MSC Amends Order on Landlord/Tenant Cases

MSC Amends Order on Landlord/Tenant Cases

October 23, 2020

The Michigan Supreme Court has amended Administrative Order No. 2020-17, which provides direction to state trial courts for resuming landlord/tenant cases. The amendment extends compliance with the order through the end of the year, while the CDC order halting evictions for nonpayment of rent cases is in effect.

The amendment aims to help courts effectively process cases affected by the CDC eviction moratorium by limiting “the possibility of further infection while ensuring that landlord/tenant cases are able to be filed and adjudicated efficiently.” It also requires plaintiffs to file a verification form declaring whether a defendant has indicated that he or she is covered by the order, and requires courts to continue holding a pretrial hearing and advise tenants of the right to counsel and assistance programs.