Partition proceedings may be brought in the circuit courts against the state of Michigan whenever any lands are held jointly or as tenants in common by individuals and the state of Michigan.

     All papers required to be served on the people of this state as defendants in a partition proceeding shall be served on the attorney general, who shall appear in behalf of the state and attend to its interests. The proceedings shall be conducted in the same manner as if they were against individuals and like orders and decrees shall be had. The proportion of the costs and expenses which are adjudged to be paid by the people of this state shall be certified by the attorney general and paid out of the state treasury on warrant of the state treasurer.