Michigan § 434.27 - Jurisdiction; filing claim; hearing; notice; burden of establishing ownership; decision; liability for noncompliance.
Full text of Michigan Michigan Compiled Laws § 434.27 — Jurisdiction; filing claim; hearing; notice; burden of establishing ownership; decision; liability for noncompliance., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 434.27. Jurisdiction; filing claim; hearing; notice; burden of establishing ownership; decision; liability for noncompliance.
The following courts shall have jurisdiction regarding a dispute concerning the legal ownership of any found property:
A district court.
A municipal court.
A circuit court, if the amount in controversy exceeds $10,000.00.
When a dispute concerning the ownership of found property arises, any person claiming ownership of the property may file a claim in 1 of the above courts having jurisdiction.
Upon receipt of the claim of ownership, the court shall do both of the following:
Schedule a hearing to be held within 30 days of the filing of the claim for the purpose of determining the ownership of the property.
Notify all persons claiming ownership of the property and the law enforcement agency of the date, time, and location of the hearing.
The person claiming ownership of the property who files a claim shall have the burden of establishing ownership of the property at the hearing.
The court shall make a decision within 10 days after the hearing as to the legal ownership of the property.
Notwithstanding any other law, a state, county, city, municipality, township, governmental agency, or person shall not be criminally or civilly liable for complying with this act.
Source: official Michigan text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Michigan § 434.27
What does Michigan Compiled Laws § 434.27 cover?
Section 434.27 ("Jurisdiction; filing claim; hearing; notice; burden of establishing ownership; decision; liability for noncompliance.") is part of the Michigan Compiled Laws, the codified statutory law of Michigan. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Michigan § 434.27?
A common citation format is "Michigan Compiled Laws § 434.27" (Michigan). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Michigan law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Michigan official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Michigan attorney.
How does Michigan § 434.27 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Michigan can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Michigan.