As I conclude my term as President of the State Bar of Michigan, I do so with deep gratitude and a profound sense of reflection. This past year has been one of progress, resilience, and transformation — not only for me personally, but for our legal community as a whole. We have navigated significant change together, advanced innovative programs, strengthened justice across our state, and deepened our commitment to the rule of law and to the public we serve.
It has been the privilege of a lifetime to represent you — the attorneys, judges, educators, and advocates who make up the fabric of Michigan’s legal system. Together, we have tackled emerging challenges, championed new ideas, and laid foundations that will support the profession for years to come.
EMBRACING INNOVATION: THE STATE BAR’S AI REPORT
Among the most critical and forward-looking projects this year was the development and release of the State Bar of Michigan’s Artificial Intelligence Report, published in June. This comprehensive document offers essential guidance on the use of AI technologies in legal practice, from generative tools like ChatGPT to predictive analytics, automated research, and client service platforms.
As AI continues to reshape the practice of law at a rapid pace, Michigan attorneys need tools to navigate the ethical, practical, and strategic implications of these changes. The report provides more than theoretical analysis—it gives actionable insights on confidentiality, bias, competence, and the balance between innovation and professional responsibility.
I encourage every Michigan lawyer to read this report, which positions our state at the forefront of the national conversation on legal technology. We must ensure that as we adopt new tools, we do so in a way that upholds our values, safeguards our clients, and enhances — not diminishes — the integrity of our work.
INVESTING IN THE PIPELINE: SUPPORTING THE NEXT GENERATION
Equally vital to the future of our profession is the work we are doing to support the next generation of legal professionals. This year, we expanded our pipeline programs, aimed at exposing students from diverse communities to careers in the law and providing them with the support and mentorship they need to thrive.
In February and March, we brought the Face of Justice program to northern Michigan, with events in Suttons Bay and Marquette. These sessions gave high school students a rare opportunity to visit courtrooms, meet with judges and attorneys, and participate in interactive discussions about law, justice, and career pathways.
In April, we partnered with Wayne State University’s pre-law program to host Face of Justice events in Detroit. Students visited the 36th District Court, observed proceedings, and then participated in mentoring sessions with legal professionals from across the city. These experiences are more than field trips—they are transformative moments that plant seeds of possibility and help create a more representative legal system.
We also continued our support for the Michigan Center for Civic Education and its Mock Trial and We the People programs. These civics-based competitions not only promote constitutional literacy and public speaking skills, but they introduce middle and highschool students to the legal system in action. Thanks to the volunteer efforts of Michigan lawyers and judges, these programs inspire future advocates, public servants, and legal minds. These programs were further enhanced by the celebration of Law Day throughout Michigan on May 1st.
CHAMPIONING JUSTICE IN WASHINGTON: ABA DAY AND FEDERAL ADVOCACY
In April, I was honored to represent the State Bar of Michigan at ABA Day in Washington, D.C.—a powerful reminder of the role that organized bars play in advocating for justice beyond our state borders. Alongside colleagues from across the country, we met with members of Congress to underscore the urgent need for funding for civil legal aid, particularly through the Legal Services Corporation (LSC).
For many of Michigan’s most vulnerable residents—particularly the elderly, rural, and low-income—access to a lawyer can mean the difference between safety and exploitation, housing and homelessness, stability and crisis. Federal funding is essential to the infrastructure of legal aid in Michigan. Our advocacy on this front is a vital part of ensuring that our justice system serves everyone—not just those who can afford it.
PARTNERING FOR SYSTEMIC CHANGE: MICHIGAN SUPREME COURT COMMISSIONS
Closer to home, I want to recognize the extraordinary work of the Michigan Supreme Court’s commissions, with whom the State Bar of Michigan is proud to collaborate. These bodies are doing transformative work in areas that affect every one of us as lawyers and citizens.
The Justice for All Commission, the Commission on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and the Commission on Well-Being in the Law are all tackling urgent, complex issues with clarity and commitment. Whether expanding access to civil justice, improving the culture of our profession, or addressing burnout and mental health, these commissions are driving change that is long overdue—and the State Bar stands firmly behind them.
Their work reflects the idea that systemic problems demand systemic solutions, and that the rule of law must be accompanied by equity, wellness, and trust.
BUILDING BRIDGES: STRENGTHENING RELATIONSHIPS WITH TRIBAL COURTS
This year, we also saw a deepening and increasingly meaningful partnership between the State Bar of Michigan, the Michigan judiciary, and the tribal courts within our state. These relationships are not new—but they are growing in importance, visibility, and mutual respect.
One of the most exciting developments in this area has been the Michigan Supreme Court’s Peacemaking Court Initiative, which draws on indigenous legal traditions of restorative justice. The State Bar is a strong supporter of this initiative, which recognizes that healing, reconciliation, and cultural competence have an essential role in the administration of justice.
Peacemaking courts offer alternatives to adversarial legal proceedings, emphasizing dialogue, accountability, and relationship restoration. They draw from tribal wisdom and communal values—reminding us that justice can be more than punishment; it can be peace.
In working with tribal courts, we also affirm our shared commitment to sovereignty, cooperation, and mutual understanding. Our bar has a responsibility to recognize the legal pluralism that exists in our state and to support respectful collaboration across jurisdictions. I am proud of the progress we’ve made and look forward to future opportunities to learn from and work alongside Michigan’s tribal legal leaders.
CONFRONTING LEGAL DESERTS: ENSURING JUSTICE EVERYWHERE
Another key issue this year has been the State Bar’s ongoing focus on legal deserts — areas of the state, especially rural regions, where residents lack reasonable access to attorneys. This work has been spearheaded by the Representative Assembly, with the support of the Board of Commissioners, and will culminate in a set of recommendations expected this fall.
Legal deserts are not just inconvenient — they are a threat to justice. Without lawyers, people cannot resolve disputes, protect their rights, or navigate life-altering legal processes. This initiative seeks to identify practical, sustainable solutions, including financial incentives, use of remote technologies, and expansion of limited-scope representation.
The State Bar is committed to helping close this access gap. Every resident of Michigan deserves meaningful access to legal assistance, regardless of where they live.
SPOTLIGHTING YOUNG TALENT: THE NATIONAL TRIAL ADVOCACY COMPETITION
In October, the Young Lawyers Section of the State Bar once again hosted the prestigious National Trial Advocacy Competition (NTAC) in Detroit. This annual event brings together top law student teams from around the country to compete in a rigorous trial advocacy tournament judged by experienced practitioners and jurists.
The caliber of advocacy on display was nothing short of exceptional. Congratulations to this year’s champions, Harvard Law School, and to all participating teams who demonstrated poise, preparation, and the kind of excellence that gives us confidence in the future of our profession.
The NTAC not only showcases legal skill — it fosters collegiality, professionalism, and community among the rising generation of lawyers. My thanks to the YLS for organizing such a meaningful event.
ENHANCING CONNECTIONS: THE MEMBER-TO-MEMBER REFERRAL GUIDE
We have also focused inward, seeking to improve how members of the Bar connect, collaborate, and support one another in their daily practices. I’m particularly excited about the upcoming Member-to-Member Referral Guide, which will be published in the September issue of the Michigan Bar Journal alongside this farewell column.
This tool is designed to help attorneys refer business across practice areas, build new relationships, and better serve clients by finding the right lawyer for the job. In a profession that can sometimes feel isolating, this guide is a reminder that we are all stronger when we work together.
BRIDGING TRADITIONS: ENTRUSTED TO SERVE AS HONORARY CONSUL OF IRELAND
One of the most memorable and personally meaningful moments of my year (and career) came with the official visit of Ireland’s Attorney General, Rossa Fanning, to Michigan. During his time here, we had the opportunity to strengthen the longstanding bonds between Ireland and Michigan’s legal community — ties rooted in shared legal traditions, democratic values, and cultural heritage. It was during this visit that I was privileged to be appointed as the Honorary Consul of Ireland for the State of Michigan. To receive this appointment halfway through my term as State Bar President was deeply humbling. It underscored the importance of international collaboration and the enduring connection between our people. I look forward to continuing to serve as a bridge between Michigan and Ireland in the years ahead.
LOOKING AHEAD WITH OPTIMISM
As I prepare to pass the gavel to President-Elect Lisa Hamameh, I do so with hope and confidence as she is perfectly positioned to assume this important leadership role. The challenges facing our profession — from technology to diversity to access — are real, but so too is the energy and creativity of those working to solve them. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to my fellow Officers, the Board of Commissioners, the Representative Assembly, the Judicial and Tribal communities, the State Bar staff, and most of all, to you — our members. Your resilience, your service, your commitment to justice have made this year not only successful but profoundly meaningful.
I would be remiss if I did not express my deepest gratitude to my family and my colleagues at Foley, Baron, Metzger & Juip, PLLC for their unwavering support throughout this journey. Serving as President of the State Bar of Michigan requires significant time, travel, and attention, and I could not have fulfilled these responsibilities without their encouragement, flexibility, and understanding.
To my family — thank you for your patience and love during the many nights away and long days of service. And to my law firm — thank you for carrying the load when I could not, and for believing in the importance of this work. Your support made it possible for me to serve our profession with a full heart and a clear mind.
I have learned something from every person I met this year — in courthouses and classrooms, on Zoom and at conferences, from Detroit to Mackinaw Island. We are a diverse bar united by shared values. We believe in the rule of law. We believe in service. We believe in justice.
Thank you all for allowing me to represent you, and for the privilege of a lifetime!
Hon. Joseph Patrick McGill President, State Bar of Michigan
2024–2025