Inns of Court

The OCBA is proud to have one of only five charters in Michigan for an American Inns of Court chapter.

The concept of the American Inns of Court (the "Inn") is based upon the four English Inns of Court in London and their centuries-old tradition of senior lawyers and judges educating successive generations of advocates, with a focus on civility and professionalism. The Inn has gained a national and international reputation as an organization that bridges the gap between formal law school education and legal practice by offering career-long continuing education in the Common Law tradition.

The Inn is an association of lawyers, judges, and other legal professionals from all practice levels and backgrounds who share a passion for professional excellence. Through monthly meetings, members are able to build and strengthen professional relationships; discuss fundamental concerns about professionalism and pressing legal issues of the day; share experiences and advice; exhort the utmost passion and dedication for the law; provide mentoring opportunities; and advance the highest levels of integrity, ethics and civility. 

The Inn is one of the very few legal organizations that involve the whole spectrum of the profession: Supreme Court justices to every level of federal and state judges; small firms to large firms; and legal educators to law students. All have the opportunity to learn and grow without limit.

This uniquely non-partisan association encourages meaningful mentoring relationships. Inn members are divided into "pupillage teams," with each team consisting of members from every level of practice experience. Each pupillage team is tasked with presenting one educational program that year. Pupillage team members meet informally outside of the monthly Inn meetings to plan and rehearse their assigned programs. Students and less-experienced attorneys learn from the more-experienced attorneys and judges in an environment that fosters collegiality, mentoring, professionalism and informal discussion about the practice of law, principles and methods.

Academicians, specialized practitioners, and complementing generalists provide a mix of skill, theory, experience, and passion. This fluid, side-by-side approach allows seasoned judges and attorneys to help shape students and newer lawyers with practical guidance in serving the law and seeking justice.

"My participation in the American Inns of Court has been a great experience. It's enhanced my professional practice and enabled me to contribute more to our community. This association has allowed me to build valuable connections with judges, helpful mentors, and experienced lawyers. 

We exchanged knowledge and experiences through discussions and presentations. Our presentations spanned a variety of topics,"....and "our post-presentation conversations have always been constructive and fostered a supportive and engaging atmosphere.

As I look to the future, I am eager to continue my involvement with the American Inns of Court."

- Victor Wandzel, Esq., first-year attorney and member of the OCBA Inn of Court chapter, 2022-2023

If you would like to learn more about the national American Inns of Court program, click here.

“American Inns of Court” and the crest are service marks of the American Inns of Court Foundation.