Is It Illegal For Me To Record a Conversation in Michigan?

I think after sharing this a lot of my friends and co-workers are going to look at me differently, but I know I can't be the only person that has ever wondered if you can record a conversation with someone in Michigan without them knowing.

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Now if you are wondering why would anyone want to record a conversation, there are a few reasons that come to mind. I would want to record a conversation to see if what people are really saying about me behind my back.

Why Would You Want To Record A Conversation

Now I know that seems petty and shallow and you're right but another reason to record a conversation without someone knowing is to get proof of harassment and intimidation.

I've crossed paths with several toxic bosses that act one way in a group setting and then one-on-one they’re a complete psychopath that would make coming into work miserable.

Another reason I would want to record a conversation would be to remember something I'm being told so I can actively listen and not try to jot down notes on paper or a laptop This came up recently with my therapist.

We were having a great session and I really liked some of the tools she gave me to deal with things I didn't want to forget so I asked if I could record our conversation and she told me she didn't feel comfortable with that.

Is it legal to record a conversation in Michigan without the other person's permission?

So what's the verdict? are you legally allowed to record a conversation in Michigan?

Turns out that in Michigan it is ILLEGAL to record a phone conversation.

According to the Michigan Legislator:

"Any person who is present or who is not present during a private conversation and who wilfully uses any device to eavesdrop upon the conversation without the consent of all parties thereto, or who knowingly aids, employs or procures another person to do the same in violation of this section, is guilty of a felony punishable by imprisonment in a state prison for not more than 2 years or by a fine of not more than $2,000.00, or both"

 

Can You Video Record A Person Without Consent In Michigan?

Recording Law says that In Michigan, it is illegal to install or use any device for observing, recording, transmitting, photographing, or eavesdropping upon the sounds or events that are happening in a private place without the consent of person(s) entitled to privacy in that place.

Looks like I'll be steering clear of recording any conversations without consent.