How to Keep Your Location Confidential in Lansing And Other Mid-Michigan Cases
Keeping Your Address Confidential in Michigan Family Court
In Michigan family law cases in counties such as Ingham, Eaton, Livingston, and Clinton, address confidentiality can be a critical safety measure in certain cases. Michigan Circuit Courts and our Family Court judges, provide legal options to keep your home address private while ensuring you still receive all mail sent to you by the court.
The Legal Framework: Michigan Court Rules and Statutes
Your attorney can file a request to protect your safety by making your address and other personal identifying information confidential for “just cause.” This often includes threats, domestic violence, or harassment. When a Michigan Circuit Court judge grants such an order, the requesting party can give an alternate mailing address for service, such as a P.O. Box or the address of a trusted third party. A Circuit Court (Family Court) in Lansing, Eaton County, Jackson County, Clinton County, or surrounding counties will use that alternate address for all notices and legal correspondence, and your real physical address will not be disclosed to the other party or the public. If you move and need to update your address with the court, your new address will also remain confidential.
Michigan’s Address Confidentiality Program (ACP)
Victims of domestic violence, stalking, sexual assault, or human trafficking can enroll in Michigan’s Address Confidentiality Program (ACP), administered by the Michigan Attorney General’s Office. The program ensures that your true residence does not appear in court filings, Friend of the Court records, or public databases, adding a critical layer of safety for victims rebuilding their lives. Once enrolled, you are assigned a legal substitute address, often a P.O. Box, that can be used for official records, and any mail sent to that P.O. Box is securely forwarded to your confidential location. More details and application forms are available on the Michigan Attorney General’s ACP page.
The Role of Your Family Law Attorney
A skilled family law attorney can ensure your address confidentiality request is properly handled and legally enforceable. They can:
- File motions requesting that personal identifying information be confidential.
- Request modifications of court orders that require address disclosure.
- Coordinate with the Friend of the Court and Office of Child Support to ensure your location information remains sealed.
- Help you apply for the Address Confidentiality Program.
FAQs About Address Confidentiality in Michigan Family Courts
Q: Can I keep my address secret from the other parent?
A: Yes, but you must request it through the court and provide an alternative address for correspondence from the court. A judge can require disclosure if safety concerns aren’t substantiated or if another order takes priority.
Q: What if I move while my address is confidential?
A: You must update your address with the FOC and court within 21 days, but the pre-existing protections remain in place.
Q: Who qualifies for Michigan’s Address Confidentiality Program?
A: Victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, or trafficking who have Michigan cases, and who have relocated for safety reasons may qualify. You can speak with your divorce lawyer or family law attorney to determine if you qualify.
Q: What happens if I accidentally file a document showing my home address?
A: Filing unredacted personal information waives its protection. Having an experienced attorney represent you eliminates the risk of mistakes such as this.
Contact Us Today
Keeping your address confidential in Michigan family court requires careful coordination between court orders, FOC procedures, and sometimes the Attorney General’s ACP program. At The Kronzek Firm, we know how vital protecting personal information can be for survivors of domestic violence, emotional abuse, physical abuse or harassment. One of our experienced Michigan family law attorneys can help maintain your confidentiality while complying with Michigan family court procedures. Let us represent you and protect your safety and legal rights.
📞 Our top rated attorneys have handled divorces and other family law issues for thousands of Michigan clients for more than 30 years.
You can reach our Lansing office 24/7 by calling (517) 886-1000 or by email at contactus@kronzek.law. You can also text us during weekdays, from 9 am until 7 pm at (517) 886-1000. We are available to our clients for crisis intervention and emergencies during evenings and weekends.
[Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult an attorney for personalized guidance.]