Court and Community News and Access & Fairness updates

from the Third Judicial Circuit



June 2026

• Chief Judge Letter - Enjoy Summer
• Access & Fairness Updates
• Introducing the Chief Judge Mary Beth Kelly Jury Assembly Room
• Law Day Recap
• STAND Gradaution
• Judge Knapp Speaks at Law Enforcement Memorial Event in Livonia
• William Booth Legal Aid Clinic Walk for Justice
• Court Referees Attend State Conference
• Referee McPhail-Stockdale Speaks at Detroit School's Career Day
• Welcome New Employee Chris Wasczenski
• Access & Fairness Committee Update
• Criminal Division Volunteers for Public Survey Support
• Criminal Courthouse Kudos - Leigh Anne Spaman
• Tech Tips - Get Rid of Spam
• Access & Fairness Calendar

Summer Is Here - Be Sure To Enjoy It!

As we move into the summer months, I want to take a moment to encourage all court employees to make time for yourselves, your families, and your well-being by using your available paid time off. The work performed each day across the Third Circuit Court is demanding, important, and often emotionally taxing.

Taking time to rest and recharge is not simply a benefit — it is an essential part of maintaining strong mental health, balance, and long-term wellness.

Every day, you as public servants help the residents of Wayne County with professionalism, compassion, responsiveness, and empathy. Whether assisting litigants, supporting courtroom operations, helping jurors, processing cases, or working behind the scenes to keep our court functioning effectively, your efforts make a meaningful difference in the lives of the people we serve. I see that dedication, and I deeply appreciate it.

The summer season offers an important opportunity to step away from the daily pace of work, spend time outdoors, reconnect with family and friends, and return refreshed with renewed energy and perspective. A healthy organization depends on healthy employees, and I strongly support each of you taking advantage of the time you have earned.

As always, our commitment to public service remains strong. By caring for ourselves and each other, we place ourselves in the best position to continue delivering outstanding service to the community with fairness, dignity, and respect.



Please be sure to request PTO time through the appropriate channels, using the new UKG system and staying in touch with your supervisor. Thank you for everything you do on behalf of the Third Circuit Court and the people of Wayne County. I hope each of you has a safe, enjoyable, and restorative summer season.

 Judge Edward Ewell, Jr.

Access and Fairness in June

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.

Juneteenth

Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, the day Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, and informed enslaved African Americans that they were free — more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863. The announcement, delivered by Union General Gordon Granger, marked the effective end of slavery in the last Confederate state where enforcement had not yet occurred.

Juneteenth quickly became a significant celebration within African American communities, honoring freedom, resilience, culture, and progress. Early observances included church gatherings, music, food, educational events, and community festivals. Over time, the holiday spread across the United States as Black families migrated and carried the tradition with them.

In 1980, Texas became the first state to officially recognize Juneteenth as a state holiday. Momentum continued to grow nationally for decades, particularly following renewed conversations around racial justice and equity. In 2021, Juneteenth was officially established as a federal holiday when President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law, making it the first new federal holiday created since Martin Luther King Jr. Day in 1983.

Today, Juneteenth serves as both a celebration of freedom and a time for reflection on American history, civil rights, and the ongoing pursuit of equality and justice.

June is also:

• Pride Month - a time to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and reflect on the movement's roots in the 1969 Stonewall Uprising, which inspired generations of advocacy for equality, dignity, and acceptance.
• Immigrant Heritage Month — a time to recognize the generations of immigrants whose cultures, talents, and contributions have helped shape our communities and our nation, while celebrating the diverse stories that continue to strengthen the American experience.
• Caribbean American Heritage Month — a time to recognize and celebrate the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Caribbean Americans, whose influence has helped shape the nation's arts, business, government, education, and communities.

Third Judicial Circuit of Michigan Renames CAYMC Jury Assembly Room after the Hon. Mary Beth Kelly

The Third Circuit Court of Michigan recently dedicated and renamed its Jury Assembly Room at the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center in honor of Judge Mary Beth Kelly. The space is now officially known as the Chief Judge Mary Beth Kelly Jury Assembly Room.

A dedication ceremony held on March 13 drew a great turnout from Judge Kelly’s colleagues on the bench and throughout the Court, former colleagues, members of the legal community, family members, and friends who gathered to recognize her decades of service and leadership. Chief Judge Edward Ewell, Jr. and Chief Judge Pro Tem Helal A. Farhat spoke at the dedication. Chief Judge Ewell also shared a letter written by the Hon. Kathleen McCarthy, who has worked with and known Judge Kelly for many years.

Michigan Supreme Court Justice Brian K. Zahra, a former colleague of Judge Kelly's at the Supreme Court, also came to share his thoughts. He presented a resolution from the Michigan Supreme Court congratulating Judge Kelly on the recognition.

Judge Kelly currently serves on the Third Circuit Court bench and previously made history as the first woman to serve as Chief Judge of the Court. Prior to joining the Third Circuit Court, she also served as a Justice on the Michigan Supreme Court.

The dedication recognizes Judge Kelly’s longstanding contributions to the judiciary, her commitment to public service, and her lasting impact on the Court, the legal community, and the residents of Wayne County.

Law Day Attracts Students From More Than 10 Area High Schools

The Third Judicial Circuit of Michigan was proud to welcome students from more than 10 area high schools for this year’s Law Day program, giving young people a firsthand look at the justice system and the important role courts play in our community.

This year’s event created meaningful opportunities for students to interact directly with judges, attorneys, and court professionals while learning more about the rule of law, courtroom procedures, and careers in the legal field.

Students participated in courtroom discussions and legal exercises designed to encourage critical thinking, civic engagement, and confidence in public speaking.

The day began with inspiring remarks from Michigan State Supreme Court Justice Noah P. Hood and Third Circuit Court Chief Judge Pro Tem Helal A. Farhat, who encouraged students to pursue their goals, stay engaged in their communities, and understand the important role the legal system plays in protecting rights and opportunities for all.

A special thank you goes out to the many members of the Bench and court employees who volunteered their time to make Law Day such a success. Their willingness to mentor and engage with students helped create a welcoming and memorable experience that will have a lasting impact on the next generation.

Celebrating Our 2026 STAND Graduates

L to R – CAAO Edna Clark, Chief Referee James Catchings, Deputy Court Administrator ToieLynn Smith, Presiding Judge -Family Division-Juvenile Section Karen Y. Braxton, Keynote Speaker Jonathan Wynne, Chief Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court Megan K. Cavanagh, Referee Brandi Taylor, Chief Judge of Third Judicial Circuit of Michigan Edward Ewell, Jr., Judge Adrienne G. Scruggs, Referee LaChelle Logan, Referee Edward R. Hill

The Third Judicial Circuit of Michigan's Family Division recently celebrated four graduates from its Supervised Treatment for Alcohol and Narcotic Dependency (STAND) Program during the 2026 STAND Graduation Ceremony.

Held at the Durfee Innovation Center in Detroit, the event brought together graduates, families, court staff, and community partners to recognize the hard work and determination of young people who successfully completed the program.

A highlight of the ceremony was the attendance of Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Megan K. Cavanagh, who joined graduates and their families in celebrating this important milestone. The event also featured remarks from Third Circuit Court Chief Judge Edward Ewell Jr., and Family Division - Juvenile Section Presiding Judge Karen Y. Braxton, underscoring the Court's commitment to supporting youth and families through programs that promote accountability, treatment, and long-term success.

The STAND Program helps young people address substance use challenges through intensive supervision, treatment, and supportive services. The graduation ceremony served as a powerful reminder of the positive impact these efforts can have, providing participants with the tools and support needed to build healthier futures and achieve their goals.

Judge Donald Knapp, Jr. Speaks at Annual Livonia Memorial Event Honoring Law Enforcement Officers

Judge Donald Knapp, Jr. was the keynote speaker at the 12th Annual Livonia Police Memorial Service in May. The event pays tribute to Michigan and Livonia law enforcement officers who lost their lives in the line of duty over the past year, as well as retired members of the Livonia Police Department who passed away in the past year.

This ceremony serves as a solemn reminder of the courage, dedication, and sacrifice that define our profession. Their legacy lives on in the work we do each day and in the community that they helped protect. Judge Knapp's speech expanded on these themes, highlighting the critical roles that law enforcement officers play in society in protecting local residents and their rights.

You can view portions of the ceremony here.

Onsite at the William Booth Legal Aid Clinic Walk for Justice

The William Booth Legal Aid Clinic held its Walk for Justice fundraiser at the Detroit Zoo on May 9, and our court was well represented.

Photo (left to right): Judge Carla Testani, William Booth Legal Aid Clinic Director Amy Roemer, SCAO Fairness and Accountability Administrator Zenell Brown and Friend of the Court/Deputy Court Administrator Erin Lincoln at this year’s Walk for Justice. 

The clinic provides civil legal services to low-income individuals and families throughout Wayne, Oakland and Macomb County. They hold a Clinic at the Third Circuit Court on Thursdays (except the first Thursday of the month) from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Walk for Justice is the Clinic’s biggest fundraiser of the year. The weather was perfect for the event, not too hot or cold and the sun made an appearance.

The organization raised over $85,000 for its operations for the year. For information about the event and information on next year’s event, visit walkforjustice.org.

Third Circuit Court Referees Attend State Conference

Pictured from left to right: (back row) Chief Referee Stephanie Witucki (domestic), Referees Stacey Selleck (domestic), Jared Hocker (domestic), Eric Ratkowski (domestic), Alexander Sheldon-Smith (domestic), Eric Gloudemans (domestic), Patricia Woodruff (domestic), and (front row) Referees John Harb (domestic), Lee Ann Rutila (domestic), Anita Jennings (domestic), LaChelle Logan (juvenile), Brandi Taylor (juvenile), Erika Morgan (domestic), Alicia Bianchi (domestic), and Gwendolyn Davis-Yancey (domestic). Not pictured: Referees Diane Biggar (domestic) & Christina McPhail-Stockdale (domestic).

Seventeen court referees attended the 42nd Annual Referees Association of Michigan (RAM) Conference in Midland from May 20-22.

Judges from various Michigan Circuit Courts and the Michigan Court of Appeals as well as referees and other experts presented on topics including evidence, evaluation reports in family domestic and juvenile cases involving complex psychological testing related to substance use, parenting capacity, and mental health, updates from the Michigan Continuing Judicial Education (MCJE) Board and changes to the rules, the intersection of family law and child protective services, the impact of vicarious trauma and compassion fatigue faced by the judiciary (judges, referees, magistrates), ethics, and court rule and case law updates.

Attendees earned continuing judicial education credits for the conference, enjoyed a group dinner with Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Megan K. Cavanagh, and were also able to participate in a historical tour of Midland. Three of our referees were elected at the conference to RAM Board positions: Chief Referee Stephanie Witucki (Family Domestic) was elected to serve as RAM’s Vice President and Referees Alicia Bianchi (Family Domestic) and Brandi Taylor (Family Juvenile) were elected to serve as RAM Board Members at Large. 

Career Day: Inspiring Young Minds at Bow Elementary

Referee Christina McPhail-Stockdale volunteered her time to participate in Career Day at Bow Elementary School in the Detroit Public Schools Community District in late March. This event provided an opportunity to introduce students to careers within the legal system while fostering curiosity and critical thinking.

During her presentation, Referee McPhail-Stockdale engaged students in a discussion about the role and responsibilities of the Friend of the Court. She explained how the office works to support families and assist the court in making important decisions that impact the well-being of children.

To make the experience interactive and relatable, she led the students through a mock case activity—“The Three Bears v. Goldilocks.” Students were encouraged to think like decision-makers and consider what outcome would be in the best interest of Goldilocks. The discussion sparked thoughtful responses, with students raising insightful concerns about supervision, safety, and basic needs. Some questioned why Goldilocks was alone in the woods, while others considered whether her hunger and fatigue suggested unmet needs.

The activity not only made the legal concepts accessible, but also highlighted the students’ ability to analyze real-world issues through a thoughtful and compassionate lens. Their participation demonstrated the importance of early exposure to civic education and the justice system.

Referee McPhail-Stockdale’s involvement reflects the court’s ongoing commitment to community engagement, education, and inspiring the next generation to think critically about fairness, responsibility, and the law.

Welcome to New Budget/Finance Team Member Chris Wasczenski; Congratulations to Existing Team Member Brittany Settles

Chris Wasczenski is a new Budget Analyst for the Third Circuit Court, where he supports budgeting, financial reporting, and data analysis efforts that help the Court operate efficiently and effectively.

He recently graduated from Michigan State University with a Master of Science in Accounting Data Analytics and enjoys finding ways to use data and analytics to support decision-making in public service. Chris celebrated his one-year wedding anniversary with his wife last month and spends most of his free time with their two dogs, Murphy the Labradoodle and Lucy the brindle pit mix.

Outside of work, he enjoys playing ice hockey in the winter, golfing during the summer, building puzzles, camping, and attending Detroit sporting events whenever he gets the chance.

After nearly three years with the court, Brittany Settles is stepping into a new chapter as an Account Clerk in Accounts Payable, continuing her journey within the Budget and Finance Department. Her previous role in Collections had her working directly with the public, but this new position brings a refreshing shift, one that lets her work behind the scenes while building relationships with employees and supporting the internal side of court operations.

Brittany is energized by opportunities to learn, grow, and take on new challenges. She brings a positive attitude to work each day and enjoys building meaningful connections with the people around her.



Outside the office, Brittany channels her creativity into DIY projects, fashion, event planning, and anything that lets her express her personal style. She is grateful for the opportunity to continue developing professionally and looks forward to this next chapter in her career.

Access and Fairness Committee Is Formed

The Court's Access and Fairness Committee has finalized its 14 members with representation across all of our divisions and different roles and departments within the court, according to Chief Strategy Officer Sharonda Simmons.

The committee is charged with developing professional development and educational opportunities that can be access court wide. Committee members include:

• Judge Sponsor – Judge Nicole Goodson, Family Domestic
• Judge Nicole Castka, Criminal Division
• ECA Frank Hardester
• Linda Sims, Staff Attorney
• Sharonda Simmons, Chief Strategy Officer
• DCA Alisa Shannon, Criminal Division
• DCA Erin Lincoln, Friend of the Court
• DCA ToieLynn Smith, Juvenile Division
• Crystal Rose, Senior Human Resources Specialist
• Mia Grillier, Deputy Chief Financial Officer – Budget, Finance & Collection
• Helen Hsu, Friend of the Court Staff Attorney
• Juanita Hawkins, Friend of the Court Specialist II, Case Establishment
• India Wade, STAND Program Intake Specialist, Juvenile
• LaTisha Walker, Clerk IV, Assigned Counsel Services

Criminal Division Employees Volunteer for Public Satisfaction Survey Support

Thank you to our CJC volunteer team for their outstanding support and commitment during the 2026 SCAO Public Satisfaction Survey!

Criminal Courthouse Kudos - Leigh Anne Spaman

We are thrilled to announce that Leigh Anne Spaman, Senior Pretrial Services Specialist in Pretrial Services has been selected as our May 2026 Courthouse Kudos winner!

The appreciative colleague that nominated her stated:

“Leigh Anne consistently demonstrates excellence in every aspect of her work and is highly deserving of recognition as Employee of the Month. Her ability to think creatively and take initiative has contributed to solving challenges efficiently and improving day-to-day operations. Whether addressing unexpected issues or identifying opportunities for improvement, Leigh Anne approaches every situation with professionalism, confidence, and a solutions-focused mindset.

"Leigh Anne has demonstrated outstanding initiative and dedication by creating additional training resources to help ensure staff remain knowledgeable and confident across the other units within the department. Her proactive approach reflects a strong commitment to teamwork, continuous learning, and operational excellence. By recognizing the importance of cross-training and taking the lead to support it, Leigh Anne has helped strengthen departmental preparedness. Her efforts consistently demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and a genuine commitment to supporting both her colleagues and the organization as a whole.

"Most importantly, Leigh Anne consistently lives the values of justice, integrity, and professionalism in all interactions and responsibilities. Her honesty, fairness, accountability, and commitment to excellence makes her a valued member of the Court.”

Leigh Anne’s exemplary service reflects the highest ideals of the Criminal Division. Please join me in congratulating Leigh Anne on this outstanding achievement.

Thank you, Leigh Anne for your remarkable effort and commitment—you are a constant source of inspiration for us all! Congratulations!

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

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

Penobscot Praise for: Saundra Poe-Wheeler and Dwight Sanders

Things have been busy at the Friend of the Court, but staff have still been nominating each other for the Penobscot Praise awards and we have some great winners for March and April 2026.

The winner for March of 2026 is Saundra Poe-Wheeler. Saundra is a Specialist II in Order Entry. The person who nominated Saundra stated:

"Saundra is always helpful, she has trained us as new employees, she has a calm spirit, we can literally come to her about anything. She makes Order Entry a warm environment. She does a lot for our department, and we appreciate her. This would really be well deserved and earned for her to get employee of the month."

The winner for April 2026 is Dwight Sanders. Dwight works in Family Assessment Services. Dwight was nominated several times for this award. Here are some snippets of what people said about him:

"Dwight has constantly been available to assist new employees, checking in on their needs, and working to solve any problems that they might have. He has gone above expectations to make others feel comfortable and welcome. In addition to this, he has demonstrated unwavering care in clients, collaborating with others on how to best approach treatment plans, recommendations, and group. He is someone that I feel comfortable going to with questions and who I would trust as a therapist and clinician for my child to give them the care and attention that they need.

Dwight is a staple at the court having served for 30 years. He has served about 30 years at the courts. He has a wealth of knowledge and is always available to help the team navigate processes. He will often come back and ask if everything is ok regarding any inquiry you may have had for him. He is funny but witty. Everyone should have at least one staff that mirrors Mr. Sanders. He is nominated for his 100% creative problem-solving or initiative skills. Thanks Dwight! We love you.

What truly sets Dwight apart is his eagerness to share the wisdom he’s gained over the years. He’s not only highly skilled and experienced in his role, but he also has a remarkable ability to build genuine rapport with everyone he interacts with—especially the youth he serves. His impact is felt deeply in the way he connects with others and helps create a positive, supportive environment."

Congratulations to Saundra and Dwight!

Less Spam Means Fewer Problems

Is spam clogging your inbox? There are a couple of things you can do to weed most of it out and keep your inbox and devices safe:

• Be careful where you submit your email address
• Unsubscribe from any unnecessary newsletters
• Use filters and mark emails as spam to help your email provider block it more effectively
• NEVER click on links in spam emails
• NEVER download and open attachments in spam emails
• Disable the automatic downloading of HTML graphics in your mails
• Open an additional email account to keep your most important one safe
• When using social media, enhance your privacy settings so no one can see your email account
• If you have a website, protect your email address from automatically being scanned and harvested by spammers.

Spam campaigns are still one of the main attack vectors that cyber criminals use, so less spam means you’ll be a bit more secure. 

June 2026

Access and Fairness Calendar

• June 12: Loving Day — Commemorates the 1967 Supreme Court decision that legalized interracial marriage in the U.S.

• June 19: Juneteenth — Celebrates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and the end of slavery in the U.S.

• June 20: World Refugee Day — An international UN observance honoring the strength and courage of refugees worldwide.

• June 21: National Indigenous Peoples Day — Celebrates the heritage, diverse cultures, and outstanding achievements of the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples in Canada.

• June 24: St. Jean Baptiste Day — A traditional cultural holiday in Quebec celebrating French-Canadian heritage.