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September 3, 2025

Tips for Solo Practice

Every Mistake in the Book: How Not to Hang Out a Shingle

Practicing solo or in a small firm is not for the faint of heart. This article distills from one lawyer's tumultuous experience four maxims relevant to private practice generally and especially to lawyers who operate their own firms. Fidelity to these maxims should produce a career that follows a path straighter, higher, and less painful than the author's.

Podcasts

From Steelworker to Civil Rights Lawyer: Mark L. Thomsen's Unique Journey

Mark L. Thomsen's path to law is unlike any other story. In this episode of the Bottom Up podcast, Mark, a veteran Milwaukee-based litigator, explores his unique upbringing in Nigeria, his return to America, and the cultural shocks he experienced.

Solo/Small Firm Blog

Personal Jurisdiction in Wisconsin Employer Lawsuits Against Remote Workers

Personal jurisdiction is a prerequisite to bringing suit against any defendant including in the age of remote work. Nicholas Watt discusses the issues and consequences that impact a Wisconsin employer’s ability to sue former remote employees.

Leadership Academy

How the G. Lane Ware Leadership Academy Shaped Attorney Jacob Haller's Career

From a new public interest attorney to bar leader and elected official, Jacob Haller credits the G. Lane Ware Leadership Academy with giving him the skills and connections to grow his career. With registration now open, this is your chance to join the program that's shaping the next generation of Wisconsin legal leaders.

WisBar Court Review

U.S. District Court Suppresses Evidence: Police Ruse Defeats Voluntary Consent

The defendant granted access to his apartment because police said they needed to search for a missing child, but once police entered, they began digging in drawers and a duffle bag for evidence of drug distribution, justifying suppression of the evidence.

Elder Law

Contested Guardianships, Advocacy, and a Podcast: A Lawyer's Unexpected Retirement Journey

Five years after stepping back from full-time practice, Paul Sturgul reflects on an unexpected path: returning to litigation in guardianship cases, advocating for elder rights, and balancing professional service with personal pursuits.

Small Firm Lawyers

Honor a Solo or Small-firm Leader: Nominations for Lederer Award Due Sept. 5

Honor a leader in solo and small-firm practice: The State Bar of Wisconsin Solo/Small Firm & General Practice Section is seeking nominations for their 2025 John Lederer Service Award. Nominations are due Sept. 5.

Official Notices

Final Order 25-01: Application for Admission Pro Hac Vice

The Wisconsin Supreme Court, on its own motion, has determined that it is appropriate to amend the form Appendix A-1 to Supreme Court Rule (SCR) Chapter 10.