Honorable Edward Ewell, Jr.

Honorable Edward Ewell, Jr. 3rd Circuit Court I would first tell all new lawyers to follow the three p’s: be prompt, be prepared and be professional. Next, know your Judge. You can find out a lot on their website and if they protocols. If all else fails, ask other...

Honorable Deborah Ford

Honorable Deborah Ford 36th District Court When I was a new, and not so new lawyer, I watched motions and hearings while I waited for my case to be called. Additionally, once I saw or knew a lawyer I admired was in the building I made it my business to watch him, or...

Honorable Janelle Lawless

Honorable Janelle Lawless 30th Circuit Court Please communicate with the other side BEFORE you file moVons and again before the hearing and absolutely before trial. You’d be surprised what you may be able to accomplish with an email or phone...

Justice Richard Bernstein

Justice Richard Bernstein Michigan Supreme Court Be enthusiastic and passionate with your work, as this attitude spreads to others Be sincere about your work; especially with blind judges, as they have an ability to pick up genuineness, and will appreciate your...

Honorable Patrick McGraw

Honorable Patrick McGraw Saginaw County Probate Court Be civil to opposing counsel. Amping up the temperature does not help your cause. Avoid interrupting opposing counsel or the judge. Be paSent. Listen. Avoid the ‘smirks” or other fidgeting movements or expressions....

Honorable Paul Stutesman

Honorable Paul Stutesman 45th Circuit Court Right now I would suggest you learn how to work Zoom. Have great wifi, a good camera and microphone in a room with good lighting. Make sure the camera is at eye level or above. Name yourself when you enter the waiting room.....