The Oakland Michigan Affidavit of Meritorious Defense is a legal document used in the state of Michigan to assert a defense of immunity from civil suits filed against a government entity or its employees. This affidavit is an important tool for protecting government agencies, municipalities, and public employees from facing unnecessary litigation. The affidavit serves as a formal declaration by a defendant that their actions were carried out within the scope of their official duties, in good faith, and without malice. By filing this document, defendants aim to assert their defense of governmental immunity, which shields them from personal liability and limits the potential damages that can be awarded against them. In Oakland County, Michigan, there are two types of Affidavit of Meritorious Defense commonly used: 1. Individual Affidavit of Meritorious Defense: This type of affidavit is filed by individuals who are public employees, such as police officers, firefighters, or government officials, being sued in their individual capacity. It is used to assert the defense of personal immunity based on qualified governmental immunity, whereby a defendant claims that they were acting reasonably and in accordance with the law. 2. Municipal Affidavit of Meritorious Defense: This affidavit is filed by municipalities or government entities being sued for the actions or omissions of their employees. It allows the entity to assert the defense of governmental immunity, protecting them from liability for the actions of their employees when those actions were within the scope of their official duties and carried out in good faith. The Oakland Michigan Affidavit of Meritorious Defense is a crucial document in protecting public officials and municipalities from unnecessary lawsuits and potential financial burdens. By filing this affidavit, individuals and government entities can assert their rights to immunity and avoid personal liability, thereby ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of public services within the county.