The State Bar of Michigan Justice Initiative Division will present a number of programs in conjunction with the SBM Annual Meeting at the Amway Grand Plaza in Grand Rapids. All events will take place Thursday, Sept. 27.

· The Criminal Issues Initiative will present a program entitled "The Hidden Obstacles of Civil Collateral Consequences: Life After Conviction" with featured guest Darryl Hunt from 9-11:30 a.m. Hunt, who was exonerated after 18 years in prison, was the subject of an HBO documentary and also appeared on "60 Minutes." The program, moderated by 3rd Circuit Court Judge Hon. Cynthia D. Stephens, will discuss Michigan’s public defense system, civil collateral consequences of criminal convictions, and principles of a public defense system.

· The SBM Equal Access Initiative and the Women Lawyers Association of Michigan are collaborating to provide a stimulating presentation in a unique format entitled "Successful Practice and Happy Family -- Whose Balance Is It Anyway?" from 2-5 p.m. Michigan Supreme Court Justice Hon. Marilyn Kelly will moderate the program, which features actors depicting real-life situations, a panel discussion, and a question-and-answer session. The subject matter will include Family Medical Leave Act updates, thoughts about negotiating your life work, and creative options for time and resource management.

· At 3 p.m., the HBO documentary "The Trials of Darryl Hunt" will be shown. Mr. Hunt will be available for questions and comments regarding the film, which chronicles his 20-year capital case and challenges the assumption that all Americans have the right to unbiased justice. With personal narratives and exclusive footage, the film frames the judicial and emotional responses to this chilling crime and implications surrounding Hunt’s conviction against a backdrop of class and racial bias in America. Popcorn and refreshments will be served.

The events featuring Mr. Hunt are made possible with grant funding from the Michigan State Bar Foundation. The Foundation’s funding does not constitute an endorsement of content.

The programs are free and open to the public. Please contact Judy Hershkowitz at (800) 968-1442 ext. 6317 or jhershkowitz@mail.michbar.org with questions.