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Features

Wisconsin Supreme Court 2022-23 Term: It's a Wrap

The court issued fewer 4-3 decisions but decided major issues during the 2022-23 term. As the court opens its 2023-24 term in September, we look back at the 45 substantive decisions issued in the 2022-23 term and ask a civil litigator and a former public defender for their insights.

By Jeff M. Brown

Significant Recent Wisconsin Federal Court Decisions

The author reviews six significant Wisconsin federal court decisions from 2023 interpreting Wisconsin law. The decisions touch on a variety of subjects: personal jurisdiction, legal causation, bad faith, claim preclusion, contractual liability limitations, and exclusive remedies.

By Daniel A. Manna

Figuring Out Governmental Immunity

The author discusses a few of the most significant Wisconsin cases in which the supreme court has grappled with the liability or immunity rule, distinctions between governmental entities and governmental employees, and discretionary versus ministerial duties.

By John A. Becker

Opinions, Voices & Ideas

President's Message
Moving the Profession Forward – Lawyer Wellness
Dean Dietrich’s monthly columns will focus on the importance of lawyer wellness and of dealing with others in a civil and professional manner.

Your State Bar
A North Star to Guide Us
Larry Martin sees the rule of law as an unwavering beacon, one that lawyers and bar associations should always rely on for direction and guidance.

Ethics
SCR 20:1.6 in the 21st Century: New and Exciting Ways to Breach Confidentiality and Not Even Know It
Advances in technology make it easier to communicate from everywhere. Stacie Rosenzweig offers tips to prevent exposing confidential client information to unintended audiences.

Ethics Opinion
Ethics Opinion EF-23-01: Responding to Online Criticism
The State Bar of Wisconsin Professional Ethics Committee has issued Opinion EF-23-01, discussing whether and how lawyers might ethically respond to criticism posted in online forums.

Solutions
Demystifying Rural Practice: You Are Not Alone
Making the leap from big-city practice to small-town practice can be scary, and self-doubt might ensue. But Stefanie Wagner says, "give it a chance." You'll be surprised at how not alone you are.

Legal History
From Territory to Statehood: Part 3 – A Tale of Two Constitutions
This article, focusing on Wisconsin's two constitutional conventions, is the third in a short series by the Hon. Hannah Dugan honoring the 175th anniversary of Wisconsin's admission as the 30th state in the United States on May 29, 1848.

Final Thought
Civility: The Pathway to a Successful Professional Life
Judge Michael Fitzpatrick says speaking and behaving politely, in the office or courtroom or any other setting, is a foundation for success for lawyers and judges.