Hillsdale County District Court Judge Megan Stiverson has been chosen to participate in a program aimed at improving responses to domestic violence and related crimes.
She will join the 2026 Judicial Engagement Network Fellowship, which focuses on making positive changes in courts and communities to better support victims of domestic violence, stalking, and sexual assault.
Judge Stiverson submitted a project idea and was selected on January 21st. Along with her regular court work, she will work on a project to help change how Hillsdale County handles certain cases. She will also attend training sessions and meetings to learn new ways to support victims.
In 2023, Judge Stiverson received a five-year grant to improve the local Domestic Violence Court. The court helps monitor and support people convicted of abusing partners or others.
The program offers parenting help, and mental health services. The goal is to keep victims safe by making sure offenders follow the rules and get treatment.
The Domestic Violence Court also gives victims a chance to stay involved after sentencing. Judge Stiverson said that in the past, victims had little voice after sentencing, but now they can continue to share their feelings and updates during the offender’s probation period. The new approach is aimed at helping survivors stay connected and feel more supported during the justice process.