Arresting a Minor in Michigan

• Law enforcement officers in Michigan, as in most states, have different standards when arresting minors than they do adults. As a matter of common law, not Michigan statute, minors can be arrested even if only reasonable cause exists that the minor has committed a offense. Case law confirms juveniles, unlike adults, may be arrested without a law enforcement officer personally observing a misdemeanor. A juvenile can be arrested on reasonable cause for the commission of a status offense, or an offense based on age. Court orders can be also issued for the arrest of a minor upon absence from school or another facility where they are required or expected to be.