Bill Text: MI HR0272 | 2019-2020 | 100th Legislature | Enrolled
Bill Title: A resolution to commemorate June 11, 2020, as the celebration of the 75th anniversary of the Michigan Association for Justice and express appreciation for the organization's contributions to promoting and protecting a fair and effective justice system in Michigan and safeguarding the 7th Amendment of the United States Constitution.
Spectrum: Strong Partisan Bill (Democrat 50-3)
Status: (Passed) 2020-06-10 - Adopted [HR0272 Detail]
Download: Michigan-2019-HR0272-Enrolled.html
substitute for
HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 272
Whereas, It is an honor for the members of the Michigan Legislature to join in saluting the Michigan Association for Justice (MAJ) as it marks 75 years of service in jurisprudence. This renowned group was formed in 1945 with approximately twenty lawyers who were specialists in workers’ compensation. Mr. Sam Charfoos served as the first president of the organization which is dedicated to ensuring access to the civil justice system and defending our cherished right to a civil trial by jury; and
Whereas, The 7th Amendment to the United States Constitution grants every American the right to a civil trial by jury. Over the years, members of MAJ have fought courageously to protect the rights of consumers, workers, children, and families from powerful forces aligned against them. Trial lawyers are champions for vulnerable people who would otherwise have no voice; and
Whereas, The Constitution of Michigan of 1963, Article 1, Section 14, states that “The right of [civil] trial by jury shall remain.” We applaud the efforts of MAJ members to keep the justice system fair and open. Through effective efforts on behalf of innocent victims, civil rights, and equal rights, many people have gained access to justice, and many others have been protected by the precedents that certain of these cases have set. The accomplishments of the Michigan Association for Justice in fulfilling its mission of promoting and protecting a fair and effective justice system and ensuring that any person who is injured by the misconduct or negligence of others can obtain justice in Michigan’s courtrooms stand as a bulwark against unfairness, inequity, and injustice. Its 75 years of vigilance and attainment gives great significance to this notable milestone in MAJ history; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives, that the members of this legislative body commemorate June 11, 2020, as the celebration of the 75th anniversary of the Michigan Association for Justice and express appreciation for the organization's contributions to promoting and protecting a fair and effective justice system in Michigan and safeguarding the 7th amendment of the United States Constitution; and be if further
Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to MAJ President Robert J. MacDonald, MAJ President-Elect Donna M. MacKenzie, MAJ Vice President Ronald K. Weiner, Executive Director Stephen V. Pontoni, and the membership and staff of this admirable organization as evidence of the Michigan Legislature’s lasting respect and admiration.
