Yes! You can use AI to fill out Form MC 279, Stipulation for Mediation

Users often get confused between the 'JUDICIAL DISTRICT,' 'JUDICIAL CIRCUIT,' and 'COUNTY PROBATE' fields, either filling in the wrong one or leaving them all blank. This happens because a case typically belongs to only one specific court jurisdiction. The consequence is the form being misrouted or rejected, causing significant delays in the mediation process. To avoid this, carefully check previous court filings for the exact court name and jurisdiction, and only fill in the relevant fields.

The 'CASE NO. and JUDGE' field is the primary identifier linking the stipulation to the correct court file. People frequently forget to include this information, or they transcribe it with typos. Without the correct case number, the court clerk cannot process the document, leading to its immediate rejection and requiring the parties to refile. Always double-check the case number and judge's name against official court documents before submitting.

This form provides two different ways to style the case caption, which can be confusing. The 'Plaintiff v Defendant' format is for adversarial civil lawsuits, while 'In the matter of' is typically used for probate, family, or other non-adversarial cases. Using the wrong format can cause confusion in the clerk's office and may not accurately reflect the nature of the proceeding. Parties should use the same caption style that appears on all other official documents for their case.

When an attorney is filling out the form, they are required to include their state bar number ('bar no.') along with their name and address. This is a small but crucial detail that is very commonly missed, especially when a paralegal or assistant prepares the form. A missing bar number renders the filing incomplete and can lead to rejection or processing delays while the clerk verifies the attorney's credentials. AI-powered form-filling tools like Instafill.ai can store an attorney's profile, including their bar number, to prevent this omission.

The form presents three distinct mediation options under item 1, each governed by a different Michigan Court Rule (MCR). Parties often check the wrong box or no box at all, not understanding the legal differences between general civil mediation (MCR 2.411) and the two types of domestic relations mediation (MCR 3.216). This mistake can lead to the court ordering the wrong type of proceeding, which has different rules and outcomes, potentially requiring the parties to start over. It is crucial to understand which rule applies to your case before making a selection.

Item 2 allows parties to name their own mediator, but the instructions are nuanced and often missed. A common error is to write in a mediator's name without checking the box, or checking the box but failing to provide a name. As the 'USE NOTES' indicate, this can result in the court assigning a mediator from its own roster, defeating the purpose of the parties' agreement. To avoid this, ensure the box is checked AND the agreed-upon mediator's name is clearly written on the line.

A stipulation is a formal agreement, and it is not legally valid without the signatures of both parties or their attorneys. Forgetting to sign or date the form is a frequent and critical error. An unsigned or undated form will be rejected by the court, rendering the agreement unenforceable and halting the mediation process. Always perform a final review to ensure all signature and date lines are properly completed before filing.

The bottom of the form clearly lists who must receive a copy: the Court, Plaintiff, Defendant, and Mediator. Filers often assume submitting it to the court is sufficient and neglect to serve the other parties. This failure of service means other parties are not officially aware that the stipulation has been filed, which can cause serious procedural delays and confusion. After filing with the court, always send copies to everyone listed.

People move and change phone numbers, and law firm addresses can change. Using old, outdated contact information on a legal form is a common mistake. This can lead to critical notices from the court or the mediator being sent to the wrong address or number, causing missed deadlines and communications. It is essential to verify that all names, addresses, and phone numbers are current. Using a tool like Instafill.ai can help by maintaining a central profile of correct information that can be used across all forms.

Often, parties only have access to a flat, non-fillable PDF scan of the form. They may print it, fill it out by hand, and then re-scan it, resulting in a document that is difficult to read for the court clerk and other parties. Handwritten entries can be illegible, leading to data entry errors by the court. To ensure clarity and professionalism, it's best to use a fillable version. If one is not available, a service like Instafill.ai can convert a flat PDF into a fillable format, ensuring all entries are typed, clear, and correctly placed.