Calendar
March 2026
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March 13
Mark the Date
‘Re-Entry Process for Justice-Involved Youth’ discussed
March 13
The Michigan Judicial Institute will conclude its two-part webinar series, “Supporting Justice-Involved Youth and Families Through the Re-Entry Process,” in which presenters provide an overview of the evidence-based service model Intensive Care Coordination with Wraparound (ICCW), discuss the Serious Emotional Disturbances Waiver (SEDW), and describe the youth re-entry process.
On Friday, March 13, “Part 2: Understanding the Re-Entry Process for Justice-Involved Youth” will be presented from noon to 1 p.m. This webinar will discuss:
• Information regarding the youth re-entry process.
• The planning that occurs throughout youth re-entry, from arrival at a residential facility until they are returned to a community setting.
Speaking during the program will be the Michigan Public Health Institute’s Victoria Key-Walker, Abigail Schaedig, Bianca Burch, and Curshawn Drake.
The intended audience for the webinar include juvenile probation officers and caseworkers, Case Management Organizations, MDHHS juvenile justice specialists and foster care workers, school personnel, attorneys, social service providers, Juvenile Justice County Team members, mental health providers and supervisors, family court administrators and supervisors, and other juvenile justice stakeholders.
To register for the webinar, visit https://mjieducation.mi.gov and scroll down to “upcoming MJI events.”
CDAM Spring Conference taking place in Pontiac
March 13-14
The Criminal Defense Attorney of Michigan will present the CDAM 2026 Spring Conference, “The Watchful Eye: Threats, Cybercrime, Privacy, and Surveillance,” Friday and Saturday, March 13-14, at the Auburn Hills Marriott, 3600 Centerpoint Parkway in Pontiac.
The schedule includes:
—Friday, March 13
• 8 a.m. Registration check-in and breakfast buffet.
• 9 a.m. Welcome and keynote, “Judicial Misconduct: The Greatest Threat to Justice” by Brian Steel.
• 10:45 a.m. “No More Open Roads: Automatic Vehicle Tracking” by Sidney Thaxter.
• Noon-1 p.m. Lunch options:
- Working Lunch, “Preventing Wrongful Convictions: Lessons from Wayne County” by Marilena David
- Group Lunch
- Lunch on Your Own
• 1 p.m. 1st Breakout with options/select 1:
- “Detecting AI Images in Criminal Defense Cases” by Kenneth G. Hartman
- “Facial Recognition and Criminal Defense—Detroit and Beyond” by Phil Mayor
- “Litigating and Mitigating Terroristic Threat Cases” by Matt Monahan
- “Non-Flock Surveillance” by Eric Grabski
• 2:25 p.m. 2nd Breakout with three options/select 1:
- “Cell Phone Search Warrants—Identifying Recurring Problems” by Tristen Chamberlain
- “Expungements” by Tiffany Hughes
- “When Google Searches for You” by Eric Grabski
• 3:55 p.m. 3rd Breakout with four options/select 1:
- “Building Cyber Resiliency into Your Everyday Practice” by Cynthia Rast
- “ICAC’s Watchful Eye: CDAM and Torrential Downpour” by Kenneth G. Hartman
- “Inside ICE Surveillance: Tools, Tactics, and Civil Liberties” by Amy V. Doukoure
- “Chill Out and Relax:Yoga” by Marina Chupac and Jordan Zuppke
• 6:15 p.m. CDAM Annual Awards Dinner honoring:
– Anne Yantus—Penny R. Beardslee Excellence in Education Award
- Stuart Friedman and Thomas J. Tomko—Right to Counsel Award
—Saturday, March 14
• 8 a.m. Check-in and breakfast buffet
• 9 a.m. “Michigan Law Updates” by Erin Van Campen
• 10:10 a.m. “Stakeholder Updates” by Bernard Jocuns, CDAM, MIDC; and Kathy Swedlow, SADO, MAACS.
• 10:40 a.m. “Deconstructing the Brian Steel Contempt Case” by Ken Mogill and Arthur Jay Weiss
• 11:50 a.m. “Michigan Sentencing Guidelines” by Anne Yantus
Cost for the conference is $480 for CDAM members and $600 for non members. Some county/court funding units will pay for part, or all, of the cost of a registration. It is up to registrants to contact their local funding unit to determine what is applicable and what payment or reimbursement method will be used.
To register online, visit www.CDAMonline.org. For questions, call CDAM at 517-579-0533.
Sex Offender Registry Act challenges focus of webinar
March 16
The State Appellate Defender Office and the Criminal Defense Resource Center will present the webinar “SORA: Where Are We Now?” on Monday, March 16, from noon to 1:30 p.m. via Zoom.
This training will provide attendees with information about current and upcoming challenges to the Michigan Sex Offender Registry Act (SORA), and practical advice about SORA for their cases and clients.
Speaking at the training will be Jessica Zimbelman, deputy director of SADO’s Public Division. She has argued several SORA cases in the Michigan Supreme Court, including People v Betts (2021) and People v Lymon (2024). She will argue People v Ellis in March.
To register for the webinar, visit www.sado.org and click on “Upcoming Events.” Anyone with questions may email cdrc@sado. org.
‘ADHD and the Criminal Justice System’ focus of webinar
March 16
The National Association for Public Defense (NAPD) will present a webinar on “ADHD and the Criminal Justice System: A Forensic Neuroscience and Neurocriminological Perspective” Monday, March 16, from 1 to 2 p.m.
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a psychiatric disorder distinguished by impulsivity, hyperactivity, and inattention. Typically emerging during childhood, these symptoms can persist into adulthood and contribute to social, occupational, and behavioral problems. These behavioral problems can include criminal justice-involvement, as ADHD is disproportionately likely in this context relative to the general population.
Further, the symptoms of ADHD make it difficult to navigate the rules and procedures of the criminal justice system, from courtroom settings to community supervision. Without accurate assessment and effective treatment, individuals with ADHD may be at risk for re-offending and long-term criminal justice-involvement.
Designed for legal and mental health professionals, this training introduces the symptoms, etiology (including prenatal and postnatal neurobiopsychosocial risk factors), co-occurring conditions, and consequences of ADHD.
Attendees will learn how to apply key learning objectives during interviews, screening and assessment, and interventions. Increased awareness of ADHD’s role in offending has the potential to reduce recidivism, ensure fairness, and promote public safety. Research from forensic neuroscience and neurocriminology will be highlighted throughout the training.
Speaking at the webinar will be Jerrod Brown, professor, trainer, researcher, consultant, and founder and CEO of the American Institute for the Advancement of Forensic Studies (AIAFS).
Cost for the webinar is $50. To register, visit https://publicdefenders.us/event/adhd-and-the-criminal-justice-system.Speaker discusses ‘Mastering Your Memory’ at Brunch & LearnMarch 17
The Association of Legal Administrators, Metropolitan Detroit Chapter, will conduct a Brunch & Learn event Tuesday, March 17, from noon via to 1:30 p.m. at Mother Handsome, 14661 W. Eleven Mile Rd. in Oak Park.
During the program, speaker Tyler Enslin will discuss “Mastering Your Memory.” Enslin has been a professional speaker since 2012, and a talent management consultant for John Hopkins University since 2016. He views each event as a unique opportunity to help his participants and has a reputation for being relatable, engaging and delivering a high level of practical value.
The Brunch & Learn is free to ALA members and non-members can attend for $35. To register, visit https://aladetroit.org.
Team dynamics in courts focus of webinar
March 17
The National Center for State Courts will present a webinar on “Navigating Team Dynamics” on Tuesday, March 17, from 1 to 2 p.m. via Zoom.
Effective courts rely on teams of individuals that can work together under pressure across roles and departments. Differences in work styles, communication preferences, and problem-solving approaches can create misunderstandings and inefficiencies if not properly managed. This webinar is designed to help court employees better understand how individual differences show up in their daily work environments and how to adapt in ways that strengthen collaboration and overall team performance.
Panelists will explore tools and strategies that can be used to recognize diverse working styles, communicate more effectively with colleagues, reduce tensions, and support a respectful, productive workplace. They will also share ways to leverage individual strengths while maintaining shared accountability to serve the court's mission.
After attending this webinar, participants will be able to:
• Recognize common work style differences and how they influence communication, decision-making and task management.
• Apply strategies to adapt your communication style to improve clarity and reduce misunderstandings.
• Identify techniques to address conflict professionally.
• Develop practical habits that support a work environment centered on trust, respect, and teamwork.
Speaking at the webinar will be:
• Paula Couselo-Findikoglu, director, Court Education Institute, New Mexico Administrative Office of the Courts
• Kimberly Howard, director of training and operations, Council of Accountability Court Judges of Georgia
• Moderators Alecia Burke, senior court management consultant, NCSC; and Abby Kuschel, principal court management consultant, NCSC
To register for the webinar, visit www.ncsc.org and click on “Education & events.”
‘Court conducts public administrative hearing
March 18
Pursuant to Administrative Order No. 1997-11, the Michigan Supreme Court will hold a public administrative hearing on Wednesday, March 18, 2026. Speakers may appear by videoconference (Zoom); attendees who are not speaking may view the livestream on the Court’s YouTube channel.
The hearing will begin promptly at 9:30 a.m. Speakers will join the videoconference meeting no later than 9:30 a.m. and will be called on by the Chief Justice.
Speakers will be allotted three minutes each to present their views on each agenda item for which the person registered, after which the speakers may be questioned by the justices. Comments offered at a public hearing must pertain directly to an item on the public hearing agenda.
To reserve a place on the agenda, complete the registration form online at www.courts.michigan.gov/rules-administrative-orders-and-jury-instructions/public-administrative-hearings no later than Friday, March 13, at 5 p.m.
Those who are not able to register online may e-mail or call the Office of Administrative Counsel at ADMComment@courts.mi.gov or 517-373-1239.
A few days before the hearing, speakers will receive an invitation to participate in the Zoom meeting. Speakers must turn on their camera in order to participate in the public hearing.
The administrative matters on this hearing’s agenda are:
1. 2020-08 Proposed Amendments of MCR 1.109, 2.104, 2.107, 2.119, 3.203, and 5.105
Issue: Whether to adopt the proposed amendments of MCR 1.109, 2.104, 2.107, 2.119, 3.203, and 5.105 that would, subject to an opting-out procedure, clarify the use of electronic service when MiFILE is not available in the court or for the particular case type.
2. 2022-31 Proposed Amendment of MCR 2.106
Issue: Whether to adopt the proposed amendment of MCR 2.106 that would update the definition of “newspaper” for notice by publication.
View Written Comments
3. 2023-09 Proposed Amendment of MCR 6.106
Issue: Whether to adopt the proposed amendment of MCR 6.106 that would align the rule with MCL 780.66(6), which addresses the return of deposited percent bonds.
4. 2023-23 Proposed Amendments of MCR 3.942 and 3.972
Issue: Whether to adopt the proposed amendments of MCR 3.942 and 3.972 that would, in delinquency and child protective proceeding bench trials, require the court to make findings of fact and conclusions of law and allow for the equivalent of a directed verdict or an involuntary dismissal.
5. 2023-39 Proposed Amendment of MCR 7.215
Issue: Whether to adopt the proposed amendment of MCR 7.215 that would eliminate the requirement that parties provide copies of unpublished opinions cited in briefs filed in the Court of Appeals.
6. 2024-02 Proposed Amendment of MCR 7.215
Issue: Whether to adopt the proposed amendment of MCR 7.215 that would clarify that in cases where the Court of Appeals remands a case to the trial court, the Court of Appeals will review the decisions made on remand, and in criminal and termination of parental rights cases, the parties are afforded the right to supplemental briefing.
7. 2024-07 Proposed Amendment of Rule 6 of the Rules Concerning the State Bar of Michigan
Issue: Whether to adopt the proposed amendment of SBR 6 that would address the nomination and election of members of the Representative Assembly, including their terms and vacancies.
8. 2024-10 Proposed Amendment of MCR 6.429
Issue: Whether to adopt the proposed amendment of MCR 6.429 that would reorganize and update the rule to clarify that a court must afford parties an opportunity to object to its sua sponte correction of a Judgment of Sentence and that the parties must raise any objections when that opportunity is provided.
Panel discusses ‘AI in Criminal Cases’ online
March 18
The National Center for State Courts will present a webinar on “AI in Criminal Cases: Courts' Role in Preserving Constitutional Rights” on Wednesday, March 18, beginning at 1 p.m. via Zoom.
Artificial intelligence is increasingly being used in criminal investigations and prosecutions, from predictive policing algorithms to facial recognition and digital evidence analysis. As these tools become more common, courts face critical questions about how to evaluate AI-generated evidence while safeguarding constitutional protections.
This TRI/NCSC AI Policy Consortium for Law & Courts webinar brings together law enforcement, prosecutors, judges, and technology experts to examine how AI is being used in the criminal justice system and what guardrails are necessary to preserve Fourth Amendment rights, due process, and equal protection.
Panelists will discuss practical approaches for courts to authenticate AI evidence, assess its reliability, and ensure that technological capabilities do not erode fundamental rights.
By attending this session, participants will be able to describe:
• How AI is being used by law enforcement and prosecutors.
• Practical steps courts can take in considering digital and AI evidence in warrant applications.
• Implications of tools for individual rights.
Speaking at the webinar will be:
• Judge Eric DuBois, Ninth Judicial Circuit Court, Florida
• Mark Cheatham, chief of police, Acworth, Georgia
• Joyce King, chief counsel, Frederick County State’s Attorney’s Office, Maryland
• Bob Rhodes, chief technology officer, TRSS
• Moderator Rabihah Butler, manager, Enterprise Content - Risk, Fraud and Government, Thomson Reuters Institute
To register for the webinar, visit www.ncsc.org and click on “Education & events.”
Lunch & Learn hosted at Oakland County Courthouse
March 18
The Jewish Bar Association of Michigan (JBAM) will conduct a Lunch & Learn event Wednesday, March 18, from noon to 1:30 p.m. in the 2nd Floor Judicial Conference Room of the Oakland County Circuit Court, 1200 N. Telegraph Rd. in Pontiac.
Hosted by Oakland County Circuit Court Judge Lorie Savin, the program will feature Rabbi Caytak who will share inspiring insights relevant to attorneys’ professional and spiritual lives. Kosher lunch will be provided free of charge courtesy of Steve Reina.
To register for the Lunch & Learn, visit www.jewishbar.org and click on “events.”
Affinity Bar Challenge taking place
March 19
The 2026 Affinity Bar Charity Challenge will take place Thursday, March 19, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Pops for Italian, 280 W. Nine Mile Rd. in Ferndale, for a fun night of giving back.
The Oakland County Bar Association, Women’s Bar Association (Oakland County region of Women Lawyers Association of Michigan), Italian American Bar Association of Michigan, Detroit Bar Association, Wolverine Bar Association, Women Lawyers Association of Michigan - Macomb Region, South Asian Bar Association of Michigan, and Hispanic Bar Association of Michigan will all take part in the challenge.
Each partner bar association is representing a charity. Attendees will vote for their favorite bar association by donating cash “tips” to the association’s “tip jar” of their choice. All tips will go to the charities selected by each respective bar association.
The bar association that receives the most tips will win the challenge and receive an additional donation to its charity. All net proceeds from the event will also be split between all of the charities. Attendees should bring extra cash or their checkbooks to make donations to their favorite charity. Credit cards or Venmo cannot be accepted.
Tickets cost $60 for members of any partner organization, $85 for non-members, and $30 for law students. Tickets include plentiful hors d’oeuvres, and a cash bar will be available. To register, visit www.ocba.org and click on “events.”
Violence Against Women Project looks at ‘Cold Case Investigations’
March 19
The Prosecuting Attorney Association of Michigan’s Violence Against Women Project will present a webinar on “Cold Case Investigations Furthered Through Genetic Genealogy” Thursday, March 19, from 2 to 4 p.m. via Zoom.
Speaking at the webinar will be FBI Special Agent Leslie Larsen, evidence response senior team leader and investigative genetic genealogy (IGG) coordinator; and Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Sona Movsisyan, Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victims Unit. They will present on furthering cold case investigations through forensic/investigative genetic genealogy.
The presentation will provide an inside look into the world of IGG and its application to sexual assault cases. The presenters will use a real case to show how potential offenders can be identified. They will also highlight the importance of building strong relationships with multiple agencies to bring successful conclusions to cases.
This webinar is for prosecutors, law enforcement, and system-based advocates. There will be time for Q & A with the presenters following the presentation.
To register for the free webinar, visit https://michiganprosecutor.org and click on “Training Calendar.” Registration deadline is Tuesday, March 17, at 5 p.m. Anyone with questions regarding registration should contact Katlyn Bolan at Bolank@michigan.gov.
PSC Best Practice Series’ continues online
March 19
The Michigan Judicial Institute will present “PSC Best Practice Series: Phase Structure and Advancements Webinar” hosted by Problem-Solving Courts (PSC) on Thursday, March 19, from noon to 1:10 p.m. via Zoom.
This session will provide an overview of why treatment courts should have a clear phase structure that addresses participants’ needs in a manageable and effective sequence. The overview will highlight the participants’ progress to the next phase when they have achieved specific, attainable goals necessary for them to accomplish more challenging long-term goals.
Attendees will learn how this progression is independent of the participants’ treatment plans and is not based on the level, dosage, or type of treatment they are receiving.
To register for the webinar, visit https://cvent.me/EvadGo. Once a registration is approved, attendees will receive a confirmation e-mail with Zoom details.
MDTC hosts Legal Excellence Awards
March 19
The Michigan Defense Trial Counsel will present its Legal Excellence Awards 2026 on Thursday, March 19, beginning at 6 p.m. at The Gem Theatre, 333 Madison Avenue in Detroit.
The night will include presentations of the following awards:
• Excellence In Defense Award—Jenna Wright Greenman, Kitch Attorneys & Counselors PC; and Megan Norris, Miller, Canfield, Paddock, & Stone PLC
• Judicial Award of Excellence—Ingham County 30th Circuit Court Judge James Jamo
• John P. Jacobs Appellate Advocacy Award—Phillip DeRosier, Dickinson Wright PLLC; and Mary Massaron, Plunkett Cooney
• Young Lawyers Golden Gavel Award—Chloé Schumacher, Foley, Baron, Metzger, & Juip PLLC
The banquet includes a strolling dinner and reception. All attendees must register for this event. Cost for the event is $110 for MDTC members, $135 for non-members, and free for judge.
To register or for additional information, visit www.mdtc.org and click on “events.”
‘Czarnecki/Taylor Q&A’ offered online
March 19
The State Appellate Defender Office and the Criminal Defense Resource Center will present a an online “Czarnecki/Taylor Q&A” on Thursday, March 19, from noon to 2 p.m. via Zoom.
This session is for anyone with a Czarnecki/Taylor case who is unsure of where to begin. It will also offer guidance for those who may have started working on a case, but need some answers to a few, discrete questions. Members of SADO’s Juvenile Lifer Unit will offer insights and answer questions.
To register for the online discussion, visit www.sado.org and click on “Upcoming Events.” Anyone with questions may email cdrc@sado.org.
Bench/Bar Conference hosted by OCBA
March 20
The Oakland County Bar Association will present its 2026 District Court Bench/Bar Conference, “Learning What You Don’t Know as a District Court Practitioner,” on Friday, March 20, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The Kingsley Bloomfield Hills, 39475 Woodward Ave. in Bloomfield Hills.
This year’s program is designed to expand attendees’ knowledge, sharpen their skills, and keep them ahead of the curve as a district court practitioner.
The conference kicks off with breakfast and a welcome and introduction by Oakland County 45th District Court Judge Jaimie Powell Horowitz, Oakland County 50th District Court Judge Jeremy Bowie, Michigan Supreme Court Justice Noah P. Hood, and Michigan Court of Appeals Judge Christopher M. Trebilcock, Second District.
The first plenary session will then be presented on “Building a Smarter Practice: A How-To Guide to AI in the Legal Profession” with Ahmad M. El-Bkaily, Cambridge & Company PLLC, and John C. Mohyi, Mohyi Law. Following that will be two breakout sessions:
• Civil
“The District Court Playbook: Best Practices for Civil Practitioners” with Oakland County 45th District Court Judge Michelle Friedman Appel; Geoffrey Patrishkoff, Khurana Law Firm PC; and Omar Sheriff, Seva Law Firm.
• Criminal
“Competency Hearings: A Practical Guide to Handling Mental Health Referrals, Forensic Evaluations and More in District Court” with Judith S. Gracey, The Gracey Law Firm PLLC; Todd Moore, Diplomate ABPN General and Forensic Psychiatry — chief of clinical affairs, Center for Forensic Psychiatry, MDHHS; and Donna Z. Rinnas, Licensed Psychologist — division director of Evaluation & Forensic Services, Center for Forensics Psychiatry, MDHHS.
The second plenary session will then offer “A Guide to Legal Services in Oakland County” with Natalie A. Cherry, Lakeshore Legal Aid; and Michelle L. Johnson, Legal Aid and Defender Association Inc. That will be followed by two more breakout sessions:
• Civil
“Opening Doors: A Practical Approach to Landlord–Tenant Cases and Rental Assistance” with Oakland County 45th District Court Judge Jaimie Powell Horowitz; David G. Marowske, Lakeshore Legal Aid; and Cheryl B. Luckoff, The Law Office of Cheryl B. Luckoff.
• Criminal
“Getting to Know Pretrial Services and MDOC Probation” with Eric Schmidt, manager, Oakland County Pretrial & Justice Services; and Britain T. Washington, region manager, Michigan Department of Corrections.
Cost for the conference is $85 for OCBA members; $55 for OCBA new lawyers, paralegals, students, and judicial law clerks; and $145 for non-members. To register, visit www.ocba.org and click on “events.”
Government Law Section seminar looks at Election Law
March 20
The Government Law Section of the State Bar of Michigan will present the “2026 Government Law Section Winter Educational Seminar” on Friday, March 20, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Troy Community Center, 3179 Livernois Road in Troy.
The seminar will feature a lineup of timely and engaging government-law topics designed to balance both substantive and practical demands. This year's program will highlight Election Law, from the basics of running an election to the nitty gritty of election day to dealing with the inevitable FOIA requests after the election.
This event offers an opportunity to gain insights from those who have hands-on experience running elections to remain current on key legal issues and ready to assist municipal clients later this year.
For additional information on the seminar, visit https://connect.michbar.org/govlaw/home.
Hispanic Bar Association of Michigan hosts Annual Party
March 20
The Hispanic Bar Association of Michigan (HBAM) will host its “2026 Annual Party and Scholarship Presentation” for an evening of celebration while it presents scholarships to outstanding law students. The party will take place Friday, March 20, beginning at 6 p.m. at Los Galanes Restaurant, 3362 Bagley Street in Detroit.
Attendees will be able to connect with fellow Latinx lawyers in historic Mexicantown while enjoying food and cocktails. The annual party also coincides with the National Latina/o Law Student Association Conference being help in Detroit.
Cost for the party is $40 for HBAM members, $50 for non-members, and $10 for students. To register, visit www.hispanicbarofmi.org.
Webinar looks at 13 ethical mistakes for attorneys to avoid
March 23
The National Business Institute will present a live video webinar on “13 Ethical Mistakes That Land Attorneys in Hot Water” Monday, March 23, from 3 to 4 p.m.
The webinar’s faculty will discuss how to spot and prevent the top 13 ethical mistakes attorneys make. Whether it be falling into unintended attorney-client relationships, failing to safeguard attorney-client privilege, or mishandling key documents at the law firm, attendees will get familiar on how to address those problems and ready themselves with the knowledge to dodge any blunders.
On the webinar’s agenda will be:
1. Trust Accounting Mistakes and Client Funds
2. Failing to Recognize Conflicts of Interest
3. Failing to Manage Expectations
4. Subpar Lawyer-Client Communications and the Dangers Posed
5. Inadequate Investigation and Discovery of Evidence
6. Forming Unintended Lawyer-Client Relationships
7. Vague and Unclear Fee Agreements
8. Mishandling Client Documents
9. Legal Advertising Landmines
10. Accidental Disclosures and Privacy Oversights
11. Blunders With Withdrawal/Termination of Representation
12. Failing on Duties to Former Clients
13. Failing to Inform Your Client That You Made a Mistake
Cost for the webinar, which includes course book download, is $199. To register, call 1-800-930-6182 or visit www.nbi-sems.com.
Law school presents discussion on ‘Environmental Regulation’
March 24
Wayne State University Law School will present “Environmental Regulation: Constitutional Limits and Real-World Impacts” on Tuesday, March 24, from 12:15 to 1:45 p.m. in DJK 2242 at the law school, 471 W. Palmer Ave. in Detroit.
The Federalist Society and the Environmental Law Club offer a moderated discussion on the scope of modern environmental regulation and its constitutional and statutory foundations.
This program will examine whether contemporary environmental laws and regulatory programs operate within constitutional and statutory limits, and how those regulations affect property owners, regulated entities, and state and local governments in practice. The discussion will also explore broader questions about federal authority, administrative power, and environmental litigation.
Tony Francois will participate as a featured speaker, and Wayne Law Professor Noah Hall will serve as moderator, as well as another guest speaker.
For additional information on the discussion, visit https://law.wayne.edu and scroll down to “events.”
Judges discuss ‘Appellate Advocacy’ online
March 25
The Professional Development Committee of the Oakland County Bar Association will present “Appellate Advocacy: Insights from the Bench” online Wednesday, March 25, from noon to 1 p.m. via Zoom.
This virtual program will feature three judges from the Michigan Court of Appeals–Second District, who will share practical, candid insights into what makes written and oral appellate advocacy effective.
The panel will highlight how appellate practice differs from trial work, what persuasive techniques consistently help — or hinder — an argument, and the recurring pitfalls and surprises they still see. Attendees will gain guidance on improving issue selection, brief writing, and oral argument to strengthen their overall appellate practice.
The panelists will include Michigan Court of Appeals Judges Sima G. Patel, Christopher M. Trebilcock, and Adrienne N. Young. Sam G. Lamrock, of Collins Einhorn Farrell PC, will moderate.
Cost for the webinar is $40 for OCBA members; $30 for committee members; $20 for OCBA new lawyers and paralegals;and $50 for non-members.
To register for the seminar, visit www.ocba.org and click on “events.”
‘Forensic Sciences Debrief’ offered online by SADO
March 25
The State Appellate Defender Office will present the webinar “Forensic Sciences Debrief” on Wednesday, March 25, from noon to 1:30 p.m. via Zoom.
In December 2025, the Michigan State Police Science Division hosted a two-day conference, open to defense attorneys, prosecutors, police, judges, and forensic scientists.
In this online training, Erin Van Campen (NDS-Detroit) and Jason Eggert (SADO) will provide key takeaways from the conference. Topics will include practice tips for obtaining and requesting discovery, preserving the right to confront forensic analysts, and highlighting forensic disciplines where defense attorneys should consider filing Daubert motions and engage defense experts.
To register for the webinar, visit www.sado.org/go/Debrief2026. Anyone with questions may email cdrc@sado.org.
Attorneys examine ‘Sexual Harassment in the Modern Workplace’
March 25
Plunkett Cooney will present the webinar “Don’t Even Go There!—Sexual Harassment in the Modern Workplace” on Wednesday, March 25, from 11 a.m. to noon.
Speaking at the webinar will be Plunkett Cooney’s Michael D. Hanchett and Regan Glenn. Hanchett serves as co-leader of the firm’s Governmental Law Practice Group, and he is a partner in the firm’s Labor and Employment Law Practice Group. Glenn is a member of the firm’s Governmental Law, White Collar Criminal Defense and Torts & Litigation practice groups.
Many employers continue to struggle with issues like sexual harassment in the workplace, despite their best efforts to curb such behavior. There is no silver bullet to eliminate it, but training is the best tool for addressing sexual harassment, allowing employers to mitigate liability and comply with statutory and regulatory requirements.
During the webinar, Hanchett and Glenn will provide information about the following topics:
• Expansion of protected classes
• What constitutes a hostile work environment
• Definition of sexual harassment and levels of severity
• Recent case law
• Reporting best practices
• Employer retaliation
• Hostile work environment claims
• Co-worker offsite conduct
• Risk management for employers
For additional information on the webinar, visit www.plunkettcooney.com and click on “Insights.”
Women’s Bar Book Club to meet
March 26
The Women’s Bar Association (WBA), Oakland County region of the Women Lawyers Association of Michigan, will present its next Literary Ladies Book Club online Thursday, March 26, at 6 p.m. via Zoom.
For the March meeting, the club will be discussing “Harlem Rhapsody” by Victoria Christopher Murray. Readers will embark on a journey into the Harlem Renaissance, giving a glimpse into the rich history that has brought so much culture and many diverse stories to share today.
This discussion will offer an opportunity to reflect upon the importance of honoring the origins of the building of culture and to appreciate the importance of women in history.
Anyone interested in attending this event, or joining the Literary Ladies for the monthly Book Club in the future, should email Natasha Rao at natasha-rao@hotmail.com.
‘Prosecuting a Vehicular Homicide Case’ explored online
March 26
The Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan will present the Traffic Safety Training Program Webinar “Prosecuting a Vehicular Homicide Case” on Thursday, March 26, from noon to 1:30 p.m. via Zoom.
Prosecuting a vehicular homicide case can be a daunting task even for experienced prosecutors. Presenting a strong case to a jury requires a prosecutor to make sure investigators on the case have secured all possible evidence that can be presented to a jury. That includes knowing what type of evidence can be gathered not only from the scene of the crime but also from the vehicle itself. A prosecutor handling a vehicular homicide case also needs to know what to do with that evidence once secured and how to use it to present the best story of the crash to the jury.
This 90-minute webinar will provide an overview of the potential sources of data that can be gathered from vehicles in traffic fatalities, technical considerations when dealing with this data, authentication and admissibility of this data, and how to effectively present it at trial. The program will by presented by St. Clair County Senior Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Amy Goodrich.
To register for this free webinar, visit https://michiganprosecutor.org and click on “training.”
Firm presents 2026 Employment Law Symposium in Plymouth
March 26
Maddin Hauser will conduct its 2026 Employment Law Symposium titled on Thursday, March 26, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Saint John’s Resort, 44045 Five Mile Road in Plymouth.
Featured topics and speakers will include:
• HR as the Business’s First Line of Legal Protection: How HR Protects the Company’s Business Interests Every Day, with Jordan B. Segal
- Learn the essential policies and procedures every organization needs: From appropriate use of AI to confidential information and company property policies
- Understand how to use HR processes to protect the workforce and information: Effective discipline system, rock-solid documentation, confidentiality controls, Bring-Your-Own-Device policies and enforceable restrictive covenants
- Walk away with practical HR-ready tools: Reduce exposure, strengthen effective company culture, and safeguard your business data, people, and competitive advantage
• The Investigator’s Roadmap: Conducting Fair and Effective Workplace Investigations, with Breanne N. Gilliam
- When is an investigation required
- How to conduct a proper investigation
- Concluding the investigation and taking action
• From Sale to Separation: Navigating HR Issues Through Transitions, with Mariel G. Newhouse
- Key considerations in a reduction in force
- Personnel considerations when selling a business
- Other common transition issues
• Why Employee-Specific Policies Matter: Building Clarity, Compliance, and Trust to Protect Your Business, with Anaria Rambus
- The importance of creating job descriptions
- Including policies to ensure you are meeting legal requirements
- Paid Time Off Policies and the Michigan Earned Sick Time Act
• Better Safe than Cited: OHSA in the Workplace, with Jonathan M. Sollish
- General duty and industry specific standards
- Complaints, investigations, and inspections
- The new era of workplace safety
• Building Better Organizations: Hiring the Best and Keeping the Best, with Ronald A. Sollish
- Hiring and Onboarding Strategies
- Developing a Culture of Retention and Upskilling
- Managing Internal Barriers That Impair Retention and Talent Development
• Insurance Issues for Human Resources Professionals, with Kathleen H. Klaus
- Trends in workers compensation insurance – litigation funding and excess awards
- Employment Practices Liability insurance – new risks including AI and DEI
- Cyber Liability Insurance – integration with Human Resources
• Retirement Plans that are Right for Your Business, Gary M. Remer
- The type of retirement plans available for your workforce
- Socially Responsible Investing (SRI), Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG), Pooled Employer Plans (PEPs), and State-Mandated Retirement Programs
- What happens when things go wrong
For additional information on the Symposium, visit https://maddinhauser.com and click on “events.” Anyone with questions may email Events@MaddinHauser.com.
Webinar takes a look at child support program
March 26
The Michigan Judicial Institute (MJI), in collaboration with the Friend of the Court Bureau (FOCB), will present “Schoolhouse Rock: Michigan Child Support Program Edition” online Thursday, March 26, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day via Zoom.
The collaboration workgroup is bringing a fun refresher of the branches of government paired with an overview of the structure and operations of the child support program. It will explain where each partner fits into its branch of government, how partners connect to each other through policy and processes, and how child support cases flow from one partner to the next. This will provide insight on where a child support partner fits into the program and how to become a better collaborator.
Speaking at the webinar will be:
• Elizabeth Baldwin, Washtenaw County legal assistant
• Jeana Bartholomeo, Macomb County Friend of the Court recorder secretary
• Tricia Bregg, Office of Child Support (OCS) child support specialist lead worker
• Cy’Kenya Ford, OCS enforcement policy analyst
• Neshele Godfrey, OCS support specialist and OCS Health & Wellness co-lead
• Lisa Harris, State Court Administrative Office/Friend of the Court Bureau management assistant
To register for the webinar, visit https://mjieducation.mi.gov and click on “events.” Once registration is approved, attendees will receive a confirmation e-mail from Zoom with a personal link to join the webinar.
‘Legal and Political Backlash Against Public Institutions’ discussed
March 27
Wayne State University Law School will present “Canceling the State: Legal and Political Backlash Against Public Institutions” hosted by The Journal of Law in Society.
This full-day symposium, taking place Friday, March 27, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., examines the intensifying legal and political efforts to defund, suppress, or restructure public-serving institutions. From universities and public libraries to school boards, museums, arts councils, and archives, the event convenes scholars, legal experts, and cultural practitioners to explore the implications of these attacks on democratic life, civic infrastructure, and cultural memory.
Through interdisciplinary panels and critical dialogue, the symposium aims to illuminate the forces behind institutional backlash and chart paths toward resilience and renewal. Food and beverages will be provided.
The registration deadline is Friday, March 20. To register, visit https://law.wayne.edu and scroll down to “events.”
Attorney examines ‘Driver’s License Restoration’
March 27
The Criminal Defense Association of Michigan will present a webinar on “Driver’s License Restoration” Friday, March 27, from noon to 2 p.m. via Zoom.
The presentation will help explain what hearing officers need to find to grant a driver’s license to a petitioner. Speaker Daryl J. Wood, of Daryl J. Wood and Associates, will also point out red flags to watch for when assessing potential clients for a driver’s license restoration. He will discuss the new electronic filing system for the Secretary of State.
Take aways for attendees include:
• Evaluating a driver’s license restoration client.
• Preparing the necessary documentation for a driver’s license restoration.
• Driver Appeal Integrated System (DAIS) - Electronic filing system for the Secretary of State
• Appealing Secretary of State decision to Circuit Court.
• Questions and answers.
Cost for the webinar is $80 for CDAM members and $100 for non-members. To register, visit https://cdam.wildapricot.org.
‘Young Lawyers Summit’ scheduled for March 27
March 27
The Young Lawyers Section of the State Bar of Michigan will present the “Young Lawyers Summit” on Friday March 27, at Lovett Hall at the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn.
The summit brings together legal professionals from across the state for a day of education, networking, and professional development. Attendees include young lawyers, law students, and other legal professionals who are looking to expand their knowledge and connect with others in the field.
Tickets for the summit are $50 for YLS members, $25 for law students, and $75 for others. To register, visit https://connect.michbar. org/yls/events/summit,
Webinars to focus on MRPC 1.15 and 1.15A
March 31
The State Bar of Michigan is offering virtual half-day webinars providing practical information on the ethical management of lawyer trust accounts.
Open to lawyers and their staff, these virtual half-day webinars offer guidance on MRPC 1.15 and 1.15A, including the analysis used when processing property, record keeping requirements, and other ethical responsibilities lawyers have when managing client or third-party property.
The webinars are open to lawyers, other legal professionals, law students, and unlicensed graduates.
Upcoming webinars will take place on:
• Tuesday, March 31
• Tuesday, June 23
• Tuesday, October 27
To register, visit www.michbar.org/trustaccounts.
Materials will be emailed to participants one day prior to the webinar via the email they provided during registration. All seminars are scheduled from 9 a.m. to noon. Times are subject to change.
Registrants seeking a Confirmation of Attendance Certificate must meet the requirements by attending at least 90% of the program, completing 90% of the poll questions provided throughout the seminar, and viewing the seminar on a computer or device that allows attendees to view and hear the presentation.
Registration is $25. Payment and registration must be completed by 5 p.m. the Friday prior to the webinar.
To learn more about SBM’s Lawyer Trust Accounts seminar, visit michbar.org or contact the State Bar of Michigan ethics hotline at 877-558-4760 or ethics@ michbar.org.
Section conducts its 2026 ADR Spring Series online
March 31
The Alternative Dispute Resolution Section of the State Bar of Michigan’ 2026 ADR Spring Series will be held virtually over two days. On Tuesday, March 31, “The Art of Impasse Breaking in Mediation’ will be offered online from 9 to 1 p.m.
This interactive workshop covers a range of impasse-breaking techniques, building on speaker David A. Hoffman’s recently released book, which describes 60 such interventions. The workshop will include small group discussion, videos, and role-plays, and will also focus on impasse prevention and negotiation pitfalls.
Course materials include excerpts from Hoffman’s book, published by the American Bar Association, “The Art of Impasse-Breaking in Mediation: A Handbook for Mediators, Lawyers, and Other Conflict Resolvers.”
Cost for the online program is $50 for section members and $75 for non-members. For additional information and to register, visit https://connect.michbar.org/adr/home.
Domestic violence, child abuse focus of online roundtable
March 31
The Violence Against Women Project (VAWP) and Child Abuse Prosecution Resources (CAPR) units at the Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan will conduct an open forum roundtable discussion on Tuesday, March 31, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. via Zoom.
This informal Zoom session is designed to allow prosecutors and assistant prosecutors from around the state to join in on a discussion on various topics and issues in cases that involve domestic violence, sexual assault, child physical abuse and child sexual abuse.
During March’s roundtable, participants will be discussing Adverse Childhood Experiences and Interpersonal Violence. Following the topic discussion, the PAAM VAWP and CAPR staff encourage attendees to bring questions, discuss cases, and brainstorm or strategize about topics and issues they are facing with cases in their offices and in courts.
To register for the free webinar, visit https://michiganprosecutor. org and click on “Training Calendar.”
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