Family Law Institute, 24th Annual

Beyond the Bench: Real Talk, Real Insight, Real Advantage

We bring together Michigan’s most respected judges—not for formal rulings, but for honest, practical conversations that can elevate your practice. From myth-busting deep dives to candid guidance on what persuades in appellate court, you’ll hear what really matters from judges who live it every day.

Plus, get rare access to network and ask questions outside the formality of the courtroom. Sharpen your advocacy with insight straight from the bench—and connect with the judges who may one day decide your case.

Judge Cunningham Packs the House, Year After Year

Attendees have said it many times before, and we’ll say it again: Cunningham’s annual caselaw update alone is “worth the price of admission.” And due to popular demand, its time slot has been extended.

Watch this clip from last year’s jam-packed session where she talks about established custodial environment.

Another One Not to Miss—Family Law Judges Panel

Take it from Hon. Paul F. Kraus—our annual panel session is just one more way to get your candid questions answered straight from the bench and get a leg up in your practice.

“Both experienced practitioners and also newer practitioners to the area of law need to know the ‘who, what, when, where, and how’ of how judges make their decisions and operate their courtrooms,” Kraus says. “The session is going to bring together a panel of experienced practitioners, judges from around the state, who will be able to answer all of those pertinent questions.”