Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Elizabeth T. Clement is calling on trial court judges across the state to join the American Bar Association (ABA) Judicial Division's National Judicial Outreach "Whenever, Wherever" initiative. This program, which has been extended from a week-long event to a year-round effort, encourages courts to engage with their local communities through various events such as courthouse tours, town meetings, coffee hours, and open houses.
Chief Justice Clement emphasized the importance of public engagement in building trust and confidence in the judicial system. In a memo to judges and court administrators, she stated, “I believe strongly that when judges engage the public, their courts are more trusted by the community as a whole.” She added that this trust leads to greater confidence in the fairness and impartiality of local courts.
The National Judicial Outreach "Whenever, Wherever" program aims to underscore the rule of law's significance by reinforcing that no one is above the law and everyone is equal before it. The initiative highlights that laws govern rather than elected leaders, and courts are tasked with applying these laws fairly and impartially.
The program also stresses that laws should be accessible, clear, and just while ensuring that courts remain independent and accountable. Courts must operate within the boundaries set by the Constitution.
Planned events at various courts will be showcased on the One Court of Justice website and social media platforms. The Conference of Chief Justices has endorsed this national outreach initiative.