Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan

“YES”

“Yes - each member receives a vote in the election of the board of directors.”

“A copy of the form 990 was reviewed with the board of directors at a regularly scheduled meeting.”

“Compensation of the executive director is reviewed and approved annually by the board of directors.”

“Governing documents are made available upon request.”

“Criminal defense attorneys of michigan (cdam's) mission is: to promote expertise in the area of criminal law, constitutional law and procedure and to improve trial, administrative and appellate advocacy; to provide superior training for other legal workers engaged in defending individuals; and to improve the quality of legal representation for persons brought into the criminal and quasi-criminal justice system. To educate the bench, bar and public of the need for quality and integrity in defense services and representation; and to promote enlightened thought concerning alternatives to the present criminal justice system. To guard against erosion of the rights and privileges guaranteed by the united states and michigan constitutions and laws. Cdam sponsors ten to twelve seminars with a nuts and bolts approach to continuing legal education three two and a half day training conferences for an intensive refresher approach to continuing legal education, including trial advocacy workshop. Cdam advocates by appearing as amicus curiae in important precedent setting cases by contributing legal expertise to federal death penalty issues in michigan cdam informs about legislative changes through the developing cdam legislative network by representation of the criminal defense bars views before state and legislative bodies”

“The trial practice college is a five-day, or two and a half day, training program for criminal defense attorneys to learn practical trial experience from seasoned veterans and to promote zealous defense advocacy. The program is geared to change methods and style of practice, and also enhance each participants outlook on clients, career, and life. Participants learn from nationally recognized trial lawyers at each stage of trial preparation and apply what they have learned in daily small group training sessions. Students will engage in individual performances and receive direct feedback and analysis under the guidance of workshop faculty. Course materials involve a criminal trial with relevant discovery, pleadings, and exhibits. Participants will receive materials in advance, but will prepare for each phase of the trial in the evenings, after lectures. Participants are encouraged to bring real cases of their own to develop during the trial. The experience of these types of training colleges cannot be underestimated. Spending a week in small groups and preparing during the evenings for the next days program with others offers invaluable camaraderie and training. To ensure students receive individualized student attention, the college is limited to 40 students.”