“Probable Cause Conference” Can Be Both a Blessing and a Curse

In 2014, the Michigan Legislature passed laws inserting a new step—the PCC--into the felony process.  Before a defendant went directly from Arraignment to Preliminary Examination, which is a hearing at which the prosecuting attorney must prove “probable cause” (i.e., some evidence) of the defendant’s guilt.  If the prosecutor is unable to produce this evidence, the Judge/Magistrate can dismiss the case. What the Michigan Legislature realized (due to intense lobbying by prosecutors and police) was that many cases were being dismissed because prosecutors often didn’t have enough time to get civilian witnesses to court. This was especially glaring because defendants had a statutory right to have their Examinations within 14 calendar days of their Arraignment.  

As a result, Michigan added the intermediate PCC step. For clients who remain in custody at Arraignment, the PCC has been both a blessing and a curse. 

Interested in finding out more? Read about probable cause conference on our website! 

What is a “Probable Cause Conference” in Michigan?

When a person is charged with a felony offense in Washtenaw County or throughout Michigan, he or she often receives a court notice for a “Probable Cause Conference,” or PCC.  While some appearances are obvious just by their titles (i.e., Trial, Sentencing, etc.), a PCC doesn’t immediately register with most people.  What is a PCC and what should people expect to occur?

Interested in finding out more? Read about probable cause conference on our website!