Michigan District Attorneys
By Eric Harvey, J.D. | Legally reviewed by Melissa Bender, Esq. | Last reviewed November 17, 2023
This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw’s team of legal writers and attorneys and in accordance with our editorial standards.
The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area.
Some states call district attorneys by different names. In Michigan, for example, district attorneys are called "prosecuting attorneys." In the table below, you can find links to Michigan prosecuting attorneys by county.
A district attorney (D.A.) is the official who prosecutes criminal cases on behalf of the government. The prosecutor decides whether to file charges against you. They also decide which charges should be filed and what kind of punishment should be sought. Communicating with a district attorney may be necessary for negotiating a plea deal. It might also be necessary for asking about reduced charges or that the charges against you be dismissed altogether.
You should be aware that, in some jurisdictions, the district attorney will refuse to speak to a defendant. They will do so to avoid potential legal and ethical issues that could arise. It's also worth considering that there are significant risks even if they will speak to you. It's possible that speaking with them could either weaken your defense or worsen your charges. Retaining an attorney to communicate on your behalf removes a lot of risk. It also maximizes the potential benefits of communicating with the prosecution. Continue reading to learn more about these issues in the state of Michigan.
Michigan Attorney General
The Michigan Attorney General is responsible for keeping the public safe from criminals. They administer law enforcement and the criminal justice system in the state of Michigan. They are also responsible for the following:
- Helping crime victims
- Protecting consumers
- Preserving the state's resources in legal administrative processes
The Attorney General is the state's top lawyer and law enforcement official.
Directory of Michigan District Attorneys
District attorneys are the top attorneys and law enforcement officials in any given district. They are tasked with administering law enforcement and the criminal justice system in any given county. In criminal district courts, they are the attorney that will lead the prosecution of any given criminal.
- Wayne County Prosecuting Attorney's Office (Detroit)
- Marquette County Prosecuting Attorney's Office
- Ingham County Prosecuting Attorney's Office
- Kent County Prosecuting Attorney's Office (Grand Rapids)
- Genesee County Prosecuting Attorney's Office
For any not listed county prosecuting attorney's office, you can easily find them by searching online. Remember that if you're facing criminal charges, getting a criminal defense lawyer is always a good idea.
Note: Although we strive to provide the most current contact and website information available for the D.A. offices in this state, this information is subject to change. If you have found contact or website information that is not current, please contact us.
Issues Handled by Attorneys General and District Attorneys
Attorneys general and district attorneys handle prosecution for all criminal matters. Examples of these include:
- Domestic violence
- Criminal child support arrears
- Credit card fraud
- Criminal sexual conduct
- Drunk driving — categorized as driving under the influence (DUI) and operating while intoxicated (OWI)
- Expungement
- Personal protection orders
- Criminal failure to pay traffic tickets
- Real estate-related crimes, such as home and property insurance fraud
- Driver's license restoration
- Drug crimes
If you're facing charges for any of these crimes or others, it's important to get legal assistance. If you can't afford an attorney, you still have options. Contact the office of the public defender for more information. Public defenders can provide free legal assistance if you're a qualifying individual.
Get Legal Help Before Talking to a Michigan District Attorney
However you proceed, it's wise to discuss your case with someone friendly before sitting down at the negotiating table with the people trying to put you in jail. If you still decide to represent yourself, a defense attorney's observations will still help inform your decisions.
Contact a skilled criminal defense attorney to discuss your case's merits at the earliest opportunity. It's important to work with a Michigan criminal lawyer if you're facing charges. They can help you with all legal matters, including criminal ones. They'll help you resolve your legal problems and legal issues. It's important to know your rights and learn about the law. An attorney can assist with that, as well.
Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?
- Complex criminal defense situations usually require a lawyer
- Defense attorneys can help protect your rights
- A lawyer can seek to reduce or eliminate criminal penalties
Get tailored advice and ask your legal questions. Many attorneys offer free consultations.
Stay up-to-date with how the law affects your life

Learn more about FindLaw’s newsletters, including our terms of use and privacy policy.