Detroit Bar Association upcoming events

Lunch & Learn Volunteer Training Session #37 (08/11/2026)

Tue, 11 Aug 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Session #37:
The Intersection of Tribal, State, and Federal Law

August 11, 2026

12 – 1 p.m.
Virtual Zoom Presentation
Free – online Zoom

Practicing in Tribal Courts: Building Cultural Competency and Legal Excellence

Attorneys who practice, or are interested in practicing, in Tribal Courts need more than a working knowledge of the law. They need an understanding of the history, culture, traditions, and sovereignty that shape Tribal justice systems. This webinar serves as an introduction to a more comprehensive training program designed to equip legal professionals with the knowledge and cultural awareness necessary to effectively represent clients and collaborate with Tribal communities.

Participants will explore the foundations of Tribal sovereignty and governance, including Tribal Constitutions, Tribal codes, court rules, and the unique structure of Tribal governments and judicial systems. The program will also examine key principles of Federal American Indian Law and discuss the practical realities of practicing before Tribal Courts.

A central focus of the training is fostering culturally respectful legal practice. The session will highlight culturally honoring traditions and teachings that provide important context for understanding Tribal communities, including Traditional Opening practices, the Seven Grandfather Teachings, and the Two Grandmothers Teachings, and how these values influence approaches to justice, leadership, and community.

The webinar will also examine opportunities for collaboration between Tribal and State Courts, with particular attention to the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), the Michigan Indian Family Preservation Act (MIFPA), juvenile matters, criminal jurisdiction, and other areas where intergovernmental cooperation is essential.

This session will help identify the distinction between representing children within the juvenile justice system and adults within the criminal justice system. Many are unaware that the two are not identical. Juvenile justice involved children are more likely to have contact with the adult criminal justice system, experience homelessness, substance abuse and mental health crises. Juvenile defenders with a better understanding of brain development and the ability to connect with young people can be a lifeline for children in the juvenile justice system and their families.

Presenters:

Hon. Melissa L. Pope, Chief Judge, Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi Tribal Court

Moderator:

John Sier, Chair, Detroit Bar Foundation Access to Justice Committee

Attend and receive a Certificate of Completion. Approved for State Bar of Michigan Pro Bono Honor Roll hours. Training hours can be put toward the Detroit Bar Pro Bono award with recognition at the annual Archer Award Gala in November. For full details, please visit https://www.detroitlawyer.org/probonoaward/

For questions, contact Sheena Law-Killinger at slawkillinger@detroitlawyer.org.

Brought to you by:

DETROIT BAR PRO BONO/ACCESS TO
JUSTICE COMMITTEE

The information provided in this programming does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available are for general informational purposes only.

Happy Hour with the Wayne County Probate Court Judges (09/23/2026)

Wed, 23 Sep 2026 21:30:00 GMT

Happy Hour with the
Wayne County Probate Court Judges

Presented by the Estate Planning and Probate Sections of the Detroit Bar

Wednesday, September 23, 2026
5:30–8:30 p.m.

Detroit Beer Company
1529 Broadway St.

Join the Detroit Bar Association's Estate Planning & Probate Litigation Section and the Wayne County Court Probate judges for a relaxed and engaging happy hour at Detroit Beer Company.

This informal gathering offers a unique opportunity to connect with colleagues, build professional relationships, and mingle with members of the Wayne County Probate Court bench in a casual and welcoming setting. Complimentary appetizers will be provided, and a cash bar will be available.

Registration:

$35 members
$65 non-members

Complimentary for Judges

For questions regarding registration, please email slawkillinger@detroitlawyer.org.

Interested in becoming a Detroit Bar Association member? Visit https://www.detroitlawyer.org/join/ to learn more and join.

Night Out with the Bench & Bar (10/05/2026)

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 21:30:00 GMT

October 5, 2026

The Social Brews Detroit
211 W Fort St #100, Detroit, MI 48201

5:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Meet the Judges! The Detroit Bar Association welcomes you to join us at The Social Brews Detroit on October 5th from 5:30-8:30 p.m. for a post-work happy hour. Relax and connect with fellow lawyers and jurists outside of the courtroom; no programs, no briefs, no motions—only friendly debates, drinks and appetizers. Appetizers will be included with a cash bar available.

LOCATION:

The Social Brews Detroit
211 W Fort St #100, Detroit, MI 48226

COST:

$45 Detroit Bar Member
$65 Non-Members
$25 Students
Judges are complimentary

For questions, contact Sheena Law-Killinger at slawkillinger@detroitlawyer.org.

ANNUAL SPONSORS:

2026 Annual Dennis W. Archer Public Service Award Gala (11/12/2026)

Thu, 12 Nov 2026 22:00:00 GMT

November 12, 2026
Detroit Yacht Club
5:00 – 8:00 pm

Join the judges and mayors at the 22nd Annual Dennis W. Archer Public Service Award Gala.

Archer Award winners all have one thing in common – each is an attorney or jurist who exemplifies the ideal of the law as public service. Proceeds will fund free legal clinics and community outreach programs.

90% of funds raised are directly allocated to pro-bono legal services, educational and student activities.

Download sponsorship information. Please contact Darlene Trudell at 248 408-6919 or dtrudell@detroitlawyer.org for sponsorship information.

DIAMOND SPONSOR:

SILVER SPONSOR:
Taft

CONTRIBUTOR:
UnitedLex

IN-KIND SPONSOR:
Detroit Legal News

2026 Jingle Mingle (12/07/2026)

Mon, 07 Dec 2026 22:30:00 GMT

December 7, 2026

The Whitney Ghost Bar
4421 Woodward Ave, Detroit 48201
5:30-8:30 pm

Celebrate the season at the Whitney Ghost Bar in Detroit, a historic favorite known for its Detroit history food and elegant atmosphere. Enjoy an evening of connection and cheer as you share conversations, memories, and laughter with colleagues and friends—reflecting on the highlights of 2026 and looking ahead to 2027.

Guests will be treated to heavy hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar, and festive holiday musical entertainment, all in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

$45 member
$65 non-member
$25 student
Judges may attend for free.

Includes hors d'oeuvres and cash bar.

Contact Sheena Law-Killinger at slawkillinger@detroitlawyer.org.

ANNUAL SPONSORS:

Detroit Bench and Bar Society (Inspired by the American Inns of Court Model) (02/02/2027)

Tue, 02 Feb 2027 22:30:00 GMT

The 2027 Detroit Bench and Bar Society (DBBS), inspired by the American Inns of Court Model, will kick off on Tuesday, February 2, 2027. Meetings are held twice monthly on Tuesdays at Miller Canfield. Each session begins with a networking social and dinner at 5:30 p.m., followed by the evening's program. The program also includes one daytime webinar.

2027 Detroit Bench and Bar Society (Inspired by the American Inns of Court Model) dates are:

Tuesday, February 2, 2027, Kick Off Event Social Start/Dinner 5:30pm, program 6:00 – 7:00pm – Miller Canfield
Tuesday, February 23, 2027, 11:30-1:30 PM, Webinar- Professionalism, Civility & Ethics
Tuesday, March 9, 2027, Social Start/Dinner 5:30pm, Trial Advocacy Program Part 1 6:00 – 7:00pm – Miller Canfield
Tuesday, March 23 , 2027, Social Start/Dinner 5:30pm, Trial Advocacy Program Part 2 6:00 – 7:00pm – Miller Canfield
Tuesday, April 13, 2027, Social Start/Dinner 5:30pm, program 6:00 – 8:00pm Groups 1&2 Presentations – Miller Canfield
Tuesday, April 27, 2027, Social Start/Dinner 5:30pm, program 6:00 – 8:00pm Groups 3&4 Presentations – Miller Canfield

Membership and participation in the Detroit Bench & Bar Society is an exclusive benefit available only to Detroit Bar members. Non-members must join the Detroit Bar when they join the DBBS.

The DBBS dues for the 2027 program year are $75 for Masters, $60 for Barristers and Associates, and $35 for Law Clerks. This fee covers the costs for program administration and food and beverages during the season.