Tracking Detroit’s Courts, Together
Our courts are supposed to serve the public. But too often, decisions happen behind closed doors, shielded from accountability. Court Watch Detroit publishes reports that bring transparency to these hidden systems. Each report is built from data, research, and firsthand courtroom observations from community volunteers.
These reports are not neutral. They are tools for accountability, community power, and change.
2025 Baseline Report
Court Watch Detroit’s first baseline report compiles existing research and data on Detroit and Wayne County courts. It highlights systemic issues like racial disparities, pretrial detention, license suspensions, and immigration court backlogs. This report sets the foundation for future releases built on local observations.
Bail & Bond Practices
Find out who gets released, who stays jailed, and why.
Prosecutor & judge Trends
Analyze patterns in charging and sentencing.
Broader Community Impact
See how court decisions ripple through neighborhoods.