Words by Patrick T Power

On our fourth and final stop on our tour through Michigan's Government, we visit Michigan's Court System.

Whether it's the state's highest court - the Supreme Court - the Court of Appeals, or any of the various Trial Courts, you'll be sure to find what you're looking for in this easy to navigate website.

The Courts' website is teeming with activities and helpful links. You can visit the Supreme Court Learning Center, and while you're there, check out the new kids game, Kid Justice Conquers Chaos.

If you've got a legal issue you need some help with, be sure to visit the Self-Help Center, which answer some of those commonly asked questions we all have, such as how each court functions, how to look up a Michigan law, how to resolve a dispute, and how to find a job with the courts.

Did you know that our judges and court employees never stop learning? The Michigan Judicial Institute provides comprehensive, continuing education programs for employees of the judicial branch. The primary functions of MJI are to:

Develop and conduct live educational seminars for judicial branch employees using recognized subject-matter experts as faculty;

Develop and conduct educational seminars using distance learning methods, such as webcasting and web-based training;

Research, write, and update legal reference publications; and

Operate the Michigan Supreme Court Learning Center, housed in the Michigan Hall of Justice and designed to introduce children and adults to Michigan's judicial system.

One of the services that is most frequently accessed by the public is the Friend of the Court division. If you are involved in a legal issue, be sure you've studied up on the Fines, Fees, and Costs Schedules. Likewise, the Grants and Other Funding page may be more up your alley.

Regardless, keeping Michigan great starts with you, and your involvement in your government. Get involved and make your government work for you!