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Court and Community News and Access & Fairness updates
from the Third Judicial Circuit
May 2026
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Chief Judge Letter - Our Judiciary on the 250th Anniversary of the U.S.
- Access & Fairness Updates
- Take Your Child to Work Day
- Judge McCarthy and Judge Snow Participate in WLAM Event
- Judge Castka Speaks at UDM Law School Clinic
- Referee McGuire Hears Oral Arguments at UDM School of Law Seminar
- STAND Hosts Pro-Social Basketball Activity
- Family Division Juvenile Team Attends Children Services Forum
- Referee Jared Hocker is Sworn In
- CASA Welcomes its 8 Newest Volunteers
- New Hires in the Office of the General Counsel
- Notable Employee Anniversaries in April
- Criminal Courthouse Kudos - India Perry
- Access & Fairness Calendar
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Our Judiciary on the 250th Anniversary of the U.S.
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As we prepare to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States, we are reminded that the strength of our democracy has always depended on the rule of law and the institutions that uphold it.
The America 250 initiative provides courts across Michigan with a meaningful opportunity to reflect on that responsibility and to strengthen public trust through engagement and education.
Here in the Third Circuit Court, that responsibility is carried out each day by the dedicated members of our Bench, our referees, and our professional staff. Their work—often behind the scenes—ensures that justice is administered fairly, efficiently, and with integrity across nearly every aspect of life in Wayne County. From complex civil litigation to family domestic and family juvenile matters to criminal proceedings, their commitment sustains public confidence in our system of justice.
America 250 is not only a time to look back at our nation’s founding principles, but also to highlight the ongoing work of courts in making those principles real for the communities we serve. Courts are uniquely positioned to engage the public, explain our processes, and demonstrate how the judiciary impacts everyday lives. Our court interacts with Wayne County residents who are defendants, plaintiffs, jurors and witnesses. They often visit our court on a stressful and trying day. How we communicate with them matters. I appreciate all of you showing empathy and providing support when interacting directly.
As Chief Judge, I am proud of the professionalism and dedication shown across this court. This milestone reminds us that while our history is significant, it is our daily work—and the people who carry it out—that define the continued strength of our judicial system.
Judge Edward Ewell, Jr.
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Access and Fairness in May
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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.
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Mental Health Awareness Month
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Mental Health Awareness Month provides an opportunity to elevate understanding of mental health, reduce stigma, and promote access to care and support. First established in 1949, this national observance highlights the reality that mental health is an essential component of overall well-being, affecting individuals, families, and communities across all demographics.
Throughout the month, organizations, courts, and public institutions are encouraged to share resources, foster open dialogue, and reinforce the importance of early intervention and treatment. In the justice system, this awareness is particularly critical, as many individuals who come before the court may be navigating mental health challenges alongside legal issues.
The Third Circuit Court recognizes the importance of awareness, compassion, and connection to services. By supporting initiatives that promote mental wellness and encouraging conversations that reduce stigma, we help strengthen both individual outcomes and community trust.
May is also:
Jewish American Heritage Month
Jewish American Heritage Month honors the enduring contributions of Jewish Americans to law, public service, and civic life. The legal profession has been shaped by generations of Jewish jurists, attorneys, and scholars committed to justice and civil rights. This observance reinforces the importance of religious inclusion and respect within the court system.
Older Americans Month
Older Americans Month recognizes the contributions and experiences of older adults, including those who rely on the courts for access to justice. Age-friendly practices—such as clear communication and accessible services—are critical to ensuring fairness. This month underscores the judiciary’s role in protecting dignity and equity across all stages of life.
National Military Appreciation Month
National Military Appreciation Month honors the service and sacrifice of active-duty military members, veterans, and their families. Courts play a key role in addressing the unique legal needs of this population, including through specialized programs and services. This observance reflects a continued commitment to fairness and support for those who have served.
Courtesy: National Geographic, History.com, AI-confirmed research
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Take Your Child to Work Day Engages Young Visitors
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We had an incredible turnout of children and parents for Take Your Child to Work Day at Lincoln Hall of Justice, CAYMC and Penobscot Building in late April.
The group at Friend of the Court (see, left) included nearly 40 kids who were involved in a Lion King Mock Jury trial. The day also featured TikTok-inspired games with prizes, and a workplace “Bingo” activity that encouraged children to meet their parents’ coworkers. Twelve participants were randomly selected to receive movie candy prizes.
Special thanks to Heather Lutz and Lynette Brinson for their support in organizing the event. The day concluded with Chief Judge Pro Tem Helal A. Farhat presenting certificates to participants, recognizing a successful and engaging program.
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There was a similar-sized group of students and parents at CAYMC which also held a Lion King Mock trial. Students and parents took photos in a court robe and gavel and had a tour of some CAYMC courtrooms. The day included a group photo in front of the Spirit of Detroit. Special thanks to volunteers Yolanda Houston, Paige Ampey,
Venice Patterson, Connie Molinaro, Victoria Kendrick. Shawn Perry, and Kimberly Wilson for their support.
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The Take Your Child to Work Day at Lincoln Hall of Justice began with a welcome from Judge Karen Y. Braxton and a baseball-themed icebreaker that encouraged introductions and engagement. Children and parents then participated in a guided, interactive tour of the court, learning about various roles through a fun “team” concept while collecting stickers for participation.
The day at Lincoln continued with lunch, followed by a mock trial centered on a “Who Kidnapped Paws” theme, and concluded with games, reflections, and the presentation of certificates. A special thank you to our incredible event committee - Judge Todd Briggs, Edna Clark, Darlynn Covington, Lauren Crawford, Lydia Fields, Latisha Walker, and India Williams — who made “Opening Day” at Juvenile Court a tremendous success, bringing energy and teamwork from “home plate” to the “outfield.”
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Judge McCarthy and Judge Snow participate in Event with the Women Lawyers Association of Michigan
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Judge Kathleen McCarthy and Judge Martha Snow attended and spoke at a unique Women Lawyers Association of Michigan (WLAM) event recently. The Oakland County Section hosted a flower arrangement making event last month at Howard & Howard Law Firm in Royal Oak.
Regional Representative for the Oakland Region of the WLAM Bridget Underhill is pictured with Judge McCarthy and Judge Snow (left).
WLAM is one of the oldest women’s bar associations in the United States, founded in 1919 before women gained the right to vote nationally. Its mission is to promote the full and equal participation of women in the legal profession and to advance equality and social justice throughout Michigan. Learn more about the WLAM and its members here.
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Judge Castka Speaks to UDM Law School Clinic Students
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Judge Nicole Castka was a featured speaker at the Conviction and Integrity Clinic at University of Detroit Mercy School of Law with second and third-year law students (see photo above). Judge Castka shared details of her pathway to the bench, information about the Wayne County Circuit Court and the importance of the judiciary in our country during this event.
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Pictured above are 10 UDM Law School students and Referee Daniel McGuire in the Moot Court Room of the UDM Law School
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Referee McGuire Hears Oral Arguments at UDM School of Law Trial Practice Seminar
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The University of Detroit School of Law conducted oral arguments for students enrolled in the school’s Juvenile Justice Trial Practice seminar in April, where Referee Daniel McGuire sat as a jurist. The event featured 16 students arguing the merits of a hypothetical case. The problem centered on the admissibility of statements made to authorities by a fourteen-year-old child with cognitive delays. The juvenile had been detained and questioned about an armed robbery both at school and at a police station.
Students were then provided with feedback from Referee McGuire and course instructor Corey Haines about their submitted briefs and the arguments presented in support of their position.
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STAND Hosts a Pro-Social Basketball Activity
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The court's Supervised Treatment for Alcohol and Narcotic Dependency (STAND) Program hosted a pro-social activity on April 20, 2026, at Grosse Pointe Woods Presbyterian Church in Grosse Pointe Woods.
This year’s pro-social activity featured basketball and was supported through grant funding. The event was designed to foster community engagement, encourage teamwork, build positive relationships, and promote the overall well-being of youth participants and their families.
The event was attended by Judge Karen Y. Braxton, program judge; Referee Brandi Taylor; prosecutors; defense attorneys; probation officers; a program mentor; treatment providers; and court administration. Youth participants and their parents were also in attendance. Thank you to all who supported this important event!
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Family Juvenile Division Staff Attend Children Services Forum
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Third Circuit Court was well represented at the the Children’s Services Administration Permanency Forum in Lansing on April 1.
It was attended by (left to right in the photo) Deputy Court Administrator ToieLynn Smith, Presiding Judge Karen Braxton, Judge Adrienne Scruggs, and Chief of Administrative Operations, Edna Clark.
The conference covered topics related to child welfare permanency practices, including updates to policy and assessment tools, strategies to move children more quickly to stable placements (reunification, guardianship and more).
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(left to right): Chief Judge Pro Team Helal A. Farhat, Judge Christopher D. Dingell, Referee Jared Hocker, Chief Referee Stephanie Witucki, Chief Judge Edward Ewell, Jr.
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Referee Jared Hocker is Sworn In
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Jared Hocker, sponsored by Judge Christopher D. Dingell, was sworn in as a Family Domestic-Friend of the Court Referee on April 27, 2026 by Chief Judge Edward Ewell, Jr. Chief Judge Pro Tem Helal A. Farhat, Deputy Court Administrator Erin Lincoln, and many family members and friends were in attendance.
Court employees and co-workers also showed support for Referee Hocker who gave a personalized introduction of each and every person in attendance. Referee Hocker is a native of the city of Detroit and the oldest of four boys born to Everett and Natalie Hocker. He graduated from Mumford High School, Wayne State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, and Wayne State University Law School.
Referee Hocker began his career working for the Legal Aid and Defenders Association, and has served the Third Judicial Circuit Court of Michigan for the past three years beginning as a FOC Staff Attorney before being promoted to Senior Staff Attorney and Unit Chief.
He is a proud Detroit resident and a lifelong fan of Detroit and its sports teams. Congratulations Referee Hocker and thank you for supporting Wayne County families!
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(From l to r:) Judge Adrienne G. Scruggs, Judge Aliyah Sabree, Luska German, Referee Brandi Taylor, Ghita Mestari, Dashey Davis, Elizabeth Ginsbach, Judge Karen Y. Braxton, Chief Referee James Catchings, and Deputy Court Administrator ToieLynn Smith. (Graduates who attended via Zoom include Kerri Green, Allure Long, Ella Mannino and Allison Falconer).
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CASA Welcomes its 8 Newest Volunteers
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Wayne County CASA swore in eight new CASA volunteers in early April with Judge Karen Y. Braxton presiding. The celebration honoring the court's newest newest volunteers. Thank you to all court administration team members, jurists and board members who attended.
Our new CASA volunteers completed their 30 pre-service training hours and are all being assigned cases! Congratulations to our CASA graduates Dashey Davis, Ella Mannino, Allison Falconer, Luska German, Kerri Green, Elizabeth Ginsback, Allure Long and Ghita Mestari!
(above, left photo: l to r:) Elizabeth Ginsbach, Ghita Mestari, Judge Karen Y. Braxton, Dashey Davis, Luska German
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New Hires in the General Counsel Office
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Paula Johnson, Associate General Counsel for Family-Domestic Division:
A lifelong Detroiter, Paula brings over 24 years of legal experience to the Court, with a primary focus in family law. Throughout her career, she has served in a variety of public service roles, including as an Assistant Prosecutor for Wayne County and most recently as a Parole Board Member with the Michigan Department of Corrections. Paula earned her Juris Doctor from Wayne State University Law School and holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Detroit Mercy. She is also a proud graduate of Detroit Cass Technical High School. Outside of her professional work, Paula enjoys urban hiking, cooking, and reading. She is also an avid dog lover and looks forward to visiting local shelters soon to welcome a new pet into her home.
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Rakia Sky Beimel (goes by Sky), Crash Docket Coordinator:
Sky is originally from Minneapolis, graduated from the University of Massachusetts School of Law and currently lives in Troy with their 10 year old son and two dogs, Beans and Oatmeal. Sky really loves appeals and criminal work… and research and writing. Sky teaches in the paralegal program at Oakland University and has taught at Wayne County Community College. Outside of work pastimes include practicing martial arts and coaching robotics.
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Chloe Cline, Research Attorney I:
Chloe was admitted to the State Bar of MI in May 2024, and has over eight years of experience in the legal field as a legal assistant, intern, law clerk, and now attorney. She previously spent over a year in private practice an Associate Attorney where she handled matters involving criminal defense, civil litigation, landlord tenant issues, and probate estates. Most recently, Chloe served as a Judicial Attorney to the Honorable Lawrence Elassal. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring new hiking trails with my dogs and taking on home renovation projects.
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Notable Employee Anniversaries in April
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Congratulations to those employees who celebrated a BIG work anniversary in April.
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ToieLynn Smith, Deputy Court Administrator, Family Juvenile Division, 30 years
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Referee Anthony Crutchfield, Family Division Referee, 20 years
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Theresa A. Payne, Probation Officer, 20 years
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Jacquetta Smith, Official Court Reporter, 15 years
Pictured to the right: Theresa Payne and ToieLynn Smith
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Criminal Courthouse Kudos - India Perry
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We are thrilled to announce that India Perry, Jury Services Specialist in Jury Services has been selected as our April 2026 Courthouse Kudos winner!
The appreciative colleague that nominated India stated:
“India is a person who embodies exceptional service to others. A case in point is how she handled an elderly juror who was concerned about his exemption status paperwork. The juror told me personally on the phone what a kind and helpful person India is. He called Court Administration yesterday afternoon to talk to her about the status of his paperwork. He was excited because his brother agreed that he could use his email address for India to send the exemption to since he did not have his own. So picture a non tech savvy person and the patience it takes to handle the calls professionally. India truly lives the values of justice, integrity, and professionalism. The Criminal Division is better because of her service.”
India embodies the dedication, professionalism, and pursuit of excellence that define the very best of the Criminal Division. Thank you, India, for your remarkable effort and commitment—you are a constant source of inspiration for us all!
Let’s continue to celebrate one another…. small moments make a BIG IMPACT!!
Please don’t forget to email your nominees for May. You can send your nominations to CJCCourthouseKudos@3rdcc.org.
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May 2026
Access and Fairness Calendar
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