“Unexpected Love Fest” Between Supreme Court Justices

At a recent Detroit Economic Club luncheon, two justices from the Michigan Supreme Court detailed the working relationship that has led to a record number of unanimous cases in recent years, and $175 million in budget savings. Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Robert P. Young Jr., and Justice Bridget Mary McCormack acknowledged their relationship is unique. “We are used to acrimony and competition,” McCormack said. “We have a high functioning court right now. … I’m sure this makes some people unhappy, but we are doing our job.” Young has spearheaded an effort to “right-size” Michigan’s judiciary, which has led to cutting 25 judgeships, saving taxpayers $6.1 million over four years. Fifteen more judgeships are set to be eliminated.