DIVORCE ACTION SOLICITATION S.B. 981:
SUMMARY OF INTRODUCED BILL
IN COMMITTEE
Senate Bill 981 (as introduced 6-11-14)
CONTENT
The bill would amend the Revised Judicature Act to prohibit a person from intentionally contacting an individual whom the person knew to be a party to a divorce action filed with a court, or an immediate family member of that individual, with a direct solicitation to provide a legal service until the expiration of 30 days after the date the proof of service was filed with the court.
A knowing violation of the bill would be a misdemeanor punishable by a maximum fine of $30,000 for a first offense. A second or subsequent violation would be a misdemeanor punishable by up to one year's imprisonment and/or a maximum fine of $60,000.
Proposed MCL 600.914 Legislative Analyst: Patrick Affholter
FISCAL IMPACT
Under the bill, there could be an increase in the number of misdemeanor violations as individuals were prosecuted for direct solicitation to provide a legal service before the expiration of 30 days after proof of service was filed with the court in a divorce action. The possible increase in misdemeanors could increase the requirements on local court systems and jails. Any associated fine revenue would be provided to public libraries.
This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan Senate staff for use by the Senate in its deliberations and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.