37th District Court (Warren): What you should Know

Charged with a Crime or Received a Traffic Ticket in Warren?

If you have been charged with a crime, received a traffic ticket, or have been ordered to appear at the Warren location of the 37th District Court, you may be wondering what to expect. Whether this is your first court appearance or you have been through the court system before, understanding the process can help reduce uncertainty.

The Law Office of John C. Elkhoury, P.C. represents clients appearing in the 37th District Court in Warren, Michigan. My goal is to help clients understand the legal process, protect their rights, and guide them through every stage of their case.

About the Warren 37th District Court

The Warren location of the 37th District Court is one of the busiest district courts in Michigan and handles thousands of cases each year. The Court is located at 8300 Common Rd. in Warren, Michigan.

The courthouse is conveniently located next to the Warren Police Department. Visitors have access to both a free surface parking lot and a free parking structure, making parking convenient for those appearing in court.

The 37th District Court Judges are: Honorable John M. Chmura, Honorable Suzanne L. Faunce, Honorable Michael C. Chupa, and Honorable Steven M. Bieda. In addition, the Court has two Magistrates Honorable Albert M. Sophiea and Honorable Annette Gattari-Ross.

If you are scheduled to appear, I recommend arriving at least 15 to 20 minutes early. This allows time to park, pass through courthouse security, locate your courtroom, and speak with your attorney if necessary.

Criminal and Traffic Cases Commonly Heard

The Warren location of the 37th District Court regularly handles a wide variety of criminal and traffic matters, including:

• Operating While Intoxicated (OWI / DUI)
• Drug possession and other drug-related offenses
• Traffic tickets and civil infractions
• Driving While License Suspended (DWLS)
• Reckless driving
• Domestic violence
• Assault and battery
• Retail fraud
• Disorderly conduct
• Other misdemeanor criminal offenses
• Felony arraignments and preliminary examinations

The court also hears civil cases, landlord-tenant disputes, property maintenance matters, and small claims matters.

If you are charged with a felony, the Warren 37th District Court generally handles the early stages of the case before it is transferred to the Macomb County Circuit Court for further proceedings.

What Happens During a Criminal Case?

Having represented clients in the Warren 37th District Court since 2011, this is one of the most common questions I hear. Every criminal case is different, but many follow a similar process.

Arraignment

Your first court appearance is often an arraignment. During this hearing, the judge advises you of the charges, explains your constitutional rights, and addresses bond conditions when appropriate. Having an Attorney at arraignment substantially improves the probability of securing a personal or low cash bond.

Pretrial Conference

Most misdemeanor cases include one or more pretrial conferences where the prosecutor and defense attorney discuss the evidence, possible resolutions, and the next steps in the case.

Motion Hearings

Depending on the circumstances, legal motions may be filed to address important legal or evidentiary issues before trial.

Preliminary Examination

For felony charges, the district court conducts a preliminary examination to determine whether sufficient evidence exists to send the case to the Macomb County Circuit Court.

Trial

If a case cannot be resolved beforehand, it may proceed to a bench trial or jury trial.

Sentencing

If a defendant pleads guilty or is convicted, the court determines an appropriate sentence after considering the law and the specific facts of the case.

Why Hiring an Attorney Early Matters

Speaking with an attorney early in the process allows you to understand your rights and make informed decisions before your court dates.

An attorney can:

• Explain the court process.
• Review the allegations and available evidence.
• Protect your constitutional rights.
• Communicate with the prosecutor when appropriate.
• Help prepare you for each stage of your case.

Every case is unique, and no attorney can ethically promise a specific result. However, early legal guidance often helps clients better understand their options throughout the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an attorney for a misdemeanor?

While you have the right to represent yourself, misdemeanor convictions can carry significant consequences, including fines, probation, driver’s license sanctions, and possible jail time. Consulting with an attorney allows you to understand your legal options before making important decisions.

Can traffic tickets be reduced?

Depending on the nature of the violation and the facts involved, there may be legal options available. Every case is different, and an attorney can review your circumstances and discuss the available options. My office has successfully handled thousands of traffic matters in the 37th District Court.

What should I bring to court?

Bring any paperwork you received from the court or law enforcement, a valid photo identification, and arrive early enough to allow time for parking and security screening.

Why does experience in the 37th District Court Matters?

Every Courthouse has its own procedures, schedules, and expectations. Having an Attorney familiar with the 37th District Court in Warren can help clients better understand what to expect and how to prepare for each stage of their case.

Additional Resources

You may also find these articles/links helpful:

• Misdemeanor Cases: KNOW your rights!
• What happens if I refuse a PBT or Breathalyzer test?
• Traffic Ticket Defense
• Driving on a Suspended or Revoked License
• John C. Elkhoury, Esq. Avvo Profile
• 37th District Court Website

Contact the Law Office of John C. Elkhoury, P.C.

Many people are understandably nervous before their first appearance. In my experience, arriving early, dressing appropriately, and being respectful to court staff can help make the process much less stressful. If you have an Attorney, meeting before the hearing also gives you an opportunity to discuss what to expect before your case called.

If your case is pending at the Warren location of the 37th District Court, obtaining legal advice as early as possible can help you better understand the process and your legal options.

To schedule a consultation with the Law Office of John C. Elkhoury, P.C., call (586) 501-8796, complete the contact form on this website, or contact me via email at contact@johnelkhourylaw.com

Macomb County Court Guides

• 37th District Court-Warren
• 37th District Court-Center Line (Coming Soon)
• 38th District Court-Eastpointe (Coming Soon)
• 39th District Court-Roseville (Coming Soon)
• 40th District Court-St. Clair Shores (Coming Soon)
• 41-A District Court-Shelby Township (Coming Soon)
• 41-A District Court-Sterling Heights (Coming Soon)
• 41-B District Court-Clinton Township (Coming Soon)
• 42-1 District Court-Romeo (Coming Soon)
• 42-2 District Court-New Baltimore (Coming Soon)

About the Author

John C. Elkhoury is the Founder of the The Law Office of John C. Elkhoury, P.C. He has represented thousands of clients throughout the State of Michigan since 2011 with all criminal matters including OWI/DUI, Traffic offenses, misdemeanor charges, and felony charges.