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August 2026

August 07 Mark the Date
Summer Cookout hosted by alumni
August 8
The University of Detroit Mercy School of Law’s Association of Black Law Alumni (ABLA) will host the Annual ABLA Summer Cookout on Saturday, August 8, from 2 to 5 p.m.
Detroit Mercy Law alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends of ABLA are invited to enjoy some tasty grilled treats, great conversation, music, games and more. The Cookout will take place in the Student Parking Lot at Detroit Mercy Law, 651 East Jefferson in Detroit.
Tickets are free. A minimum donation of $10 or more is appreciated. All proceeds support the David Williams II ’82 & Gail Carr Williams ’83 Endowed Scholarship Fund.
To register, visit https://law school.udmercy.edu and scroll down to “Upcoming Events.” Anyone with questions may contact Kimberly Batchelor Davis at 313-596-0229 or batchekn@ud mercy. edu.

General liability webinar presented by MDTC
August 11
The Michigan Defense Trial Counsel (MDTC) will present a general liability webinar on “Whittling Away of the Invitee/Licensee Status: A Review of Past Present and Future Premises Liability Status” Tuesday, August 11, from noon to 1 p.m. via Zoom.
Among those speaking on the webinar’s panel will be Kent Riesen of Janson & Riesen LLC
To register for the free webinar, visit www.mdtc.org and click on “events.”

State Bar section offers Summer Mixer
August 11
The Young Lawyers Committee of the State Bar of Michigan Negligence Law Section will host a 2026 Summer Mixer on Tuesday, August 11, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Jacobs and Diemer, 211 West Fort Street, #1400 in Detroit.
This event offers an opportunity for young lawyers to step away from the billable hours, soak up the summer energy, and connect with peers in a relaxed and casual setting.
To register for the free Summer Mixer, visit https://connect.mich bar.org/neglaw/home.

Friend of the Court ADR training offered online
August 11-13
The Michigan Judicial Institute (MJI) and the Friend of the Court Bureau (FOCB) will present the “Friend of the Court Alternative Dispute Resolution Training” online Tuesday through Thursday, August 11-13, and Tuesday and Wednesday, August 18-19, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day via Zoom.
MCR 3.224 provides that the State Court Administrative Office (SCAO) will establish training and qualification requirements for persons conducting each type of alternative dispute resolution activity.
This virtual 20-hour training meets SCAO’s training requirements for Friend of the Court staff to conduct facilitative and information-gathering conferences and Friend of the Court domestic relations mediation.
Due to the interactivity of the webinar, participation will be limited to no more than 24 participants. MJI will ensure that as many courts are included in the training as possible.
By registering for this webinar, staff is committed and required to attend all sessions. If there is any reason staff members cannot attend all sessions, they should not register.
To register for the training, visit https://mjieducation.mi.gov and click on “events.” Once registration is approved, MJI will notify attendees of their acceptance to the training.

2026 Bench/Bar Golf Outing hosted by bar association
August 12
The Eastern District of Michigan Bar Association will host its 2026 Bench/Bar Golf Outing on Wednesday, August 12, at Northville Hills Golf Club, 15565 Bay Hill Drive in Northville.
Participants can join the federal bench and bar in a day of golf and socializing. Registration begins at 8 a.m. followed by golf in a scramble format with a shotgun start at 9 a.m.
Cost is $850 per foursome and $250 per single golfer which includes golf, cart, and an early dinner. Included in the registration fee is dinner, lunch at the turn, drinks, and the opportunity to win raffle prizes. Federal judicial clerks can golf for $110 or pay $35 for dinner only.
For additional information or to register, visit https://edmibar.org and click on “events.” Anyone with questions may email mindy@ edmibar.org.

Webinar to focus on traffic offenses, delayed sentences
August 12
The Michigan Judicial Institute will present the “Traffic Offenses, Delayed Sentences, and Collateral Consequences Webinar” online Wednesday, August 12, from noon to 1 p.m.
Recently, courts raised concerns regarding discrepancies between Criminal History Records (CHR) and SOS driving records, while the Secretary of State (SOS) expressed concerns about courts ordering amendments to driving records following the dismissal of criminal charges after delayed sentences.
This webinar will explain the relationship between CHR and the SOS driving records, potential collateral consequences that can result when the records do not align, and possible mitigation strategies.
The webinar is eligible for continuing judicial education (CJE) credit 1.0 [Judicial Practice & Related Areas].
To register for the webinar, visit https://mjieducation.mi.gov and click on “events.”

New Probate Court judge featured online
August 13
In its ongoing efforts to foster collegiality between the Oakland County bench and bar, the Oakland County Bar Association (OCBA) will continue its “Luncheon Limine” brown bag lunch series between judges and attorneys online via Zoom. “Luncheon Limine: Meet Judge Huddleston” will take place Thursday, August 13, from noon to 1 p.m.
This month will feature newly appointed Oakland County Probate Court Judge Nicole S. Huddleston for an exclusive behind-the-bench conversation. With her first 100 days on the bench now complete, Huddleston will share insights, practical tips, and preferred courtroom protocols for attorneys practicing in her courtroom and throughout the Probate Court.
Participants can bring their questions (and their lunch) for an open, informal discussion on real-world legal issues, advocacy strategies, and what truly makes a difference in the courtroom.
This event is free for OCBA member and $20 for non-members. Space is limited. To register and receive the Zoom details, visit www.ocba.org and click on “events.” For questions, contact Cristin Doble at 248-334-3400.

Litigation Section plans Tigers Game outing
August 13
The Litigation Section of the State Bar of Michigan will host its 2026 Tigers Game Outing on Thursday, August 13, at Comerica Park, 2100 Woodward Ave. in Detroit. Attendees will watch the Detroit Tigers take on the Cleveland Guardians from 1:10 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Ticket purchase includes:
• Group seating in the Right Field section (note: the current batch of tickets is adjacent to the Right Field Balcony but not in the Balcony section; a common space near both sections is available for the attendees to congregate, with easy in/out seating).
• $30 loaded value credit onto each ticket that attendees can utilize at concessions stands/bars for food and beverage or in the Tigers team store.
To register for the outing, visit https://connect.michbar.org/litigation/home.

‘CDAM Detroit Tigers Game Day’ hosted
August 16
The Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan will host the “CDAM Detroit Tigers Game Day” on Sunday, August 16.
The event will start with a lunch buffet from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the The Old Shillelagh located at 349 Monroe St. in Detroit. The buffet will feature assorted pizzas, Caesar salad, chicken wings with dips, cookies, and assorted soft drinks.
At 1 p.m., attendees will walk to Comerica Park. The game starts at 1:40 p.m. as the Tigers take on the Chicago White Sox. CDAM’s block of tickets are located in section 138.
Cost for the evening is $50 for CDAM members and their guests, and $75 for non-members. To register online, visit https://cdam.wild apricot.org.

Attorney discusses ‘Criminal Procedure (Adjudication)’ online
August 18
The State Appellate Defender Office and the Criminal Defense Resource Center will present the webinar “Criminal Procedure (Adjudication): Caselaw Updates Part II” on Tuesday, August 18, from noon to 1:30 p.m. via Zoom.
This training will review recent Michigan appellate opinions addressing criminal defendants' procedural rights under Michigan and federal law, including the right to the assistance of counsel and self-representation, to confrontation, and to present a defense.
Speaking at the webinar will be Steven Helton, a research and training attorney in SADO’s Criminal Defense Resource Center. He served an assistant defender at SADO from 2018-2025.
To register for the webinar, visit www.sado.org/go/CrimPro2. Anyone with questions may email cdrc@sado.org.

‘Strategies for Legislative Engagement’ examined online
August 18
The National Center for State Courts will present a webinar on “Strategies for Legislative Engagement” Tuesday, August 18, from 1 to 2 p.m.
State courts operate within a complex environment where legislative decisions directly shape funding, operations, and long-term priorities.
As part of NCSC’s Navigating Leadership Webinar Series, this session is designed to provide practical strategies for court leaders to engage more effectively with policymakers and legislative staff.
Attendees will learn how to align court priorities with legislative goals, including how to clearly communicate the courts' needs, build productive relationships, and position the judicial branch as a trusted resource. Through experience-based examples and actionable guidance, this session will focus on strengthening collaboration while maintaining the integrity and independence of the courts.
After attending this webinar, participants will be able to:
• Develop clear, concise messaging that communicates court priorities in meaningful ways to policymakers
• Build and sustain professional relationships
• Recognize opportunities for proactive engagement
• Navigate ethical considerations and boundaries when engaging in outreach
Speaking at the webinar will be:
• Dave McAlpin, state court administrator, Montana Supreme Court
• Stephanie Smith, judicial administrator, Kansas Office of Judicial Administration
• Corey Steel, state court administrator, Nebraska Supreme Court
• Moderator Lindsay Hafford, principal court management consultant, NCSC
To register, visit www.ncsc.org and click on “Education &?events.”

Battle of the Bar softball game pits MDTC against MAJ
August 18
The Michigan Defense Trial Counsel and Michigan Association of Justice will take to the field at the Corner Ballpark for the MDTC/MAJ Battle of the Bar IV softball game on Tuesday, August 18. Doors open at 5 p.m. with the game starting at 6 p.m. at the Corner Ballpark, 1680 Michigan Avenue in Detroit. The friendly sportsmanship competition raises funds for the Detroit Police Athletic League (PAL).
MDTC/MAJ members, non-member attorneys, judges, justices, court staff, legal staff, law students, family, friends, and vendors are all invited to cheer on their favorite teams.
To register for the event, visit www.mdtc.org/event/battle-of-the-bar-iv.

Association plans Judges Banquet and Golf Outing
August 18
The Michigan Intellectual Property Law Association (MIPLA) will host its 2026 Judges Banquet and Golf Outing on Tuesday, August 18, at TPC Michigan, One Nicklaus Dr. in Dearborn.
The Golf & Banquet combo costs $285 a player for MIPLA members and $315 for non-members. Registration, practice, and lunch take place at 11:45 a.m. Call to report to carts for a shotgun start is at 12:45 p.m.
The format will again be a scramble tournament with prizes for lowest overall score, closest to the pin, and longest drive. Included in this package are a cart, beverages, lunch, snacks, and dinner.
The Banquet Only option costs $125 a person for MIPLA members and $135 for non-members. Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres begin at 5:30 p.m. followed by dinner at 6 p.m. Awards ceremony and presentation of the MIPLA donation will follow dinner.
To register or for additional information, visit www.mipla.org.

‘Cell Phone Data in Litigation’ examined in webinar
August 18
The Oakland County Bar Association will present a webinar on “Cell Phone Data in Litigation: Technology, Strategy, and Insights from the Inside Out” Tuesday, August 18, from noon to 1 p.m. via Zoom.
This webinar will equip attorneys with a practical understanding of how mobile data can shape modern cases. The program breaks down the types of information generated by cell phones—from call detail records and text logs to location data and app activity—and explains how that data is collected, preserved and analyzed. Speaking at the webinar will be Detective Samuel Hannum of the Southfield Police Department.
Credit has been approved with the Oakland County Bar Association for 1 Criminal credit.
Cost for the webinar is $30 for OCBA members and $40 for non-member. Oakland County appointed counsel can attend for free. To register, visit www.ocba.org and click on “events.”`

Webinar looks at ‘Understanding Trauma in Child Sexual Abuse’
August 18
The Michigan Judicial Institute will present a webinar on “Understanding Trauma in Child Sexual Abuse: Challenging Myths, Understanding Survivor Responses, and Supporting Healing.” Hosted by Child Welfare and Juvenile Justice Services, the webinar will take place Tuesday, August 18, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. via Zoom.
Child sexual abuse often leaves survivors with complex emotional, psychological, and relational responses that can be misunderstood by professionals, caregivers, and the justice system.
This training explores common misconceptions about child sexual abuse and examines how trauma affects survivors' thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and relationships with offenders. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of why survivors may experience conflicting emotions, maintain attachments to offenders, delay disclosure, recant, or respond in ways that appear counterintuitive to others. Through a trauma-informed lens, attendees will learn practical strategies for supporting children and families throughout the investigative, legal, and healing processes.
This session is designed to enhance professionals' ability to respond with empathy, reduce victim-blaming attitudes, and promote environments that foster safety, justice, resilience, and recovery for survivors of child sexual abuse.
Speaking at the webinar will be Amelia Siders, founder and CEO of MindWise Insights LLC.
This training is intended for all child welfare professionals including jurists and court staff, prosecutors, attorneys, Lawyer-Guardians Ad Litem, CPS and foster care workers, tribes, private agencies, law enforcement, medical professionals, mental health providers, education professionals, and Foster Care Review Board members.
This event is sponsored by the Governor's Task Force on Child Abuse and Neglect.
To register for the webinar, visit https://mjieducation.mi.gov and click on “events.” Anyone with questions may email Katy Todd, court analyst, SCAO-Child Welfare and Juvenile Justice Services, at ToddK@courts.mi.gov.

Attorney discusses HR as a business’ first line of legal protection
August 18
Maddin Hauser continues its Breakfast Bites: Employment Law Series with “HR as the Business’ First Line of Legal Protection: How HR Protects the Company’s Business Interests Every Day” presented Tuesday, August 18, from 8 to 9:30 a.m. in-person at One Towne Square, Fifth Floor, in Southfield, and online via Zoom.
Speaking at the program will be Jordan B. Segal, shareholder focused on mergers and acquisitions, commercial real estate, and entity formation and governance. As a writer and speaker, Segal has been published in Michigan Business Law Journal, Compliance Today, and Cooley Law Review. His articles and presentations include business legal insights on corporate data security, nondisclosure agreements, nonprofits, and cannabis law.
For additional information or to register for either the webinar or in-person seminar, visit https://maddinhauser.com and click on “events.”

‘Data Literacy for Courts’ presented online
August 18-20
The National Center for State Courts will present its “Data Literacy for Courts” course online Tuesday through Thursday, August 18-20, from noon to 4 p.m. each day.
Courts need staff who can understand, interpret, and use data to support better decisions. NCSC’s “Data Literacy for Courts” course gives court leaders and staff the practical skills to confidently read, understand, and communicate about court data.
Data is one of a court’s most underused assets. When staff at every level can read, question, and apply data, court leaders make better decisions, optimize processes, and measure what’s actually working. Data literacy also creates a shared language across roles, helping teams collaborate more effectively on data quality and performance.
The “Data Literacy for Courts” course is designed for a range of court professionals, including court administrators, judges, clerks, IT staff, analysts, new hires in research and data offices, and any court professional interested in court data. No background in data is required.
As a result of participating in this course, participants will be able to:
• Define data literacy and data governance in the context of court data.
• Describe why data are considered strategic assets of the courts.
• Outline best practices of data quality and data visualization.
• Analyze data reports and visualizations for appropriate and inappropriate use of data.
• Explain the consequences of poor data governance.
• Articulate the concept of a public access policy.
• Describe how poor-quality data visualizations mislead and can lower trust and confidence in the courts.
The “Data Literacy for Courts” course registration is $695. To register, visit www.ncsc.org and click on “Education & events.”

Attorneys discuss ‘Smart Policies & Safer Data’ for schools
August 19
McDonald Hopkins will present the webinar “The Back to School Supply List: Strong Passwords, Smart Policies & Safer Data” on Wednesday, August 19, from noon to 1 p.m.
As the new school year approaches, protecting student and school data is no longer just an IT issue—it’s a shared responsibility across administrators, faculty, and staff.
From understanding what information can (and can’t) be shared, to strengthening passwords and knowing where sensitive documents should live, schools are navigating an increasingly complex digital landscape. One misstep can put student privacy—and an institution—at risk.
McDonald Hopkins’ Meghan Collins and Cheryl Saniuk-Heinig will cut through the noise and provide guidance on safeguarding a school community. They will break down key concepts like directory vs. non-directory information, FERPA considerations, and everyday best practices to help keep students, parents, and staff informed and protected all year long.
Topics include:
• Lock it down: data security isn’t optional
• Policies > panic: know the rules before something breaks
• Directory vs. non-directory: what you can share (and what you can’t)
• Awareness is your first firewall
For additional information on the webinar, visit www.mcdonaldhopkins.com and click on “events.”

Webinar looks into ‘Evaluating & Testing AI Tools for Accuracy’
August 19
The National Center for State Courts will present the webinar “Responsible by Design: Evaluating & Testing AI Tools for Accuracy and Reliability” on Wednesday, August 19, from 1 to 2 p.m.
Generative AI has the potential to increase access to justice for self-represented litigants, but only through responsible use. To do this, courts must thoroughly test AI tools for accuracy, tone, and outcomes and then refine models based on results — before and after the tool is launched.
This TRI/NCSC AI Policy Consortium for Law & Courts session will help participants understand the unique needs of evaluating and testing AI tools and introduce ideas and tools for planning and executing necessary evaluations across all stages of public-facing AI tool development.
Topics include why evaluation is key and what it means to test an AI tool. Panelists will also cover acceptable error rates based on use, audience, and risk of harm; the critical role of high-quality content; and various testing methods and strategies used in the field.
Following this session, attendees will be able to:
• Explain why testing GenAI requires additional steps to ensure the tool is providing accurate information, appropriate detail and correct tone.
• Evaluate the true cost of GenAI tools in terms of content development, technology development, testing, and staffing and contractor costs.
• Determine acceptable error rates based on the tool's use, audience, and baseline human error rates and testing results.
• Distinguish between different types of testing methods, including creating testing rubrics and use of models and describe how testing volume and strategy may differ pre- and post-launch.
Speaking at the webinar will be panelists”
• Margaret Hagan, executive director, Legal Design Lab, Stanford Law School
• Keith Porcaro, assistant clinical professor of law, Duke University School of Law
• Angela Tripp, program officer for technology, Legal Services Corporation
To register for the webinar, visit www.ncsc.org and click on “Education &?events.”

‘Petition Writing in Child Protective Proceedings’ explored online
August 20
The Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan’s Child Abuse Prosecution Resources (CAPR) unit will present a webinar on “Petition Writing in Child Protective Proceedings” Thursday, August 20, beginning at 1:30 p.m. via Zoom.
PAAM’s CAPR unit will present Saginaw County APA Christina Walsh as she reviews petition writing for non-lawyers. The first half of the webinar will cover initial jurisdiction petitions. There will be a focus on the practical applications of the petition, and how to present factual evidence, and participants will explore practical examples. The second half will cover drafting termination of parental rights petitions, including practical tips for preparing a file for termination, what does DHHS actually have to prove, and how to draft a best interest argument.
Participants will be provided with samples and asked to view petitions from various roles, such as the judge or the parent’s attorney. Participants will also be provided tips for writing with a judge or lawyer as their reader.
To register for the webinar, visit https://michiganprosecutor.org and click on “Training Calendar.”

Association hosts Social Hour in Detroit
August 20
The Association of Legal Administrators, Metropolitan Detroit Chapter, will host a BP Social Hour on Thursday, August 20, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Pine Hall in the Hudson Building, 3000 Nick Gilbert Way in Detroit.
Attendees will enjoy drinks and appetizers while mingling with business partners and fellow members at Pine Hall, a new rooftop bar atop the Hudson Building providing views of Detroit’s skyline.
There is no cost for ALA members and business partners. Guests can attend for $35. To register, visit https://aladetroit.org.

‘Family Mediation Program’ offered online
August 20
The Alternative Dispute Resolution Section of the State Bar of Michigan will host its second annual Family Mediation Conference virtually on Thursday August 20, from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
The virtual conference will include four hours of advanced mediation training featuring Michigan practitioners and experts.
Speaking at the program will be:
• Zena Zumeta, “Working with Attorneys in Family Mediation”
• Marya Kolman, “Presenting the Newly Revised Model Standards for Family and Divorce Mediation”
• Shawndrica Simmons, “Beyond the Mediation Room: Using Mediation Skills to Manage High-Conflict Parents in Supervised Parenting Time Cases”
To register for the online conference, visit https://connect.mich bar.org/adr/home.

Billing and communication for attorneys discussed online
August 20
The Oakland County Bar Association will present the webinar “Time Matters: What Attorneys Need to Know about Billing and Communication” on Thursday, August 20, from noon to 1 p.m. via Zoom.
For most lawyers, success in legal practice requires more than strong legal analysis—it also involves time tracking and robust documentation. Unfortunately, most new lawyers are not taught these vital skills in law school.
In this virtual program, participants will learn from two experienced law-firm billers the basics about how to bill time, meet and maximize billable hours, communicate with partners and clients, and handle documenting in case files. Speaking at the webinar will be Mary C. Aretha, senior research attorney-Court of Claims, Michigan Court of Appeals; and Paul Shkreli of Shkreli Legal PLLC.
Cost for the webinar is $20 for OCBA members, $15 for Professional Development Committee members, $15 for new lawyers and paralegals, $10 for OCBA students, and $40 for non-members. To register, visit www.ocba.org and click on “events.”`

‘Bar Night Out’ planned by OCBA
August 20
This summer, the Oakland County Bar Association (OCBA) Membership Committee presents another evening of networking and delectable food with “Bar Night Out” on Thursday, August 20, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Grand Tavern Troy, 1317 Coolidge Hwy. in Troy.
Attendees can connect with colleagues while enjoying delicious food, and a cash bar in a festive setting.
The event is free for OCBA members and $25 for non-members. Space is limited. To register, visit www.ocba.org and click on “events.”
Anyone with questions may contact Katie Tillinger at 248-334-3400.

American Arbitration Association leaders featured by ADR Section
August 24
The Alternative Dispute Resolution Section of the State Bar of Michigan will host a special virtual Lunch & Learn featuring leaders from the American Arbitration Association. “Practice Insights for ADR Professionals” will take place online Monday, August 24, from noon to 1 p.m. via Zoom.
This interactive program will offer practical insight into AAA administration, trends in arbitration and mediation, effective advocacy in ADR proceedings, and what neutrals and advocates should know when working with the AAA.
The discussion will explore case management, arbitrator and mediator selection, party expectations, best practices for efficient proceedings, and emerging developments across AAA practice areas – including new technologies to support ADR processes. Attendees will have an opportunity to hear directly from AAA leadership and gain a better understanding of how to navigate the process from both the advocate and neutral perspectives.
Participating in the discussion will be AAA’s Cassie Lively, vice president, Employment Division; Aaron Schmidt, vice president, Labor Division; and Lise Prisarojn, mediation director. The program will be moderated by Lisa W. Timmons, AAA arbitrator and mediator and immediate past chair of the ADR Section of the State Bar of Michigan.
To register for the free online program, visit https://connect.mich bar.org/adr/home.

Terminating parental rights focus of webinar
August 25
The Michigan Judicial Institute will present a webinar on “Reasonable Efforts and Aggravated Circumstances: When the Duty Applies, When It Doesn’t, and What It Means for Terminating Parental Rights” on Tuesday, August 25, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. via Zoom.
Hosted by Child Welfare and Juvenile Justice Services, this session examines the legal framework governing the state’s obligation to make reasonable efforts to reunify families. It will explore the statutory obligations of the reasonable efforts requirement, and the limited circumstances under which efforts may be bypassed. Particular attention will be paid to how appellate courts have interpreted these provisions, the procedural safeguards that must accompany any decision to forgo reasonable efforts, and the relationship between the state’s efforts (or lack thereof) and later termination proceedings.
Speaking at the webinar will be Vivek Sankaran, director of Child Advocacy Law Clinic, University of Michigan Law School; and Rick Barinbaum, clinical professor, University of Michigan School of Social Work
This training is intended for all child welfare professionals including jurists, prosecutors, attorneys, Lawyer-Guardians Ad Litem, CPS and foster care workers, service providers, and Foster Care Review Board members.
This training will qualify for 1.5 MCJE credit hours.
To register for the free webinar, visit https://mjieducation.mi.gov and click on “events.” Anyone with questions may email Katy Todd, court analyst, SCAO-Child Welfare and Juvenile Justice Services, at ToddK@courts.mi.gov. and click on “events.” Anyone with questions may email Katy Todd, court analyst, SCAO-Child Welfare and Juvenile Justice Services, at ToddK@courts.mi.gov.

Professionalism and civility tips provided in webinar
August 25
The National Business Institute will present the live video webinar “6 Tips for Sustaining Professionalism and Civility in Law” on Tuesday, August 25, from 2 to 3 p.m.
What distinguishes respected lawyers from those who struggle with destructive professional relationships and conflict? In today’s legal atmosphere, civility and professionalism aren’t just aspirational ideals—they’re also critical career skills.
In this program, the faculty offers insights into the dos and don’ts of cultivating respect and integrity. Tips provided during the webinar include:
• Tip #1: Practicing Civility in Legal Correspondence and Written Advocacy
• Tip #2: Communicating With Professionalism and Precision
• Tip #3: Maintaining Civility When Dealing With Unruly Opposing Counsel
• Tip #4: Dealing With Uncivil Colleagues; Repairing Relationships After Conflict
• Tip #5: Managing Difficult Clients Without Sacrificing Professionalism
• Tip #6: Maintaining Professionalism in the Digital Age
Cost for the webinar, which includes course book download, is $199. To register, call 1-800-930-6182 or visit www.nbi-sems.com.

Webinar explores ‘The Science Behind the Eye Tests’
August 27
The Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan will present a webinar on “DREs & ODs (Doctor of Optometry): The Science Behind the Eye Tests” Thursday, August 27, from noon to 1:30 p.m. via Zoom.
A common defense challenge in cases involving Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) officers is the argument that these officers are playing “doctor cop.” One area of the DRE investigation that is prone to this attack are the eye examinations conducted by DREs and some that are conducted by non-DRE officers in all impaired driving investigations.
This session will cover the history of optometry as it relates to the Drug Evaluation and Classification Program. It will explain the origins of the various tests of eye movements and pupil responses conducted by DREs and how the DRE task and assessments differ from those of an optometrist.
The session will cover popular eye tests such as the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) test, the Vertical Gaze Nystagmus (VGN) test, and the Lack of Convergence (LOC). The effects of drugs, such as cannabis, on the eyes will be discussed and information shared that will help all DRE and other officers when conducting eye tests during an impaired driving investigation. The session will also delve in medical conditions that can affect the eyes and how these can be differentiated from impairment.
The webinar is designed for drug recognition experts, police officers, city attorneys, prosecutors, and assistant prosecutors.
To register for the webinar, visit https://michiganprosecutor.org and click on “Training Calendar.”

‘Resolving Family Conflicts Using Virtual Services’ discussed online
August 27
The Michigan Judicial Institute along with the Friend of the Court Bureau will present a webinar on “Expanded Options for Resolving Family Conflicts Using Virtual Services” Thursday, August 27, from 9 to 10 a.m. via Zoom.
The webinar will features a discussion and demonstration of the new MI-Resolve 2.0 for Families. The system has been completely updated and now allows parties and referral sources to request mediation services online using the new software. The online mediation services are available in all 83 counties at no cost for parties, referral sources, and court agencies. The presentation will conclude with an update on the Access and Visitation Program and information about court funding applications for child neutral drop off services and supervised visitation services due August 28, 2026.
Speaking at the webinar will be Michelle Hilliker, manager, Office of Dispute Resolution, Field Services, State Court Administrative Office, Michigan Supreme Court.
To register for the webinar, visit https://mjieducation.mi.gov and click on “events.”

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