New guidebooks, document templates available to Michigan attorneys

The State Bar of Michigan has rolled out three new guidebooks and a collection of practical form templates designed to support Michigan attorneys in their day-to-day practice, streamline common legal tasks, and help build successful law practices. 

While two of the guidebooks are geared toward newer attorneys, all three offer practical insights and tips and tools that can benefit attorneys at every stage of their careers.  

• Courtroom Etiquette Basics guidebook breaks down what to do ahead of a court appearance, how to dress for court, how to address the court, navigating a judge’s chambers, courtroom decorum, and more. 
• Evidence 101: A Quick Reference Guide for Michigan Attorneys provides a roadmap that attorneys can use to help them decide admissibility of evidence, along with the proper language to use when entering in or objecting to evidence, and tips to help build witness examination skills.  
• A Solo & Small Firm’s Guide to Preparing for Time Away is the newest guidebook in the roster and tackles the unique challenges solo practitioners and small firms face when stepping away from their practice. It includes what to do before a planned vacation, how to handle an unexpected absence, and how to use technology to help you manage your practice when you are away.  

All three of these guidebooks are available through the State Bar of Michigan’s Practice Management Resource Center. 

Michigan attorneys also have access to more than a dozen sample legal forms and documents, including client letters, referral fee agreements, and many other forms to make practicing easier and more efficient. These customizable templates are designed to help attorneys save time, streamline routine tasks, and support a wide range of legal practice needs. Learn more about these templates here.  

Find these and other resources (new materials are added frequently) at michbar.org/pmrc. 

Posted November 5, 2026