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Adult Recovery Court

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1. What is a Recovery Court?

A Recovery Court is a collaborative effort between the Criminal Justice system and Community Mental Health that strives to improve the quality of life for the individual, increase public safety, and reduce costs for the community.

Adult Recovery Court Information Sheet - PDF

2. Who is eligible for the Recovery Court?

• Participants must be a Van Buren County resident
• Must have pending misdemeanor or felony charges
• Assessed as having a persistent and serious mental illness or developmental disability
• The defendant may not have a history of violent offenses

3. What is the structure of the Recovery Court?

The Van Buren County Recovery Court is a 12- to 24- month Program that involves intensive mental health and substance use disorder treatment, treatment planning, case management, court review hearings, substance abuse testing, and referrals to ancillary service agencies.

4. Why participate in Adult Recovery Court?

• Assistance with medication stabilization and treatment for your mental illness and if needed treatment for your substance use disorder
• Continuous support through group attendance, court appearances and probation reporting
• Possible charge reduction or case dismissal
• Possible reduced jail or no jail

5. How do I get started?

Potential participants may be identified by various sources including:

• Defense attorneys
• Family members
• Jail staff
• Judges
• Law enforcement
• Prosecutors
• Treatment providers

6. Whom should I contact with questions?

Questions may be directed to Specialty Court:

• Phone: 269-657-8200
• Email Specialty Courts

To get started with Recovery Court please complete the Adult Recover Court Eligibility Determination (VBC-0273) screening form (PDF).

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Bangor-South Haven Heritage Water Trail

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1. How will fallen trees and log jams be approached?

Limited removal to provide a pathway for canoes and kayaks with guidance from DNR officials to capitalize on fish habitat and limiting bank erosion. The Bangor/South Haven Heritage Water Trail Association (B/SH HWTA) does not clea’ the river from bank to bank. A pathway is cut and trimmed along the route. B/SH HWTA leaders were trained by MDNR persons to cut a 3- to 4-foot pathway wide enough for a canoe or kayak to paddle through. The training made sure B/SH HWTA maintains the fish habitat that exists along the route. The training also taught B/SH HWTA leaders how and where to cut a pathway without causing erosion on either side of the bank.

2. How far back from the banks will trees be cut?

No "on the land" trees, shrubs, etc. will be removed. The bases of fallen trees will be left intact on the banks.

3. Can landowners request use of trees and limbs removed?

B/SH HWTA staff will gladly coordinate with adjacent landowners wanting materials from trees and limbs that originated on their property; otherwise, removed trees and limbs will be taken from the river and flood plain, or secured to increase fish habitat or lessen bank erosion.

4. What will control trespass on private property?

B/SH HWTA "Rules for Paddlers" will set a tone of respect. Signs will be available from B/SH HWTA for landowners and most of the banks along the Black River are not conducive for people getting out and walking around (steep banks and lots of poison ivy!).

5. Will liability be limited for trespasser injury?

Landowners are limited in liability by Michigan law for injury of trespassing persons. See Riparian Rights on Michigan Waterways for more information (PDF).

6. Where will historical markers be placed?

Most of the historical markers will be placed on the bridges at road crossings. A few may be placed at parks, public access sites, etc.

7. Will there be any signage on private property?

Landowners may arrange with B/SH HWTA to receive private property signs that remind paddlers to stay on the river and off adjacent property.

8. How will trash and litter be limited?

"Leave No Trace" ethics will be emphasized. Litterbags will be encouraged, and paddlers usually influence other paddlers not to litter. Also, use of the river will limit trash dumping from bridges, as paddlers can be "witnesses".

9. Will B/SH HWTA be responsible for any clean-up of trash?

Paddler organizations have a long heritage of sponsoring "River Clean-up Days" and in keeping with this tradition, we host clean-up days as well as picking up trash on all of our workdays. We do our best to keep this beautiful river clean!

10. Will the HWT limit use by fishermen and hunters?

Preservation of fish habitat is inherent to our Mission and Purpose. A natural B/SH HWTA extension to that is to respect the use of the river by hunters during designated seasons. B/SH HWTA materials will advise paddlers to respect others using the river. Major paddling use of the river will be discouraged during prime hunting times.

11. Will portages be built?

No portages are planned as part of the development. Following a storm, extensive new obstructions of wind-fallen trees may present the need, temporarily, for portages. Paddlers will be advised to stay as close to the water’s edge as possible until a new pathway can be formed by B/SH HWTA volunteers.

12. Where will "put-in and take-out" access points be located?

Lions Park in Bangor will be a trailhead along with the Michigan Maritime Museum in South Haven. Various bridge crossings and possibly some privately owned land will be developed as access points.

13. Where will "toilet facilities" be placed?

Some of the access points will be equipped with toilet facilities and picnic areas.

14. What controls will limit users from any mischief?

Paddlers in general are an environmentally friendly group of people. The Black River is a slow, shallow river so users looking for a "rush" will have to try another river. Groups of people usually influence the behavior of all in the group and even others on the river. Landowners can observe and report problems and may have a potential for patrolling by the Marine patrol.

15. What about jet skiers, jet boats, etc.?

Lack of open water and the risk of damage due to submerged logs should limit use of motorized craft. With the wide-open lake in close proximity and the limited width of the pathway should naturally discourage use of these types of craft.

16. Will paddlers be allowed to camp and build campfires along the river?

B/SH HWTA’s material will specify "No Camping and No Campfires" along the river. It will also be stated that no state or national forest land adjoins the river.

17. How do I volunteer?

We’re always looking for volunteers to help with a variety of projects. We host regular workdays to help keep the river open to paddlers.

If you’d like to be added to the workday mailing list, please contact John Mitchell by email, or 269-637-6468.  Volunteers do a lot of ’lopping’ and trimming of branches and growth that interferes with the paddle pathway. Experienced "river workers" are also encouraged to serve as a Team Leader for a day.

18. You clear the whole river?

B/SH HWTA does not ’clear’ the river from bank to bank. A pathway is ’cut and trimmed’ along the route. B/SH HWTA leaders were trained by MDNR persons to cut a 3- to 4-foot pathway wide enough for a canoe or kayak to paddle through. The training made sure B/SH HWTA maintains the fish habitat that exists along the route. The training also taught B/SH HWTA leaders how and where to cut a pathway without causing erosion on either side of the bank.

19. Where do I rent a canoe or a kayak?

B/SH HWTA is not a rental group. The best option would be to contact Outpost Sports in South Haven 269-637-5555 or Running Rivers Kayak Rentals in Douglas 269-673-3698.

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Clerk - Business Names

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1. Why do I have to register my business name with the county?

Michigan law requires that persons who own, conduct or transact business in a county, register the business name in that county as a matter of public record.

2. My business has been incorporated with the state. Do I also have to file with the county?

No. Corporations, limited partnerships, limited liability companies, and non-profit organizations owned by corporations do not file at the county level.

3. How much does it cost to file my business name?

The filing fee is $10, and the certificate is required to be renewed every five years. The certificate must be notarized prior to filing.

4. I have a "doing business as" (DBA) in another county and want to do business in Van Buren County, do I have to file a DBA there?

You are required to file a DBA in the county where the business is located, and you may also file in Van Buren County. We will request to see and make a copy of the DBA filed in the home county.

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Clerk - Certified Copies

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1. How much does it cost to get a copy of a birth certificate?

All certified copies (birth, death or marriage certificates) are $15 for the first copy and $5 for each additional copy of the same record purchased at the same time.

2. I live far away, how can I get a copy of my birth certificate? Do I have to come in person?

Requests may be made by mail by completing the forms that can be printed. You are required to send a copy of your driver’s license or state identification card with your request.

3. Can you obtain certified copies of marriage licenses or death certificates by mail?

Request can be made by mail by printing the on-line forms and mailing them to the Clerk’s office with the proper fees.

4. How long does it take to get a copy of a birth certificate or other document?

Requests made in person can be obtained generally within a few minutes at the Clerk’s office. Mail requests are generally filled within a day of receipt at Clerk’s office.

5. Can I get a copy of someone else’s birth, death, or marriage certificate?

Birth records are confidential and are available only to the person or parents of the person named in the record. If you are an heir, legal guardian, or legal representative of the person whose birth certificate you are requesting, additional documentation is required. Contact this office at 269-657-8218, option 6. Death and marriage certificates are public records and available upon request.

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Clerk - Marriage Licenses

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1. How much does it cost to apply for a marriage license?

$20 for Van Buren County residents, and $30 for out-of state residents.

2. How long does it take to get a marriage license in Michigan?

The license can be taken with you on the day that you apply however, it cannot be used until three days after the date you made application.

3. Do both people have to come to apply for the marriage license?

No. If only one applicant is present, however, please be sure to bring all the required information for the other person. That information includes:

• Birth Date
• Birth Place (city, state)
• Certified copy of Birth Certificate for each party
• County of residence
• Father’s full name (first, middle, last)
• Full name (first, middle, last)
• How many times married
• Mother’s full name (first, middle, maiden)
• Photocopy of Driver’s License or State ID
• Social Security Number
• State of birth for both parents

4. How do I know what county to get my marriage license in?

The answer depends on whether or not you are a Michigan resident. If you are, you need to get your license in the county in which either you or your future spouse reside. The license can then be used anywhere in the state. If you are not a Michigan resident, you must obtain your license in the county where you will be married.

5. Must witnesses to marriages be 18 years old?

Yes, witnesses are required to be 18 years of age or older.

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Clerk - Passports

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1. Where can I apply for a passport in Van Buren County?

You can apply for a passport at the Van Buren County Department of Land Management at the Administration and Land Services Building:

• 219 Paw Paw Street
  3rd floor
  Paw Paw, MI 49079
• Hours
  Monday through Friday
  8:30 am to 4 pm

Passport photos can also be taken there.

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Court - Jury Service

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1. How did we get your name?

Once a year, the Secretary of State Driver’s License Bureau provides us with the names of Van      Buren County residents who have a driver’s license or state ID.  The computer then randomly chooses names and the questionnaires are mailed out.

2. What if I've moved out of the County?

You must be a Van Buren County resident to serve as a Van Buren County juror.  Please provide the court with your new mailing address along with proof of residency and we will remove you from our mailing list.

3. What if I'm over 70 years old?

If you are over 70, you have the choice to serve as a juror.  If you choose not to serve, please mark “yes” on question number 8 of your questionnaire and return it to the court.

4. What if I have changed my name and/or address within Van Buren County?

Provide your corrected name and address on the back side of your questionnaire and we will edit your information in our database.

5. What if the recipient is away at college?

Complete the form in their absence and include the dates the recipient will be home.  We can transfer their service to a more convenient time.   They do not need to sign the document.

6. I am concerned about a medical problem or disability (personal or caregiver) interfering with my ability to serve as a juror. What should I do?

We will only excuse you from a jury service if you have a doctor’s note.  Mail, email, or fax a doctor’s note in and we will honor your doctor’s request.

7. My job is too demanding and I do not have time to serve on a jury. Do I still have to serve?

Yes.  A summons is an official court order compelling you to appear for service.   Jury duty, although sometimes inconvenient, is not an optional experience.  Jurors should also know that following Michigan law:

600.1348 Jurors; threats, discharge, or discipline by employer; requiring additional hours of work; misdemeanor; penalty.

Sec. 1348 (1) An employer or the employer’s agent, who threatens to discharge or discipline or who discharges, disciplines, or cause to be discharged from employment or to be disciplined a person because that person is summoned for jury duty, serves on a jury, or has served on a jury, is guilty of a misdemeanor, and may also be punished for contempt of court.

8. What should I wear and what should I bring if I am called to serve?

Please wear comfortable clothing, but t-shirts, shorts, midriff baring tops, and inappropriate language and content on clothing is not allowed.  You may bring snacks, lunch to eat during breaks.  Only water is allowed in the courtroom.  You may also bring your cell phone, book or magazine to read while you wait but they will need to be powered off and put away while in court.

9. How long do trials last? How many days will I be called to serve?

You will be assigned a two-week term of service.  The judges try to seat their juries by noon; therefore, if you are not seated on a case you are normally released by noon.  This does vary.  If you are chosen as a juror, you should plan to be at the courthouse until 5:00 p.m.   The average trial length is one day in District Court and three days in Circuit Court.  The judge will inform you of the expected length of the case during jury selection.  On average, a panel will serve on one to two trials per term.

10. Are there breaks during the day in court?

Yes.  The judges typically break at least once mid-morning, an hour for lunch, and at least once in the afternoon.

11. I do not have a car or transportation. Do I still have to serve as a juror?

Yes.  You will need to set up rides with a friend, a family member, or Van Buren Public Transit.

12. How much are jurors paid?

Jurors are paid $30.00 for the first full day; $45.00 each subsequent full day; $15.00 for the first half day; $22.50 for each subsequent half day.  Jurors are also compensated for mileage.  Jurors will be paid half of the current IRS rate per mile from the juror’s home to the courthouse.  Jurors will receive a check for the total amount approximately three weeks after the assigned term ends.

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Day of Review of Drainage District Boundaries & Review of Apportionments

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1. What is a Day of Review of District Boundaries?

The Michigan Legislature passed a law in 2013 to allow revisions to historical drainage district boundaries when recommended by a licensed engineer. Property owners can review changes with the Drain Office staff during the Day of Review.

2. What is a Drainage District?

A drainage district is the land area that benefits from the drain. The drainage district makes up the watershed that contributes water to the drain. Each property and municipality within the drainage district pays for maintenance and improvement of the drain.

3. Why are the boundaries being revised?

Revisions are recommended because the historic drainage district boundaries do not accurately reflect the current watershed of the drain.

4. What is a Day of Review of Apportionments?

A Day of Review of Apportionments provides an opportunity for property owners to review the percent of benefit of the drain assigned to their property. The apportionments of benefit are based on acreage, land use, and other factors. The apportionments determine the assessment amount for each property for costs of construction or maintenance.

5. Why are the apportionments being revised?

Parcel apportionments are being revised to more accurately reflect the percentage of benefit that each property receives from the drain.  If a parcel is on the outer boundary of a drainage district, it is possible that only a portion of the parcel will be assessed.

6. Why did I receive a notice?

Notices went out to the following property owners:

• Properties being added to the Drainage
  • District. The properties were not previously in the drainage district, but the engineers determined that the properties are within the drain’s watershed.
• Properties being removed from the Drainage
  • District. The properties were previously in the drainage district, but the engineers determined that the properties are not in the drain’s watershed.
• Properties currently in the Drainage District and proposed to remain in the Drainage
  • District. There is no change in terms of boundaries for these properties. All property owners subject to an assessment were sent a copy of the notice.

7. When do I receive my drain assessment?

Drain assessments are included on your Winter Tax bill, and are only levied when costs are incurred for the drain. Assessment amounts vary from year to year.

8. What is my assessment amount?

Estimated assessment amounts are included in your notice and are also available at the Day of Review.

9. Do I have to attend the Day of Review?

You are not required to attend the Day of Review.

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Drain Assessments

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1. What is a drain assessment?

County drainage districts are separate public corporations with their own financial records.   Each drainage district is supported by a Drain Special Assessment that covers the cost of maintaining the drainage system.  County drains are not maintained by Van Buren County general fund taxes.

2. What is a drainage district?

A drainage district is a legally established area of land that drains to a common outlet.   Drainage district boundaries are determined by the natural topography of the land and rarely correspond to political boundaries such as townships or counties.   Common words for drainage district include watershed and drainage basin.

3. Where is the storm drain for which I am being assessed?

The Van Buren County Drain Office has maps and aerial photos that can show the location of your property and the county drains within the drainage district.   These documents will be available on the Day of Review.   Even if your property does not touch the county drain, storm water flows toward this county drain as an outlet regardless of the land’s elevation.

4. Why did I receive more than one special assessment notice?

Each notice informs you of a Drain Special Assessment for a different drainage district. Your property can be in multiple drainage districts because storm water moves from smaller watersheds through larger watersheds, ultimately discharging to the Great Lakes. For example, if your property were located in a small watershed that is "nested" inside a larger watershed, you would receive an assessment for each district, should they both be assessed in the same year.

5. Is this the only way I would receive multiple drains assessments in one year?

No. Water may flow off your property in more than one direction to different drains and drainage districts and all of those drains may be assessed in one year.

6. How are assessments determined?

The law requires that assessments be based on benefit derived as determined by the Drain Commissioner. All properties within the drainage district are assessed considering factors such as size of the parcel, land use, proximity to the drain, and location of the property within the district. Drainage is considered as an interdependent system with the entire system benefiting from maintenance of the common outlet.

7. Do all property owners pay drain assessments?

All property owners within a drainage district receive an assessment, unless specifically exempted by law. In addition, the municipality, Van Buren County, the Van Buren County Road Commission, and the Michigan Department of Transportation (as appropriate) also receive an assessment for a portion of the maintenance costs. The Drain Code does not exempt most non-profit or religious properties from assessment.

8. What is a Day of Review of Apportionments and do I have to attend the Day of Review?

This is a time when you are invited to review the maintenance efforts and costs for providing your land with storm water drainage and to discuss your proposed share of (apportionment) of these costs. This is also a time to inform the Drain Commissioner’s Office of additional maintenance issues. Your attendance on the day of review is not required and most of the information such as costs and apportionment are on the letter you have received. There is also more information available on the County Drain Office website.

9. I recently purchased my property. Why am I being billed for work done prior to my ownership?

Although the work for which you are being assessed may have been completed prior to your purchase of the land, the Drain Code requires that assessments be levied to the property, and assessed to the current owner of record. In most cases, the work performed will benefit the property for years to come.

10. What if I cannot attend the Day of Review?

If you are unable to attend the Day of Review and have questions regarding your assessment or the assessment process, please call the Van Buren County Drain Office. It is possible to make an appointment at times other than the Day of Review, although the appeal period begins after the date of the Day of Review.

11. What happens if I disagree with the proposed assessment for my property?

Appeal of Drain Special Assessments may be made to the Van Buren County Probate Court within 10 days after the Day of Review.

12. How do I pay my drain assessment?

Drain assessments appear on your winter property tax bill and are paid along with your property taxes.  In order to lessen yearly cost a drain assessment may be spread over multiple years, i.e. 1 of 3 years.

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Drain Board of Determination

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1. What Is a Board of Determination?

A Board of Determination is a 3-member panel of disinterested property owners. The role of the Board of Determination is to receive evidence and hear testimony of interested persons and determine whether the petitioned maintenance and improvement is necessary and conducive to the public health, convenience or welfare.

2. What is a Drainage District?

A drainage district is the land area that benefits from the drain. The drainage district makes up the watershed that contributes water to the drain. Each property and municipality within the drainage distrcit pays for the construction (or establishment) of the drain and for future maintenance and improvement of the drain.

3. Why did I receive a notice?

A petition was filed with the Van Buren County Drain Commissioner requesting maintenance and improvement to be performed on the drain. All property owners with lands in the Drainage District were sent a copy of the notice.

4. Does the Board of Determination decide what work gets done?

No, the Board of Determination decides necessity, but does not determine the scope or cost of the project. Further, the Board of Determination does not determine how much property owners and municipalities will be assessed. 

5. Does the decision of the Board of Determination have to be unanimous?

No, only a majority vote of the Board of Determination is required. Only the members of the Board of Determination vote. The attendees at the meeting do not vote, but instead provide testimony to the Board members to assist in their determination.

6. What is my assessment amount?

Estimated assessment amounts are not yet determined. If the Board of Determination finds the project necessary, the Drain Commissioner will hold a public meeting to review apportionments after a project scope has been determined. Notices for the public hearing on assessments will be sent out at a later date.

7. Do I have to attend the Board of Determination?

No, you are not required to attend the Board of Determination, however, it is your right to do so.

8. Can the decision of the Board of Determination be appealed?

Appeals are provided under MCL 280.72a and MCL 280.72(3).

9. How can I get more information?

Visit the Van Buren County Drain Commissioner’s website or call (269) 657-8241

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Drain Projects

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1. What is a drain project?

A drain project is the establishment, construction, maintenance or improvement of a drain designed to prevent flooding, decrease soil erosion and sedimentation and provide better drainage or agricultural lands, residential lands or other development. A “drain” may include roadside ditches, agricultural drains, tiling/enclosed systems under agricultural or developed land, creeks, rivers and lakes.

2. Who is in charge of drains and drain projects?

Drainage activities are generally governed by the Michigan Drain Code and administered by the County Drain Commissioner, the elected official in charge. The Drain Commissioner has jurisdiction over all established county drains and performs the duties set forth in the Drain Code. Basically, the Drain Commissioner administers the establishment, construction, maintenance and improvement of county drains, and is responsible for the assessment of the costs incurred.

3. How does a drain project begin?

Generally, drain projects are started when a "petition" is submitted to the Drain Commissioner. The petition states that a drainage problem exists and the petitioners would like the Drain Commissioner to solve the problem. A petition can be filed on an existing drain for maintenance or improvements to be undertaken, or it can be filed for the establishment of a new drain.

For an existing drain, a petition must be signed by at least five property owners whose land is located in the drainage district and would be liable to be assessed for a portion of the costs of the project.

For a new drain, an application to establish a drainage district is required before you can petition to establish a County Drain. A drainage district is the area of land that benefits from the drain. The application must be signed by at least ten property owners in the township-five of whom must own land in the drainage district. After the application is received, the Drain Commissioner works with an engineer to determine the area which would be drained by and receive benefit from the new drain. If determined practical, the Drain Commissioner then formally establishes the drainage district boundary. A petition to locate, establish and construct the new drain is then required. The petition must be signed by 50% of the property owners whose property would be traversed by the new drain.

4. Who can petition for a drain project?

A petition can be filed by property owners in the Drainage District, a Township/City/Village, and the County Road Commission or the Michigan Department of Transportation.

5. Who decides whether to do a drain project?

Once petitioned, a "Board of Determination" convenes. The Board of Determination is a three-member board appointed by the Drain Commissioner. The members must be residents of the County but cannot own property in the Drainage District or in the Township/City/Village. The role of the Board of Determination is to receive testimony and evidence at a public hearing to determine:

• Whether a project is necessary and conducive to the public health, convenience or welfare
• Whether all or a portion of the project benefits the municipalities in the district for the protection of public health; and in some instances
• Whether lands should be included in or added to a drainage district.

The Board of Determination does not determine the scope of the project or the cost of the project, and does not determine how much property owners and municipalities will be assessed for the project. The Drain Commissioner makes these decisions after the engineering is performed, but before construction occurs.

6. Who receives notice of a board of determination hearing?

Notices for the Board of Determination hearings are sent to all property owners who own land within a current drainage district and whose lands are proposed to be added to the drainage district. All interested persons may testify at the Board of Determination, or may send written testimony to the Drain Commissioner prior to the Board of Determination hearing.

7. Can the board’s decision be appealed?

If the Board of Determination determines a drain project is necessary, any aggrieved person has 10 days to appeal but they may only appeal the finding of necessity, since that is the only issue the Board of Determination is acting upon. After the 10th day appeal period is over, the Drain Commissioner may proceed with the project.

8. Can the project change?

Since the scope of the project may not be fully defined at the time of the Board of Determination meeting, drain projects may change in scope. The project may get larger or smaller.

9. Who determines what needs to be done?

If the Board of Determination determines a drain project is necessary, the Drain Commissioner decides how to solve the problem. He may contract out various parts of the project, including engineering analysis, project management, and construction.

10. Who pays for drain projects?

Land owners and municipalities within a given Drainage District pay for drain projects within the district. The cost of the project is shared by all the property owners within the district. Each property will be assigned its share, which is calculated on the "benefit" received by each property. The methods for determining benefits can be based on a variety of factors such as acreage and zoning/land use that treat all property owners fairly. Portions of drain project costs are also assigned to the Township/City/Village for public health benefit and to the County and the County Road Commission for benefit to county roads.

The Drain Commissioner will also determine the terms of payment for any assessment. Large projects may be financed by the issuance of notes or bonds, with the costs and assessment. Large projects may be financed by the issuance of notes or bonds, with the costs and assessments spread out over many years.

11. What is the Drain Commissioner allowed to do without a petition?

Michigan Drain Code allows the Drain Commissioner to expend, without petition, up to $5,000 per mile per drain in any one year for maintenance and repair.

12. What’s next?

If you believe that an official county drain would be beneficial to your property or would like to request maintenance of an existing county drain, please feel free to contact the Drain Commissioner’s Office for additional information and guidance.

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Family Recovery Court

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1. What is a Recovery Court?

A Recovery Court is a collaborative effort between the Criminal Justice system and Community Mental Health that strives to improve the quality of life for the individual, increase public safety, and reduce costs for the community.

2. Who is eligible for the Recovery Court?

• Clinically assessed as having a serious emotional disturbance or developmental disability
• Juvenile’s parent/guardian must agree in writing to participate and cooperate with the program
• Juveniles ages 10 to 16 who are considered non-violent offenders, with pending misdemeanor or felony charges (Some violent offenses will be eligible with the consent of the victim and the approval of the prosecuting attorney)
• Van Buren County resident

3. What is the structure of Family Recovery Court?

The Van Buren County Recovery Court is a 12- to 15-month program that involves:

• Case management
• Court review hearings
• Family therapy
• Referrals to ancillary service agencies
• Intensive treatment
• Medication review
• Treatment planning
• Wraparound services

4. Why participate in Family Recovery Court?

• Incentives for positive behavior
• Mental health treatment
• Possible charge reduction or dismissal of case
• Support from Recovery Court team

5. How do I get started?

Potential participants may be identified by various sources including:

• Defense attorneys
• Family members
• Jail staff
• Judges
• Law enforcement
• Prosecutors
• Treatment providers

6. Whom should I contact with questions?

Questions may be directed to Specialty Court:

• Phone: 269-657-8200
• Email Specialty Courts

To get started with Recovery Court please complete the Family Recovery Screening Form screening form (DOCX).

Family Recovery Court Information Sheet - PDF

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Family Reunification Court

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1. Who is eligible for Family Reunification Court?

See the Family Reunification Brochure (PDF) for information.

2. What is the structure of Family Reunification Court?

Family Reunification Court is designed to be a minimum of 9 months, 5 stage program, with increased activities in the early phases and decreased activities in the later phases. Random drug testing is required.

3. Why should I consider Family Reunification Court?

Family Reunification Court serves an alternative method to make your family whole again. Though it is not required for someone to participate in, Family Reunification Court provides a better chance to reunite you with your loved ones. The program is intensive but it allows the participant to secure effective and efficient drug treatment while acquiring the knowledge to be a more succesful parent.

4. Whom should I contact with questions?

Questions may be directed to Specialty Court:

• Phone: 269-657-8200
• E-mail Specialty Courts

To get started with Family Reunification Court please complete Family Reunification Court DHHS Referral

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Home - FAQs

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1. How do I pay my city water bill?

Answer goes here...

2. How do I get a new trash can lid?

Answer goes here...

3. How do I apply for a job with the City?

Answer goes here...

4. My trash didn't get picked up, what should I do now?

Answer goes here...

5. How do I get a garage sale permit?

Answer goes here...

6. How can I see the agenda for an upcoming City Council or Board meeting?

Answer goes here...

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Juvenile Court

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1. How do I request a court-appointed attorney in a delinquency case or child protective proceeding?

1. Call the Juvenile Court, (269) 657-8237, to ask for a court-appointed attorney. If a Juvenile Court child protective proceeding has been started, give your name if you are accused of abusing or neglecting a child. For a delinquency case, give your name and the name of your alleged delinquent child. If you have the case number, provide that too.
2. If the request is approved, an order appointing an attorney will be mailed to you and placed in the file. A copy of the order will also be mailed to all others included as interested parties to the case. The order will include the name of the appointed attorney and the attorney's contact information. Contact the attorney as soon as you receive the order, and make sure the attorney has your contact information.
3. Make sure to contact the court to report any changes in your phone number(s) or address to ensure the court can reach you by phone and by mail.
4. If you do not want to wait for the order to arrive in the mail, call the court a few days after your request to ask about the appointment and to request the attorney's phone number.

2. How do I request a charge of juvenile incorrigibility against my child?

What does incorrigible child mean?

• Incorrigibility may apply to children from ages 10 through and including age 17 who are found to be "incorrigible" as defined in the Michigan Compiled Laws (MCL).
• As stated in MCL 712A.2(a)(3), incorrigible means that:
  1. The juvenile is repeatedly disobedient to the reasonable and lawful commands of his or her parents, legal guardian, or custodian, and
  2. The court finds on the record by clear and convincing evidence that court-accessed services are necessary.

Is incorrigibility a misdemeanor?

• No. Incorrigibility is a status offense. Status offenses are not misdemeanor or felony charges against a child. Status offenses are prohibited under the law because of the youth's status as a minor. Status offense behaviors include, but are not limited to:
  1. Incorrigibility
  2. School truancy
  3. Running away from home
  4. Curfew Violations

Are there any interventions offered in Van Buren County to get help for my child before asking for an Incorrigible Petition?

• Yes. Van Buren Community Mental Health (VBCMH) offers a Youth Intervention Program. A parent, legal guardian, legal custodian, or youth can contact the agency at (269) 657-5574. The Youth Intervention Screener is a master's level clinician who will assist the youth in completing a mental health screening. The results of the screening will be shared with the youth, parents, caregivers, or legal guardians. The Youth Intervention Screener will then help link the youth with appropriate services and follow up. The topics addressed in the screening are Substance Use, Trauma, Suicidal Thinking, Anxiety, Depression, Emotional Distress, Anger, Irritability, School Performance, and Behavioral Issues.
• A child whose behavior problems are due to serious mental health issues and/or severe developmental delays will generally not be considered incorrigible because court-accessed services would not be appropriate for these children.

How can a parent, legal guardian, or custodian ask for an Incorrigible Petition against a child?

1. Before seeking a petition, the parent or caretaker should try to find and exhaust other services such as counseling or family therapy, the youth intervention screening described above, and any other supports the family may have.
2. All requests for Incorrigible Petitions start at the Prosecuting Attorney's office. Contact the Prosecuting Attorney's office at (269) 657-8236 and ask about completing and submitting the Juvenile Incorrigible Information Form.
3. The Prosecuting Attorney's office will review the Juvenile Incorrigible Information Form within two weeks to determine whether an Incorrigible Petition will be submitted to the Juvenile Court.
4. If an Incorrigible Petition is submitted by the Prosecutor and is accepted by the Juvenile Court, you will be contacted by Juvenile Court staff for further instructions or you will receive a notice to appear with the child for a hearing.

Will my child go to detention for being incorrigible?

• No, the court generally does not place a youth in detention for a status offense, including incorrigibility.

What will I have to do as a parent when an Incorrigible Petition is filed against my child?

• As the child's parents, legal guardians, or custodians, you must commit to active involvement in the Juvenile Court case if an Incorrigible Petition is accepted by the court. The court strives to provide support for the youth and family to improve the caretaker's ability to assist the child in changing the behavior that led to the request for the incorrigible Petition.
• You may be required to:
  1. Arrange and transport the youth to assessments, court appointments, or other services as directed by the court or caseworkers.
  2. Participate in therapy or counseling as recommended by the therapists, attend school meetings, or participate in other activities meant to provide supportive services for the youth and the family.
  3. Pay for or contribute to the cost of any court-ordered services, including, but not limited to:
     1. Court appointed attorney fees if an attorney is appointed to represent your child.
     2. Costs or fees involved with any court-directed services, probation or other supervision, or court-ordered family and/or individual counseling or treatment.

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Register of Deeds

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1. Can you prepare my document or give me the forms to use?

No, the Register of Deeds does not prepare any legal document, nor do we give legal advice. Some forms may be obtained from an office supply store. If you need assistance, please contact an attorney, title company or real estate agent.

2. Do you furnish abstracts/titles to property?

No.

3. What payment methods do you accept?

• For recording documents: cash or check
• For copies of documents: cash, check, or credit card if purchased online. (Please include a self addressed stamped envelope with your request or recording.)

4. Can I record a fax or a copy of a document?

No, only documents with original signatures can be recorded.

5. Can I record a true copy court document?

No. Court documents must be certified with the court seal to be recorded. Death certificates must be certified with the Clerk’s seal.

6. Can you fax or email me a copy of a recorded document?

• We can fax, email, or mail copies of documents.
• The cost for copies is $1 per page. Please include a self addressed stamped envelope if we are mailing back to you.
• We accept cash, check and credit cards (Credit Cards are for copies only at this time. See Credit Card Payment Link on Register of Deeds Tool Bar. Follow Link to GovPayNow.net) All charges are paid in advance of the service.

7. Do you have standard document requirements?

Yes, see Recording Requirements.

8. Can I get documents through the Freedom of Information Act?

No, all documents in this office are public information or covered by state statute. The copy fees for documents are set by state statute.

9. Who can get a copy of my deed?

Anyone can. Once your document is recorded, it is public record.

10. What is the purpose of recording a document and what do you do with it?

The purpose of recording is to make a public record of the transaction. Your document(s) are scanned and indexed for the permanent record. Microfilm copies are made, local units of government are notified of land transfers, and the recording information/ images are made available to the public. The original document is returned to whoever sent it in.

11. When will you record my document and what do you do with the document after recording?

We record and return the document within 1 to 2 days of receipt as long as it meets the recording requirements. The document is returned to whoever sent or brought the document to us. If the document came to us through an attorney/bank/title agency, etc. it is up to them when they return it to you.

12. When was my house built?

We can’t answer that. We only deal with land records. Check with your township, city, village or the State Archives.

13. Do you have a survey of my property?

Only if it has been surveyed and recorded. The majority of property has not been.

14. Do you have or record mortgage surveys?

No.

15. How can I find out who owns certain property?

Go to the online Property Search, click on "Begin Search" under Public Users. You can search by name, address or parcel number. This will show you the taxpayer of record.

16. Why is there a 2 ½-inch top margin requirement?

The state passed a law on April 1, 1997, that requires a 2 ½-inch top margin and ½ inch on all other sides. This is to allow room for the recording information, stamps, etc.

17. Does the marital status have to be shown on documents?

The marital status of males must be shown on documents that encumber or convey property, such as deeds and mortgages. Please check our "Recording Requirements" link to see which documents require marital status.

18. Does the document need to be witnessed and notarized?

Documents no longer require witnesses. Most documents require notarization. Please check our "Recording Requirements" link to see which documents require a notary.

19. What documents have to be tax certified?

Warranty Deeds, Land Contracts/ Assignments and Master Deeds required a tax certificate from the Treasurer’s Office. Please check our "Recording Requirements".

20. Will you record a copy of a death certificate?

When you pay off your mortgage, you should receive a Discharge, Release or Satisfaction of Mortgage. You should have received your deed when you first purchased the property. If you do not have your deed, you can get a certified copy at the Register of Deeds office.

21. I've paid off my mortgage. How can I get a copy of my deed?

When you pay off your mortgage, you should receive a Discharge, Release or Satisfaction of Mortgage. You should have received your deed when you first purchased the property. If you do not have your deed, you can get a certified copy at the Register of Deeds office.

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Services Available

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1. How Do I Schedule a Demand Response or Reservation Ride?

Call our Scheduling Office at 269-427-7921 or 1-800-828-2015 . Rides are reserved on a first-called/first-served, space available basis.

Reservations are taken Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM until 7:30 PM. Capacity and schedules are limited, so please call as soon as possible. Rides are scheduled one to 14 days in advance, counting the day you call as day one. You may call on the same day you need service and we will do our best to schedule your ride!

2. When Will I Be Picked Up and Returned Home?

When scheduling a ride, you will be given a 15-20-minute time frame for your pickup (e.g. pickup time for a 10:00 AM appointment may be between 9:00 AM and 9:20 AM). Pickup times for transit between communities or outside city limits may vary by more than 30 minutes. You may wait in your residence until the driver arrives. He/She will honk the horn and can wait for up to three (3) minutes only, so please be ready.  For your return trip, the driver will pick you up within 15 minutes of your requested return time. Should your trip times change, or you wish to cancel, please notify the scheduling office immediately.

3. What are Flex Loop Routes and How Do I Ride?

A Flex Route, also known as a deviated route is when a vehicle operates along a fixed route and keeps to a regular hourly schedule, but the vehicle can deviate from the route to pick up or drop off passengers from other locations along the route, when prearranged through the scheduling office. Once a passenger is picked up from the "FLEXED" location the vehicle will return to its regular route and continue on from the place it left, or deviated from, the route. Flexes are arranged time permitting, and may not be available if a driver is already running behind schedule. A vehicle can FLEX up to two blocks away from its regular route, time permitting.

To be picked up at a location between stops or "Schedule a Flex," you MUST call the scheduling office. To be dropped off as a FLEX you must notify the driver when boarding the bus the location you need. If you need to be picked back up from a FLEXED stop, you MUST call the scheduling office again to make arrangements.  

The South Haven METRO FLEX LOOP operates M-F from 9:00 AM until 5:00 PM. The last loop begins at 4:00 PM and drops off all clients by 5. The METRO LOOP does not operate between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM. Saturday and Sunday services start at 10:00 AM and the last loop begins at 3:00 PM. There is no service between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM Saturdays and Sundays. The route schedule is available on the bus and on our website: Metro Loop. You may also request a copy by mail. 

The Paw Paw CONCORD FLEX LOOP operates M-F from 8:00 AM until 6:00 PM. The last loop begins at 5:00 PM and drops off all clients by 6. The CONCORD LOOP does not operate between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM. Saturday and Sunday services start at 10:00 AM and the last loop begins at 3:00 PM. There is no service between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM Saturdays and Sundays. The route schedule is available on the bus and here on our website: Concord Loop. You may also request a copy by mail. 

When riding any of our LOOP routes, please remember the buses follow a schedule and therefore DO NOT wait for clients at designated stops. You must be ready to go and waiting for the bus at the scheduled departure time. If a driver is early, he/she will be on location until the departure time, but if they are running behind they will not stop at locations where they do not see clients waiting to board.  We always recommend arriving a few minutes early, so that you do not miss the bus and have to wait for the next loop around.

4. How do I schedule a ride to the Battle Creek VA?

Call 269-302-0237 to schedule your ride to the VA in Battle Creek.  Provide your name, address and contact number as well as the date, time and place of your appointment. The Veteran's Shuttle runs every Tuesday and Thursday with drop-offs at 9:00 AM and 12:30 PM, and returns at 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM.

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Sheriff's Office - Care Trak

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1. What if the transmitter gets wet?

The unit can be safely used in water, for showers, baths even swimming to a depth of 15 feet.

2. What about warranty?

The unit is covered for a period of seven years. The warranty does not cover misuse, abuse, loss or batteries.

3. Is the equipment used to track “typical” kids or adults?

No. We specialize in tracking only at-risk individuals.

4. How does the caregiver know the transmitter is working?

The transmitter emits a silent radio signal 24/7. Each caregiver is given a transmitter tester and is required to “test” the transmitter twice a day and log the results. The procedure is simple and requires only seconds.

5. What if the transmitter stops working?

Call the Sheriff’s Office immediately and a new transmitter will be brought to your location as soon as possible.

6. Why not GPS?

GPS is great for tracking cars, bad for tracking people. GPS depends on orbiting satellites to locate a person. GPS may not be able to locate in buildings, in bad weather, or in heavy under brush or trees. Clients are not aware they are lost and will not seek open areas which GPS systems require. Sometimes, low tech is better than high tech.

7. How far can the signal be tracked?

Typically, from the ground, the signal can be detected 1 mile away, but some conditions may allow the signal to be tracked more or less than a mile. If a signal is not detected at the last know location, a grid search from a vehicle is instituted.

8. When should I call if my loved one is missing?

Spend no more than five minutes searching. Time is very important in finding a missing person. If you find them before we arrive that is wonderful.

9. Who should I call if my loved one is missing?

Dial 911 and tell the dispatcher you are a Care Trak customer. Give them the name of the client and the last known location. Dispatch will contact our trained officers and send them to that location.

10. Will I be charged a fee if you come and search for my loved one?

No, the Van Buren County Sheriff’s Office will not charge any fees for responding to a lost person incident.

11. How far from home will you respond if we are traveling?

While the unit will transmit from anywhere in the world, we cannot respond farther than the adjoining counties. If you are going on vacation or to Florida for the winter, call us and we can get you in touch with an agency in the area you are going to and get a transmitter for that area.

12. My neighbor has Care Trak as well, how will you know which transmitter you are tracking?

Each transmitter has a unique frequency setting; no two will have the same setting in this part of the country. The frequency is recorded in the client profile and is set in the search receiver when we need to locate the transmitter.

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Sobriety Court

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1. What is Sobriety Court?

Sobriety Court is a program that provides specialized treatment and supervision services specific to operating while intoxicated (OWI) offenders, given that arrest data clearly indicates there is a need for the program.

Sobriety Court Information Sheet - PDF

2. Who is eligible for the Recovery Court?

• Must be a Van Buren County resident, or a resident of a county contiguous to Van Buren County and have his/her principal place of full-time employment in Van Buren County
• All defendants who request entrance into sobriety court must be charged with a misdemeanor or felony operating while intoxicated (OWI) 2nd or OWI 3rd offense. Defendants who plead guilty to an OWI 1st with extenuating circumstances (i.e. high blood alcohol content BAC or previous OWI 7 years or older) will be considered.
• Must be a non-violent offender
• Must be a U.S. Citizen or qualified alien
• Pattern of substance abuse or dependency

3. What is the structure of Sobriety Court?

The program consists of five stages. The minimum length of stay sobriety court is 12 to 15 months.

4. Why participate in Sobriety Court?

• Effective substance abuse treatment
• Eligibility for a restricted driver’s license

5. How do I get started?

The program will be a voluntary, post-conviction program. If a participant decides to participate, they will have to plead guilty to their crime and agree to participate in the program and treatment.

Attorneys or potential participants must fill out an application screening form and submit it to the prosecutor’s office for review. If the candidate passes the legal screening, the prosecutor’s office will notify the Case Manager, who will then schedule and interview with the potential participant.

Sobriety Court Referral Form

6. Whom should I contact with questions?

Questions may be directed to Specialty Court:

• Phone: 269-657-8200
• Email the Specialty Court