The Michigan Supreme Court History Timeline

Creation of Territorial Court: Court of Three Appointed by President for Terms "during good behavior"

Woodward Appointed to Serve as First Chief Justice.

Frederick Bates is Appointed to the Court.

First Case Heard by the Supreme Court of the Michigan Territory.

Woodward Codes are Adopted.

James Witherell Joins the Court.

Congressional Act: Court of Three Appointed by President for Four-Year Terms

William Woodbridge Joins the Territorial Supreme Court and Becomes the First of Three Justices Who Go On to Become Governors of the State of Michigan.

State Constitution: Court of Three Appointed by Governor with Consent of the Senate for Seven-Year Terms; Judges to Preside over one of the three Judicial Circuits

Revision of Woodward Codes Begins.

First Members of the Michigan Supreme Court, Justices Fletcher, Morrell, and Ransom are Appointed by Governor Mason.

Michigan Granted Statehood.

Revised Statutes: Court of Four Appointed by Governor with Consent of the Senate for Seven-Year Terms; Judges to Preside over one of the four Judicial Circuits

New Law
Court of Five Appointed by Governor for Seven-Year Terms

Michigan Adopts a New Constitution Allowing for Election of Supreme Court Justices to Six Year Terms. In What Is Called the "Noble Experiment," Justices Also Serve as Circuit Court Justices.