News & Pubs Archive

Early neutral evaluation is an available and alternative option for resolving civil cases quickly and efficiently. Marta Meyers discusses the issue, saying that it may be time to attempt early neutral evaluation more earnestly and more often in Wisconsin.

On behalf of members of the State Bar of Wisconsin Elder Law and Special Needs Section, the State Bar lobbying program gives a voice at the capitol on issues of concern in the practice of elder law. Cale Battles, State Bar senior government relations coordinator, discusses the lobbying program and how to stay informed.

The National Juvenile Defender Center provides national leadership on juvenile defense issues, and is a valuable resource for those serving our youth, says Diane Rondini, who introduces the center’s initiatives for youth involved in the justice system.

In Wisconsin, there is a 120-day waiting period before a Judgment of Divorce can be issued. Family Court Comm. Mark G. Schroeder discusses why it may be time for that waiting period to go.

Even before the coronavirus struck, farming has been changing. David Krekeler discusses the changes, over the past century, that have altered the family farm in Wisconsin – and gives an overview of Chapter 12 farm bankruptcies.

A recent rule proposed by the U.S. Department of Labor would make it easier to classify workers as independent contractors under the Fair Labor Standards Act. Lida Bannink discusses the proposed rule and its implications.

On Tuesday, the Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled (4-3) that the Wisconsin Legislature has authority to represent the state’s interests in the validity of state laws, a win for Republicans seeking to block election deadline extensions granted amidst COVID-19.

Many companies are holding virtual shareholder meetings due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Peter Trotter details the requirements of conducting a virtual shareholder meeting for Wisconsin corporations.

Early in 2020, the Health Resources and Services Administration Office of Pharmacy Affairs seemed to scale back regulation of the 340B Program, which reduces drug costs for health care facilities that serve vulnerable populations. Richard Davis discusses the issue, which may result in the cost of 340B-covered drugs rising dramatically for contract pharmacies.

Section 767.59 greatly limits the trial court's authority to modify maintenance payments or arrears accrued prior to the filing of a motion. David Karp explores other remedies that may be available to cure maintenance arrearages.

Facebook Live and similar platforms provide an easy and convenient way to sell and buy products, but may cause both sellers and buyers to overlook legal and tax requirements. MaiVue K. Xiong discusses the legal and tax requirements involved in selling andbuying in an online market in Wisconsin.

Health insurance coverage may change for many people this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Christine Huberty discusses key points of the Affordable Care Act's Health Insurance Marketplace in 2020 for both existing and new enrollees.

The coronavirus pandemic has affected all aspects of our lives, and Medicaid is no different. Reg Wydeven and Jon Fischer discuss how county caseworkers are processing applications slightly different than during normal times.

As social media changes and evolves, so do the ways children can be targeted and abused – and helped. Brooke Houston discusses the ways the internet can be used to exploit and save children.

When a licensed health care professional is arrested, what should happen next? Kristen Nelson offers guidance and considerations for attorneys when their client is a licensed health care professional who is arrested or convicted.

Proper preparation can help you maximize results for your clients during their mediation session. Jill Sopha shares her favorite tips for advocates in mediation.

Forests cover nearly half of Wisconsin’s landscape, and forest products play an important role in the state’s economy. Kassie Lang and Sara Fox discuss a history of the state’s forest products industry and legal mechanisms adopted in response to past challenges, and consider responses to the recent idling of one of the state’s largest mills.

Civil litigation often involves complex ideas, especially in patent law. Former Judge James Troupis offers a plea on behalf of all judges: As with a jury, consider what the court needs to understand the case.

Language in President Trump’s Aug. 8, 2020, executive order on COVID-19 loan relief is different from that of the CARES Act. Clarification issued by the Department of Education states that, despite the original language, the latest student loan relief order does allow otherwise eligible borrowers to count the deferred payments towards PSLF.

A succession plan for a business is an often overlooked, yet essential area of business law. Maureen O’Leary gives tips on setting up a successful plan and getting clients to look ahead.