Session #38: Nonpartisan Volunteer Opportunities for Lawyers During the November 2026 Election
September 15, 2026
12 – 1 p.m. Virtual Zoom Presentation Free – online Zoom
Promote the Vote Fund, one of the coordinators of Michigan’s Nonpartisan Election Protection Plan, is recruiting lawyer volunteers to support our efforts to ensure every eligible Michigander can vote during the November 2026 Election.
We are looking for attorneys to volunteer on the ground as nonpartisan challengers and affidavit collectors, as well as for the 866-OUR-VOTE nonpartisan Election Protection Hotline. Learn more below about our opportunities and how to sign up.
Volunteer Opportunities:
We are recruiting attorneys for multiple volunteer roles. If you are interested, please sign up on our interest form
Presenters:
Moderator:
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.
Session #39: An Introduction to Restorative Practices
September 22, 2026
The Dispute Resolution Center of Washtenaw and Livingston County will discuss the history and ideology that defines the work of restorative practices and give insight to the legal and non-legal pathways of the practice, as experienced in present day. Participants will learn of the impact of the application of restorative practices for the individuals, communities, and systems that implement the philosophy and practice of restoration in the address of conflict.
Moderators:
2026-2027 Above the Bar Book Club Kick-Off Meeting
September 23, 2026The Three Cats, 116 W 14 Mile Rd, Clawson, MI 48017 5-6:30 p.m.
The Work Life Balance Section invites you to join us as we kick off our 2026–2027 Above the Bar Book Club Series!
This year’s reading selections have been thoughtfully chosen to build upon one another and create a wellness journey with themes that we focus on each season.
We’ll begin with The Good Enough Job: Reclaiming Life from Work by Simone Stolzoff. This book challenges the cultural myth that a career should be our primary source of identity, community, and meaning. Instead, it encourages us to develop a healthier, more balanced relationship with work. You can learn more about the book here.
Please see the full schedule and reading list.
We hope you’ll join us for this year-long journey of reflection, connection, and growth!
Detroit Bar Section Co-Chairs:
Registration:
$25 Members $40 Nonmembers
Registration includes one drink—wine, beer, or soda—along with shared appetizers.
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/
SPONSORS:
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
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.
$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.
SPONSOR:
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
ANNUAL SPONSORS:
Book Club Meeting
October 21, 2026The Three Cats, 116 W 14 Mile Rd, Clawson, MI 48017 5-6:30 p.m.
The Work Life Balance Section invites you to join us for our 2026–2027 Book Club Series.
This year’s reading selections have been thoughtfully chosen to build upon one another, creating a year-long journey toward greater health, well-being, and personal growth. We hope this series will offer practical tools, thought-provoking conversations, and a supportive community as we explore what it means to thrive—both personally and professionally.
We hope you’ll join us for this journey of reflection, connection, and growth!
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 recognizing the Honorable Edward Ewell, Jr., Chief Judge, Third Judicial Circuit Court of Michigan.
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.
Emcee: Darren Cunningham, WXYZ-TV Chanel 7 Action News
90% of funds raised are directly allocated to pro-bono legal services, educational and student activities.
Download sponsorship information. Please contact Sheena Law-Killinger at 810-923-2333 or slawkillinger@detroitlawyer.org for sponsorship information.
DIAMOND SPONSOR:
GOLD SPONSOR:
SILVER SPONSOR: Michigan State University College of LawTaft
BENEFACTOR: U.S. Legal Support
CONTRIBUTOR: UnitedLex
IN-KIND SPONSOR: Detroit Legal News
November 25, 2026The Three Cats, 116 W 14 Mile Rd, Clawson, MI 48017 5-6:30 p.m.
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.
January 27, 2027The Three Cats, 116 W 14 Mile Rd, Clawson, MI 48017 5-6:30 p.m.
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:
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.
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 29, 2027.
February 24, 2027The Three Cats, 116 W 14 Mile Rd, Clawson, MI 48017 5-6:30 p.m.
March 24, 2027The Three Cats, 116 W 14 Mile Rd, Clawson, MI 48017 5-6:30 p.m.
April 28, 2027The Three Cats, 116 W 14 Mile Rd, Clawson, MI 48017 5-6:30 p.m.
May 26, 2027The Three Cats, 116 W 14 Mile Rd, Clawson, MI 48017 5-6:30 p.m.
June 23, 2027The Three Cats, 116 W 14 Mile Rd, Clawson, MI 48017 5-6:30 p.m.