Violating the Governor’s Shelter In Place Emergency Order 2020-21 can result in a criminal charge. This Order, effective, March 23, 2020, requires Michigan residents to suspend all activities that are not necessary to sustain life or protect life.
According to the Governor’s Emergency Order 2020-21, it is a misdemeanor to violate this order.
Many people are wondering what they can and cannot do while the stay at home order is effective. Here is a general summary of what you are allowed to do:
- Engage in outdoor activities, such as walking, running, biking, etc.
- Pick up prescriptions from the pharmacy.
- Pick up take-out food or go to the grocery store.
- Obtain any necessary medical care, including going to the hospital, to preserve your health or the health of a loved one.
- Get gas for your vehicle.
- Return and/or leave the State for a home or residence elsewhere or two residences in the state.
- Comply with a court order, such as drug testing, custody agreements, and more.
- Go to work – only if you are a part of the critical infrastructure or are a limited employee necessary to conduct minimum basic operations.
Generally, what you may not do:
- Leave the home to work unless your employer designates you as a critical infrastructure worker.
- Participate in any public gatherings.
- Visit someone in the hospital, nursing home, or other residential care facilities (with limited exceptions).
- Go to the mall or to restaurants.
If you are found to be in violation of this order, the government has the power to and may issue you a misdemeanor ticket or arrest you for engaging in a prohibited activity. This is not a simple Civil Infraction ticket, it is a crime to violate this order.
If you have received a misdemeanor ticket from any law enforcement agency for violating Emergency Order 2020-21, contact our office today for a free confidential consultation. We will help protect your legal rights during this difficult and confusing time.