrest, District, Circuit, Appeals, Supreme and the Federal court systems.

KOMORN LAW (248) 357-2550

What’s the law?

There isn’t a specific MCL dedicated solely to verbal agreements in Michigan. However, the relevant statute that applies to the enforceability of certain contracts based on form is the Statute of Frauds. This is found in the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) under Article 2 on Sales:

This MCL outlines the types of contracts that must be in writing and signed to be enforceable in court. These include:

  • Agreements that can’t be performed within one year (MCL 566.132(1)(a))
  • Promises to guarantee another’s debt (MCL 566.132(1)(b))

Michigan’s UCC also has a separate provision under Article 2 for the sale of goods:

This MCL requires any contract for the sale of goods for more than $1,000 to be in writing to be enforceable.

So, while there’s no single MCL for verbal agreements, these two provisions (MCL 566.132 and MCL 440.2201) are the key ones to consider when determining if a verbal agreement needs to be written down in Michigan.

Real Questions from Real Calls

Question: I made a verbal agreement and shook hands with my friend for a $20 bet that he couldn’t eat a spoonful of cinnamon. He did. Am I legally obligated to pay him?

Answer: Some questions don’t need legal advice. Pay him the $20 and don’t bet anymore.

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Squatters and the Law in Michigan

Squatters and the Law in Michigan

Apr 1, 2024 | Blog, Michigan Crime, Michigan Laws, Your Rights

Squatters and You

Squatting, in one definition is the act of occupying a property without legal permission, can be a headache for both property owners and squatters themselves. Sorry to cause you a such a headache squatter.

Michigan has specific laws addressing squatting, offering some protection to owners while outlining potential consequences for squatters.

Here’s One…

MCL 750.553: Criminal Trespass

Michigan criminalizes squatting in single-family dwellings and one or both units in a two-family dwelling through MCL 750.553. This law defines “occupies” as physically living within the structure.

Here’s a breakdown of the key points:

  • No Consent: The squatter must have never had the owner’s consent to occupy the property.
  • Penalty: A first offense is considered a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $5,000 per dwelling unit occupied, imprisonment for not more than 180 days, or both. Subsequent offenses are felonies with steeper penalties.
  • Exceptions: The law doesn’t apply to guests or family members of the owner or a tenant.

This statute empowers property owners to pursue legal action against squatters, potentially leading to their removal and facing criminal charges. While they destroy your property and cost you legal fees, house and utility payments. 

Attorney Michael Komorn

Attorney Michael Komorn

State / Federal Legal Defense

With extensive experience in criminal legal defense since 1993 from pre-arrest, District, Circuit, Appeals, Supreme and the Federal court systems.

KOMORN LAW (248) 357-2550

Self-Help Eviction

Michigan offers a unique remedy for property owners: self-help eviction.

Unlike most states, Michigan allows owners to take specific actions to encourage squatters to leave without involving law enforcement.

However, crucial limitations exist:

  • Limited Scope: Self-help measures are only applicable to situations covered by MCL 750.553 (single-family and two-family dwellings).
  • Actions: These measures can involve changing locks, shutting off utilities deemed non-essential for safety and health (like electricity or heat), or removing the squatter’s belongings after they’ve been properly evicted (typically through a legal notice).

Important Cautions:

  • Legality: Any self-help actions must strictly adhere to legal boundaries. Improper actions can lead to lawsuits from the squatter. Consulting a lawyer before taking any steps is highly recommended.
  • Tenant vs. Squatter: These measures cannot be used against tenants with a valid lease agreement. Evicting tenants requires following formal eviction procedures.

MCL Adverse Possession vs. Squatting

It’s important to distinguish squatting from adverse possession, another legal concept related to occupying land. MCL 600.5801 [MCL 600.5801] outlines adverse possession, where someone can potentially gain ownership of a property through extended, uninterrupted, and hostile possession that meets specific criteria. Squatting, however, is generally temporary and lacks the “hostile” element required for adverse possession.

Adverse Possession in Michigan – Can Someone Claim Your Property?

Taking Action – Since You Can’t Call in the A Team

If you suspect someone is squatting in your property, here are some steps to consider:

  • Contact Law Enforcement: For situations covered by MCL 750.553, involving the police can initiate the process of removing the squatter and potentially pressing charges.
  • Seek Legal Counsel: An attorney can guide you through the legal options available, including navigating self-help measures or pursuing formal eviction procedures.

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The Law

750.553 Occupancy of building without consent; violation; penalty; exception.

Sec. 553.

    (1) Except as provided in subsection (2), an individual who occupies a building that is a single-family dwelling or 1 or both units in a building that is a 2-family dwelling and has not, at any time during that period of occupancy, occupied the property with the owner’s consent for an agreed-upon consideration is guilty of a crime as follows:
    (a) For a first offense, a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000.00 per dwelling unit occupied or imprisonment for not more than 180 days, or both.
    (b) For a second or subsequent offense, a felony punishable by a fine of not more than $10,000.00 per dwelling unit occupied or imprisonment for not more than 2 years, or both.
    (2) Subsection (1) does not apply to a guest or a family member of the owner of the dwelling or of a tenant.

Real Questions from Real Calls

Question: I am squatting in a house in Michigan and was threatened by the owner. What can I do?

In Michigan, squatting is illegal and the owner has the right to take action to get you out. Here’s what you should know:

Your Legal Situation:

  • Squatting is a Crime: Michigan’s MCL 750.553 criminalizes squatting in single-family homes and one or both units in a two-family dwelling [MCL 750.553]. Since you’re squatting, the owner has legal grounds to pursue your removal.
  • Threats vs. Legal Action: While the owner may have threatened you, they can’t physically remove you themselves. However, they can involve the police or initiate legal eviction proceedings.

What You Can Do:

  • Leave Immediately: This is the safest and most advisable option. There’s a high chance you’ll be evicted if the owner pursues legal channels, and you could face criminal charges.
  • Seek Shelter Assistance: Contact local homeless shelters or social service agencies for temporary housing or resources to help you find permanent housing.
  • Legal Aid: Consider seeking legal aid from organizations specializing in tenant rights. They can offer advice on your options and potential defenses (if any) based on the specifics of your situation.

Important Notes:

  • Self-Help Eviction: Michigan allows self-help eviction for some situations, but it’s a complex process with legal risks. It’s best to avoid this and let the legal system handle the eviction.
  • False Claims of Tenancy: Don’t attempt to falsely claim you have a lease agreement. This is a crime and could worsen your situation.

Here are some resources that can help:

  • Michigan Legal Services Helpline: 1-888-773-8255

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Adverse Possession in Michigan – Can Someone Claim Your Property?

Adverse Possession in Michigan – Can Someone Claim Your Property?

Mar 29, 2024 | Blog, Michigan Crime, Michigan Laws, Your Rights

Understanding Adverse Possession in Michigan

Michigan recognizes adverse possession, a legal doctrine allowing someone to acquire ownership of real property they’ve occupied for a specific period, even without a formal title.

The Statute: MCL 600.5801

The relevant statute governing adverse possession is MCL 600.5801 [MCL 600.5801], titled “Limitations of actions – real property.” It establishes time limits for filing legal actions regarding land ownership.

Subsection (4) is crucial, stating a 15-year limitation period “in all other cases under this section.” This implies that to gain title through adverse possession, one must continuously possess the land for fifteen years.

600.5801 Limitation on actions; time periods; defendant claiming title under deed, court-ordered sale, tax deed, or will; other cases.

Sec. 5801.

     No person may bring or maintain any action for the recovery or possession of any lands or make any entry upon any lands unless, after the claim or right to make the entry first accrued to himself or to someone through whom he claims, he commences the action or makes the entry within the periods of time prescribed by this section.
    (1) When the defendant claims title to the land in question by or through some deed made upon the sale of the premises by an executor, administrator, guardian, or testamentary trustee; or by a sheriff or other proper ministerial officer under the order, judgment, process, or decree of a court or legal tribunal of competent jurisdiction within this state, or by a sheriff upon a mortgage foreclosure sale the period of limitation is 5 years.
    (2) When the defendant claims title under some deed made by an officer of this state or of the United States who is authorized to make deeds upon the sale of lands for taxes assessed and levied within this state the period of limitation is 10 years.
    (3) When the defendant claims title through a devise in any will, the period of limitation is 15 years after the probate of the will in this state.
    (4) In all other cases under this section, the period of limitation is 15 years.
Attorney Michael Komorn

Attorney Michael Komorn

State / Federal Legal Defense

With extensive experience in criminal legal defense since 1993 from pre-arrest, District, Circuit, Appeals, Supreme and the Federal court systems.

KOMORN LAW (248) 357-2550

Elements of Adverse Possession

To successfully claim adverse possession in Michigan, the claimant (squatter) must demonstrate they possessed the property in a way that meets the following criteria:

  • Actual Possession: This implies actively utilizing the land and regarding it as one’s possession. Infrequent or irregular use would not meet the criteria.
  • Visible and Open: The possession should be evident to anyone observing the property. Fences, landscaping, or structures built demonstrate this.
  • Notorious: The possession should be known or readily discoverable by the rightful owner. This doesn’t require the owner’s actual knowledge, but the use should be such that the owner could have discovered it with reasonable diligence.
  • Exclusive: The possession should prevent others, including the rightful owner, from using the land.
  • Continuous and Uninterrupted: Possession must be ongoing for the entire 15-year period. Gaps or breaks in possession could weaken the claim.
  • Hostile: This doesn’t imply animosity towards the true owner. It simply means the possession is adverse to the owner’s rights, suggesting a claim of ownership independent of the owner’s permission.

We’ll Take That From You.

MCL 600.5821 addresses limitations for government entities [MCL 600.5821]. Government entities like municipalities and road commissions are generally not subject to adverse possession claims.

Additionally, the “hostile” element can be tricky. Permission from the true owner, even verbal, can disrupt the claim.

Consulting an attorney is highly recommended to assess the specific facts of a potential adverse possession case.

Potential Issues

Successfully establishing adverse possession allows the claimant to gain legal title to the property.

However, there are potential drawbacks. The process can be lengthy and require significant evidence. Additionally, if the true owner contests the claim, litigation can be costly.

Real Questions from Real Calls

Question: I have been living in a tent for 15 years in a Michigan State Park. Can I claim that property as my own under the adverse possession laws?

Unfortunately, you cannot claim ownership of the land in the Michigan State Park through adverse possession for a few reasons:

  • Government Immunity: MCL 600.5821 exempts government-owned land from adverse possession claims [MCL 600.5821]. State parks fall under this category, meaning no matter how long you’ve resided there, you can’t acquire ownership through adverse possession.

While you’ve met the time requirement (15 years in Michigan), the other elements likely wouldn’t hold up either.

  • Permission: Living in a state park typically requires permission, even if it’s just following camping regulations. This suggests you wouldn’t be able to establish “hostile” possession, a crucial element.

Here’s what you can do:

  • Contact Park Rangers: Explain your situation to the park rangers. They might be able to offer alternative solutions, like designated camping areas or low-cost housing programs.
  • Seek Legal Advice: An attorney specializing in property law can provide a more nuanced perspective on your situation. There might be other legal avenues to explore, depending on the specifics.

While claiming ownership through adverse possession isn’t possible in this case, there might be other options to consider.

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