Court and Community News and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion updates

from the Third Judicial Circuit



April 2026

• Chief Judge Letter - The Importance of Empathy and Understanding
• Access & Fairness Updates
• Arab American Heritage Month
• Courtwide Retreat Planned for September 18
• Judge Berry Leads No-Fault Seminar for ICLE
• Employees Receive Painting Tips from Judge Fresard
• FOC Team Attends Educational Conference
• Members of the Bench Visit Area Schools
• Community Outreach Continues in Wayne County
• Penobscot Praise - Doreese Howard-Barnes
• Tech Tips: Remote Etiquette
• Introducing our Courthouse Mascot, Mickey!
• Access & Fairness Calendar

The Importance of Empathy and Understanding

Each day, we come to the court focused on the important responsibilities entrusted to us. In doing so, it is essential to remember that for many who enter our courtrooms or offices, this is not an ordinary day. In fact, it is often one of the most stressful days of their lives.

Whether they are parties to a case, family members offering support, or individuals navigating complex filings in domestic or juvenile matters, they arrive carrying burdens we may not fully see.

The same is true within our own workplace. Our colleagues—judges, referees, and staff—may also be managing personal challenges: illness in the family, financial strain, concerns about loved ones, or simply the fatigue of a difficult night. These realities are not always visible, but they are very real.

That is why the way we treat one another, and the public we serve, matters so deeply. Patience, professionalism, and kindness are not just ideals. They are essential to the integrity of Third Circuit Court. Even in moments of frustration, extending respect helps ensure that every individual feels heard and valued.



I want to thank each of you for the care and compassion you bring to your roles. As representatives of this court, we share a duty to provide the highest level of service and to ensure equal access to justice for all. Your commitment does not go unnoticed.

 Judge Edward Ewell, Jr.

Access and Fairness in April

The Third Circuit Court Access and Fairness Committee, formerly the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Team, guides, coordinates, and monitors initiatives that promote fairness, accessibility, and inclusion across all divisions of the Court.

The Committee’s mission is:

The Third Circuit Court advances justice through fairness, accessibility, and respect. We are committed to serving the public with integrity and accountability, ensuring that every person, whether staff, judicial officer, or court user, can engage with the Court equitably and with dignity.

Arab American Heritage Month

April is Arab American Heritage Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the rich history, culture, and contributions of Arab Americans to our communities and our nation. Arab Americans have made lasting contributions in the fields of law, public service, education, business, medicine, the arts, and many other professions.

Within the legal community, Arab American judges, attorneys, and public servants continue to play an important role in advancing the rule of law, promoting equal access to justice, and serving the public with integrity and fairness. This month provides an opportunity to reflect on the importance of diversity within the justice system and the value of ensuring that our courts reflect the communities we serve.

The Third Judicial Circuit Court is proud to recognize Arab American Heritage Month and to celebrate the many contributions Arab Americans have made to the legal profession, the court system, and the Wayne County community.

Courtesy: InternationalWomensDay.com, USA Today, AI-confirmed research

Courtwide Retreat Planned for September 18

The Third Circuit Court is planning a Court-wide retreat this fall that will bring together judges and court employees and contractors from across all divisions for a full day focused on connection, collaboration, and community.

The retreat is scheduled for Friday, September 18 and will take place offsite. The Court will be closed that day, and attendance will be mandatory for all judges, court employees, and court contractors. The retreat planning effort is being led by co-coordinators Michelle Chiaravalli and Sharonda Simmons, and supported by Judge Yvonna Abraham, Judge Annette Berry, Judge Todd Briggs and Judge Margaret Van Houten.

The goal of the retreat is simple: bring everyone together as one Court, recognizing the work being done across divisions, and strengthening relationships and engagement throughout the organization. The day will include a keynote speaker, court updates and reflections, and interactive team and community-building activities.

In the days leading up to the retreat, the Court will also host a Court Spirit Week (Monday through Thursday) with optional themed days, friendly competition, and recognition for a division that shows strong participation and Court spirit.

More information about the retreat, including the location, schedule, and logistics, will be shared over the next few months. We look forward to seeing everyone there!

Judge Berry Leads No-Fault Seminar for ICLE

Judge Annette Berry of the Third Circuit Court is now a contributor with the Institute of Continuing Legal Education (ICLE), which provides legal education and training for attorneys and judges throughout Michigan.

As part of this role, Judge Berry recently presented the No-Fault Update 2026, which provides updates and insight on developments in Michigan’s no-fault law. It is available through ICLE’s online learning platform. Those interested in the seminar can find the video preview and full seminar on the ICLE website.

Thank you Judge Berry for representing the court as an industry educator!

Employees Receive Painting Tips from Judge Fresard

Above: Judge Patricia Perez Fresard, Fran Yturri, Arica Jones, Charlene Dozier and Nancy Hames show off their paintings following their session with Judge Fresard.

Charlene Dozier, Nancy Hames, Arica Jones and Fran Yturri joined Judge Patricia Perez Fresard for a painting session in March.

The four court employees were the contest winners from the December Court Employee Celebration whose names were drawn to learn some painting techniques from Judge Fresard, an accomplished artist.

Remember, there is talent and creativity within all of us!

FOC Team Attends Educational Conference

3rd row in the back from left to right: Donald Hall III, LaTonya Lowery, Ja Vonne Ransom, Jared Hocker, Sierra Stephens, and Tracy Calhoun. 2nd row: Kimberly LePoudre, Terri Fitzpatrick-Brown, Edna Washington, Shani Sanders, and Marilyn Scott-Clark. 1st row: Alyce Haas, Dominique Peacock, and Juanita Hawkins. 

Wayne County Friend of the Court employees recently participated in the Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan’s Establishment of Support Conference, held March 11–13, 2026, at Crystal Mountain Resort in Thompsonville, Michigan. The three-day conference brought together child support professionals from across the state to share updates, best practices, and training related to support establishment and enforcement.

Conference sessions covered a wide range of topics, including Title IV-D and legislative updates from the Office of Child Support, Prosecuting Attorney Liaison updates, and training on filing establishment cases pursuant to the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act (UIFSA). Attendees also received training on Contract Performance Standards and Michigan’s Vital Events Registration Application (VERA), along with guidance on handling related case issues.

In addition, staff participated in a Michigan Child Support Enforcement System (MICSES) learning lab, which provided hands-on training and practical instruction to help improve efficiency and accuracy in case processing. Participation in conferences such as this helps ensure that Wayne County Friend of the Court employees remain informed on current laws, policies, and procedures, allowing them to continue providing effective and efficient service to families and the community.

Members of the Bench Visit Area Schools

Judge Yvonna Abraham and Judge Lawrence Elassal recently visited local elementary schools during National Reading Month in March.



Judge Abraham, visited a second-grade classroom at Howard Elementary School on March 20, bringing the law to life for young students in an engaging and accessible way. During her visit, Judge Abraham read The Smart Cookie, a children’s book that encourages self-confidence and perseverance, and used the story as a springboard to discuss the importance of making good decisions and understanding rules.

That same week Judge Elassal spoke to an elementary school class at Lowery Elementary in Dearborn. Judge Elassal read the Dr. Seuss classic, It’s Not Easy Being a Bunny where a young bunny wonders if life as a different animal might be better. That book teaches about the importance every person (or animal) is and how we all can make the best of the circumstances that we face.

Following the reading, both Judge Abraham and Judge Elassal spoke with students about their role as a judge, explaining in simple terms how courts help resolve disputes and ensure fairness in the community. The students had the opportunity to ask questions, gaining firsthand insight into the judicial system and the people who serve within it.

These visits are two examples of the Third Judicial Circuit Court’s ongoing commitment to community outreach across Wayne County. By connecting directly with students and residents, the court continues to promote public understanding of the legal system and reinforce its mission to provide access to justice for all.

Community Outreach Continues in Wayne County

We've now visited more than one-third of Wayne County's city council and township boards to present information about jury services and other court information as part of our 10 Minutes to Justice Program.

In addition to Judge Nicole Castka's presentation in early March, covered in last month's newsletter, Judge Mary Beth Kelly visited Grosse Ile Township and Judge Lawrence Elassal presented before city councils in Ecorse and Garden City.

Thank you to members of our Bench for taking the time to educate local elected officials and members of the public about the services available to them through the court.

This community outreach will continue throughout the remainder of 2026.

New Personal Protection Order Staff Hired by Court

Third Circuit Court hired two new staff members earlier this year to assist in running the Personal Protection Order courtroom. In their short tenure with the Court, they are already trained and helping the PPO docket run smoothly and efficiently.

Inessa Nevelev is the PPO Coordinator for the Wayne County Third Circuit Court, where she supports the administration of personal protection order matters and promotes efficient court operations. She earned her bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Michigan and graduated cum laude from Western Michigan Cooley Law School.

Inessa has worked in the legal field since 2010 and has served within the court system since 2014, gaining broad experience in court operations and judicial procedures. Prior to her current role, she served as a law clerk with the Michigan Court of Appeals, where she developed a strong foundation in legal analysis and judicial process. Known for her thoughtful approach and attention to detail, Inessa is dedicated to advancing fairness, clarity, and public trust within the legal system.

Ebony Ragotzy is the PPO Assistant Coordinator for the Wayne County Third Circuit Court, assisting with overseeing the administration of personal protection order matters and supporting efficient, equitable court operations. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Western Michigan University and her Juris Doctor from Michigan State College of Law in 2024.

Previously, Ebony served as a Domestic Violence Family Law Attorney, advocating for survivors and families in complex legal matters. Welcome to both Inessa and Ebony!

Criminal Courthouse Kudos - Ruby Smith

We are thrilled to announce that Ruby Smith has been selected as our March 2026 Courthouse Kudos winner!

The grateful colleague that nominated her stated,

“I would like to nominate Ruby Smith for Courthouse Kudos for her dedication to servicing defendants with compassion and integrity. She consistently maintain strong professional boundaries, and advocate effectively for the individuals. Her attention to detail, timely documentation, and collaboration with community partners demonstrate a deep commitment to both accountability and client-centered service.”

These qualities make Ruby an outstanding example of the dedication and excellence we value here in the Criminal Division. 

Thank you, Ruby, for your hard work and commitment—you inspire us all.

Let’s continue to celebrate one another…. small moments make a BIG IMPACT!!

Please don’t forget to email your nominees for April. You can email your nominations to CJCCourthouseKudos@3rdcc.org.

Cyber Security Tips: Gone Fishing and Why Paranoia can be Good

Cyber criminals are very creative about their malicious methods. Take phishing for example. It’s an attempt to gather sensitive information (usernames, passwords, card details, etc.) by impersonating a trustworthy entity. Attackers can pose as your bank, you Internet provider, your insurance company, etc. Basic online security settings can help you keep safe:

• Regular OS and apps updates
• Strong passwords
• Reviewing bank statements on a regular schedule
• Checking senders’ email addresses
• Double checking the info in the potential phishing email with the issuing entity.

It's okay to be a little paranoid about cyber security

Being aware of what’s going on, online and offline, can help keep you safe from compromise. Simple rules to live by online: If it sounds/looks too good to be true, it’s probably not true. If it looks fishy, better stay away. If someone asks for your confidential data, don’t give it to them. In small doses, paranoia is a good thing.

Contact the Helpdesk at 313-224-0157 or helpdesk@3rdcc.org as needed.

Welcome to our new courthouse mascot, Mickey (the Mouse)

It's official! Third Circuit Court has a mascot. He's small, and fun and harmless.

Welcome to Mickey, our mouse friend who has indicated he will keep all his larger friends and family members away from court buildings.

Mickey, shown here on the shoulder of Executive Court Administrator Frank Hardester, and next to Payments Clerk 2 Brittany Settles, is available for staff and departmental events. Reach out to the ECA office to schedule an appearance.

In all seriousness, this small attempt at humor is a result of a recent mouse incident that occurred at the Criminal Justice Center after heavy rain caused flooding. Despite his mascot title, Mickey's access to any of our buildings has been restricted!

April 2026

Access and Fairness Calendar

April 2 – World Autism Acceptance Day

Promotes understanding and acceptance of autistic individuals and their families.

April 2-9 – Jewish: Passover

Commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt.

April 5 – Christian: Easter

Celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ in many Western Christian churches.

April 14 – Sikh, Hindu: Vaisakhi

Marks the founding of the Khalsa for Sikhs and the spring harvest in many parts of South Asia.