Michigan law sections 768.27c and 768.28 address the admissibility of statements related to family or household member abuse and allow courts to order jury views of the scene. These provisions define what constitutes abuse, including causing or attempting to cause involuntary sexual activity and creating a threatening environment, and specify when these rules apply. Additionally, courts may facilitate jury views to better understand the case evidence.
Behavior such as causing or attempting to cause involuntary sexual activity through force or threats, or engaging in conduct that causes fear or intimidation in a family or household member.
Includes spouses or former spouses, cohabitants, individuals with whom there is or was a child in common, and those in a dating relationship characterized by frequent, intimate contact.
Yes, Michigan courts may order a view by the jury if deemed necessary for understanding the case, as per Section 768.28.
These provisions apply to trials and hearings that began on or after May 1, 2006.