Through the prepayment plan, members can pay FY27 Supreme Court assessments and State Bar dues in installments over six months: Just sign up by early January.
Wrap up 2025 with four December CLE programs on tax, effective legal writing, business litigation, and constitutional law, offered in person and via webcast. Get practical updates, ethics guidance, and fresh strategies you can put to work right away.
What if one decision in your career could both strengthen your skills and expand access to justice in Wisconsin? Kathleen Pakes and Melissa Lamb share how the Assigned Counsel Program works and why more attorneys are needed, especially in rural areas.
A day-long University of Wisconsin-Madison forum drew scholars and political practitioners to evaluate the resuscitation of fusion voting – sought in lawsuits in Wisconsin and other states – to improve political choices.
A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.
Wishing you and your families a warm and meaningful Thanksgiving.
The Wisconsin High School Mock Trial program seeks attorneys and judges to volunteer and help make its upcoming tournaments a success.
On Nov. 12, 2025, legislation was enacted to end the longest government shutdown in the history of the U.S. While the government is open and operational, the passage of the reopening bill has sent shockwaves through the hemp industry, and for good reason.
Under a new U.S. Post Office rule, most letters will no longer be postmarked on the day the letter is received by a post office but instead postmarked a day later when the letter is processed at a regional mail processing facility.
From discovery strategy to worker's compensation, nonprofit compliance, and civil practice, four newly updated PINNACLE books give Wisconsin lawyers practical guidance and up-to-date law. Learn what is new in each volume and where to find them.
The following court rules have been updated recently: Vilas County.
Know a judge, lawyer, firm, legal worker, organization, or law student who goes above and beyond for clients and the public? Award nominations are due Jan. 31, 2026.
The work of a lawyer can sometimes collide with the values that first drew us to the profession. Appleton attorney Jennifer Lee Edmondson explores moral injury – the distress that occurs when our moral or ethical values are compromised – and how attorneys can recognize it, respond to it, and find hope moving forward.
As Wisconsin's ample water resources encourage "hyperscale" data center development to power advances such as artificial intelligence, people are increasingly asking whether they will have water in their taps or at their favorite fishing spot.
Electronic banking has changed how lawyers use trust accounts, but the core obligations under SCR 20:1.15 still exist. OLR Trust Account Program Administrator Travis Stieren explains what the rule does and does not require when you can't write checks on your trust account.
The Wisconsin Lawyers Fund for Client Protection helps clients who have suffered a financial loss due to attorney misconduct. What should you do if a claim is made against you?
The name of the new deduction "No Tax on Tips" sounds simple, but it's not. Employers and employees may experience surprises with the promise of lower taxable income.
These four upcoming CLE programs deliver targeted updates on bankruptcy, trial practice, estate planning, and business law. With multiple dates and formats, these programs deliver guidance and up-to-date strategies to support your practice.
There's a shortage of lawyers in Greater Wisconsin. Employers in rural areas are invited to participate in the State Bar Rural Clerkship Program for 2026. There's a real benefit for employers: getting to know their potential next associate.
Two best friends. One wild animal business. And an escape that ends in a lawsuit. This year's mock trial case is anything but tame. The 2026 High School Mock Trial tournament is underway – and needs your time and talent. Feathers will fly!
On Dec. 23, 2024, the Office of Lawyer Regulation's Board of Administrative Oversight filed a petition asking the court to repeal SCR 21.06 and two other rules enabling district committees, SCRs 21.01(1)(b) and 22.04, and amend 13 other rules regarding the organization and operation of the lawyer regulation system to remove references to district committees.
On Sept. 30, 2025, Michael D. Mandelman filed a petition for reinstatement of his Wisconsin law license.
With health insurance premiums expected to rise sharply, law firms should act now to secure affordable coverage. The State Bar of Wisconsin Group Health Plan for Law Firms offers options that may meet your needs.
Reckless driving is on the rise across Wisconsin. Attorneys Alex Mueller and Alexander “Sandy” Pendleton explore how reckless driving laws are evolving, the tools communities can use to respond, and why every lawyer regardless of their practice area should pay attention.
Aviva Kaiser shares her inspiring journey from a childhood in a Pennsylvania coal mining town to building a prominent and unconventional career in the legal field in this episode of the Listening to Lawyers podcast.
AI is transforming legal discovery – but using it effectively requires strategy and ethical awareness. Law librarian Scott Park shares how Wisconsin lawyers can combine traditional methods with AI tools to boost efficiency, ensure compliance, and improve client outcomes.
Last month, the Wisconsin Supreme Court heard cases outside of Madison – as part of its Justice on Wheels program. One case stemmed from allegations of negligent medical care, the other a Miranda case involving the investigation of a juvenile.
The "most celebrated writ" according to Sir William Blackstone, revered as a check against authoritarian detention, continues to raise questions as three U.S. Supreme Court cases will decide its scope.
State Bar members attending the 2025 Wisconsin Solo & Small Firm Conference last week scooped up insights to stay up to date with technology, discover techniques to improve practice, and find ways to balance business demands and personal life.
The Wisconsin Law Foundation on Oct. 16 celebrated leaders who through their accomplishments improve the administration of justice, give back to their communities, and help others with needed legal services.
Mentors, mentees, and law students are invited to submit materials for the State Bar's Ready. Set. Practice. program.
Keep your practice up to date with books from State Bar of Wisconsin PINNACLE, including these newly released or newly supplemented volumes.
Madison attorney Mary C. Turke's commitment to excellent small-firm practice includes helping attorneys thrive. Meet the 2025 recipient of the John Lederer Distinguished Service Award.
A recent complaint before the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission disputes the justification for a proposed $21.8 billion, 24-project transmission improvement plan, raising questions about measuring costs and benefits of renewable energy.
Ashley Kempf is among the newest State Bar of Wisconsin Certified Paralegals™ – and the first to be certified via the new General Certification Test. Her achievement highlights both her dedication and the growing value of certification.
What does it take to become the lawyer everyone wants on their trial team? And how can writing help you get there? Jesse Blocher shares his path from young associate to partner at Habush, Habush & Rottier – and how he built his reputation through both courtroom work and legal writing.
Although covenants prohibiting home ownership or residence based on race have been unenforceable for nearly 80 years, the words remain in the record. Under a recent Wisconsin law, a form allows owners to renounce them.
Four upcoming CLE programs bring fresh perspectives on family law, ethics, financial exploitation, and health law. With multiple dates and formats, these programs give you practical tips and information for your practice.
Boost your trial success with The Wisconsin Rules of Evidence: A Courtroom Handbook, newly updated and 10% off through Oct. 14.
'Know Your Legal Rights' is a statewide newspaper column to help educate the public on common legal issues.
Cheryl Daniels' story is one of connection, resilience, and lifelong service – a legacy now honored by the Wisconsin Law Foundation.
Four judges from the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit discussed the processes judges use to decide cases at a Marquette University Law School panel on the dialogue that is the appellate process.
What does it take to lead a legal team with confidence and credibility? How do you balance managing people with your own legal work and client needs? These are real questions attorneys face when they step into supervisory roles. Abrielle Newman shares insights from her own career journey as a young lawyer taking on a leadership role.
The start of the U.S. Supreme Court's 2025-26 Term next month promises challenging issues attracting widespread attention on criminal constitutional protections, and limitations – or not – on federal and state governments.
Small firm lawyers don't always have someone down the hall to ask for advice or brainstorm about tough client issues. That's why the Wisconsin Solo & Small Firm Conference is such a valuable opportunity, say attorneys Erin Ogden and Eliza Reyes.
What does it mean to join the State Bar of Wisconsin? For these new attorneys, the journey is personal, inspiring, and deeply meaningful. The State Bar is happy to welcome 67 new Wisconsin lawyers.
The State Bar of Wisconsin is looking for attorneys to lead the practice of law in our state into the future. State Bar President-elect Stephen Sawyer invites lawyers to take this opportunity to make a difference to the practice of law in Wisconsin.
It can be challenging to request government records that aren't already in a searchable database. Law librarian Carol Hassler discusses how to navigate Wisconsin's public records system, offering practical tools and strategies for locating and requesting government records.
Over 60% of lawyers working in Wisconsin law firms are solo or small firm attorneys. For decades, the Wisconsin Solo & Small Firm Conference has been a gathering place for lawyers across the state. In this brief Q&A, Erin Ogden expands on the benefits of WSSFC to attorneys.
Across the country, old limitations on foreign ownership of farmland are receiving renewed scrutiny and revision to keep pace with new threats from potential foreign enemies.
Looking for CLE? September programming from State Bar of Wisconsin PINNACLE offers insights into employment and labor law, elder and special needs law, and a look into the direction of the Wisconsin Supreme Court.
What should you do when a client brings you a legal issue that crosses into an area in which you don't practice? Chelsea Lee Williamson shares tips for advising clients with overlapping practice area needs.
A recent U.S. District Court decision granted homeowners on the Lac du Flambeau Indian Reservation an implied easement to their homes after the express right-of-way expired – an example of a common, hidden problem.
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.
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.
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.
Two-factor authentication is one of the updates for attorneys accessing court system applications coming in September. This extra step helps block unauthorized access, even when login credentials are compromised.
Although the local circuit court rules authorized by statute can't contradict Wisconsin Rules of Civil Procedure, local practice has its surprises for traveling lawyers and administrative headaches for the courts seeking to stay current.
While technology allows employees to work virtually anywhere, the extent of Wisconsin employment laws remains unclear. Such cases could be analyzed in a few ways.
The Wisconsin Supreme Court anticipates big issues in the upcoming term, including privacy in electronic communications, limitations on providing involuntary medication, whether the Wisconsin Consumer Act applies to apartment leases, and whether a child’s Miranda rights were violated in school.
The G. Lane Ware Leadership Academy equips Wisconsin lawyers with the skills, connections, and support systems needed to lead with confidence. Submit your interest form by Sept. 15 for the 2025-26 program.
The Wisconsin Solo and Small Firm Conference returns Oct. 16-18 to the Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells – your chance to connect with colleagues, unwind with games, and feel right at home in a community that gets you. Sign up now to lock in the best rates for your conference.
From teen courts and mobile clinics to immigration aid and rental assistance tools, grants from the Wisconsin Law Foundation – with donations from Wisconsin lawyers – are strengthening access to justice. Learn more about the grants and recipients.
The following court rules have been updated recently: Marinette County.
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Jennifer Lee Edmondson, who shares her personal journey through a stage four metastatic breast cancer.
When you’re questioned about your admission, don’t lie. As always, lying exacerbates the problem and can turn a reprimand into a suspension. And really, don’t try to be too cute or clever.
Through the Travelers Auto and Home Insurance Program, State Bar members have access to discounts on their auto, home, and renters insurance. Find out about this new affinity partner with the State Bar of Wisconsin.
Looking for CLE? From programs on hearsay to exploring First Amendment speech protections and criminal harassment, State Bar of Wisconsin PINNACLE offers programs to keep you on top of your practice.
Rising health insurance premiums – expected to increase by as much as 75% for the 2026 subsidized market – could significantly impact lawyers and staff who rely on ACA marketplace coverage. This article discusses what’s driving the increases and highlig hts cost-effective options like the State Bar’s Group Health Plan for law firms.
The Wisconsin Lawyer magazine delivers the insights, stories, and knowledge attorneys rely on to excel in their law practice and lead the profession.
A case may initially appeal to a minority of Supreme Court justices. But as time passes, briefs are read, and oral arguments are heard, the central issue may fail to satisfy a majority. In that situation, the court dismisses the case as improvidently granted.
LEX Reception is a legal answering service for firms of all sizes that assists with answering phones, screening clients, client intake, and more.
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.
Wisconsin attorneys can volunteer to support their peers via the State Bar of Wisconsin's Lawyers Assistance Program (WisLAP). This year's annual training is Aug. 25 in Madison – submit your interest form by Aug. 1.
Supreme Court justices, in Wisconsin and Washington, agree more often than one expects, according both to the current terms' results and long-running statistics.
Examining the history and use of executive orders, and how courts determine their validity.
A well-written trial brief provides a succinct overview of a motion's merits and can summarize an entire case. Carol Hassler discusses how to find sample trial briefs and where to go to hone your persuasive writing skills.
For Wisconsin counsel whose business clients rely on global supply chains, the ground has been shifting fast. International trade attorney Ngosong Fonkem shares practical guidance every Wisconsin lawyer needs to consider.
Just because a client agrees to pay your fee doesn't mean it is reasonable. Lawyers are responsible for ensuring their fees comply with reasonableness requirements under Wisconsin's professional conduct rules.
The revised Supreme Court Rule (SCR) 31.02(5) gives lawyers the choice to receive CLE credit for as many as six hours during the two-year reporting period on topics approved for cultural competency and reduction in bias.
The following court rules have been updated recently: Douglas County.
Take 10 minutes to let the Wisconsin Supreme Court's Planning and Policy Advisory Committee know what you think about critical issues facing the court system.
Personal ties don't remove professional responsibilities. Lawyers should carefully assess conflicts, competence, and objectivity before helping friends with legal matters.
Are you a new lawyer who works with underserved people in Wisconsin? The Wisconsin Law Foundation provides financial grants to those who represent underserved populations. Apply no later than Sept. 2.
Demand for civil legal assistance continues to outstrip available resources. WisLawHelp.org – a statewide referral portal developed by Judicare Legal Aid – is working to fulfill more of that unmet need. It is the 2025 Pro Bono Organization of the Year.
State Bar members are invited to attend the Executive Committee meeting conducted annually to evaluate the amount of dues members may deduct for activities that are not reasonably related to regulating the legal profession or improving the quality of legal services.
Congress begins hearings on proposed appropriations this month with a budget proposal that would eliminate the federal Legal Services Corporation (LSC) and endanger a primary funding source for Wisconsin’s two largest civil legal aid providers.
In a move that could reshape the college sports landscape, the University of Wisconsin and its name, image and likeness collective, VC Connect, LLC, sued the University of Miami on Friday, alleging that Miami tampered with former Badgers football player Xavier Lucas and interfered with NIL contracts signed by Lucas.
Sarah A. Johnson, the 2025 Pro Bono Attorney of the Year, shares her journey of volunteering with Legal Action of Wisconsin, where she supports low-income clients and streamlines clinic operations with custom automation tools.
When it comes to creating a lifetime giving strategy for clients, financial planners and estate planning attorneys can – and should – work as a team.
Last week’s State Bar Annual Meeting & Conference offered countless nuggets of cutting-edge advice. This article highlights some examples.
A federal judge has approved a landmark $2.57 billion settlement, clearing the way for a sweeping change in college athletics: Revenue sharing for student-athletes.
New from State Bar PINNACLE, Animal Law Handbook fills a critical gap in the legal publishing landscape by offering this comprehensive, Wisconsin-specific guide to the broad and growing field of animal law.
Looking into a municipality's code is a good place to start for identifying municipal legislation. Law librarian Franky Newcomb discusses the key sources for uncovering municipal legislative information.
The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development's emergency rule protecting against occupational heat risks for migrant workers addresses the absence of a proposed Occupational Safety and Health Administration rule.
The Family Law Workshop provides an opportunity to receive CLE credits in family law-focused programming along with an opportunity to socialize with family law practitioners and experts from around the state.
Members should have received their FY 2026 statements for Wisconsin Supreme Court assessments and State Bar of Wisconsin membership dues. Be sure to take advantage of your member benefits.
Wisconsin's Federal Nominating Commission is accepting applications for vacancies for United States Attorneys for the Eastern and Western Districts of Wisconsin. Application materials must be returned no later than 4:30 p.m. on June 20, 2025.
In a 9-0 decision authored by Justice Sonia Sotomayor, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned a ruling by the Wisconsin Supreme Court, which held that Catholic Charities Bureau Inc. and its subsidiaries were not exempt from making payments to the state's unemployment insurance program.
It is important to clearly state to your client the scope of a limited representation agreement. But what if you realize your client has further claims in the matter that are not included in your representation agreement?
The 19th annual Intellectual Property Academy is July 17-18 in Sturgeon Bay. Register soon for the best price – the early-bird discount expires June 16, 2025.
When JJ Moore was seven years old, sheriff’s deputies came to evict his family. Decades later, he’s made it his mission to ensure others in crisis don’t face those moments alone. Now a staff attorney at Legal Action of Wisconsin, Moore is the 2025 Outstanding Young Lawyer of the Year.
In this episode of the Practice Pulse podcast, Matt Beier from Wisconsin Lawyers Mutual Insurance Co. (WILMIC) dives into the complexities of legal malpractice insurance.
The 2025 ABA Techshow helps attendees stay informed about technological advancements and adapt to the changing landscape to remain competitive in the legal industry.
The future of Wisconsin's legal profession just got brighter. With guidance and welcome from the Wisconsin Supreme Court, 204 U.W. Law School graduates begin their legal careers as the newest members of the State Bar of Wisconsin.
Justice Patience D. Roggensack reflects on her service on the Wisconsin Appellate Courts and provides tips for practitioners.
Bankruptcy law is intimidating – and a lawyer's errors can irrevocably harm a vulnerable client – but it's a practice area with growing demand. Learn applicable law, build financial literacy, and start with simple cases.
Three attorneys are setting up their rural practices this year as part of a new State Bar program addressing the critical gap in legal services for rural residents.
How do states respond when they believe the federal government has overstepped its authority? Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul shares a sneak peek of his keynote session at the State Bar of Wisconsin Annual Meeting & Conference.
This new volume from State Bar of Wisconsin PINNACLE is a vital resource for attorneys advising clients on internet-based transactions.
Through the WDA Dental Savings Club, law firms can offer their staff access to affordable dental care without the complexity or cost of traditional dental insurance.
Owning a historic home can mean facing some unique legal challenges. Law librarian Amy Fels discusses the resources available for those who own a historic home or landmark.
Although a reply brief serves a specific purpose, only to reply to the respondent's arguments, the additional filing serves a critical role in clarity and credibility of the appellant's case.
2023 Wisconsin Act 235 (Wisconsin's "Daniel's Law"), which took effect April 1, offers state judicial officials new privacy protections to increase their safety.
Mentoring is one of the most important – and fulfilling – roles a lawyer can take on, says Mary Ferwerda, the 2025 Outstanding Mentor of the Year.
The following court rules have been updated recently: Dane County
The State Bar of Wisconsin’s Board of Governors believes that Wisconsin lawmakers should help cover the "justice gap" by increasing state funding for civil legal aid providers. But lawmakers still need to hear directly from you.
Meet 151 new Wisconsin lawyers, the Class of 2025 graduates from Marquette University Law School. Welcome to the legal profession!
Debunking misconceptions surrounding worker's compensation in Wisconsin and clarifying what injured workers need to know.
Extensive regulation controls the business of manufacturing, distributing, and selling firearms, and for that reason, law-abiding businesses cannot be found liable for the criminal acts of others perpetrated by guns without their knowledge.
Registration is open for the State Bar of Wisconsin Annual Meeting & Conference. This year, AMC takes place June 18-20 in Madison. Join us at the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center.
If you've been injured at work in Wisconsin, you've probably heard the term "end of healing" or "EOH" – maybe from your doctor, your employer, or the insurance company. But what does it really mean for you and your benefits?
When you have a client with unclaimed money in a trust account, what can you do?
The Marquette County Circuit Court judge is recognized for his leadership in strengthening the county's treatment court program, fostering collaboration between law enforcement and participants, and helping build a lasting culture of recovery and support.
Copyright isn't just for artists and musicians. Many estate and marital planning clients are "authors" with copyright assets that need special attention.
Members should soon receive their FY 2026 statements for Wisconsin Supreme Court assessments and State Bar of Wisconsin membership dues. Be sure to take advantage of your member benefits.
Some legal issues from 1975 concern us today, while other matters of law and practice that fresh law school graduates remember seem to us now like bright-colored bell bottoms. Hear the stories from the class of 1975, now 50-year members of the State Bar.
The Petitioners request an increase to a $75 annual assessment, beginning on July 1, 2025, and then to $100, beginning July 1, 2027.
In April, we honor volunteers who stepped forward to address the legal needs of Wisconsin's most vulnerable residents. Each year, the Pro Bono Honor Society thanks the Wisconsin lawyers who donated at least 50 hours of pro bono service. In 2024, 265 lawyers made the list.
Practical insights for navigating the evolving landscape of rental law in Wisconsin. Learn more at the upcoming State Bar of Wisconsin PINNACLE seminar, Landlord Tenant Update 2025.
Wisconsin's Federal Nominating Commission is accepting applications for a vacancy on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit. Application materials must be returned no later than 4:30 p.m., May 21, 2025.
Looking for ways to strengthen your appellate briefs and arguments? Need a way to quickly identify the right standard of review? This new book from State Bar of Wisconsin PINNACLE can help you.
State Bar elections close at noon this Friday. Here's how to vote and where to find information about the candidates, so you can help set the direction and policies of the State Bar of Wisconsin.
Appellate courts operate with different nuances in filing and appearance procedures in a different court system. Law librarian Elizabeth Manriquez discusses resources available for individuals appearing in appellate court, both federal and Wisconsin.
In this episode of Listening to Lawyers, trial attorney April Toy shares her personal journey with alcoholism and recovery.
With about two months left in the U.S. Supreme Court's October 2024 Term, 38 cases remain waiting for decisions including ones on hot-button social issues, criminal law, and potential changes to administrative and environmental law.
What does the U.S. Supreme Court’s Loper Bright decision mean for lawyers in Wisconsin? Appellate attorney James Goldschmidt breaks down the end of Chevron deference, the practical impact for litigators and judges, and how Wisconsin has been ahead of the curve for years.
Voting is open for the 2025 State Bar of Wisconsin elections. Here is more information on who is eligible to vote, and how to vote.
The Wisconsin Court System is actively seeking candidates to serve as a Wisconsin Supreme Court Commissioner.
It may be easier to know what to do with a per curiam decision – usually don't cite it – than why a court would decide to issue one. But settled law, consensus, and caseload management can be factors.
Each year, lawyers nominated by State Bar leaders statewide attend the Leadership Development Summit. Participants display leadership capabilities, demonstrate a strong commitment to the legal profession, and possess the potential to be the next generation of State Bar leaders.
In recognition of Health Care Decisions Day on April 16, the State Bar of Wisconsin is offering a free download of its healthcare decisions guide for a limited time.
No matter how new the technology is regarding information relating to the representation of a client, it remains important that lawyers carefully consider how client information is stored and used internally – the rule and a lawyer's duties remain the same, no matter which technology is used.
The following court rules have been updated recently: Pierce and Wood counties.
Tariffs are increasingly becoming a critical issue for businesses large and small, driving up costs and creating new challenges across supply chains. Although addressing these challenges requires a strategic approach, one simple solution is implementing a Foreign Trade Zone ("FTZ") that provides tax savings and other benefits.
The proposed recreating of the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) hotel regulations seeks to replace 40-year-old rules to address new business models, including online rentals.
They are members of the legal community who make a difference – by living a lifetime of service, mentoring others, offering their pro bono services, and going the extra mile. Congratulations to these award recipients, all leaders in the legal profession.
Since last November, the State Bar of Wisconsin has experienced an increase in the number of messages failing to deliver to member email inboxes. Here's more information and how to manage your elists.
International accounting firm KPMG LLP’s approval to open a law firm in Arizona spotlights experiments with Alternative Business Structures (ABS), which allow lawyers to work under nonlawyers, an option not available in Wisconsin or most states.
Family law attorneys should consult defamation counsel to evaluate any potential claims, remove unwanted online content, unmask anonymous online actors, and mount an aggressive defense in a contentious divorce.
After a 4-week hiatus, I am back again with what are likely to be the final updates on the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) for a while (famous last words).
Help set the direction and policies of the State Bar of Wisconsin by voting in the upcoming elections. Look for your email ballot soon. Here's more about the candidates and what you need to know to cast your vote.
Judge Ellen Brostrom and Judge Krista LaFave speak with host Kristen Hardy, offering insights on how young lawyers can navigate their careers.
Need to boost your understanding of the appellate process in Wisconsin? Check out these books and a CLE program from State Bar of Wisconsin PINNACLE.
In an extremely close battle with Shorewood High School, Whitefish Bay High School took first place in the 2025 state championship round on March 9, 2025, at the State Capitol. Congratulations to both teams for an excellent finals round!
What does it take to be a leader in the legal profession? Michelle Behnke, President-elect of the American Bar Association and a Past-president of the State Bar of Wisconsin, shares insights into how to build a fulfilling legal career rooted in authenticity, passion, and purpose.
High-sounding American Bar Association (ABA) resolutions, like those approved at the semi-annual meeting in February, lead to tangible actions that further ABA goals to improve the legal profession, reduce bias in the legal system, and advance the rule oflaw.
Most transactional attorneys will encounter deals that involve commercial loans. But what exactly does that mean, and what are the basics attorneys should know, even if they don't have primary responsibility for drafting or reviewing loan documents?
The Wisconsin Supreme Court approved the petition to increase the annual lawyer fee for the Public Interest Legal Services Fund (PILSF) by $50 in two increments. The State Bar of Wisconsin shared with the court its members' views (largely in opposition) to the petition and argued that only the Wisconsin Legislature can properly fund civil legal aid. To that end, the State Bar plans to pursue further legislative funding.
2023 Wis. Act 16 affects zoning amendments, residential housing permits, judicial review of development decisions, and planned development district zoning. While some provisions took effect immediately, others became effective Jan. 1, 2025. Municipalities, and their lawyers, should now ensure compliance with the Act's requirements.
Did you know you can set up email or RSS feed notifications for legislative and regulatory updates? Law librarian Carol Hassler takes you through setting up notifications and alerts to keep you updated automatically.
With the April elections approaching, now is the time to learn about the candidates asking for your vote to lead the State Bar of Wisconsin as governors.
What has changed for women in the legal profession over the past 150 years, and what challenges remain? Nancy Kopp, a former commissioner with the Wisconsin Supreme Court, explores the progress women lawyers have made since Lavinia Goodell became Wisconsin’s first female attorney in 1874.
Does your business client need an LLC, LLP, C or S corporation, or partnership? With the information in 'LLCs and LLPs: A Wisconsin Handbook' from State Bar of Wisconsin PINNACLE, you can help them achieve their dreams for their businesses.
When a probate client suggests paying a contingency fee – a small percentage of the gross value of the estate – in lieu of paying your hourly rate, is it OK to say yes?
Justice Hagedorn opines in a solo concurrence in Wis. Voter Alliance v. Secord that the common-law legal requirements for a writ of mandamus do not affect public records cases.
Judge Michael Y. Scudder of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit analyzed the legal landscape of "culture war" cases and concluded constitutionally mandated justiciability limitations further democratically healthy local deliberations.
The U.S. Department of the Treasury suspended enforcement of the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) for U.S. citizens and domestic reporting companies. On Sunday night, the Treasury announced that U.S. citizens and domestic reporting companies will no longer face penalties or fines for failure to report under the CTA.
A conversation on the transformative impact of AI on legal research, with Damien Riehl from vLex.
Looking for CLE? From personal injury and treatment courts, to the 2025 Wispact Update, State Bar of Wisconsin PINNACLE offers programs to keep you on top of your practice.
Candidates Stephen W. Sawyer and Johanna R. Kirk, from central Wisconsin, discuss how they would address the challenges facing Wisconsin attorneys.
Registration is open for the State Bar of Wisconsin Annual Meeting & Conference. This year AMC takes place June 18-20 in Madison. Join us at the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center – register now for the best rates.
The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network announced in a Feb. 19 alert that the Corporate Transparency Act is back in effect. The new deadline for most companies to file beneficial ownership information reports is now March 21, 2025.
The Hon. Robert M. Dow, Jr., appointed Counselor to U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice John G. Roberts, recently provided practical litigation advice at the U.W. Law School Thomas E. Fairchild Lecture.
Grants of up to $2,800 are available for programs that help public understanding of the legal system. Past recipients include teen court programs across the state and programs that increase access to justice. Apply by April 18, 2025.
The State Bar of Wisconsin’s new Rural Practice Development Program offers stipends and other support for attorneys relocating to a Wisconsin county in need of more attorneys. Here's more information about the program – apply by March 31.
Paralegals are a vital member of many Wisconsin law firms and play an important role in the legal profession. Angela Gonzalez, a State Bar of Wisconsin Certified Paralegal (SBWCP), shares her insights on the value of paralegals and how certification enhances the quality of service provided to attorneys and clients.
Keep your practice up to date with books from State Bar of Wisconsin PINNACLE.
Young lawyers, you're invited to the State Bar of Wisconsin Young Lawyers Conference. Meet in Brookfield on Friday, March 28, for free CLE sessions and networking. ABA President-elect Michelle Behnke will give the keynote speech.
Congratulations to the teams who competed in 2025 Wisconsin High School Mock Trial regional tournament! The top 20 teams will compete in the semifinals tournament in early March in Madison.
The request for comments to create proposed rules comes at an awkward time for federal agencies, but political dissatisfaction with air travel and the 2024 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization Act may keep the process moving.
How to find filings on EDGAR, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission's database.
If you donated 50 or more hours of qualifying pro bono legal services to benefit low-income Wisconsin residents in 2024, you qualify as a member of the Wisconsin Pro Bono Honor Society – certify your service by March 1, 2025.
Put your leadership skills into action and gain valuable experience. Lawyers of all experience levels and backgrounds are welcome. Sign up to run for a 2025-26 State Bar Board of Governors' position – petitions are due March 3, 2025.
On May 20, 2024, a rule petition was filed asking the court to establish a right to a qualified court interpreter for certain individuals in municipal court proceedings with limited English proficiency, without regard to indigency, at municipal expense.
Attorney Lindsey Draper shares his journey through the legal profession, emphasizing the importance of lawyer wellness and mental health, on this episode of the Listening to Lawyers podcast.
Estate planning is not a one-and-done event. Attorneys who advise clients on their future wishes need to consider the long term – what could change as life goes on.
What is the best business entity structure for your client’s specific needs? Prof. Nathan Hammons overviews the new "Wisconsin Business Entity Handbook."
Petitions to bypass have increased in use in the past three years, but the end run around the Wisconsin Court of Appeals succeeds rarely, and not everyone on the supreme court agrees when the court should grant bypass.
Looking for CLE? On topics from business litigation trends and tax law developments to speaking and writing effectively, State Bar of Wisconsin PINNACLE offers programs to keep you on top of your practice.
Do you seek opportunities that will put you in contact with the leaders of your profession? Submit your petition to represent Wisconsin's legal community through the American Bar Association House of Delegates.
Consider stepping forward to accept the challenge of volunteering your time to help the State Bar and those it serves.
On July 3, 2024, a rule petition was filed asking the court to amend Supreme Court Rule 13.045(1) to increase the annual assessment of attorneys for the Public Interest Legal Services Fund (PILSF), which supports legal services for people of limited means in non-criminal matters.
On Dec. 30, 2024, Joan M. Boyd filed a petition for reinstatement of her Wisconsin law license.
Your State Bar representatives on the Wisconsin Judicial Council ask for your help to secure proper funding for the Council's important work to improve Wisconsin's rules of court practice and procedure.
The following court rules have been updated recently: Bayfield, Marathon, Milwaukee, Portage, and Taylor counties.
Johanna Kirk of Thorp and Stephen Sawyer of Stevens Point are candidates for State Bar president-elect. Both have experience as lawyers in Wisconsin's rural areas – and these experiences inform their views on important issues facing the legal profession and the State Bar.
Individuals who are not licensed to practice law in Wisconsin are offering and providing immigration legal advice or immigration legal services they are not authorized to provide, according to recent reports the State Bar of Wisconsin has received from bar members.
The unemployment tax exemption requested by Catholic Charities Bureau, Inc. of Superior, which a Wisconsin Supreme Court majority denied, invites the U.S. Supreme Court to evaluate First Amendment protections.
But indicating more data is needed, the court will refer the matter to the Wisconsin Judicial Council for further consideration.
Court rules for the following jurisdictions have been updated recently: U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit and Washburn, Outagamie, Langlade, Kenosha, Lincoln, Milwaukee, and Vilas counties.
On June 19, 2024, The Director of State Courts filed this rule petition asking the court to amend, create, and repeal parts of Supreme Court Rule Chapter 70, pertaining to the rules of judicial administration.
The 2025 Wisconsin High School Mock Trial season has begun – the program needs attorneys and judges to help make the tournaments happen. No experience is necessary to help these students compete.
Two new podcasts are joining our rotation: Listening to Lawyers and Practice Pulse.
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Failure to understand when a FinCEN report is required could subject the lawyer (and potentially the lawyer's firm) to civil penalties of up to $108,489 for a pattern of negligent activity. For willful violations, the lawyer could be subject to imprisonment up to 5 years, a fine of up to $250,000, or both.
The challenge to the Corporate Transparency Act moved rapidly through the federal system in December, resulting in a nationwide injunction that was briefly vacated then reinstated. Now, the U.S. Supreme Court may decide.
Do you find continuing legal education (CLE) rules confusing? You have enough to worry about. In about five minutes, learn what you need to know about earning, tracking, and reporting CLE.
