Daily Briefs

 Volunteer docents sought for State Supreme Court Learning Center 

The Learning Center needs docents to guide school groups and other visitors through the 3,800-square-foot education center, located on the first floor of the Michigan Hall of Justice. Responsibilities include leading interactive activities and demonstrating computer games and other hands-on activities at the center, including a virtual courtroom. Other duties include working behind the scenes on workshops and special programs.

Volunteers need enthusiasm, love of learning, and commitment – but no legal experience – to serve as docents.
 
The next training sessions begin October 2; volunteers are encouraged to submit applications by September 15 to allow time for application review and screening.

Learning Center Coordinator Rachael Drenovsky encourages new volunteers to share their time and expertise with tour groups, stressing that docents do not need a background in education, law, or government. “That kind of experience is helpful but not necessary,” Drenovsky said. “What’s essential is having an interest in the law and a passion for sharing knowledge and enthusiasm with others; Learning Center docents are ambassadors for the judicial branch.”

Docents attend a series of three-hour orientation sessions and commit to volunteering a minimum of eight hours per month; some positions require additional time and training commitments.

The required orientation sessions starting October 2 will be offered on five consecutive Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon. Classes will include information about the Michigan judicial system, the Learning Center exhibits, and tips for giving great tours.

Call (517) 373- 5027 for an application. Interviews and background checks are required for all applicants.
 

Expert to speak on Scotland’s independence referendum

Thomas D. Grant, an international law expert at the University of Cambridge in England, will present “International Law and the Independence of Scotland” on Thursday, Sept. 4, at Wayne State University Law School.
 
A referendum vote in Scotland on Thursday, Sept. 18, will ask that nation’s voters: “Should Scotland be an independent country?” The vote could change dramatically the shape of the United Kingdom. Since 1997, Scotland has had its own parliament and control over justice, education and health. But London still controls Scotland’s energy, foreign relations and military defense.

The referendum question has raised many hotly disputed legal issues, including who would get access to North Sea oil. Grant will discuss those issues during the free lecture from 12:15 to 1:30 p.m. in the Spencer M. Partrich Auditorium at the law school, 471 W. Palmer St. Parking will be available for $7 (credit or debit cards only) in Parking Structure No. 1 across West Palmer Street from Wayne Law. The lecture is sponsored by the law school’s Program for International Legal Studies.

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