Michigan Supreme Court Considers New Rule to Protect Immigrants in Courtrooms

Fri Dec 05 2025 12:21:55 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A potential rule change aims to prevent civil arrests, including immigration detentions, in Michigan's courthouses, joining a growing movement across the U.S.

The Michigan Supreme Court is weighing a proposal to ban civil arrests, specifically targeting immigration detentions, within state and local courthouses. Advocates argue that this rule change will encourage more immigrants to attend court proceedings without the fear of arrest, while critics express concern over interfering with federal enforcement. Similar measures have been adopted in states like New York and Illinois. The public is encouraged to give feedback on the proposal, which aims to maintain fair access to justice for all.

The Michigan Supreme Court is considering a new rule that would bar law enforcement from making civil arrests, including immigration arrests, in state and local courthouses. This proposed rule aims to protect individuals attending court proceedings and having legal business in Michigan’s courthouses.

If approved, Michigan would join a number of states that have taken similar steps to limit immigration arrests in courthouses, which advocates say could deter immigrants from attending court hearings due to fears of arrest. Susan Reed, from the Michigan Immigrant Rights Center, emphasized the importance of making the court a safe space for everyone, stating, “It's an issue that affects everyone when you have any part of the population afraid to participate in our court proceedings.”

Although the full impact of courthouse arrests is still unclear, some reports indicate that arrests in courthouses can dissuade individuals from participating in important legal matters, which may result in issues concerning custody or domestic violence cases.

This rule comes as a response to heightened immigration enforcement actions under the previous administration, which has led to increased scrutiny and challenges to similar policies across the country. States like New York and Illinois have already implemented laws to protect individuals from such arrests.

The Michigan Supreme Court is currently collecting public comments on the proposal, scheduled to close December 22. A public hearing will also be held before any final action is taken. With a majority of comments supporting the new measure, many express the concern that fear of arrest must not hinder individuals from seeking justice.