2019 MIDC Annual Impact Report

Website
The MIDC maintains a website pursuant to MCL §780.989(6) and
§780.999, which serves as the main resource to learn about our policies,
standards, and resources as we carry out the mission of improving
indigent defense delivery systems statewide. The website is found at
www.michiganidc.gov. The MIDC posts news and noteworthy issues,
information about meetings and upcoming events, and resources for
compliance planning and implementation as described in this report.
The website had 25,239 visits in 2019 (an increase from 19,362 visits
in 2018). The most popular pages cover the MIDC’s standards, grants,
policies, and reports.
First Full Year of Compliance Plan Funding and
Implementation Completed
Overview
This year marked a significant achievement for indigent defense reform
in Michigan. The MIDC secured $86.7 million in funding for 134 trial
court systems to comply with the first four standards approved by the
Commission. Those standards include training for assigned counsel,
initial interviews by attorneys within three business days from
assignment, funding for experts and investigators, and counsel at first
appearance and other critical stages of the proceedings. Approximately
85% of the funding is for direct services to indigent defendants:
services such as attorney fees, expert witness and investigative
assistance.
MIDC 2019 Impact Report – page 11