No-Fault Summit
April 23-24, 2026
Vibe Credit Union Showplace, Novi
Judicial Insights, Critical Updates
Every year, the No-Fault Summit wraps up with a session that’s worth sticking around for: “Views from the Bench.” Attendees know this is where to get practical, candid advice straight from respected Michigan judges. There’s no substitute for direct perspectives from those who decide real cases, break down recent decisions, and offer best practices for navigating the courtroom.
Judges you will hear from:
Hon. Edward Ewell, Jr.
3rd Circuit Court, Detroit
Judge Ewell was appointed to the court in 2003 and currently serves in the Civil Division as a business court judge. He previously served in the Criminal Division for 11 years, serving for five years as presiding judge.
Hon. Tracy E. Van den Bergh
22nd Circuit Court, Ann Arbor
Judge Van den Bergh took the bench in 2021. She currently hears general civil cases and child protective proceedings. Before practicing law, Judge Van den Bergh worked as a clinical social worker and mental health director.
Hon. Christopher P. Yates
Michigan Court of Appeals, Grand Rapids
Judge Yates was appointed to the court in 2022. He was previously a judge in the Kent County Circuit Court and served in both the Criminal/Civil Division and Family Division. Judge Yates has also worked as a federal prosecutor in Detroit.
Stay Ahead with Critical Updates
In addition to judicial perspectives, benefit from expert-led sessions covering the latest first- and third-party developments. Top plaintiff and defense lawyers like Thomas G. Sinas and John W. Whitman break down new caselaw and trends—delivering practical tips you can use right away.
"I need it as a judge, and I’ve been doing this since 1980. If you’re even thinking of taking one case, this seminar is an absolute must."
-Hon. Timothy P. Connors, 22nd Circuit Court, Ann Arbor