Behind the Bench: A Judge’s Journey and Insights Into the American Legal System

Online via Webex

About the event
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This webinar will explore the distinctive features that define the common law system in the United States, offering students an in-depth look at its foundations and evolution. Focusing on the role of judicial precedent, case law, and the principle of stare decisis, the session will unpack how American common law differs from other legal traditions, such as civil law.

The talk will address:

• The Power of Precedent: Understanding how past judicial decisions shape future rulings and contribute to a flexible, evolving legal system.
• Federal and State Jurisdictions: Examining the interaction between federal and state courts in applying common law principles across diverse legal contexts.
• Case Law Development: Delving into landmark cases that highlight the adaptability of common law in addressing new societal challenges.
• Role of Judicial Interpretation: Exploring the interpretive power of the judiciary and its impact on creating and evolving legal standards.

The Honorable Yvonna Abraham has served as a judge for the Wayne County Third Circuit Court since 2021. Currently serving in the Family Domestic Division of the court, Judge Abraham handles a variety of domestic relations cases involving divorce, child custody, and personal protection matters.

Prior to her appointment she served as a Judicial Magistrate and Director of Probation in the Dearborn Heights 20th District Court. Judge Abraham previously served as a Judicial Attorney with the Wayne County Circuit Court and as a Solo Practitioner. She also served as an adjunct professor at Lawrence Technological University teaching courses in business law.

Judge Abraham earned her Juris Doctor degree from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law and Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Michigan-Dearborn. Judge Abraham has worked diligently to serve her fellow cohorts and her community.  She served as past President of the Michigan Association of District Court Magistrates, she is a current member of the State Bar Judicial Ethics Committee, National Association of Women Judges, a member of the State Court Administrator’s Office court forms committee, a member of member on the courts Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee, and also serves as a faculty member for the Michigan Judicial Institute. In 2024, Judge Abraham was recognized as one of the Top Circuit Court Judges by Detroit Business Magazine.

In addition to professional boards, Judge Abraham has been active in many civic and community organizations. She currently serves as a member of the Henry Ford College Business Advisory Board, the Wayne Mental Health Advisory Board, Women Lawyer Association of Michigan, the Arab American Women’s Business Council Board, and HYPE Athletics Community Board.

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