Attorneys discuss ‘Navigating Michigan’s UPEPA’

The Appellate Section of the Michigan Defense Trial Counsel (MDTC) will present a commercial litigation webinar on “Navigating Michigan’s UPEPA” Tuesday, June 16, from noon to 1 p.m. via Zoom.

Michigan’s adoption of the Uniform Public Expression Protection Act (UPEPA) introduces a new framework for addressing Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPP claims). This presentation will walk through the statute’s three-step analytical process, including key procedural considerations. It will also provide a practical overview of how courts in other jurisdictions have interpreted and applied UPEPA, offering attorneys insight into when UPEPA may be a viable and effective defense.

The webinar’s panel will feature John Sier and Annaclare Censoni of Kitch Attorneys & Counselors PC.

To register for the free webinar, visit www.mdtc.org and click on “events.”

‘Child Exploitation in the Digital Age’ focus of seminar

The Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan’s Child Abuse Training Services Program (CATS) will present a day-long seminar, “Child Exploitation in the Digital Age: Investigation, Forensics, and More,” on Tuesday, June 30, in Rochester.

This training provides law enforcement professionals, prosecutors, and CPS investigators with a practical overview of the evolving landscape of computer-facilitated crimes involving child exploitation. Key topics include online grooming, digital forensics, and evidence collection.

Participants will gain insight into how commonly used apps, messaging platforms, cloud storage services, and social media are leveraged by offenders to target victims, conceal communications, and store illicit content. The training also explores investigative strategies for conducting online investigations, preserving electronic evidence, and drafting effective legal process.

In addition, attendees will examine the mindset and behaviors of offenders to better understand patterns of exploitation. The course includes a foundational overview of digital forensic principles, including evidence collection best practices, maintaining chain of custody, and key courtroom considerations—helping to support successful investigations and prosecutions.

The seminar is presented by the Michigan State Police – Livonia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

There is no charge for registration or materials.  To register for the webinar, visit https://michiganprosecutor.org and click on “Training Calendar.”  Anyone with questions may email Jennifer at Doerrj@miPaam.org.

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