Hillsdale County

Hillsdale County is located in the south-central region of Michigan, bordering the state of Ohio to the south. Established in 1829 and organized in 1835, Hillsdale County covers approximately 607 square miles of rolling terrain characterized by glacial lakes, fertile farmland, and historic small towns. Hillsdale County seat is Hillsdale, a city that is the governmental and cultural center of Hillsdale County. As of recent estimates, Hillsdale County has a population of approximately 45,000 residents. Hillsdale County is named after the numerous hills that dot its scene, a distinctive feature in an otherwise relatively flat southern Michigan. Major communities include Hillsdale area, Jonesville, Litchfield, and Reading. Hillsdale County College, a prestigious private liberal arts institution founded in 1844, is a defining landmark and economic driver for Hillsdale County. Hillsdale County is also home to numerous inland lakes including Baw Beese Lake, Lake Somerset, and North Lake, making it a regional destination for summer recreation. Hillsdale County Courthouse, located at 29 North Howell Street in Hillsdale County, MI 49242, houses several key governmental offices. Hillsdale County Clerk is located at the same address and maintains vital records, election records, and various governmental filings. Hillsdale County Register of Deeds, also at the courthouse, maintains all property records, deeds, and land transactions. Hillsdale County Equalization Department handles property assessments and tax records. What makes Hillsdale County unique is its blend of agricultural heritage, educational prominence through Hillsdale College, and strong commitment to constitutional principles and local governance. Hillsdale County's rural character, numerous lakes, and proximity to both Detroit and Chicago make it an attractive area for residents seeking small-town living with access to larger metropolitan areas.

• Hillsdale County Register of Deeds, also at the courthouse, maintains all property records, deeds, and land transactions.

Law Enforcement & Arrests

• Citizens may request arrest records by submitting a written FOIA request to the Sheriff's Office or the relevant municipal police department.
• There may be reasonable fees associated with copying and processing these requests.
• For specialized law enforcement matters, Michigan State Police Post 60 in Jackson also provides services to Hillsdale County residents.

Jail & Inmate Records

• The bond and bail process follows Michigan state laws, where a judge sets the bail amount, and individuals can post bail through cash or bond services to secure release.

• Fees for certified copies of court documents are typically $10 for the first page and $1 for each additional page, plus a $1 certification fee, though fees may vary by document type.
• Written requests for copies may be submitted to the appropriate court clerk, and FOIA provisions may apply to certain court administrative records.
• In-person visits allow for searching docket books and requesting specific case files.

Property records for Hillsdale County, Michigan are maintained by the Hillsdale County Register of Deeds. This office maintains recorded documents including deeds, mortgages, liens, and easements for properties in Hillsdale County.

Vital records for this county include birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates issued under state vital statistics law.

• The fee for a certified birth certificate is typically $34 for the first copy and $16 for each additional copy ordered at the same time.
• Death certificates are available for deaths occurring in Hillsdale County, with requesters required to demonstrate a direct and tangible interest or be an authorized representative.
• The fee structure is similar to birth certificates.
• Processing time at Hillsdale County level is typically 1-2 weeks, though it may vary based on volume and record availability.
• The marriage license fee is approximately $20-$30, and there is no waiting period in Michigan, though licenses are valid for 33 days from date of issuance.

Business records, licenses, and permits for this county are processed by the County Clerk and local government offices.

• These filings are public records and can be searched by visiting the Clerk's office in person or by calling to request information about specific business names.
• The fee for filing an assumed name certificate is typically around $10.
• Hillsdale County Chamber of Commerce, serving Hillsdale County area, provides business resources and networking opportunities; more information is available at Hillsdale Countycountychamber.com.