Homepage Blank Michigan Mc 49 Form
Outline

The Michigan MC 49 form plays a crucial role in the garnishment process, allowing individuals to formally object to a writ of garnishment. This legal document is essential for those who believe their funds or property should not be subject to garnishment due to various valid reasons. For instance, a person may claim that the funds are exempt by law, they are currently undergoing bankruptcy proceedings, or they have already paid the judgment in full. Additionally, if there is an existing installment payment order or if the garnishment was improperly issued, the MC 49 form serves as a mechanism to challenge these actions. The form not only requires the individual to outline their objections but also mandates a notice of hearing where both the defendant and plaintiff must appear. Completing this form accurately and submitting it to the appropriate court is vital, as it initiates the process for contesting the garnishment. Furthermore, individuals must be aware of the timelines involved, as objections must be filed within a specific period following the service of the garnishment. Understanding the MC 49 form and its requirements can significantly impact one’s ability to protect their financial interests in the face of garnishment.

Sample - Michigan Mc 49 Form

 

Original - Court

 

1st copy - Plaintiff

Approved, SCAO

2nd copy - Defendant

3rd copy - Garnishee

 

STATE OF MICHIGAN JUDICIAL DISTRICT JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

OBJECTIONS TO GARNISHMENT

AND NOTICE OF HEARING

CASE NO.

Court address

Court telephone no.

Plaintiff's name, address, and telephone no. (judgment creditor)

Defendant's name, address, and telephone no. (judgment debtor)

v

Plaintiff's attorney, bar no., address, and telephone no.

Garnishee's name and address

OBJECTIONS TO GARNISHMENT

I object to the writ of garnishment issued on

 

and request a hearing because

 

Date

a. the funds or property are exempt (protected) from garnishment by law.

b. of bankruptcy proceedings. Case No:

c. I have an installment payment order, issued on. Court:Case No:

d. the maximum amount permitted by law is already being withheld by another court order.

e. the judgment has been paid.

f. the writ was not properly issued or is otherwise invalid because

.

I was served with a copy of a writ of garnishment on

 

.

 

 

Date

 

 

 

 

 

Date

 

Signature of defendant

To be completed by the court.

1. A hearing will be held on

Date

NOTICE OF HEARING ON OBJECTIONS

atat

TimeLocation

before Hon.

 

.

 

2.

The defendant and plaintiff are required to appear.

3.

The garnishee

is

is not required to appear.

4. a. Objections were filed within 14 days of the defendant being served with the writ of garnishment. The garnishee shall continue to withhold funds but shall not release withheld funds until further order of the court.

b. Objections were filed 14 days or more after the defendant was served with the writ of garnishment. The garnishee shall continue to withhold and release funds unless otherwise ordered by the court.

Date

Deputy court clerk

If you require special accommodations to use the court because of a disability or if you require a foreign language interpreter to help you fully participate in court proceedings, please contact the court immediately to make arrangements.

CERTIFICATE OF MAILING

I certify that on this date I served a copy of this objection and notice on the parties or their attorneys by first-class mail addressed to their last-known addresses as defined in MCR 2.107(C)(3).

Date

Defendant's signature/District court clerk

MC 49 (8/12)

OBJECTIONS TO GARNISHMENT AND NOTICE OF HEARING

15 USC 1672, 15 USC 1673, MCR 3.101(K)(3)

Instructions for Filing and Serving an Objection to Garnishment (Form MC 49)

If you received a writ of garnishment (form MC 12, MC 13, or MC 52), you can object to that garnishment only if:

your money is exempt (protected) from garnishment by law (see the list of exempt funds on the back of your writ of garnishment form),

you filed for bankruptcy and those proceedings are pending or the debt has been discharged,

you have an installment payment order signed by a judge (form MC 15a),

the maximum amount of money that can be garnished by law is already being withheld by another court order,

you already paid the judgment in full,

the garnishment was not properly issued (for example, it was issued on false information) or the garnishment

is invalid (for example, the interest, costs, or judgment amount are inaccurate).

You cannot use this form to challenge the judgment or because you are unable to pay the judgment.

1.How do I file an Objection?

You file an objection by completing the form and filing it with the same court that signed the writ of garnishment. There is no cost.

2.Fill out the Objection form.

Write in the court number, case number, the court address and telephone number, and the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of the plaintiff and the defendant exactly as they are on the writ of garnishment.

Write in the date the garnishment was issued (see the lower left-hand corner of the writ of garnishment). Check the box that states the reason you are objecting to the garnishment. If there is more than one reason, check all that apply. Write in the date that you were served (the date you received) a copy of the writ garnishment.

Write in the date you complete the form and sign your name.

3.Make four copies of the completed objection form.

4.File the Objection with the court.

File all four copies of your objection with the court in person or by first-class mail. If you mail the objection, include a postage-paid and self-addressed envelope so that the court can return to you three copies with the Notice of Hearing completed.

5.Serve the Objection.

If your case is in the district court, the court will serve the objection and will return one copy to you.

If your case is in the circuit court, when you get the three remaining copies of the objection with the Notice of Hearing completed, serve a copy on the plaintiff and a copy on the garnishee by first-class mail. If the plaintiff has an attorney, serve the objection on the attorney instead of the plaintiff. Complete the Certificate of Mailing on the bottom of your copy of the form. Make a copy of this and file it with the court. You can do this either in person or by first-class mail. Keep your copy for yourself.

For information on preparing for a hearing generally, see the Michigan Court’s Self-Help Center at http://courts.michigan.gov/scao/selfhelp/general/hearings.htm. NOTE: You must bring all documents to the hearing to support the objections that you checked on the objection form.

Form Information

Fact Name Fact Description
Form Purpose The MC 49 form is used to object to a garnishment and request a hearing.
Governing Law This form is governed by 15 USC 1672, 15 USC 1673, and MCR 3.101(K)(3).
Who Can File Defendants, or judgment debtors, can file objections to the garnishment.
Exemptions Funds may be exempt from garnishment under specific laws, allowing for objections.
Bankruptcy Proceedings If bankruptcy is pending, a defendant can object to garnishment.
Installment Payment Orders Defendants with an installment payment order can also file an objection.
Filing Process Objections must be filed with the court that issued the garnishment.
Hearing Requirement A hearing will be scheduled, and both the plaintiff and defendant must appear.
Service of Notice Defendants must serve the objection and notice to the plaintiff and garnishee.
Deadline for Objections Objections must be filed within 14 days of receiving the writ of garnishment.

Detailed Guide for Filling Out Michigan Mc 49

Completing the Michigan MC 49 form involves several steps that ensure your objections to garnishment are properly filed and served. Following these instructions carefully will help you navigate the process effectively.

  1. Gather necessary information, including the court number, case number, court address, and telephone number, as well as the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of both the plaintiff and defendant. This information should match exactly what is on the writ of garnishment.
  2. Locate the date the garnishment was issued. This can be found in the lower left-hand corner of the writ of garnishment.
  3. Fill out the MC 49 form by writing in the date you were served with a copy of the writ of garnishment. Check all applicable boxes indicating your reasons for objecting to the garnishment.
  4. Sign and date the completed form. Ensure that your signature is clear and legible.
  5. Make four copies of the completed objection form for your records and for filing.
  6. File the original MC 49 form and all four copies with the court that issued the writ of garnishment. You can file them in person or by first-class mail. If mailing, include a self-addressed, postage-paid envelope for the court to return your copies.
  7. If your case is in district court, the court will serve the objection and return one copy to you. If your case is in circuit court, once you receive the three remaining copies of the objection with the Notice of Hearing, serve one copy to the plaintiff and one to the garnishee by first-class mail. If the plaintiff has an attorney, serve the objection on the attorney instead.
  8. Complete the Certificate of Mailing on the bottom of your copy of the form, and make sure to file this with the court, either in person or by mail. Retain a copy for your records.

After completing these steps, you will be prepared for the upcoming hearing regarding your objections. It is important to bring all relevant documents to support your claims. For additional guidance, consider visiting the Michigan Court’s Self-Help Center.

Obtain Answers on Michigan Mc 49

  1. What is the Michigan MC 49 form?

    The Michigan MC 49 form is used to file objections to a writ of garnishment. It allows a defendant (the judgment debtor) to contest the garnishment of their funds or property, providing reasons for the objection and requesting a hearing. This form is essential for ensuring that defendants can protect their rights and assets under Michigan law.

  2. Who can file an objection using the MC 49 form?

    Any defendant who has received a writ of garnishment can file an objection using the MC 49 form. The objections can be based on several grounds, including the exemption of funds from garnishment, pending bankruptcy proceedings, or the judgment being paid in full.

  3. What are the valid reasons for filing an objection?

    • The funds or property are exempt from garnishment by law.
    • Bankruptcy proceedings are currently ongoing.
    • An installment payment order has been issued.
    • The maximum amount permitted by law is already being withheld by another court order.
    • The judgment has been paid.
    • The writ was improperly issued or is otherwise invalid.
  4. How do I complete the MC 49 form?

    To complete the MC 49 form, fill in the required details, including the court number, case number, court address, and the names and addresses of both the plaintiff and defendant. Indicate the date the garnishment was issued and check the appropriate boxes for your objections. Finally, sign and date the form.

  5. What is the process for filing the MC 49 form?

    After completing the MC 49 form, make four copies of it. File the original and all copies with the court that issued the writ of garnishment. There is no filing fee. If mailing, include a self-addressed, postage-paid envelope for the court to return copies to you.

  6. What happens after I file the MC 49 form?

    Once filed, the court will schedule a hearing regarding your objections. You will receive a Notice of Hearing, which will indicate the date, time, and location of the hearing. Both the defendant and plaintiff are required to attend, while the garnishee may not be required to appear.

  7. What if I miss the deadline to file an objection?

    If objections are filed 14 days or more after being served with the writ of garnishment, the garnishee must continue to withhold funds but may also release them unless the court orders otherwise. Timely filing is crucial to protect your rights.

  8. Do I need to attend the hearing?

    Yes, both the defendant and the plaintiff must attend the hearing. It is important to bring all relevant documents to support your objections. Failure to appear may result in the court ruling against your objections.

  9. How can I prepare for the hearing?

    To prepare for the hearing, gather all documents that support your objections. Familiarize yourself with the reasons for your objection and be ready to explain them clearly. For more guidance on preparing for a hearing, visit the Michigan Court’s Self-Help Center.

Common mistakes

Filling out the Michigan MC 49 form can be a straightforward process, but mistakes can lead to delays or complications. One common error is failing to provide complete and accurate information about the parties involved. It's essential to list the plaintiff's and defendant's names, addresses, and telephone numbers exactly as they appear on the writ of garnishment. Inaccuracies can cause confusion and may result in your objection being dismissed.

Another frequent mistake is neglecting to check all applicable reasons for the objection. The form allows you to select multiple reasons for your objection to garnishment. If you only check one box when there are multiple valid reasons, it may weaken your case. Ensure that you thoroughly review the list of reasons and check all that apply to your situation.

Many individuals also overlook the importance of providing the correct dates. You must include the date the garnishment was issued and the date you received the writ. Missing or incorrect dates can complicate the court's understanding of your case and may lead to procedural issues.

Some people forget to sign the form before submitting it. A signature is a critical component of the MC 49 form, as it verifies that the information provided is accurate to the best of your knowledge. Without a signature, the court may reject your objection, requiring you to start the process over.

Additionally, failing to make the necessary copies of the completed objection form can create significant delays. It is essential to prepare four copies: one for the court, one for the plaintiff, one for the garnishee, and one for your records. If you submit fewer copies than required, you may need to return to the court to rectify the issue.

Another common pitfall is not serving the objection correctly. If your case is in circuit court, after receiving the copies with the Notice of Hearing, you must serve the plaintiff and garnishee by first-class mail. If the plaintiff has legal representation, the objection must be sent to the attorney instead. Missing this step can lead to further complications in the hearing process.

Lastly, individuals often forget to prepare for the hearing itself. It is crucial to gather all necessary documents that support your objections before attending the hearing. Failing to bring relevant documentation can weaken your position and hinder your ability to present a strong case to the judge.

Documents used along the form

The Michigan MC 49 form is a critical document used in the process of objecting to garnishment. However, it is often accompanied by several other forms and documents that facilitate various aspects of the garnishment process. Understanding these documents can help individuals navigate their legal situations more effectively.

  • MC 12 - Writ of Garnishment: This form is issued by the court to instruct a third party (the garnishee) to withhold funds or property from the judgment debtor. It provides the legal basis for the garnishment and outlines the amount to be withheld.
  • MC 13 - Writ of Garnishment (Non-Periodic Payments): Similar to the MC 12, this form is specifically used for garnishing non-periodic payments, such as a lump sum. It serves the same purpose but is tailored for situations where payments are not made on a regular schedule.
  • MC 15a - Installment Payment Order: This document outlines a payment plan for the judgment debtor, allowing them to pay off their debt in installments. If this order is in place, it can be a valid reason to object to a garnishment.
  • MC 52 - Writ of Garnishment for Income: This form is used to garnish wages directly from the debtor's employer. It ensures that a portion of the debtor's income is withheld to satisfy the judgment.
  • MC 20 - Notice of Hearing: This form notifies all parties involved of the scheduled hearing regarding the objections to garnishment. It includes details such as the date, time, and location of the hearing.
  • Certificate of Mailing: This document is used to confirm that copies of the objection and notice have been sent to all relevant parties. It serves as proof that the required notifications were made in compliance with court rules.
  • Bankruptcy Filing Documents: If the judgment debtor has filed for bankruptcy, these documents are essential. They provide evidence of the bankruptcy proceedings and can be used to support an objection to garnishment based on the debtor's financial status.

In conclusion, familiarity with these accompanying documents can enhance one’s understanding of the garnishment process in Michigan. Each form plays a specific role in ensuring that the rights of all parties are respected and that the legal proceedings are conducted fairly. Properly utilizing these documents can significantly impact the outcome of a garnishment case.

Similar forms

The Michigan MC 49 form, which addresses objections to garnishment, has similarities with several other legal documents. Below is a list of six documents that share characteristics with the MC 49 form:

  • MC 12 - Writ of Garnishment: This document initiates the garnishment process, requiring the garnishee to withhold funds. Like the MC 49, it involves parties contesting the garnishment and outlines the necessary information regarding the case.
  • MC 13 - Writ of Garnishment for Support: Similar to the MC 49, this form is used specifically for garnishments related to child or spousal support. Both documents require the identification of the plaintiff and defendant and include provisions for objections.
  • MC 15a - Installment Payment Order: This form allows defendants to request a structured payment plan for their debts. It parallels the MC 49 in that it provides grounds for objections when a defendant believes the garnishment is unjust.
  • MC 52 - Writ of Garnishment for Non-Wage Garnishment: This document is used for garnishing assets other than wages. Like the MC 49, it includes details about the parties involved and allows for objections to be raised.
  • MC 104 - Motion to Set Aside Default Judgment: This form allows a party to contest a default judgment. Similar to the MC 49, it requires a clear statement of objections and provides a process for a hearing.
  • MC 100 - Notice of Hearing: This document notifies parties of a scheduled hearing. It shares similarities with the MC 49 in terms of procedural requirements and the importance of notifying all involved parties.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Michigan MC 49 form, there are important guidelines to follow to ensure your objections to garnishment are properly submitted. Here is a list of things you should and shouldn’t do:

  • Do fill out the form completely, including all required names, addresses, and case numbers.
  • Do check all applicable reasons for your objection to garnishment.
  • Do file the objection with the same court that issued the writ of garnishment.
  • Do make four copies of the completed form before filing it.
  • Don't forget to include the date you were served with the writ of garnishment.
  • Don't submit the form without signing it; your signature is essential.
  • Don't use the form to challenge the original judgment or claim inability to pay.
  • Don't ignore the requirement to serve copies of the objection to the plaintiff and garnishee, if applicable.

By adhering to these guidelines, individuals can navigate the process of objecting to garnishment more effectively and ensure their rights are protected.

Misconceptions

  • Misconception 1: The MC 49 form can be used to challenge the underlying judgment.
  • This form is specifically for objections to garnishment. It cannot be used to dispute the judgment itself. If a person wishes to contest the judgment, they must pursue other legal avenues.

  • Misconception 2: There is a fee to file an objection using the MC 49 form.
  • No filing fee is required when submitting the MC 49 form. This makes it accessible for individuals who may be facing financial difficulties.

  • Misconception 3: The garnishee must appear at the hearing.
  • In most cases, the garnishee is not required to attend the hearing. Only the defendant and plaintiff must be present, unless otherwise ordered by the court.

  • Misconception 4: Filing an objection guarantees that the garnishment will be lifted.
  • Misconception 5: Objections must be filed immediately after receiving the writ of garnishment.
  • Objections must be filed within 14 days of being served with the writ. If filed later, the garnishee may continue to withhold funds unless instructed otherwise by the court.

  • Misconception 6: You can only object for one reason.
  • Individuals can check multiple reasons on the MC 49 form. If more than one reason applies, all relevant objections should be included.

  • Misconception 7: You do not need to provide any documentation at the hearing.
  • It is essential to bring all relevant documents to support the objections listed on the MC 49 form. This documentation will aid in presenting a strong case during the hearing.

Key takeaways

Here are some important points to keep in mind when filling out and using the Michigan MC 49 form:

  • Eligibility to Object: You can object to a garnishment if your funds are exempt, you are in bankruptcy, or you have already paid the judgment.
  • Filing Process: Complete the form and file it with the same court that issued the writ of garnishment. There is no filing fee.
  • Correct Information: Ensure that all names, addresses, and case numbers are accurate, matching those on the writ of garnishment.
  • Multiple Reasons: You can check more than one reason for your objection. Be thorough in explaining your situation.
  • Copies Required: Make four copies of the completed form before filing. This ensures that you have records for yourself and the court.
  • Serving the Objection: If your case is in circuit court, serve copies to the plaintiff and garnishee. If in district court, the court will handle this for you.
  • Prepare for Hearing: Bring all relevant documents to the hearing. This will support your objections and strengthen your case.

Understanding these key points can help you navigate the process more effectively and ensure that your objections are properly addressed.