Professionalism committee launches speakers bureau, education campaign

The Special Committee on Professionalism and Civility has created a new speakers bureau to provide ongoing outreach and education to Michigan attorneys and judges. As part of the effort to highlight the 12 Principles of Professionalism, the State Bar is also launching a social media campaign featuring the guidance adopted by the Supreme Court in 2020.

The committee, chaired by Bloomfield Hills attorney Michael S. Leib, recently launched the speakers bureau, which includes attorneys from throughout the state who have volunteered to speak when invited about both the importance of the 12 Principles of Professionalism and ways to incorporate the principles into your work, office, and life. As part of the committee’s outreach, new webpages are available with additional information on the principles, the committee’s work, and its speakers bureau at michbar.org/professionalism.

“Professionalism is the lifeblood of attorneys – it defines us and is our North Star. As the Bar highlights the Professionalism Principles adopted by the Supreme Court, I hope it invigorates attorneys to heighten their practices and to aspire to the high calling of the practice of law,” said President Daniel D. Quick, also a member of the Special Committee on Professionalism and Civility.

The 12 principles adopted by the Supreme Court were based on recommendations of a Professionalism and Civility Workgroup formed in 2019, following the Promoting Professionalism in the 21st Century Summit the year prior. In 2021, that workgroup evolved into the committee, which works to promote the Principles of Professionalism on an ongoing basis.

Starting Dec. 19, the State Bar will post one of the 12 principles each day as part of its “12 Days of Professionalism” to cap 2023. Follow the State Bar on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more.

Posted: December 19, 2023