63rd District Court – What to Expect

1950 E. Beltline Ave. NE

Grand Rapids, Michigan

If your case is pending in the 63rd District Court, understanding how this court operates can help reduce uncertainty and allow you to make informed decisions. Each judge has a distinct style, and the procedures followed here matter. Knowing the court is a critical part of building an effective defense.

Meet the Judges

Judge Jeffrey J. O’Hara

Elected in 2014. Although he has a criminal defense background, Judge O’Hara is known for strict sentencing in OWI cases, particularly High BAC matters. Lengthy probation and significant conditions are common. He does, however, carefully evaluate legal challenges and will suppress evidence when appropriate.

Judge Kirsten Holz

Appointed in 2025. A former public defender with a professional and thoughtful demeanor. She is known for fairness, careful listening, and efficient trial management.

Judge Daniel J. O’Hara

Recently elected as the court’s third judge. Former Kent County Assistant Prosecutor. Approachable and reasonable, with a reputation for being open to chamber discussions and thoughtfully considering defense arguments.

Who Prosecutes Cases in This Court?

Most cases in the 63rd District Court are handled by the Kent County Prosecutor’s Office.

• Prosecutors are rotated and assigned to specific judges
• Any dismissal or charge reduction typically requires approval from:
  • Chief Assistant Prosecutor Elizabeth Bartlett
  • Prosecutor Chris Becker

Cases from the City of East Grand Rapids are often prosecuted by contract attorneys through Varnum Law. These attorneys frequently have greater discretion in resolving cases.

Arraignments: Your First Court Date

In many cases, the arraignment can be waived. This means:

• You may not need to appear in person
• Paperwork can be handled by your attorney
• Bond conditions can be issued without appearing before a judge
• Waivers are common in OWI 1st and OWI 2nd charges

Common bond conditions include:

• No alcohol or drugs
• No new criminal charges
• No leaving the state without permission, which is commonly granted when properly requested

Certain cases do require an in-person arraignment. These typically include assault allegations, firearms offenses, sexual assault charges, felony cases, or some enhancement requiring appearance. These matters may involve GPS tethering, no contact orders, or court supervision.

Pretrial Conferences: Building Your Defense

After the arraignment or waiver, the court schedules a pretrial conference.

In many cases, you do not need to appear. Your attorney meets with the prosecutor to:

• Review the evidence
• Identify legal and constitutional issues
• Address potential motions
• Begin negotiations

Most cases are then scheduled for a second pretrial or settlement conference within approximately two to four weeks.

Settlement Conferences: A Critical Decision Point

Settlement conferences often determine the direction of your case.

• Your appearance is often waived
• The case may resolve or move toward trial

If an agreement is reached:

• A plea and sentencing date is scheduled
• In OWI cases, same day plea and sentencing may be allowed if a substance use evaluation is already completed

If no agreement is reached:

• The case proceeds toward motions, jury selection, and trial

Recovery Court

The 63rd District Court operates a certified Recovery Court.

• Certified in 2024
• Entry standards are more demanding than many other courts
• Not every defendant is eligible or well suited

Careful evaluation is essential before pursuing this option. In some cases, Recovery Court can be beneficial. In others, it may create additional obligations that are not in your best interest. A thorough discussion with your attorney is important before making this decision.

Why Experience in This Court Matters

Experience in the specific court where your case is pending can make a meaningful difference.

Barone Defense Firm regularly appears in the 63rd District Court. Attorney Michael J. Boyle handled the first jury trial in this courthouse, resulting in an acquittal on an OWI Second Offense.

Familiarity with the judges, prosecutors, and procedures in this court allows for:

• Strategic decision making
• Efficient case handling
• Strong courtroom advocacy

If your case is pending in the 63rd District Court, having a defense team that understands how this court operates can help you move forward with clarity and confidence.