Protect Yourself, Protect Your Rights. It Isn’t Just a Misdemeanor.

Tucson’s
Criminal Law Blog

Check out These Crazy Laws Before Visiting Michigan!

Michigan laws

May 4, 2016

The state of Michigan is the United States’ tenth most populous state and the eleventh largest in terms of total area. It is the only state in the country to consist of two distinct peninsulas, which are separated by the Straits of Mackinac. Although this state is known for its extensive natural beauty, it is also the home of several strange, outdated, and simply silly laws you won’t find in any other state.

Cars may not be sold on Sunday

Michigan has a long history intertwined with the automotive industry. However, if you plan to purchase a new car in Michigan, you won’t be able to accomplish this task legally on one particular day of the week. Since 1953, it has been illegal for any person or business to buy, sell, or even trade a motor vehicle on Sunday. This silly law pertains to both new and used vehicles, and even extends to written agreements involving the sale or trading of cars on the first day of the week.

You may not swear in front of women and children

One of the most famous—and most ridiculous—Michigan state laws stood from 1897 through 2002. This law stated that any individual caught using indecent, vulgar, obscene, or immoral language in front of a woman or child was committing a misdemeanor. Convictions using this outdated law were maintained through 1999, when a man fell out of his canoe and proceeded to let loose a string of swears that were overheard by nearby families. Later, this silly law was repealed in 2002 based on the fact that it violated the First Amendment.

Bounties are awarded for each crow and starling killed

Another recently-repealed law illustrates the dedication of Michigan residents to crow- and starling-free skies. This ridiculous law, repealed in 2006, stated that crows or starlings killed within any village, township, or city in the state of Michigan entitled the hunter to a bounty of three cents for each starling and ten cents for each crow, but this was only if birds were killed in lots of at least 50.

Schedule a Free Initial Consultation to Discuss Your Situation.

Complete our online contact form
or call us at 520-247-1789

(24 hours a day / 7 days a week)