To maintain our reputation as exceptional litigators, Sommers Schwartz attorneys invest in their professional development. Recently, associate Lenore Zakhem accepted an invitation to serve as a Barrister for the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law Inn of Court.

Founded in 1984, the Detroit Mercy program is the eleventh chapter of the American Inns of Court, “an association of lawyers, judges, and other legal professionals from all levels and backgrounds who share a passion for professional excellence.“ Modeled loosely on the English Inns of Court, the Detroit Mercy Law chapter of the American Inns of Court brings together judges, lawyers, and law students who share a passion for professional excellence. Membership is made up of three categories – Masters of the Bench, Barristers, and Pupils who are divided into “pupillage teams,” with each team consisting of a few members from each membership category. Pupillage team members gather informally outside of monthly meetings to prepare for their presentation, as each pupillage team conducts one program for the Inn each year.

Through regular meetings, members of the Inn are given the opportunity to create and foster strong professional relationships, discuss concerns about professionalism and today’s legal issues, share experiences and knowledge of the law, and advance the highest levels of integrity, ethics, and civility. 

Lenore Zakhem is a litigator in the firm’s Medical Malpractice and Personal Injury practice groups. As a Barrister of the Inn, Lenore will be responsible for organizing team meetings to prepare Pupils for their roles in a team presentation. Lenore will benefit from the knowledge and mentorship of the Masters, including state and federal judges and magistrates, preeminent trial attorneys, state and local prosecutors and defenders, and law school faculty. Additionally, Lenore will join the Masters in critiquing the demonstrations at program meetings, allowing her to serve as a role model and liaison to the bar.

Congratulations, Lenore!