Structured Settlement Laws in Michigan

Wayne County Circuit Court

Court procedures, filing requirements, and local rules for structured settlement transfers in Wayne County Circuit Court.

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🏛️ Court
Wayne County Circuit Court
2 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI 48226
⏱️ Processing Time
30-75 days from filing to final hearing
Filing fee: $175.00 (civil case filing)
👥 Population
1,751,162 (2023 estimate)
Volume: high

Court Information

Wayne County Circuit Court
Address: 2 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI 48226
Phone: (313) 224-2500
Clerk: Edward A. DeVries
Jurisdiction: Wayne County
Established: Established 1796

Venue Overview

Wayne County Circuit Court serves Michigan's most populous county and the Detroit metropolitan area, handling the highest volume of structured settlement transfer cases in the state. With over 1.75 million residents, Wayne County processes thousands of civil cases annually, including complex financial transactions requiring court approval under Michigan Compiled Laws § 691.1301 et seq. The court operates specialized divisions, with the Civil Division handling most structured settlement petitions in downtown Detroit. The 3rd Judicial Circuit Court judges are highly experienced in financial matters common in major metropolitan areas. Detroit's diverse economy, including automotive manufacturing, healthcare systems, and professional services, means the court sees a wide range of structured settlement cases from various employment sectors. The court maintains strict compliance with Michigan's structured settlement protection laws while understanding the unique economic pressures facing urban residents. Filing procedures reflect the court's high caseload and experience with complex financial transactions. All petitions must comply with Michigan's comprehensive requirements, including detailed financial disclosures and independent advisor certification. The court typically schedules hearings within 30-45 days, with expedited procedures available for urgent situations. Financial experts are frequently appointed to review complex calculations and investment alternatives. Local rules emphasize thorough documentation and payee protection, requiring electronic filing and comprehensive financial analysis. The court serves Detroit and surrounding communities including Livonia, Westland, and Taylor, each with distinct economic characteristics affecting structured settlement decisions. The 3rd Circuit's experience with urban economic issues provides valuable context for evaluating transfer requests. Judges understand the impact of automotive industry changes, healthcare system restructuring, and urban development on payees' financial stability.

Major Cities Served: Detroit, Livonia, Westland, Taylor, Pontiac

Filing Procedures

📋 Step-by-Step Process
1.Petition filed electronically with Wayne County Clerk of Courts
2.Clerk reviews for completeness and assigns to Civil Division judge
3.Notice sent to all parties via certified mail and publication
4.30-day response period for interested parties (annuity companies)
5.Financial discovery and document exchange period (2-3 weeks)
6.Mandatory settlement conference for transfers over $25,000
7.Final hearing with testimony from payee and independent advisor
8.Court issues detailed written findings of fact and conclusions of law
9.30-day appeal period from entry of final judgment
⚖️ Local Rules
  • Electronic filing mandatory through Wayne County e-filing system
  • Original petition must be filed with clerk in Detroit
  • Mandatory court approval for all structured settlement transfers
  • Court requires detailed analysis of discount rate and present value
  • Publication notice required in Detroit Free Press if personal service fails
  • Emergency hearings available for urgent medical situations
  • Court-appointed financial expert review for transfers over $50,000

Special Requirements

📋 Mandatory Requirements
  • All petitions must comply with Michigan Compiled Laws § 691.1301 et seq.
  • Comprehensive financial disclosure affidavit required from payee
  • Independent professional financial advisor report mandatory
  • Court must find transfer is in payee's best interest with written findings
  • All interested parties must receive notice via certified mail
  • Detailed explanation of transfer benefits and alternatives required
  • Court considers payee's dependents and financial needs
⏱️ Timeline
Filing Fee:$175.00 (civil case filing)
Processing Time:30-75 days from filing to final hearing
Transfer Volume:high

Assigned Judges

Hon. Edward Ewell Jr.
Circuit Court Judge
Civil Division - 3rd Judicial Circuit
Presiding judge for complex civil matters including structured settlements
Over 15 years judicial experience, specializes in financial transactions
Hon. Dana M. Hathaway
Circuit Court Judge
Civil Division - Financial Cases
Handles structured settlement transfers and complex financial disputes
Former civil litigator with extensive financial case background
Hon. Timothy M. Kenny
Circuit Court Judge
Civil Division - General Jurisdiction
Experienced in contract disputes and financial transfers
Background in commercial law and financial services

Local Resources & Links

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⚖️ Legal Disclaimer - Michigan Structured Settlement Information

For informational purposes only. This information is provided for educational purposes and should not be construed as legal advice. Structured settlement laws vary by state and are subject to change.

Court approval required. All structured settlement transfers require court approval in every state to ensure the best interests of the payee and any dependents are protected.

Professional consultation recommended. We strongly recommend consulting with qualified legal and financial professionals before making any decisions regarding structured settlement transfers.

State-specific requirements. Each state has unique statutes, court procedures, and approval criteria. Always verify current requirements with official state resources.

Michigan specific information. The information provided here is specific to Michigan state laws and may not apply to other jurisdictions.

Contact information: For questions about structured settlements in your state, please contact your state insurance department or a qualified attorney.

Last updated:
Content last updated: November 20, 2025

Structured Settlement Transfer Procedures in Wayne County Circuit Court, Michigan

Navigating structured settlement transfers in Wayne County Circuit Court, Michigan requires understanding both state-level regulations and local court procedures. Each county may have specific filing requirements, court rules, and administrative procedures that supplement the broader Michigan structured settlement protection act.

When filing a structured settlement transfer petition in Wayne County Circuit Court, Michigan, you'll work with the local court system to obtain approval. The Wayne County Circuit Court court will review your petition to ensure the transfer serves your best interest, considers mandatory disclosure documents, and verifies that you've received independent professional advice. Local court procedures may include specific filing fees, timeline requirements, and documentation standards that vary from other counties in Michigan.

The Wayne County Circuit Court court system's familiarity with structured settlement transfers can impact processing times and approval rates. Courts with high transfer volumes often have streamlined procedures, while others may require additional documentation or extended review periods. Working with professionals experienced in Wayne County Circuit Court court procedures helps ensure your petition is filed correctly and moves through the approval process efficiently.

Smarter Payouts partners with licensed brokers and legal professionals who understand both Michigan state laws and Wayne County Circuit Court local court requirements. This local expertise helps streamline the approval process, ensures compliance with all applicable regulations, and protects your rights throughout the transfer. Whether you're filing in Wayne County Circuit Court or another jurisdiction in Michigan, our team ensures your petition meets all legal and procedural requirements.

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