A plan co-sponsored by State Rep. Tom Kuhn to add a third Macomb County probate judge was signed into law last week. Currently, two full-time probate judges struggle to manage increasing caseloads.

“Probate court considers cases involving the most vulnerable people in times of greatest need,” said Kuhn, R-Troy. “Macomb County needs another judge to ensure high-quality, efficient service. While current judges and staff have made an exemplary effort managing increasing caseloads, news of this addition will certainly be a great early Christmas gift to both the courts and the families who rely on them.”

Analysis by the Michigan State Court Administrator Office (SCAO) going as far back as 2019 have indicated that Macomb County should have a minimum of 3 to 4 probate judges to effectively manage its caseload, rather than the two with which they have struggled for some time. Earlier this year, SCAO updated their analysis based on current caseloads and produced the same results.

Kuhn, who has been practicing law for over 35 years, was joined by State Rep. Doug Wozniak, R-Shelby Township, who sponsored the bill, the Macomb County courts, and the Michigan Supreme Court in supporting the legislation. The new judge will be elected in 2024 and take office in 2025.

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