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• Joint DBA/DBAF Board Meeting

  • Start
    09/17/2025
  •  
  • End
    05/20/2026
  • Schedule
    8 sessions
  • Location
    Alternating Zoom and in Person (see list)

  Locations are as follows: 

  • June 12, 2025 – Annual Dinner
  • September 17, 2025 – In person (at Dickinson Wright, 500 Woodward 40th Floor Suite 40000, Detroit)
  • October 15, 2025 – Zoom
  • November 19, 2025 – In person (at Miller Canfield)
  • January 21, 2026 – Zoom
  • February 18, 2026 – In person
  • March 18, 2026 – Zoom
  • April 15, 2026 – In person
  • May 20, 2026 – Zoom

  (No meetings in July, August, or December)
  

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• 2025 Jingle Mingle Holiday Celebration

  • When
    12/08/2025
  •  
    5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
  • Location
    Union Assembly Detroit, 2131 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48201

  Register

  December 8, 2025
  

  Union Assembly Detroit
  2131 Woodward Ave, Detroit
   5:30-8:30 pm

  Celebrate the season at Union Assembly in Detroit, a local favorite known for its modern American comfort food and nostalgic retro vibe. Enjoy an evening of connection and cheer as you share conversations, memories, and laughter with colleagues and friends—reflecting on the highlights of 2025 and looking ahead to 2026.
  

  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:

  
  

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• Lunch & Learn Volunteer Training Session #31

  • When
    12/09/2025
  •  
    12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
  • Location
    Virtual Zoom Presentation

  Register

  
  

  Session #31: 
  Michigan Community Resources
  Pro Bono Transactional Law for Michigan Nonprofits

  December 9, 2025
  

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

  Join us for a dynamic one-hour introduction to Michigan Community Resource’s Nonprofit Transactional Pro Bono Program, where attorneys bring their legal expertise to strengthen mission-driven organizations across the state. This session highlights how volunteer lawyers play a critical role in helping nonprofits navigate essential transactional matters—from corporate governance and contracts to employment, real estate, and intellectual property—through practical, limited scope, and high-impact projects. Participants will learn how even a few hours of their time can protect nonprofit assets, reduce legal risk, and empower organizations to focus on serving their communities. Whether you're looking to broaden your skills, give back in a meaningful way, or make a lasting difference for Michigan’s nonprofit sector, this workshop offers a compelling opportunity to transform legal knowledge into community impact.

  Presenter: Justin Sheehan, Legal Director & General Counsel, Michigan Community Resources, Detroit Office

  A Lansing born and bred attorney with a fierce pride for the diverse and resilient Capital City he calls home. A twice over graduate of Michigan State University, in social work and law respectively. Sheehan is the Legal Director and General Counsel for Michigan Community Resources, Chairman of the Lansing Empowerment Network, Board Member of the Lansing Growth Fund, Board Member of the Malcolm X Community Commission, member of the Lansing School District's Multicultural Education Taskforce, and member of the Senior Advisory Team for Lansing Community College's Office of Empowerment. Of much greater importance, Sheehan is the proud father of three and the husband of one exceptional woman.

  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.
  

  
  

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• ADR Section Planning Meeting

  • When
    12/18/2025
  •  
    12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
  • Location
    Zoom

  Register

  ADR Section Planning Meeting

  Thursday, December 18
  12-1 p.m.
  Format: Zoom

  Join the Detroit Bar Association's ADR Section leadership for a discussion regarding future section meetings and educational programs during the 2026 year. Please click here to register and you will receive the zoom link as part of your confirmation. Registration is complimentary for Detroit Bar Association members.

  To join the Detroit Bar Association, visit https://www.detroitlawyer.org/join/
  All questions regarding registration can be addressed to slawkillinger@detroitlawyer.org
  

  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.
  

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• JCEC Call for Members Submission Deadline

  • When
    12/22/2025

  Call for 2026 Judicial Candidate Evaluation Committee (JCEC) Members
  

  Those interested must submit applications by December 2022. Please click here for more information.

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• New Lawyer Boot Camp 2026

  • Start
    01/22/2026
  •  
  • End
    01/29/2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    2 sessions
  • Location
    Zoom and CAYMC

  Register

  Join the Detroit Bar Association in this immersive 1.5-day workshop covering everything a new attorney practicing in Wayne County needs to know to hit the ground running. Presentations are led by seasoned Detroit Bar members practicing regularly within the Criminal, Family, Juvenile and Civil Divisions.
  

  Thursday, January 22, 2026 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Via Zoom

  The Third Judicial Circuit Court of Michigan and 36th District Court will give procedurals overview of Wayne County Courts and their respective divisions, followed by practical guidance from a group of experienced attorneys practicing regularly within the Criminal, Family, Juvenile and Civil Divisions.

  Thursday, January 29, 8 a.m.- 4 p.m.

  This will be an in-person session including a tour of CAYMC and Phases of Litigation covering everything from discovery and depositions to juggling multiple hearings and introduction to trial practice. Experienced Detroit attorneys will lead you through the specifics of motion filing, discovery and depositions, successful trial practice, appeals, alternative dispute resolution and settlement conferences. The day will also include presentations focused on starting your career with wellness in mind, professionalism, and a practical guide to interacting with the courts, judges and staff.

  You must be a Detroit Bar Member to register. Registration is $65 for both sessions. To join, visithttps://www.detroitlawyer.org/join/.

  Presenters Include:
  

  • Fran Yturri, Third Judicial Circuit Court of Michigan
    
  • David Jonathan Cross, 36th District Court
    
  • L. Pahl Zinn, Dickinson Wright
    
  • Anthea E. Papista, Papista & Papista, PLC
    
  • Lynda McGhee, Level Up Legacy Planning
    
  • Michael E. Geraghty, Kitch Drutchas Wagner Valitutti & Sherbrook, P.C.
    
  • Sarah Wykoff, Kutinsky PLLC
    
  • Chad B. Sponder, The Law Office of Chad B. Sponder In-House Counsel for Citizens United Reciprocal Exchange
    
  • Samantha M. McCleod, Jacobs and Deimer
    
  • Thomas J. Grden, State Bar of Michigan Lawyers and Judges Assistance Program
    
  • Suzanne C. Stanczyk, Suzanne C. Stanczyk, PLLC

  Reach out to Sheena Law-Killinger to register or with questions at slawkillinger@detroitlawyer.org.
  

  
  

  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.
  

  
  

  Show details
• Business Litigation Section Winter Happy Hour

  • When
    01/26/2026
  •  
    5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
  • Location
    2435 Michigan Ave Detroit, MI 48216

  Register

  Business Litigation Section
  Winter Happy Hour

  January 26, 2026
  

  Two James Spirits
  2435 Michigan Ave Detroit, MI 48216
  5:30-8:30 p.m.

  Join the Detroit Bar Association’s Business Litigation Section for a relaxed and engaging happy hour at Two James Spirits in Corktown. This informal gathering offers a unique opportunity to connect with colleagues and mingle with the Business Court judges in a casual, friendly setting. Enjoy complimentary appetizers while you network, and take advantage of the available cash bar. 

  Registration: $35 members, $65 non-members

  Please email slawkillinger@detroitlawyer.org with any questions you might have regarding registration.

  To become a Detroit Bar Association Member, please visit https://www.detroitlawyer.org/join/ 

   

  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.

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• Inn of Court 2026

  • Start
    02/10/2026
  •  
  • End
    04/07/2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    5 sessions
  • Location
    Miller Canfield

  Register

  The IOC season will kick off on Tuesday, February 10, 2026. The meetings are held twice monthly on Tuesdays at Miller Canfield and begin with a soft start social period  and dinner at 5:30 p.m., followed by the program from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The 2026 Inn of Court dates are:

  • Tuesday, February 10, 2026, Kick Off Event Social Start/Dinner 5:30pm, program 6:00 – 7:00pm – Miller Canfield
  • Tuesday, February 24, 2026, Social Start/Dinner 5:30pm, program 6:00 – 7:00pm – Miller Canfield
  • Tuesday, March 10, 2026, Social Start/Dinner 5:30pm, program 6:00 – 7:00pm – Miller Canfield
  • Tuesday, March 24 , 2026, Social Start/Dinner 5:30pm, program 6:00 – 7:00pm – Miller Canfield
  • Tuesday, April 7, 2026, Closing Event Social Start/Dinner 5:30pm, program 6:00 – 7:00pm – Miller Canfield

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

  The IOC dues for the 2026 program year are $75 for Masters, $50 for Barristers and Associates, and $25 for Law Clerks. This fee covers the costs for program administration and food and beverages during the season.

  TO REGISTER: Use the link on this page and email your resumé to Sheena Law-Killinger at slawkillinger@detroitlawyer.org. The deadline to register is Friday, January 30, 2026.

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• Mardi Gras at Lager House in Corktown

  • When
    02/17/2026
  •  
    5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
  • Location
    1254 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48226

  Register

  February 17, 2026
  

  5:30-8:30 p.m. 
  Lager House, Detroit 
  1254 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
  

  Come mix and mingle with the Judges and celebrate Mardi Gras at Lager House in Corktown, Detroit! When you join now as a first time member, you are invited to attend this event free of charge. If you are already a member, you will get a drink ticket for signing up a new member! Heavy appetizers and a cash bar are included with your ticket. 
  

  • $45 Members- Sign up a new member and receive a drink ticket.
    
  • $65 Nonmembers- Join the Detroit Bar Association for the first time and attend at no charge! 
  • $25 Students
    
  • Judges free

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

  
  

  
  

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• "Raising the Bar" 2026 Annual Dinner

  • When
    06/11/2026
  •  
    5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
  • Location
    Detroit Golf Club, 17911 Hamilton Rd., Detroit MI

  "Raising the Bar" 190th Annual Dinner

  June 11, 2026
   Detroit Golf Club
  5–8 p.m.

  Don’t miss your chance to be a part of Raising the Bar 2026, the Detroit Bar Association's annual meeting—held at the iconic Detroit Golf Club.

  Join us for an evening of celebration and recognition, including the installation of Detroit Bar officers and awarding those who have shown exceptional dedication to the outreach and growth of the law, within both the Detroit Bar and community.

  To sponsor, contact Darlene Trudell at dtrudell@detroitlawyer.org or 248-408-6919. 
  

  Last year's sponsors:

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  ANNUAL SPONSORS:

  
  

  
  

  PHOTO BOOTH SPONSOR:
  
  

  PRINTING SPONSOR:
  
  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

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