News & Pubs Archives

Many lawyers begin their careers burdened with six-figure debts. A recent presidential executive order and a federal loan forgiveness program offer some relief.

Solo and small-firm lawyers looking to take their practices to the next level should attend the annual Wisconsin Solo & Small Firm Conference, says Brent Hoeft, chair of the conference’s organizing committee.

Animal law is a broad topic that intersects with many other areas of law, making research a challenge. Law librarian Elizabeth Manriquez lists resources and offers tips to boost your research skills.

Lawyers involved in creating business entities work with those involved with the entity. But, when potential conflicts arise, who actually is the client – the entity, or the entity's owners?

The e-reader platform used by State Bar members to access the legal books offered by PINNACLE has just gotten an upgrade. Here's what's new.

Service to the profession is part of our responsibilities as a professional, says State Bar President-elect Dean R. Dietrich, who encourages members to run for a State Bar officer or Board of Governors position.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Nancy Phelps rose from humble beginnings to travel the world and file trailblazing lawsuits during her 50-year career, handling more than 10,000 family law cases.

Claude Covelli looks back on a career that saw him try more than 200 cases and argue a case before the U.S. Supreme Court.

Decisions on legislative maps, the authority to adopt pandemic control measures, and public records were among the cases decided this term by a 4-3 margin. This article includes insights from a legal historian, as well as a civil litigator and a former public defender, and lists the holding and vote in each case.

Constitution Day is Sept. 17. Here's how teachers in Lodi and Brookfield teach the Constitution – and apply it to their mock trial training programs.

When you are tasked with helping your clients plan for their future, the details of their plan require investigative effort on the part of the attorney.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

The Planning and Policy Advisory Committee Court Security Subcommittee filed a rule petition asking the court to update SCR Chapter 68 to incorporate updated standards for courthouse construction, renovation, technology, and to better define county-level security and facility committee responsibilities.

There are opportunities for attorneys throughout greater Wisconsin, says Dena Welden, a lawyer with the Lac Courte Oreilles Band of Lake Superior Chippewa.

A new WisLawNOW podcast called "Bottom Up," produced by the State Bar, features frank discussions and relatable stories that highlight the interests, challenges, and opportunities for attorneys in their first decade of practice.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

A nontrivial number of attorneys are failing to take the necessary steps to “opt in” to the mandatory court of appeals eFiling system. This issue and others are addressed by the Judicial Council’s Appellate Practice Committee through proposed rules and outreach to the bar.

If you're looking to grow your network, hone your skills, and become a leader in the legal profession, apply for a spot in the G. Lane Ware Leadership Academy, says Kristen Hardy, a 2016 graduate who is now a State Bar leader.

How can attorneys make their appeals be a bit more appealing? Judge Joseph Donald of the Wisconsin Court of Appeals shares tips.

Thanks to donations from State Bar members, the Wisconsin Law Foundation annually provides high-impact grants to programs that promote public understanding of the law and improve the administration of justice. Learn more about the grants and recipients.

Learn tips and tricks to enhance your solo or small-firm practice at the 2022 Wisconsin Solo & Small Firm Conference. This year you can choose to attend in person on Oct. 27-29 in Wisconsin Dells or online Nov. 14-16 – or both.

Can you agree in advance to pay any award of attorney's fees assessed against your client?

Electronic bikes and scooters are more popular than ever. Though foolish and risky both to the driver and the public, riding an electric bike or scooter on a public road while under the influence does not appear to violate Wisconsin OWI laws.

Recent federal court decisions counsel caution when attempting to regulate student expression related to firearms.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Martina Gast, chair of the State Bar’s Indian Law section, says the upcoming annual CLE will touch on topics ranging from sports betting at tribal casinos to tribal judges.

With hundreds of municipalities in Wisconsin, where do you start your research? Law Librarian Emily Gellings provides a list of resources and how to stay current in this vast and varied area of law.

Interested in gaining more tools and skills to help you succeed, and a network of colleagues to support you? The G. Lane Ware Leadership Academy helps you do just that, say its graduates. Apply for the 2022-23 Leadership Academy by Sept. 12.

The Wisconsin Lawyers' Fund for Client Protection Committee reimbursed more than $130K to nine victims of lawyer theft over the past year.

Tom Shorter, a partner at Husch Blackwell, and David Cade, the CEO of the American Health Lawyers Association, will present on a range of state and federal health law developments, at the upcoming Health, Labor, and Employment Law Institute.

For the clerks of the 2022 State Bar of Wisconsin Diversity Clerkship Program, the summer offered confirmation of their decision to enter the legal profession.

WisLawNOW has grown to include close to 50 law blogs that provide timely updates across practice areas and drive people to lawyers' websites. Is your blog on the list?

The Waushara County Circuit Court will be destroying the exhibits in the following cases noted below by November 1, 2022.

An amended rule promulgated by the Wisconsin Supreme Court now allows lawyers to file paper copies of documents with the supreme court instead of original paper documents, as along as the original was physically signed by the lawyer.

Former U.S. Solicitor General and Wisconsin native Paul Clement shares a firsthand account of the decisions and judicial philosophies of the Roberts Court.

The State Bar's Lawyer Referral and Information Service (LRIS) helps you expand your practice. Join now to gain experience and clients.

August is a great time for CLE events, networking, and relaxation – now's the time to sign up for events taking place in person for the first time since 2019: the Health, Labor, and Employment Law Institute, the Family Law Workshop, the Intellectual Property Academy, and Indian Law CLE.

This order amends the requirements applicable to signatures on documents filed in the supreme court until mandatory electronic filing begins in the supreme court.

The Wisconsin Business Court Advisory Committee filed a rule petition seeking to extend the court’s pilot project for commercial court dockets for large claims business and commercial cases for an additional two years, and to amend the existing interim rule to extend the pilot project and to clarify that local input is considered before judges are appointed to the pilot commercial court docket.

Victoria Schiller, a Wisconsin resident, filed an administrative rule petition asking the court to amend certain Wisconsin statutes "in order to shift the generally perceived responsibilities of a guardian ad litem to reflect the legal impacts of the 'Ending Qualified Immunity Act.'"

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

You accepted a case where an advanced fee is paid by a third party – then realize a conflict requires you to withdraw. Who should receive the refund?

Need a solution to grow your practice? Constant Contact professional email marketing services can help you attract new clients by providing industry-leading online marketing services and advice.

Are you a new lawyer who works with the underserved in Wisconsin? The Wisconsin Law Foundation provides financial awards to those who represent underserved populations – people who have difficulty affording legal services and those in rural areas with limited access to legal services. Apply by Aug. 19.

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.

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 2022 John Lederer Service Award. Nominations are due Aug. 31.

Expungement of a past criminal conviction may help open doors for your client in obtaining employment, housing, and other critical opportunities. Law librarian Wendy Smith helps you understand this important process in Wisconsin and the resources available for legal information.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Lawyers must abide by their client's wishes regarding settlement. But what if that settlement requires being hired by the opposing party?

Keep up with the evolving trends, technology, and political policies impacting health care and the workplace at the 2022 Health, Labor, and Employment Law Institute, Aug. 18-19, at Glacier Canyon Lodge in Wisconsin Dells.

Registration is open for the 41st Annual Family Law Workshop – back in person in beautiful Door County. This year's event is Aug. 4-6 and features the latest issues in family law.

Christopher Shattuck, State Bar of Wisconsin law practice assistance manager, shares tips for law school grads looking to maximize their experiences as new lawyers.

Thanks to the generous challenge pledge of attorney Kevin Lyons and his wife, Roseann, all donations to the Wisconsin Law Foundation up to $25,000 made since July 1, 2021, have been doubled. The challenge campaign ends on June 30, so there's still time to donate and double your gift.

He's followed in his father's footsteps, and readily admits to "coloring outside the lines." Find out more about Judge Christopher Foley, the 2022 State Bar of Wisconsin Lifetime Jurist.

Following Wisconsin boating laws and regulations is the best way to stay safe on the water this summer.

Members should have received FY 2023 statements for Wisconsin Supreme Court assessments and State Bar of Wisconsin membership dues. Be sure to take advantage of your member benefits.

Ambiguity in a state law regulating public utilities has stalled the advent of solar energy installations in Wisconsin.

"This is the best opportunity of the entire year to interact with judges and lawyers and learn about what’s new in Wisconsin law and Wisconsin courts,” says Judge Randy R. Koschnick, director of state courts, of the State Bar's upcoming Annual Meeting & Conference.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

There is still time to double your donation in support of the Wisconsin Law Foundation. Your support, now more than ever, is critical to our ability to fund important programs and services across Wisconsin – your donations could be doubled through the end of June.

Legal books, websites, and databases contain a great amount of knowledge and practice tools for lawyers conducting legal research. Law librarian Carol Hassler discusses the don't-miss tools and knowledge sources that every new lawyer needs to know about.

The best briefs undergo a review process that is merciless, say attorneys honored in the Best Briefs Competition by the Appellate Practice Section. Learn more about the winners and their approach to powerful written advocacy.

To create an inclusive environment, there needs to be some intention in the language we use, says Alonzo Kelly, an executive coach, professor, best-selling author, and radio host. He is a featured presenter at the State Bar’s Annual Meeting and Conference on Thursday, June 16.

The Wisconsin Supreme Court has given its tentative approval to Rule Petition 21-05, which would authorize the remote administration of oaths during depositions.

Need a solution for your cybersecurity insurance needs? HSB Total Cyber offers comprehensive cyber insurance solutions that can help you and your firm prepare for a cyberattack or data breach. r of Wisconsin.

Book your getaway in June: Register by May 26 for this year's State Bar of Wisconsin Annual Meeting & Conference and save $25 off your tuition.

Marisol González Castillo was the first in her family to attend college and law school. Now a successful attorney, she is this year's Diversity & Inclusion Trailblazer, opening doors for future lawyers.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

It can seem daunting when a client needs help in the area of securities law, if this area is new to you. Law Librarian Elizabeth Manriquez provides a list of resources and how to stay current in this rapidly changing area of law.

Do lawyers who represents themselves in a legal matter need to worry about the no contact rule?

The rise of short-term vacation rentals over the years, through websites like Airbnb and Vrbo, has created some legal friction between homeowners and municipalities.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Niebler-Brown will be recognized for her pro bono work at AMC on June 16.

Elon Musk's proposed acquisition of Twitter is one of the largest leveraged buyouts in history. The impact of Twitter going private – on both its users and the social media, communication and technology industries as a whole – is yet to be seen.

Members will soon receive FY 2023 statements for Wisconsin Supreme Court assessments and State Bar of Wisconsin membership dues. Be sure to take advantage of your member benefits.

The Wisconsin Law Foundation supports programs that enhance the public's knowledge of the justice system, encourages diversity in the profession, and assists young lawyers with taking up leadership roles. Now is the time to remember the Foundation on your dues statement – your donations can have double the impact.

Barron County Circuit Court Judge James C. Babler is the recipient of the State Bar of Wisconsin's 2022 Judge of the Year award. Find out why he's made a significant impact on the lives of children in his county.

After more than 30 years, we are saying goodbye to the print edition of the Wisconsin Lawyer Directory. However, our online directory remains the up-to-date place to find contact information for legal professionals across the state.

The State Bar of Wisconsin is seeking nominations for the 2022 Wisconsin Legal Innovator awards. The "That's a Fine Idea: Legal Innovation Wisconsin" initiative, now in its 9th year, has uncovered some of Wisconsin's greatest legal innovators.

On Nov. 2, 2021, the Board of Bar Examiners petitioned the court to amend SCR 40.02 to enable qualified individuals for admission to the practice of law in Wisconsin to appear remotely, via audio-visual communications technology, in order to take the Attorney’s Oath before a justice of the Wisconsin Supreme Court. The court voted to grant the petition with a modified, uniform deadline as requested by the State Bar of Wisconsin.

On Oct. 8, 2021, the Wisconsin Association for Justice petitioned the court to amend Wis. Stat. section 804.03 to allow the remote administration of oaths at depositions as a temporary measure during the COVID-19 pandemic. The court extended the temporary order permitting remote depositions until July 1, 2022. The court now considers whether to formally amend the rule to continue this practice long-term.

On Aug. 31, 2021, the Director of State Courts petitioned the court to amend Wis. Stat. sections 753.24, 753.26, 757.12, 757.14, and 757.70 relating to the location of court. Following a public hearing on Feb. 15, the court discussed the petition at a closed administrative conference and voted to grant the petition.

On Dec. 29, 2021, the Hon. Robert J. Collins II, Oneida Judiciary, filed a rule petition to amend SCR 31.01(11) to allow tribal courts to appoint attorneys to provide pro bono legal services, and to permit the attorney to claim continuing legal education credits in lieu of monetary payments.

Wisconsin native Paul Clement has argued more cases before the U.S. Supreme Court than anyone in the modern era. In June, he will discuss recent changes undergone by the Roberts Court at the State Bar of Wisconsin's Annual Meeting & Conference.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Is it unauthorized practice of law if lawyers who live in one jurisdiction practice (virtually) in another via remote work?

Twenty-four young lawyers, nominated by legal professionals statewide, attended the State Bar of Wisconsin Leadership Development Summit.

The State Bar of Wisconsin's Annual Meeting & Conference returns in person this June in Lake Geneva. We hope to see you there – register by May 5 for the best rate.

They are members of the legal community who make a difference – by mentoring others, offering their pro bono services, and going the extra mile. Congratulations to these 14 award recipients.

It’s never too soon to start thinking about severe weather, even in the middle of a cold spring.

Are you prepared in case of a natural disaster? Christopher Shattuck, State Bar of Wisconsin law practice assistance manager, shares quick tips to help you recover when a disaster impacts your law practice.

At age 30, Charles Clevert became the first Black federal judge in Wisconsin history. He continues to help parties settle disputes as a mediator and arbitrator.

Gov. Tony Evers has announced an $8 million grant to the Wisconsin Trust Account Foundation Inc. to support low-income residents who need legal assistance as they recover from the pandemic.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Whether you are a music consumer, a musician, or a lawyer interested in music law, the music industry requires extensive legal expertise for protecting and managing rights to creative work. Law librarian Genevieve Zook provides a comprehensive list of online copyright and research resources for music law.

The State Bar's Lawyer Referral and Information Service (LRIS) helps you expand your practice. Join now and get April, May, and June free in 2022.

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for remote authorization technology has been in demand. eNotaryLog, on the list of approved providers by the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions, now offers discounts to State Bar of Wisconsin members.

Help set the direction and policies of the State Bar of Wisconsin by voting in the upcoming elections. Here's what you need to know to cast your vote.

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 2021, 294 lawyers made the list.

Meet the three leaders honored in March by the State Bar of Wisconsin Young Lawyers Division. All three are making a difference among their colleagues and in their communities.

After nine years of practicing estate planning and elder law, Appleton lawyer Jon Fischer has seen up close the effects of failing to plan for end-of-life care.

Building a diverse and inclusive practice leads to better decisions and potentially more business, says Dr. Sharon Meit Abrahams, an international legal talent expert.

Get tips to better manage your files and keep them secure. State Bar Law Practice Assistance Manager Christopher Shattuck shares helpful practice management tips and legal technology apps that can increase efficiencies in law firms.

The pandemic exacerbated problems with access-to-justice across Wisconsin – problems that legal agencies scrambled to meet with new service models.

On Oct. 8, 2021, The Wisconsin Association for Justice filed a rule petition seeding to amend the Wis. Stat. section 804.03 to allow remote administration of oaths at depositions, consistent with a series of temporary orders that permitted this practice during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Built with the legal professionals in mind, BobaGuard offers a simple way to protect your practice and your clients' sensitive data from dangerous hackers. You can protect your firm from cybercriminals and still have the time to build your practice.

With the April elections approaching, now is the time to learn about those candidates who are asking for your vote to lead the State Bar of Wisconsin as governors.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

In discussing cases with someone outside of the office, do government lawyers have different confidentiality obligations than other lawyers?

The recent approval of the Racial Justice Task Force Report by the State Bar’s Board of Governors was a big step for the legal profession, says President Cheryl Daniels.

Federal legislators and regulators are responding to restrictions on consumers' right to repair vehicles and other products.

It's nearly tax season. With so much information available, how do you know which resources to trust? Law librarian Carol Hassler guides you through resources to help you with your tax law research.

A new State Bar of Wisconsin member discount program now offers discounts for members on travel, hotel, car rentals, and entertainment. It's easy – and here's how to benefit.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

To help thousands of Afghan allies start their new lives in Wisconsin, Chippewa Falls native Sahar Taman led a small army of volunteer lawyers to assist with their legal needs. Find out more about the legal clinic at Fort McCoy and the lawyer who led it.

The Wisconsin Equal Justice Conference returns Thursday, March 10. Find out more about this 6.5 CLE credit event, which is happening both on Zoom and in person.

Register now: The State Bar of Wisconsin's Annual Meeting & Conference returns in person this June in Lake Geneva.

It's all happening: The Young Lawyers Conference, held by the State Bar of Wisconsin's Young Lawyers Division (YLD), is coming to Wisconsin Dells on March 11. Get CLE and see your colleagues: Sign up today. Tuition is complimentary for YLD members.

Three new flow charts can help you determine which trust accounts should be used to process the varying forms and types of payments from clients.

The candidates, both of whom practice in Greater Wisconsin, discuss how they would address the challenges facing the legal profession.

Congratulations to the teams who competed in the 2022 Wisconsin High School Mock Trial regional tournament! The top 12 teams will compete in the finals tournament in March.

Under new Wisconsin laws, all businesses, organizations and governmental units holding unclaimed property in Wisconsin are given the opportunity to apply for an Unclaimed Property Voluntary Disclosure Agreement with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Can we host a link for an outside business on our website and permit the outside business to link to our firm?

Grants of up to $2,400 are available for programs that help public understanding of the legal system. Past recipients include ABC for Health, Inc., and teen court programs across the state. Apply by April 1, 2022.

The Wisconsin Equal Justice Conference returns Thursday, March 10. Find out more about this 6.5 CLE credit event, which is happening both on Zoom and in person.

The State Bar is celebrating the lawyers admitted in 1972, reaching their 50-year milestone in the legal profession. Together, we honor your years of practice and your many achievements.

There's so many ways to get involved in your State Bar, says State Bar President-elect Margaret Hickey. "Whatever your interest, my expectation is that there's a committee that would fit your interests."

When a grievance is filed, there's an opportunity for both sides to present their perspectives – and possibly resolve the dispute without the need for formal discipline.

The shift to virtual practice has forced Wisconsin lawyers to confront novel ethics issues.

Young lawyers: Expand your network of colleagues while exploring topics of interest to young lawyers in Wisconsin at the Young Lawyer Conference on March 11. Register today – it's free for members of the Young Lawyers Division.

When drafting a commercial lease agreement, entering into a new lease, or challenging provisions of a lease, you need access to authoritative sources. Law librarian Amy Crowder lists some of the best resources for putting together the best commercial lease for your client.

If you donated 50 or more hours of qualifying pro bono legal services to benefit low-income Wisconsin residents in 2021, you qualify as a member of the Wisconsin Pro Bono Honor Society – certify your service by Feb. 28.

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.

The amendments begin a new chapter in the history of legalized gambling in the Badger State.

Economic and demographic forces have combined to erect barriers to legal access for rural populations. According to Dr. Michele Statz, those barriers have a significant effect on public health.

A work two years in the making, the Wisconsin Association of African-American Lawyers has published the histories of 11 pioneering Black Wisconsin lawyers. Find out more about these lawyers, and why it is important to keep their history alive.

Presenters discussed flaws in commonly accepted areas of forensic science and, explored the differences between law and science, and spoke movingly from personal experience about the costs of wrongful convictions.

When you receive an email from opposing counsel that includes several recipients, do you need to know who those recipients are before choosing "reply all?

A rule petition asking the court to amend SCR 31.06 relating to CLE requirements for the transfer from inactive to active membership status.

On Aug. 31, 2021, the Director of State Courts filed a rule petition asking the court to amend the Wisconsin statutes pertaining to the location of court.

This rule petition asks the court to create a new Wis. Stat. §§ 48.299 (2m) and 938.299 (2m) to create a uniform court procedure regarding the use of restraints on children in juvenile court.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

High school students will tackle the difficult issues presented in a disability rights case – as the High School Mock Trial tournament again moves online for 2022. Volunteers are needed as referees for the online regional and state tournament competitions.

As you begin 2022, please consider supporting the Wisconsin Law Foundation. Your support, now more than ever, is critical to our ability to fund important programs and services across Wisconsin – and now, your donations could be doubled.

The State Bar of Wisconsin's Lawyer Referral and Information Service (LRIS) connects people seeking lawyers with lawyers seeking clients. And right now, those who register through June 2022 receive 50 percent off the cost of registration.

It's a new year. Are you making the most of your State Bar membership benefits and discounts?

The State Bar of Wisconsin's 2022 president-elect race features two candidates with a keen understanding of what it means to practice law outside Madison and Milwaukee.

On a blustery November day, members of the State Bar of Wisconsin Construction & Public Contract Law Section volunteered for a different sort of pro bono work: to build a fence for a family in need in Milwaukee. It was great way to take a break from the computer to do hands-on work, writes section advisor Mark Schmidt.

The science behind forensic evidence is only one front in the battle against wrongful convictions. Another is the relationship between technology and civil liberties, says Elizabeth Daniel Vasquez, special forensic science counsel at Brooklyn Defender Services.

The current term of office of United States Magistrate Judge William E. Duffin in the Eastern District of Wisconsin is due to expire on March 27, 2022. The United States District Court is required by law to establish a panel of citizens to consider the reappointment of the magistrate judge to a new eight-year term.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Is it a violation of ethical rules for a prosecutor to only listen to a represented defendant who wants to discuss the charges against him?

From providing tips to protect your firm from ransomware to answers to substantive law questions, the State Bar of Wisconsin's Practice411 elist offered useful practice information to its members in 2021.

As you determine your year-end giving, please consider supporting the Wisconsin Law Foundation. Your support, now more than ever, is critical to our ability to fund important programs and services across Wisconsin – and now, your donations could be doubled.

The new Ultimate Pass Bronze option from the State Bar of Wisconsin gives you access to unlimited PINNACLE webcast and audio seminars for one low cost. See the benefits of each Ultimate Pass plan below, and find out more about this new option.

Serving in a leadership position in a State Bar of Wisconsin division helps lawyers lead the profession and make connections throughout the state. Learn how to run for a leadership position in your division.

Marshall Gratz spent his entire legal career practicing labor law, working as both a lawyer and an arbitrator. He looks back at some of the changes in the field.

When Janis Puracal's brother was convicted on bogus drug trafficking charges, she was a newbie lawyer with no criminal law experience and didn't know much about forensic evidence. She shares her experience at the upcoming Forensic Justice Institute, Jan. 20-21, 2022.

A rule petition filed with the Wisconsin Supreme Court would allow juveniles to be shackled only where a court finds that shackles are necessary because the juvenile presents a threat of harm, has a history of disruptive courtroom behavior, or presents a flight risk.

As Wisconsin's legal community pressed on through the second year of the COVID-19 pandemic, they continued to produce top-notch content. Here's the top articles of 2021.

Forensic Justice Institute presenter Dave Thompson discusses best practices for criminal interviews.

Pay your FY 23 Supreme Court assessments and State Bar dues over six months: Sign up by early January.

The State Bar of Wisconsin offers a health care insurance option for law firms with two or more employees. Learn how this option for law firms might cut costs of your 2022 coverage. To have coverage by Jan. 1, file your paperwork by Dec. 15.

Here's your chance to 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 2022 State Bar Board of Governors' position – petitions are due March 1.

The State Bar of Wisconsin has received reports of a Business Email Compromise scam in which scammers impersonate members of the State Bar’s leadership team and request help in making financial transactions.

Neenah attorney Steve R. Sorenson is recipient of the Wisconsin Law Foundation's 2021 Charles L. Goldberg Distinguished Service Award, which recognizes a lifetime of service to the profession and the community. Find out more about Sorenson's legacy of service.

Lawyers encounter ethical issues every day in their practice. But what do you need to know about using electronic transactions? Don't miss Ethical Requirements for Processing ACH, Wire Transfers and Credit Card Payments from State Bar of Wisconsin PINNACLE® on Dec. 17, 2021.

Law librarian Carol Hassler guides you through some of the best resources for beginning your research into privacy laws.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

False and contaminated confessions, memory distrust and coercive police interviewing tactics can lead to false confessions and miscarriages of justice, according to speakers at the upcoming Forensic Justice Institute.

As you determine your year-end giving, please consider supporting the Wisconsin Law Foundation.

At its Dec. 3 meeting, the State Bar of Wisconsin's Board of Governors may take action on two petitions currently pending before the Wisconsin Supreme Court, one related to the "location of courts" and another on juvenile shackling.

Do you know someone deserving of recognition for their work in the profession or their community? The State Bar of Wisconsin is seeking nominations for jurist, lawyer, legal worker, and other awards – nomination deadline is Jan. 31, 2022.

Three members of the Business Court Advisory Committee – Marinette County Circuit Court Judge James Morrison, Waukesha County Circuit Court Judge Michael Aprahamian, and Laura Brenner, a business litigator at Reinhart Boerner Van Dueren S.C. – provided an update about the Commercial Docket Pilot Project.

A petition filed with the Wisconsin Supreme Court would create a permanent rule for remote depositions.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Your client has a warrant, and doesn’t want to surrender. You are in communication with the client and know their location - what are your responsibilities?

High school students will tackle the difficult issues presented in a disability rights case during the 2022 Wisconsin High School Mock Trial competition.

From Africa to prisons to the U.W. Athletic Office, Walter Dickey discusses his wild ride.

Ronald Westgate has run Wisconsin Judicare' s mediation program since its inception. The program offers services to people facing small-claims actions and evictions actions, as well as those subject to court-ordered mediations.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Have you written a song, or do you know a neighborhood band, or are you interested in getting to know copyright law? Here's how to gain a clear, comprehensive understanding of music copyright law (while you listen to some great Fab Four songs!).

A federal judge in California last week gave preliminary approval to a national $85 million agreement to settle lawsuits filed against Zoom Video Communications.

Rebeca M. López is vice president of the Wisconsin Hispanic Lawyers Association, an organization that boosts the careers of Latinx lawyers across Wisconsin. Find out more about López and the WHLA.

Next week, Oct. 24-30, is National Pro Bono Week. Help celebrate by learning how lawyers are providing pro bono assistance in rural Wisconsin.

Legal research can be hard. Fastcase aims to make it easier. Christina Steinbrecker-Jack, Chief Product Officer at Fastcase, shares how this State Bar of Wisconsin member benefit can help you refine your search and find the right case law, statute, and more.

National Paralegal Day is Oct. 23, 2021. More than 260 paralegals in Wisconsin have completed the State Bar of Wisconsin Certified Paralegal program since 2018. 

On May 25, 2021, the State Bar of Wisconsin Standing Committee on Professional Ethics and the Wisconsin State Public Defender filed a rule petition seeking to amend Supreme Court Rule (SCR) 20:1.0 and SCR 20:1.10 to clarify that conflicts of interest involving public defenders should be controlled by SCR 20:1.10 rather than SCR 20:1.11.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

New rules recently temporarily expanded who qualifies for loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. Kail Decker discusses the recent history and his experience with the loan program, the new rules, and their potential effect on law school graduates who carry loan debt.

It's October – so now's the time to get in the mood to celebrate fall and Halloween. But where can you find tips on whether your costume violates copyright, or how to keep your party legal?

New conflicts rules regarding public defenders take effect Jan. 1, 2022. Just what are they, and do they apply to all government lawyers?

Madison attorney J. David Krekeler stepped up and helped many solo and small-firm lawyers survive the pandemic. He is recipient of the John Lederer Distinguished Service Award.

A national de-listing of the gray wolf from the Endangered Species list triggered a statutory wolf hunting season in Wisconsin. The lawsuits followed.

'We have a Responsibility:' Draper Receives Client Protection Award.

If you are transitioning to remote work or want to give your law firm's remote technology a checkup, you'll want to attend the upcoming session, "Upping your Remote Office Game: Prepping Your Firm to Be Flexible," taking place at the virtual Wisconsin Solo and Small Firm Conference, Oct. 28-30.

Research into the legislative drafting files can show a wealth of information, such as the legislative intent behind a statute. Law librarian Carol Hassler gives tips to help you find what you're looking for.

The Wisconsin Solo & Small Firm Conference is fast-approaching. Presenters share why lawyers should attend their sessions, which will be held virtually on Oct. 28-30..

Milwaukee attorney Alyssa Johnson signed up as a mentee in 2016 for the inaugural year of the State Bar of Wisconsin's mentoring program, Ready.Set.Practice. She talks about why she is still participating in the program, now as a mentor.

It's good time of year to run a check-up on your health insurance plans. Open Enrollment for the State Bar of Wisconsin Group Health Plan for law firms is Nov. 1 through Dec. 15, 2021. Find out how the State Bar can help you find the best plan for your situation.

Moria Krueger became the first woman judge in Dane County, in 1977, when she defeated an incumbent in a recall election. She stayed on the bench for nearly three decades, but her fate might have been much different.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

In this video, Amy Koltz, executive director of Mediate Wisconsin – which specializes in housing mediation – talks about the eviction moratorium, how the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision impacts Wisconsinites moving forward, and the resources available.

Wisconsin's Commercial Court Pilot Project has expanded to 26 counties. Are you properly designating your case for the commercial/business court docket?

Enter the State Bar of Wisconsin Appellate Practice Section's competition to identify and recognize outstanding appellate briefs – entries are due Jan. 31.

"My volunteer work for the State Bar makes me a more well-informed lawyer and a better-connected professional," says State Bar President-elect Margaret Hickey, who encourages her colleagues to run for a State Bar position.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Sign up as a mentor or mentee for the State Bar of Wisconsin's mentoring program, Ready.Set.Practice. Mentee sign-up deadline is Oct. 15.

May a law firm accept a new matter in which the opposing party is insured by a client the firm represents on other unrelated matters?

Lawyers should have a business plan and contingency financing in place to weather uncertain financial times that cannot be addressed with conventional strategic planning. State Bar of Wisconsin Law Practice Assistance Manager Christopher C. Shattuck and Courtney Searles, senior vice president and private banking regional manager for Johnson Financial Group, discuss best practices for business planning.

Almost three decades ago, in 1992, Tom Sleik became president of the State Bar of Wisconsin during a tumultuous time. As an organization itself, the State Bar was grappling with its own identity. As a society, tensions were high.

Interested in gaining more tools and skills to help you succeed, and a network of colleagues to support you? The G. Lane Ware Leadership Academy helps you do just that, says its graduates. Apply for the 2021-22 Leadership Academy by Sept. 13.

You may know Joe Forward as the State Bar's legal writer. Join us in welcoming him as the State Bar of Wisconsin's new communications director.

To remain diligent, lawyers should understand the Wisconsin Supreme Court Rules regarding lawyer succession, sale of a law firm, and client communications. State Bar of Wisconsin Law Practice Assistance Manager Christopher C. Shattuck and Dean R. Dietrich

For lawyers who take on public defender cases, getting paid in a timely fashion is important. Christopher Shattuck offers tips on ensuring your invoice isn’t rejected due to common errors – so you can get paid more quickly.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

There are effective and low-cost apps available that assist practitioners in finding every billable minute of their day.

Everyone needs an occasional tune-up. The Wisconsin Solo & Small Firm Conference, Oct. 28-30, will help you get the updates, tips, and legal information to keep the practice running smoothly, while earning up to 16.5 CLE credits.

Challenges to the executive branch's authority to act during COVID-19 continued this term, and other high-profile cases were election-related. This article includes insights from a civil litigator and former public defender, with holdings and votes on every case.

All the circuit courts in Wisconsin have been open for in-person proceedings since June, including jury trials, according to the Wisconsin Director of State Courts, Judge Randy Koschnick, who provides an update in this interview.

On May 25, 2021, the State Bar Professional Ethics Committee and the State Public Defender filed a rule petition seeking to clarify that conflict of interests involving public defenders should be controlled by SCR 20:1.10 rather than SCR 20:1.11.

Wisconsin has the highest percentage of women justices of any state supreme court in the nation at nearly 86 percent.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Pondering accepting bitcoin or other cryptocurrency for payment of client fees? Disciplinary rules do not prohibit a lawyer from accepting cryptocurrency as payment for legal fees, but the rules do impose certain requirements.

Tatiana Shirasaki has been a lawyer in two countries – in her native Brazil, and now, in the U.S. As the 2021 Young Lawyers Division's Outstanding Young Lawyer of the Year, Shirasaki is dedicated to paying it forward.

For the clerks of the 2021 State Bar of Wisconsin Diversity Clerkship Program, the summer offered opportunity and experience that will shape their legal careers while benefitting employers. Find out more about this year's program participants.

Unfortunately, the latest scams targeting law firms aren't always obvious. Here are some real-world stories about scams that targeted Wisconsin lawyers – and the lessons we all can learn from them.

More than 40 blogs are now on WisLawNOW, creating content in different practice areas and providing timely information on legal developments. Are you on the list?

James Spella of West Bend, recognized as an outstanding mentor by the State Bar of Wisconsin Young Lawyers Division, talks about why mentoring is so important to the legal profession: "Mentoring allows us to 'raise the Bar.'"

They used to call him "Hector the Protector" during his days as a Milwaukee County prosecutor. Hector de la Mora, who began his career in the district attorney's office, remembers his first jury trial in the early 1970s.

Now through June 2022, new donor contributions to the Wisconsin Law Foundation will be doubled, thanks to a generous pledge from the Kevin & Roseann Lyons Fund with the Greater Milwaukee Foundation.

In this video interview, Stacie Rosenzweig – an attorney with Halling & Cayo S.C. – discusses legal blogging, how she got started, and what keeps her going.

After a client's divorce, can I represent that client in an estate planning matter if I previously represented both former spouses together on an estate plan?

The 2021 Wisconsin Solo & Small Firm Conference (WSSFC) features a hybrid model, giving you the flexibility to choose the type of attendance that best fits your professional and personal needs.

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 2021 John Lederer Service Award. Nominations are due Sept. 10.

Registration is open for the 40th Annual Family Law Workshop. This year's event on Aug. 5 and 6 will be held virtually, and features the latest issues in the family law.

Are you a new lawyer who works with the underserved in Wisconsin? The Wisconsin Law Foundation provides grants to those who represent underserved populations – people who have difficulty affording legal services and those in rural areas with limited access to legal services. Apply by Aug. 20.

Thanks to a team of Wisconsin lawyers, you can now take a walking tour in Janesville that follows in the footsteps of Lavinia Goodell, Wisconsin's first woman lawyer.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

State Bar members are invited to attend 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.

Marquette University History Professor Alan Ball has a hobby that helps lawyers and the public better understand the Wisconsin Supreme Court: he researches the court’s decisions each term and publishes statistics at SCOWstats.com.

The Wisconsin Lawyers' Fund for Client Protection Committee reimbursed more than $46K to 14 victims of lawyer theft over the past year. Committee Chair Amy Wochos makes a request: Seek help when you can't properly represent your client.

Marty Greenberg brought sports law to Wisconsin and made Marquette University Law School's National Sports Law Institute one of the nation's top programs.

Searching for liens is a necessary and important step in financial legal research. Learn more about the best ways to seek out information on these types of claims.

Thanks to donations from State Bar members, the Wisconsin Law Foundation annually provides high-impact grants to programs that promote public understanding of the law and improve the administration of justice.

The popular Annual Indian Law CLE returns in August as a virtual webcast seminar. Reserve your spot today to learn more about the broad field of Indian Law.

Interested in gaining more tools and skills to help you succeed, and a network of colleagues to support you? The G. Lane Ware Leadership Academy helps you do just that, say its graduates. Apply for the 2021-22 Leadership Academy by Sept. 13.

The state supreme court issued three 4-3 decisions in Fourth Amendment cases, providing insights on how the new court will approach these issues moving forward.

In this video interview, Stacie Rosenzweig – an attorney with Halling & Cayo S.C. – discusses legal blogging, how she got started, and what keeps her going.

They used to call him "Hector the Protector" during his days as a Milwaukee County prosecutor. Hector de la Mora, who began his career in the district attorney's office, remembers his first jury trial in the early 1970s.

James Spella of West Bend, recognized as an outstanding mentor by the State Bar of Wisconsin Young Lawyers Division, talks about why mentoring is so important to the legal profession: "Mentoring allows us to 'raise the Bar.'"

More than 40 blogs are now on WisLawNOW, creating content in different practice areas and providing timely information on legal developments. Are you on the list?

Thanks to a team of Wisconsin lawyers, you can now take a walking tour in Janesville that follows in the footsteps of Lavinia Goodell, Wisconsin's first woman lawyer.

After a client's divorce, can I represent that client in an estate planning matter if I previously represented both former spouses together on an estate plan?

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Now through June 2022, new donor contributions to the Wisconsin Law Foundation will be doubled, thanks to a generous pledge from the Kevin & Roseann Lyons Fund with the Greater Milwaukee Foundation.

Are you a new lawyer who works with the underserved in Wisconsin? The Wisconsin Law Foundation provides grants to those who represent underserved populations – people who have difficulty affording legal services and those in rural areas with limited access to legal services. Apply by Aug. 20.

Now through June 2022, certain donor contributions to the Wisconsin Law Foundation will be doubled, thanks to a generous pledge from the Kevin & Roseann Lyons Fund with the Greater Milwaukee Foundation.

State Bar members are invited to attend 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.

Registration is open for the 40th Annual Family Law Workshop. This year's event on Aug. 5 and 6 will be held virtually, and features the latest issues in the family law.

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 2021 John Lederer Service Award. Nominations are due Sept. 10.

The 2021 Wisconsin Solo & Small Firm Conference (WSSFC) features a hybrid model, giving you the flexibility to choose the type of attendance that best fits your professional and personal needs.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

On June 21, 2021, Joseph R. Laumann filed a petition for reinstatement of his Wisconsin law license. The Office of Lawyer Regulation (OLR) will investigate Laumann’s eligibility for reinstatement of his license and assigned OLR Matter No. 2021MA702 to its investigation.

On June 9, 2021, the State Bar Board of Governors approved bylaw amendments to Article I Membership: Section 1 Membership Register and Article II Officers Section 3 Election of Chairperson of the Board of Governors.

As a new lawyer, you face the challenges of transitioning from law school to practice. Where do you turn? Riley Leonard shares four resources he used to succeed at his first tasks as a young lawyer.

Receiving a notification of a trust accounting error is a truly unpleasant experience. Common mistakes can be avoided by understanding the practical and ethical requirements of the Supreme Court Rules concerning trust accounting. Travis Stieren, Office of Lawyer Regulation Trust Account Program Administrator, discuss strategies for addressing common violations.

Concurrences and dissents leave clues on where a decision might fall if the Wisconsin Supreme Court was deciding the merits of the case.

The Wisconsin Supreme Court invites you to help identify the critical issues within Wisconsin’s court system. The deadline to complete survey the survey is July 20, 2021.

From the Americans with Disabilities Act to the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and a variety of Wisconsin statutes, there are many resources that define and outline the rights of those with disabilities. This is a guide to online resources for those researching disability cases.

On the board of directors of the LGBT Bar Association of Wisconsin, Angela Harden has a passion for the law and its ability to shape cultures, communities, and lives for the better. Find out more about Harden and the association.

Wisconsin Supreme Court says state's implied consent law is unconstitutional, cannot be used on its own as a basis to draw blood from suspected drunk drivers who become incapacitated.

Mental health law crosses many practices areas, according to Amanda Pirt Meyer, co-author of a new book, Mental Health Law in Wisconsin: A Guide for Legal and Healthcare Professionals, published by State Bar of Wisconsin PINNACLE®.

At age 17, Jarett Adams – now a lawyer – was wrongfully convicted of a crime. He recently told his story at the State Bar of Wisconsin's Annual Meeting & Conference.

It happens: You spot an error made by the court in your client's case. Whether or not that error helps your client, must you inform the court of the error?

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

On Dec. 11, 2020, the Director of State Courts filed a rule petition seeding to amend Supreme Court Rule 70.19 and various statutes pertaining to the location of court and to the use of videoconferencing technology.

Retiring Sheboygan County Circuit Court Judge L. Edward Stengel is a recipient of the State Bar's Lifetime Jurist award. Find out more about this former Illinois farm boy whose grandmother taught him the value of education.

Celebrating a 50-year member: Reforming juvenile justice, saving the State Public Defender System, and creating a vision for Dane County are just a few of Rick Phelps' accomplishments.

Take advantage of the biggest educational and motivational event of the year: The State Bar of Wisconsin Annual Meeting & Conference (AMC) next week, June 10-11. Reserve your spot today for this virtual event.

Don't miss the 40th Annual Family Law Section Workshop, which will take place virtually, August 5-6, 2021.

The Court no longer requires that personal masking, social distancing, and sanitizing court facilities be part of any plan for circuit court and municipal court proceedings approved by the chief judge of the applicable judicial district.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Congratulations, new lawyers! There's still a lot to learn – so here are resources that law librarians say every new lawyer should know about.

Members should have received FY 2022 statements for Wisconsin Supreme Court assessments and State Bar of Wisconsin membership dues. Be sure to take advantage of your member benefits.

Retiring Dunn County Circuit Court Judge Rod Smeltzer is a recipient of the State Bar's Lifetime Jurist award. How did this former dairy farmer end up serving on the bench for 24 years?

The Vietnam War continued overseas and protests mounted here in the states as the classes of 1970 and 1971 entered the legal profession. Now, they celebrate 50 years.

A public hearing will be held before Referee Joseph D. Jacobson on the petition of Donald J. Peterson of Fitchburg, to reinstate his Wisconsin law license.

Upon the Wisconsin Supreme Court’s own motion, the court amended the comment to SCR 10.03(4) reallocating distribution of the $250 application fee for admission pro hac vice.

Join the celebration on June 9, 2021, as Cheryl Daniels is sworn in as the State Bar's 66th president. Daniels, who will take office July 1, will be sworn in via video conferencing.

Because of the sensitive information that law firms hold, they are often targets for data breaches. That's why it's important to stay up-to-date on the latest scams, says State Bar Law Practice Assistance Manager Christopher Shattuck.

From religious freedom and freedom of speech to the Fourth Amendment and eminent domain, the U.S. Supreme Court is expected to release all decisions by next month.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Renee Nawrocki is president of the Association for Women Lawyers (AWL), an organization that boosts the careers of women lawyers in Wisconsin.

Does signing a noncompete agreement violate ethics rules? If I am forced to sign one to keep my job, what should I do?

They are members of the legal community who make a difference – by mentoring others, offering their services in pro bono work, leading the way in bettering the practice of law in Wisconsin – in 2020 and over the length of their careers. We congratulate these 18 award recipients, offer them a round of applause, and look forward to celebrating with them.

Waukesha County Circuit Court Judge Ralph Ramirez is the State Bar of Wisconsin's recipient of the 2021 Judge of the Year Award. As a grandson of migrant workers and the first lawyer in his family, Judge Ramirez says there is both an art and a science of the bench.

"The focus for lawyers has really changed from what we do in terms of our legal expertise, to how we do it," says Prof. Michele DeStefano, a featured speaker at the State Bar of Wisconsin’s 2021 (Virtual) Annual Meeting and Conference (AMC), June 9-11.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Take advantage of the biggest educational and motivational event of the year: The State Bar of Wisconsin Annual Meeting & Conference (AMC), June 10-11. Reserve your spot today for this virtual event.

Members will soon receive FY 2022 statements for Wisconsin Supreme Court assessments and State Bar of Wisconsin membership dues. Be sure to take advantage of your member benefits.

Wellness is more than an occasional spa treatment or that much-needed vacation. In recognition of Well-Being Week in Law this week, here are some ways your colleagues make their health a priority.

The Wisconsin Law Foundation supports programs that enhance the public's knowledge of the justice system, encourage diversity in the profession, and assist young lawyers with taking up leadership roles. Remember the Foundation on your dues statement.

On Nov. 11, 2020, Sheila T. Reiff, Clerk of Supreme Court and Court of Appeals, on behalf of the Appellate eFiling Committee, filed a rule petition asking the court to approve the use of an expanded electronic filing system for the appellate courts and to amend the rules of appellate procedure in order to implement the system, along with certain amendments related to the circuit court electronic filing rule.

As a lifetime commitment, adopting a child in the U.S. requires an attorney experienced in adoption law to guide a client through the lengthy adoption process. This guide is a quick introduction to available online adoption resources.

Justice Ziegler takes over May 1 for Chief Justice Patience Roggensack, who did not seek reelection as chief justice but will remain on the court.

What's in a firm name? Can a solo attorney use "firm" in their business name? What about "and associates"? Can two lawyers sharing office space use the same firm name?

Atty. Ellen "Ellie" Krug discusses how changing genders affected her ability to fit in and gave her new perspective on the obstacles that women face in social interactions and in the workplace.

n April 2, 2021, Daniel Parks filed a petition to reinstate his Wisconsin law license.

On March 24, 2021, Jean M. Robinson filed a petition for reinstatement of her Wisconsin law license.

On Dec. 10, 2020, the Director of State Courts' Records Management Retention Subcommittee filed this rule petition, asking the court to amend sections of SCR 72.01 and SCR 72.03 to alter certain retention periods for various types of records.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Who is embracing current challenges, looking for opportunities to do it better? Tell us about the people and ideas that are changing Wisconsin's legal landscape.

It doesn't take much to effect real, positive changes in your personal and professional life. Find out more with tips, resources, and other helpful items during Well-Being Week In Law, May 3-7, 2021.

U.S. Supreme Court may decide whether the NCAA's eligibility and compensation restrictions violate antitrust laws.

Keith Findley is a law professor at U.W. Law School and senior advisor to the Wisconsin Innocence Project. He was also co-chair of the Madison Police Body-Worn Camera Feasibility Review Committee, which recently released a final report with recommendations for the City of Madison.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Bryant Park is president of the Wisconsin Asian American Bar Association (WAABA). Find out more about Park and the association that supports Asian American lawyers in the state.

As vaccines increase and COVID-19 cases trend down, "normalcy" comes into focus. But lawyers will continue to use the tools that helped them through this pandemic.

You need to survey multiple states and jurisdictions on a particular topic of law, but the task seems daunting. Law librarian Laura Olsen provides tips on where to begin and where to go next – and lists the resources that can save you time and provide a comprehensive result.

State Bar Practice Management Advisor Christopher Shattuck shares insights from the 2021 annual ABA TECHSHOW, with practical tips on law firm technology.

Voting in the State Bar of Wisconsin elections gives you a say in setting the direction and policies of the State Bar. Look for your ballots to come via email this year. Here's what you need to know to cast your vote.

Amidst a global pandemic, 265 Wisconsin lawyers stepped up and performed at least 50 hours of pro bono legal services in 2020. The Access to Justice Commission and the State Bar of Wisconsin give them a hearty "thank you!"

The State Bar's Lawyer Referral and Information Service (LRIS) helps you expand your practice and bring new clients to your practice. Join now and get April, May, and June 2021 free.

In recognition of Healthcare Decisions Day on April 16, the State Bar is offering a free download – through April 23 – of its health care decisions guide, "A Gift to Your Family: Planning Ahead for Future Health Needs."

The State Bar of Wisconsin Annual Meeting & Conference (AMC), June 10-11. Reserve your spot today for this virtual event – and register by April 28 to get the best rate.

A year ago, Wisconsin High School Mock Trial students faced the sudden cancellation of the end of the tournament. In 2021, they returned to compete via Zoom. For two teams – Shorewood and Waukesha South – the end of the season meant a new experience competing in the state finals.

The pandemic forced the court system to quickly adapt to videoconferencing technology to keep the system running. Now, the Wisconsin Supreme Court is considering a petition to clarify the continued use of videoconferencing, even after COVID-19.

On Oct. 19, 202, the State Bar of Wisconsin filed a rule petition asking the court to modify SCR 10.03 to clarify who is an active or inactive emeritus lawyer and to clarify the scope of permitted practice for the various members.

On Oct. 14, 2020, the Wisconsin Judicial Council filed a rule petition asking the court to amend Wis. Stat. Section (Rule) 809.85 to establish a procedure to govern pro hac vice admission, substitution, and withdrawal of retained counsel in appellate court proceedings.

On July 28, 2020, the Wisconsin Access to Justice Commission filed a rule petition asking the court to repeal and recreate SCR Chapter 50 relating to the practical training of law students.

On Dec. 23, 2019, the Wisconsin Lawyers’ Fund for Client Protection filed a rule petition asking the court to amend SCR 12.07(2)(a) to increase the annual assessment of attorneys for the fund to provide sufficient income for payment of eligible claims.

On Nov. 25, 2019, the Judicial Conduct Advisory Committee filed a rule petition proposing changes to the Wisconsin Code of Judicial Conduct, SCR 60.04.

As the COVID-19 backlog arose in the wake of the preceding government shutdown backlog, it is likely that IRS operations will not return to normal for a long time.

With the April elections approaching, now is the time to learn about those candidates who are asking for your vote to lead the State Bar of Wisconsin as governors.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

When a long-time partner retires, when is it OK to continue to use their name in the firm's name?

Take advantage of the biggest educational and motivational event of the year: The State Bar of Wisconsin Annual Meeting & Conference (AMC), June 10-11. Reserve your spot today for this virtual event – and register by April 28 to get the best rate.

The candidates, both Milwaukee lawyers, discuss the important issues currently facing the legal profession and how they will lead efforts to address them.

A public hearing will be held at the Waukesha County Courthouse on the petition of Robert B. Moodie, Brookfield, to reinstate his Wisconsin law license. Any interested person may appear at the hearing and be heard in support of or in opposition to the petition.

On Dec. 11, 2020, the Director of State Courts filed a rule petition asking the court to amend Supreme Court Rules and Wisconsin statutes pertaining to the location of court and to the use of videoconferencing technology.

On Dec. 10, 2020, the Director of State Courts’ Records Management Retention Subcommittee filed a rule petition asking the court to amend sections of Supreme Court Rule (SCR) 72.01 and 72.03 to alter certain retention periods for various types of records.

Attorneys could play a crucial role in assisting claimants with the forms that must be filed to obtain unemployment benefits.

Volunteer to serve on a State Bar of Wisconsin committee – you will accomplish work that benefits the Wisconsin legal community and the justice system, while making connections with colleagues in this challenging year. Apply by April 15.

Elder law attorneys work to protect the rights of the elderly and individuals with disabilities, providing advice, information, and advocacy for clients to support their financial well-being and health care decision-making. Here are resources to support your elder law practice.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

On April 16, 2021, a public hearing will be held before referee Joseph D. Jacobson in Madison, on the petition of Donald J. Peterson, Fitchburg, to reinstate his Wisconsin law license.

You can't find a former client after receiving a settlement in the case. What do you do with that money?

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Grants of up to $2,350 are available for programs that help public understanding of the legal system. Past recipients include ABC for Health, Inc., and teen court programs across the state. Apply by April 2, 2021.

Are you a leader? Or do you wish to be one? Now's your chance to put your skills into action – and gain valuable leadership experience. Run for a 2021 State Bar Board of Governors' position – petitions are due March 1.

Congratulations to the teams who competed in the 2021 Wisconsin High School Mock Trial regional tournament! The top 10 teams will compete in the finals tournament in March.

Breanne L. Snapp is president of the Legal Association for Women (LAW). Find out more about Snapp and the association that advances the interests of women in the legal profession.

A new ethics opinion from the State Bar's Professional Ethics Committee provides guidance on the ethical implications of working remotely, and provides useful technical recommendations to stay compliant.

The nationwide opioid litigation has and will reap billions of dollars in settlements funds, much like the tobacco litigation settlements of the 1990s.

When working remotely, remember the big three: the duties of competence, communication, and confidentiality. A new ethics opinion provides guidance.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

In this video, Trish Lane and Nadelle Grossman discuss the Business Law Section's Small Business Assistance Project to help struggling small businesses in Wisconsin.

A Tennessee lawyer said he was just being sarcastic when he explained to a Facebook "friend" how the "castle doctrine" could be a solution to her ex-boyfriend problem.

On Jan. 4, 2021, Michael D. Mandelman filed a petition for reinstatement of his Wisconsin law license.

On Jan. 20, 2021, the Board of Bar Examiners (Board), with the State Bar's support, filed a request asking the court to retroactively extend, with minor modifications, the terms of Order 20-01 through the 2021 CLE reporting period.

Wisconsin Jury Instructions, previously available for purchase, are now available free online through the Wisconsin State Law Library. Lawyers and the public now have open access to the criminal, civil, and children's jury instructions.

The merger of Fastcase and Casemaker is good news for attorneys who use their platforms. Learn more about the practical implications of the merger, what's new in Fastcase, and where to find the publicly available Wisconsin Jury Instructions.

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. This year, one of the delegates must be a young lawyer.

If you donated 50 or more hours of qualifying pro bono legal services to benefit low-income Wisconsin residents in 2020, you qualify as a member of the Wisconsin Pro Bono Honor Society – certify your service by Feb. 28.

State Bar President-elect Cheryl Daniels is seeking volunteers to serve on a committee for the 2021-22 fiscal year – apply by April 15.

The State Bar of Wisconsin's Pro Bono Portal makes it easy for you to find opportunities for volunteer work that fits your situation. Take a video tour of the portal's website, and learn more about pro bono opportunities in Wisconsin.

The State Bar of Wisconsin Business Law Section has launched Small Business Assistance, a project offering free legal advice to Wisconsin small-business owners.

On Nov. 25, 2019, the Judicial Conduct Advisory Committee (JCAC) filed a rule petition seeding to amend the Wisconsin Code of Judicial Conduct, SCR Chapter 60, pertaining to performing the duties of judicial office.

On Oct. 19, 2020, the State Bar president filed a rule petition seeking to amend SCR 10.03(6m) to clarify who is an active or inactive emeritus lawyer and to clarify the scope of permitted practice for the various members.

On July 28, 2020, the Wisconsin Judicial Council filed a rule petition seeking to amend the Rules of Appellate Procedure to establish procedures for pro hac vice admission, substitution, and withdrawal of retained counsel in appellate court proceedings.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

The Wisconsin Supreme Court appoints lawyers and non-lawyers to a number of committees and boards that serve the legal profession.

Videos often show people refusing to wear masks in grocery stores or other businesses despite policies – and/or government orders – that require face coverings amid COVID-19. This article discusses whether businesses can refuse entry, under the law.

Can you threaten criminal prosecution to gain an advantage in a civil matter? The newly released Wisconsin Formal Ethics Opinion EF-21-01 provides insights into this ethical dilemma.

Find out more about the State Bar of Wisconsin Lawyer Referral and Information Service – which connects clients seeking help with lawyers who can help them.

Amber Raffeet August is president-elect of the Wisconsin Association of African-American Lawyers. Find out more about Raffeet August and the association, which helps attorneys of color grow in leadership roles.

Two landlord-tenant lawyers discuss where eviction moratoriums stand today.

Get to know Margaret Hickey and Odalo Ohiku as they discuss where and how the State Bar of Wisconsin should focus its efforts moving forward.

With tax season in full swing, help employers and employees understand how working remotely in 2020 will impact tax returns.

A public hearing will be held on the petition of Christopher A. Mutschler, Sheboygan, to reinstate his Wisconsin law license. Any interested person may appear at the hearing and be heard in support of or in opposition to the petition.

Dennis Puzz Jr. is leading the State Bar of Wisconsin Indian Law Section during a year of pandemic. Find out more about Puzz and the section.

Expanding the law student practice rule also increases access to justice in Wisconsin while promoting greater diversity in the legal profession, according to a petition recently filed with the Wisconsin Supreme Court.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Lawyers have raised the question on whether a lawyer's participation in Local Services Ads on Google is consistent with the lawyer's duty of confidentiality.

High School students will argue the case of a murder under quarantine – as the High School Mock Trial tournament moves online for 2021. Volunteers are needed as referees for the online regional and state tournament competitions.

At the Lawyer Marketing and Networking Expo on Jan. 13, panelists will offer insights to boost your presence in your community and manage client expectations. Here are five tips from five of our panelists offering advice on marketing diverse law firms.

Law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies are needed to participate in the 2021 Diversity Clerkship Program. Employers provide students with the opportunity to build legal practice skills and knowledge.

Stymied by a broken link, or need to look at older copies of local ordinances or a website that has disappeared? With records going back to 1996, the Wayback Machine is the first place to look for old website content.

President Donald Trump on Dec. 27 signed into law a government funding and appropriations bill that includes several coronavirus response and relief provisions, including another round of Paycheck Protection Program funding.

In a decision addressing President Donald Trump’s bid to overturn election results by invalidating more than 200,000 votes in Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Supreme Court has ruled (4-3) that the Trump campaign is not entitled to that relief.

COVID-19 vaccines are on their way. This article addresses whether employers can and should require employees to get the vaccine once available.

Learn law firm marketing tips from practice management experts from across the country – who are panelists on the upcoming virtual Lawyer Marketing & Networking Expo on Jan. 13.

Inspired by his daughter's work as an immigration lawyer and a desire to honor the late U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg, a Milwaukee attorney is finding a way will help minority female graduates of Milwaukee Public Schools go to law school.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

What conflicts may arise when lawyers in the same firm represent a municipality as a client and practice in local criminal defense?

Serving in a leadership position in a State Bar of Wisconsin division helps lawyers lead the profession and make connections throughout the state. Learn how to run for a leadership position in your division.

History will certainly remember 2020, a year of COVID-19, as well as social and racial unrest. We reflect by highlighting some of the State Bar's top articles of 2020. 

Now is the time to make health care coverage decisions for 2021. The State Bar's Group Health Plan may help you gain coverage and save money. Here's where to find out more.

The following procedures will apply to Supreme Court public administrative rules hearings conducted while the Supreme Court Hearing Room is closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Launched in 2000, HeinOnline is now the world's largest image-based legal research database. Wisconsin State Law Librarian Amy Crowder discusses what's new, gives a tour of some of its collections, and outlines where to find tips for using the database.

Looking for law firm marketing tips and strategies? Here are a few considerations to help you reach your client revenue goals for 2021, just a preview of what's to come at the Lawyer Marketing and Networking Expo, Jan. 13, 2021, from State Bar of Wisconsin Practice411.

Mentors are needed for the State Bar's mentoring program, Ready.Set.Practice. All it takes is a modest investment in time to help boost the career of a colleague. Mentors should sign up by Jan. 15.

Do you know someone deserving of recognition for their work in the profession or their community? The State Bar of Wisconsin is seeking nominations for jurist, lawyer, legal worker, and other awards – deadlines are approaching soon.

As you determine your year-end giving, please consider supporting the Wisconsin Law Foundation. Your support, now more than ever, is critical to our ability to fund important programs and services across Wisconsin.

Opt in to pay your FY 22 Supreme Court assessments and State Bar dues over six months: Sign up by early January.

Madison attorney Joseph W. Boucher is recipient of the Wisconsin Law Foundation’s 2020 Charles L. Goldberg Distinguished Service Award, which recognizes a lifetime of service to the profession and the community.

Learn about the State Bar's new Pro Bono Portal and get a tutorial on how to use it from State Bar Pro Bono Coordinator Jeff Brown.

Businesses nationwide, including Wisconsin, have filed nearly 2,000 lawsuits that seek coverage for business losses based on COVID-19 and government shutdown orders.

Marketing your law firm requires a strong message that gets "out there" in multiple areas. Here are considerations for marketing your firm from Tyler Roberts, NOMOS Marketing – a new member benefit partner with the State Bar of Wisconsin.

Without good meeting management, your meetings can go off the rails. Stacy Devlin, director of client success at Affinity Consulting, shares some tips.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Elderly and sick federal inmates, with the help of pro bono lawyers, are directly petitioning federal district courts for a compassionate release based on a vulnerability to COVID-19. But state prisoners, subject to Wisconsin law, have a steeper hill to climb.

When you agree to serve on a board of directors of an organization outside your firm, and the organization has never been a client, can conflicts arise?

High School students will argue the case of a murder under quarantine – as the High School Mock Trial tournament moves online for 2021. Volunteers are needed as referees for the online regional and state tournament competitions.

Interested in pro bono work? The new State Bar Pro Bono Portal is an online, centralized portal that makes it easy to find opportunities in your particular area of law. Check it out beginning Thursday, Nov. 19, 2020.

While usually we celebrate our award recipients with a Member Recognition Celebration in June at the State Bar Annual Meeting & Conference, amid pandemic we have found a new way to celebrate our leaders: via video. Join us in thanking them for their greatcontributions to the legal profession and their communities.

Voluntary electronic filing is now open in all Wisconsin Court of Appeals districts. The program, which began in August in District III, is has expanded to all districts in anticipation of a mandatory program that begins July 1, 2021.

With a modest investment in time, experienced lawyers can benefit not just a young lawyer, but the profession. The State Bar's Ready.Set.Practice. mentoring program needs mentors and mentees for 2021. Those seeking a mentor should sign up by Dec. 1.

With the COVID-19 pandemic causing many challenges for employees and employers, it is a good idea to review or get to know worker's compensation issues. Here are some resources to help you answer questions about worker's compensation.

The COVID-19 pandemic triggered a massive move to remote work, creating challenges for managers to keep staff on task and prioritize. Dan Truehl of Lift Consulting LLC shares insights on managing remote workers.

Final Order: CDC Eviction Moratorium Compliance for Eviction Filings

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

A public hearing will be held before referee Kim Marie Peterson on the petition of John Hotvedt, Burlington, to reinstate his Wisconsin law license. Any interested person may appear at the hearing and be heard in support of or in opposition to the petition.

Creating opportunities for solo and small firm attorneys to discuss common themes and challenges is as important as ever. The Wisconsin Solo and Small Firm Conference is where lawyers can do just that and learn about evolving tools to help them succeed. Learn why you should attend this year's event from the lawyers who make attendance a priority.

The U.W. Law Library recently received a grant that will provide greater access to tribal laws across the state.

When using an "Alternative to E-Banking Trust Account," can a lawyer hold a client responsible for electronic payment charges?

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

The legal profession is stressful. But there are stigmas attached to seeking assistance. The Task Force on Wisconsin Lawyer Well-Being was formed to address this issue. Judge Todd Bjerke is the chair of that task force. He sheds light on the issue and the work ahead to improve the health and well-being of all those in the legal profession.

Open Enrollment runs Nov. 1 to Dec. 15, 2020. Initiated Jan. 1, 2020, the State Bar of Wisconsin Association Health Plan for members might be an answer for your health care needs.

Wisconsin has one of the most active Wills for Heroes programs in the U.S., thanks to Milwaukee attorney Kris Havlik, who has coordinated the program for the past 10 years. Find out more about Havlik and the program, which offers free basic estate planning documents to our first responders, via lawyers doing pro bono work.

They're commitment to pro bono work is remarkable – join us in congratulating the law firm of Godfrey & Kahn, the recipient of the Pro Bono Firm/Organization of the Year for 2020. Find out what this means for their attorneys.

Congratulations to the 340 lawyers who are recognized as part of the Wisconsin Pro Bono Honor Society, which honors lawyers who provide pro bono legal services in excess of 50 hours each year.

Court system and community collaboration keep courthouses running safely in Wisconsin, and innovation shines amid COVID-19.

IN IN RE THE MATTER OF THE EXTENSION OF ORDERS AND INTERIM RULE CONCERNING CONTINUATION OF JURY TRIALS, SUSPENSION OF STATUTORY DEADLINES FOR NON-CRIMINAL JURY TRIALS, AND REMOTE HEARINGS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Voluntary electronic filing is now open in Wisconsin Court of Appeals, District IV. The program, which began in August in District III, is expanding in anticipation of a mandatory program that begins July 1, 2021.

A public hearing will be held before referee Michael Tobin on the petition of Scott E. Selmer, Minneapolis, to reinstate his Wisconsin law license.

Wisconsinites remain actively buying and selling homes, and many will need the advice of an attorney. How can you be sure you have the necessary information to look out for your client's best interests?

Cheryl Daniels, State Bar president-elect and chair of the State Bar's Nominating Committee, asks you to nominate yourself by Oct. 16 to run for a State Bar officer position. This is an opportunity to help shape what lawyers need to do to continue coping with a pandemic and change the dynamic so that justice really works for all, she says.

With a modest investment in time, experienced lawyers can benefit not just a young lawyer, but the profession. And young lawyers can get a boost in the areas where they need it. Sign up as a mentor or mentee for the State Bar of Wisconsin's mentoring program, Ready.Set.Practice.

The U.S. Supreme Court will hear a major challenge to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act just days after the 2020 presidential election.

The clock is ticking. Learn why you should attend this year's Wisconsin Solo and Small Firm Conference from the lawyers who make attendance a priority.

In fees involving family law cases, a lawyer may request that the court grant a judgment for fees. How does this judgment intersect with the requirement to participate in fee arbitration on a client's request?

Solo attorney and law firm technology consultant Brent Hoeft says cybersecurity threats such as phishing scams and ransomeware have something in common: they look for human vulnerability to find their gateway of opportunity.

Meet four Wisconsin lawyers who are dedicated volunteers on Election Days. The ABA says lawyers are needed as poll workers – find out why they are particularly good at it. Also, here are resources to help you answer clients' questions about voting.

On Dec. 23, 2019, the Wisconsin Lawyers’ Fund for Client Protection filed a rule petition seeking amendment to SCR 12.07(2)(a) to increase the annual assessment of attorneys for the fund from $20 to $25 to provide sufficient income for payment of eligible claims.

On Nov. 25, 2019, the Judicial Conduct Advisory Committee (JCAC) filed a rule petition seeding to amend the Wisconsin Code of Judicial Conduct, SCR Chapter 60, pertaining to performing the duties of judicial office.

Two cases before the Wisconsin Supreme Court this month have the potential to impact the Nov. 3 election if the court decides the cases before then.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Getting involved with the State Bar is a great way to gain opportunities and get to know your colleagues following the challenges of this 2020 pandemic year, says State Bar President-elect Cheryl Daniels. Nominate yourself by Oct. 16 to run for a State Bar officer position.

How is your marketing strategy during COVID-19? Learn how to leverage the internet to market your practice to the clients you want to attract.

On Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2020, commencing at 9 a.m., a public hearing will be held before referee Robert E. Kinney at the Milwaukee Bar Association,747 N. Broadway, Milwaukee, on the petition of Daniel Morse, Milwaukee, to reinstate his Wisconsin law license.

A public hearing will be held before referee David A. Piehler at the Price County Courthouse, 126 Cherry St. # 201, Phillips, on the petition of Beth M. Bant of Ogema to reinstate her Wisconsin law license.

The State Bar Professional Ethics Committee has issued a formal opinion that deals with a lawyer’s responsibilities and potential conflicts when examining a current or former client as an adverse witness in trials or depositions.

Voluntary electronic filing is now open in Wisconsin Court of Appeals District II. The program, which began in August in District III, is expanding in anticipation of a mandatory program that begins July 1, 2021.

For many people, a will is just a starting point. Planning for the management and disposal of an estate during life or after death requires examining family, financial, and personal details to create the best plan tailored for the individual.

In October, the Wisconsin Law Foundation – the charitable arm of the State Bar of Wisconsin – will honor Justice Jon P. Wilcox and Justice Louis B. Butler Jr. for their longtime service to the Foundation and the Fellows of the Wisconsin Law Foundation. Join us for this online event Oct. 13, 2020.

Join the celebration on Sept. 16, 2020, as Kathleen Brost is sworn in as the State Bar's 65th president. Brost, who took office July 1, will be sworn in via video conferencing.

This year has had its share of ups and downs. If you've lost your passion for practicing law, find out how to reignite your practice at the Wisconsin Solo & Small Firm Conference. Reserve your spot and join the conversation on Oct. 28-30, 2020.

If you are a solo or small firm attorney, you understand how technology can create efficiencies in your law practice. But do you understand how to implement the technology? Is there technology you could be using that you don't know about?

The employers and clerks of the 2020 State Bar of Wisconsin Diversity Clerkship Program overcame challenges of the pandemic to connect with each other at a distance and give the clerks valuable experience with the practice of law.

Law school graduates may begin careers with massive student debt. A state-level task force recently made recommendations to attract and retain talented professionals with student debt solutions beyond the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.

The President and the Chair of the Board of Governors of the State Bar of Wisconsin requested the court extend the temporary waiver of State Bar of Wisconsin Bylaw Article III, Section 11(b) due to circumstances caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, through Fiscal Year 2021, ending on June 30, 2021.

If you're a solo or small firm lawyer, you are the business. Clients don't see a big firm machine – they are connecting with you as a person.

Your online reviews may help bring in new clients. Is it OK to ask for, or even encourage, online reviews? Turns out – it depends on how you ask.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Each year, the Wisconsin Law Foundation uses member donations to fund programs that directly impact Wisconsin residents – especially children. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the Foundation's McNulty grants helped these programs continue with their missions.

Alexander Lodge, a patent attorney at Foley & Lardner LLP in Madison, is a leader in pro bono work who is making it easier for clients to raise themselves out of poverty. Learn more about Lodge, the 2020 Pro Bono Attorney of the Year.

Several high-profile cases involved clashes between the executive and legislative branches during the Wisconsin Supreme Court's 2019-20 term.

The Wisconsin Supreme Court has adopted a number of changes to Wisconsin's attorney disciplinary process involving the Office of Lawyer Regulation (OLR).

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

A survey of judges provides some insight on the mediation landscape in Wisconsin.

Attorneys can now participate in voluntary eFiling pilot program in the Wisconsin Court of Appeals. District III. The program begins in Districts II and I in the coming weeks, in anticipation of a mandatory program starting July 1, 2021.

The new law, which took effect May 1, 2020, allows a party requiring a notarial act to appear by audio-visual technology before the notary, while in a remote location.

Amy Buchmeyer distinguishes procedures and authority for rules, guidance documents and agency publications under recent legislation, and a recent supreme court decision.

Clients may turn to you for help and advice on the pros and cons of filing for bankruptcy, so bankruptcy might appear to be an attractive addition to your practice. However, to actually help your clients by offering competent advice, there are several factors to consider.

What happens when you test positive for or are informed that you have been exposed to COVID-19? How does your ethical duty of communication and confidentiality intersect with the public health strategy of contact tracing and reporting?

The Wisconsin Lawyers' Fund for Client Protection Committee reimbursed more than $46K to 14 victims of lawyer theft over the past year. Committee Chair Benjamin Kurten makes a request: Seek help when you can't properly represent your client.

At the Wisconsin Solo & Small Firm Conference on Oct. 28-30, you'll be able to get your CLE credits, browse the vendor hall, network with colleagues, and have your chance to win prizes – all while social distancing at work or home.

WisLawNOW is the State Bar's new online community of Wisconsin legal bloggers.

Milwaukee attorney Anza D'Antonio makes a point to mentor students she encounters. As this year’s Diversity & Inclusion Trailblazer, D'Antonio is honored for her innovative internship program that opened doors for high school and law students who never imagined legal careers.

With the school year fast-approaching, lawyers will be busy fielding questions from school districts and parents. Jeff Spitzer-Resnick discusses the legal issues with reopening plans and a recent decision on the constitutional right to literacy.

Knowing the pitfalls and opportunities in advance can help you and your client have a less stressful experience, and enable the court to function efficiently under these new circumstances.

Juror trauma is real. But court systems don't typically provide post-trial mental health services for jurors. Should court systems do more to help jurors after tough cases?

At several closed administrative rules conferences in the spring of 2020, the court resolved certain outstanding questions regarding the various petitions.

"Agricultural cooperatives, worker cooperatives, and broadband/utility cooperatives are super important to our rural communities so the more education we can provide for lawyers in those communities, the better those lawyers can support their communities," says attorney Jeff Glazer.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

State and federal agency regulations may not receive the same attention from the general public as Supreme Court opinions and statutes enacted by the legislature, but they play a significant role in governing the actions of individuals and businesses.

COVID-19 is here to stay, for the foreseeable future. Employers should be planning ahead for the potential impact on their workforces.

Good writing and good advocacy go hand in hand, says Ryan Walsh, one of five attorneys honored in the Best Briefs Competition by the Appellate Practice Section. Learn more about the winners and their approach to powerful written advocacy.

State Bar members are invited to attend the meeting of the Executive Committee when it will conduct its annual evaluation on 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.

Honor a leader in solo and small-firm practice: We are seeking nominations for the 2020 John Lederer Service Award. Nominations are due Sept. 11.

The Wisconsin Law Foundation provides $2,300 each to three recent law school graduates who represent underserved populations – people who have difficulty affording legal services and those in rural areas with limited access to legal services.

"I had the unrealistic, naive expectation that the criminal justice system would give me the same presumption of innocence," said Jarrett Adams, who was 17 when he was wrongfully convicted of a crime in Wisconsin and spent 10 years in prison.

Courts and the legal community must leverage technology to address the access to justice gap for self-represented litigants who face technical barriers.

Lawyers are not typically thought of as first responders, but the pandemic highlights the essential nature of lawyers and pro bono service.

We must demand real change. And, we need your help.

The death of George Floyd and other cases of police brutality and explicit and implicit racism and inequality has sparked a movement for social and criminal justice reform.

Three presidents of the Wisconsin Association of African-American Lawyers discuss police brutality, civil unrest and protest, and what the legal community and organizations should do to demand and effect change.

A public hearing will be held on the petition of William J. Spangler, Eau Claire, to reinstate his Wisconsin law license. Any interested person may appear at the hearing and be heard in support of or in opposition to the petition.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

When a colleague at their firm is also a family court commissioner, can a lawyer practice in family law in that same county? Turns out, a statute in the family code may prevent any lawyer in the commissioner's firm from appearing in a family law matter in that county – but not another county.

The Wisconsin Legislature redraws voting district boundaries every 10 years, and litigation usually follows. A recent petition submitted to the Wisconsin Supreme Court would establish the rules for any redistricting litigation in the next cycle.

Meet seven new Wisconsin lawyers, just completing their final semester and beginning their careers as lawyers, while in a world of pandemic, social unrest, and economic challenges.

What's the best way to stay on top of new developments in the law? Law librarian Laura Olsen provides tips and resources on a great way to stay up to date – using push-technology alerting and tracking tools.

Even as economic reopening happens, solo and small firms will need to find new opportunities to use their skills and connect differently with clients and potential clients, says Wausau solo Sarah Ruffi.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

The Wisconsin Law Foundation supports programs that enhance the public's knowledge of the justice system, encourage diversity in the profession, and assist young lawyers with taking up leadership roles. Now is the time to remember the Foundation on your dues statement, says Foundation President Kevin Lonergan.

This year, members struggling to pay their annual court assessments and membership dues by July 1 may choose to pay in four installments. Sign up by June 9 to participate in the plan.

With the ongoing pandemic's impact on the economy, bankruptcy lawyers are seeing an uptick in calls from people worried about their finances, says James V. Block.

Since starting her pro bono volunteer work this past January, Madison family lawyer Elisabeth Fletcher of Musial & Friedrich S.C. makes a point to volunteer once a month with the Free Family Law Clinic at Vera Court Neighborhood Center in Madison.

Bayfield County Circuit Court Judge John Anderson is the recipient of the State Bar of Wisconsin's 2020 Judge of the Year award. Find out what it is like to be the judge in a one-branch county.

Judge Randy Koschnick, Director of Wisconsin State Courts, provides an update on where the state court system is now.

Wisconsin legal bloggers mobilized quickly to provide crucial information during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Many are featured on this 6th annual list of Wisconsin law blogs, a statewide community of legal bloggers.

Remote hearings will continue and jury trials are still suspended, but counties now have guidance and discretion to reopen their courts from the Wisconsin Courts COVID-19 Task Force and recent Wisconsin Supreme Court orders.

The Chief Judges' Subcommittee on Judicial Education filed a rule petition asking the court to amend several rules pertaining to continuing education for the Wisconsin judiciary and circuit court commissioners.

Who is embracing current challenges, looking for opportunities to do it better? Tell us about the people and ideas that are changing Wisconsin's legal landscape.

Gregory Grau, retired Marathon County Circuit Court judge, is the 2020 recipient of the State Bar of Wisconsin's Lifetime Jurist Award.

Wisconsin Supreme Court Chief Justice Patience Roggensack announced that the Wisconsin Courts COVID-19 Task Force has issued its final report, including a framework to guide counties and circuit courts as they work together to reopen facilities, return to in-person proceedings, and begin to normalize operations.

The State Bar asked the court to authorize the temporary waiver of SCR 10.07 (meetings of the association) and sections of State Bar Bylaws Article III relating to the annual meeting of the members, meetings associated with the annual meeting, and in-person requirements for regular meetings of the Board of Governors.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Lawyers who accept credit card payments into their operating accounts are not directly prohibited by the disciplinary rules from holding a client responsible for those costs.

COVID-19 is not going away just because people are coming back to work, says Lori Dorn, director of administration for Stafford Rosenbaum LLP. She shares tips for law firms and other employers to consider when reopening.

Confused about the myriad of regulations and best practices guiding return-to-work policies? You're not alone. Learn about the guidelines and standards employers should follow to create a safe working environment for employees returning to work sites.

A recent legal industry trends report found that new matter creation dropped by nearly 40 percent in April as individuals and business defer legal matters. But those matters aren't going away, and lawyers must find innovative ways to serve clients.

This year, in response to COVID-19, members struggling to pay their annual court assessments and membership dues by July 1 may choose to pay in four installments.

Simple things, such as practicing gratitude and understanding your thought processes, can provide mental health benefits during stressful times.

A public hearing will be held before Referee John Nicholas Schweitzer on the petition of Daniel Parks, Fond du Lac, to reinstate his Wisconsin law license.

For Theresa Elliott and the Professional Development team, the new world of social distancing has changed forever how the State Bar delivers information – and how Wisconsin lawyers are adapting to remote learning.

The well-being of lawyers continues to be of concern to the legal profession. Lindsey Draper, a current member of the National Task Force on Lawyer Well-Being, discusses resources for attorneys.

Using a drone can land your client in legal trouble. Law librarian Carol Schmitt lists the resources to help you research the issues and current status of drone laws in Wisconsin and the U.S.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Workers facing loss of health care coverage due to a change in employment status now have more time and more options to continue or seek new coverage. A new rule extending timeframes for making special enrollment elections went into effect on May 4, 2020.

Effective July 1, 2020, attorneys may draft or assist in drafting a pleading, motion, or document filed by an otherwise self-represented litigant without signing it. The document must only note that it was "prepared with the assistance of a lawyer."

In this article, mediator and former Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Richard Sankovitz provides tips on conducting mediations remotely.

All branches are currently capable of conducting proceedings through Zoom videoconferencing, says Judge Koschnick, Director of Wisconsin State Courts. He offers advice for videoconferencing attorneys.

Comments are requested as to whether incumbent U.S. Magistrate Judge James R. Sickel should be recommended by the panel for reappointment by the court. Submit comments no later than May 31, 2020.

he Wisconsin Supreme has issued an order that pertains to the filing of paper documents in state courts for those unable to access and use the electronic filing system, creating a "temporary mailbox rule" that governs required filing dates.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Loan programs available under the CARES Act can assist small businesses, including law firms, with low-interest and forgivable loans. But applicants must act fast.

Conflicts are imputed among all lawyers at a single firm. But what happens to the conflicts if lawyers from different firms join together as co-counsel in a case?

Are you or do you know someone improving the legal profession and practice of law with innovative solutions. Nominate them for the State Bar of Wisconsin Legal Innovator initiative. Deadline for nominations is June 30, 2020.

They are members of the legal community who make a difference – by mentoring others, by offering their services in pro bono work, by leading the way in bettering the practice of law in Wisconsin. We congratulate these award recipients, and offer them a round of applause.

The State Bar is hosting a number of free virtual town hall meetings to let members in different practice areas connect and discuss common questions and issues, as well as work through practice management and technology issues.

Employers should create an immediate plan to deal with how to get through the next quarter by saving resources and supporting staff, says Nilesh Patel. But employers should also be looking at two or three quarters from now, and even farther out.

While Wisconsin law libraries are closed to visitors, librarians are available to help you with your research. Here are a few resources to boost your research remotely during this time of quarantine – and beyond.

Everyone is tackling the challenges of working remotely. The State Bar is offering assistance via a new partner: Identillect Technologies, to help you keep your email secure.

Learn more about two new State Bar tools for you to stay updated on the legal impact of the coronavirus and COVID-19 pandemic.

In recognition of Healthcare Decisions Day on April 16, the State Bar is offering a free download – through April 25 – of our health care decisions guide, “A Gift to Your Family: Planning Ahead for Future Health Needs.”

From Eau Claire to Superior, from Milwaukee to Madison, lawyers are facing the challenges of uncertainty. But the State Bar is here to help.

Voting in the State Bar of Wisconsin elections gives you a chance to have a say in setting the direction and policies of the State Bar. Look for your ballots to come via email this year. Here's what you need to know to cast your vote.

The Legal Services Corporation's Basic Field Grants provide funding to support delivery of high-quality civil legal services and access to justice to low-income people, Native Americans, and agricultural workers during 2021.

It is ordered that the public hearing on rule petition 19-25, scheduled for Thursday, April 2, 2020, is hereby cancelled.

The Wisconsin Supreme Court has issued an order that provides guidance and information on appellate court operations, appellate court filings and deadlines, and access to court files in amidst the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Learn about employee policies and best practices to deal with possible COVID-19 exposure issues in the workplace, including a sample communication to staff.

In 2017, the Wisconsin Supreme Court approved creation of a pilot project for commercial court dockets for large claims business and commercial cases. This order reflects interim rule amendments to accommodate the addition of Dane County to the pilot project.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Now that lawyers have greater flexibility with respect to electronic payment of fees, is it possible to pass along to clients such fees as charged when they pay with a credit card?

"I was not done being an attorney and I knew there was a need," says Jeff Patzke, a retired government attorney who found, in retirement, a new outlet for his legal expertise.

With the April elections approaching, now is the time to learn about those candidates who are asking for your vote to lead the State Bar of Wisconsin as governors.

The FFCRA imposes some significant new obligations on employers with fewer than 500 employees. What follows is a detailed description of the employer-leave obligations that will be required by the FFCRA.

All eyes will be on Wisconsin during the 2020 election. Michael Haas, staff counsel at the Wisconsin Elections Commission, answers to frequently asked election law questions and shares what voters should know before election day to ensure their ballot is counted.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

A work two years in the making, the Wisconsin Association of African-American Lawyers has published the histories of 11 pioneering black Wisconsin lawyers. Find out more about these lawyers, and why it is important to keep their history alive.

If you are interested in seeking an appointment, please submit your resume and letter of interest (or fill out the form at the link below) before April 10, 2020, to be considered in the next round of nominations.

The court, on its own motion, identified the need for a technical correction to the interim commercial court rule.

On Dec. 23, 2019, the Wisconsin Lawyers' Fund for Client Protection petitioned the court to amend SCR 12.07(2)(a) to increase the annual assessment of attorneys for the fund to provide sufficient income for payment of eligible claims.

A public hearing will be held on the petition of William J. Spangler of Eau Claire to reinstate his Wisconsin law license.

While Google is the dominant search engine choice, it is not the only one available. Law librarian Bev Butula guides you through a menu of alternate search engines that can help you with your legal research.

Serving on a State Bar of Wisconsin committee is a way to make a difference quickly in the legal profession and in the justice system, says T.R. Williams, who is serving her fifth year on the State Bar's Leadership Development Committee.

Grants of up to $2,300 are available for programs that help public understanding of the legal system. Past recipients include ABC for Health, Inc., and teen court programs across the state. Apply by April 3, 2020.

The Family Law Section is offering 15 scholarships to its Annual Family Law Workshop in Door County, on Aug. 6-8, 2020, at Stone Harbor Resort and Conference Center in Sturgeon Bay.

The State Bar of Wisconsin *has cancelled* a debate between Wisconsin Supreme Court Candidates Daniel Kelly (incumbent) and Jill Karofsky (challenger).

Lawyers can help healthcare clients mitigate data breaches that can cost millions of dollars to fix, says David Cade, former deputy general counsel for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and current CEO of the nonpartisan American Health Lawyers Association.

In two recent cases, the employee alleged that the employer provided pretextual reasons for taking discriminatory action. Those arguments were rejected in both cases.

The candidates, both government lawyers, discuss what the State Bar can do to better serve government lawyers and help Wisconsin lawyers compete with market forces.

The Wisconsin Supreme Court has issued an order that expands Wisconsin’s Commercial Docket Pilot Project, also known as the Business or Commercial Court, to the Second and Tenth Judicial Administrative Districts.

On Oct. 22, 2019, the Director of State Courts petitioned the court to amend Wis. Stat. section 757.60(9) and (10), SCR 70.17(9) and (10), and to renumber Wis. Stat. section 753.06(9)(d). The petition proposed transferring Iron County from the ninth judicial district to the tenth judicial district for reasons of judicial efficiency.

On Oct. 3, 2019, Gretchen Viney, Distinguished Clinical Professor, U.W. Law School, petitioned the court to amend SCR 31.05(3) pertaining to CLE. The petition seeks to ensure that a guest presenter in a law school course shall receive two hours of CLE credit for each hour of class presentation.

On Jan. 17, 2020, the Business Court Advisory Committee petitioned the court to approve certain amendments to extend and expand the existing pilot project for commercial court dockets for large claims business and commercial cases.

On Dec. 13, 2019, the Committee of Chief Judges petitioned the court to amend SCR 70.20, relating to the authority of the chief judge. On Jan. 30, 2020, the petitioner filed a motion to withdraw the petition.

Managing cyber threats is an ever-evolving facet of law practice today. Find out more about what to watch out for in 2020, and where to turn for help.

When a lawyer leaves a firm, what conflicts does the lawyer leave behind? Turns out, it may depend on the firm's file retention policy.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Congratulations to the 22 high school mock trial teams headed to state! The top two teams from each region will compete in Madison in March.

Doing pro bono work is "incredibly rewarding," says Milwaukee attorney Jon Richards. Find out more about why he focuses his volunteer work on helping victims of sexual violence and human trafficking.

Estate planning lawyers should modify their estate planning forms to reflect recent changes that impact retirement account distributions after death.

Some states, such as Utah, are already experimenting in the "regulatory sandbox" to find innovative solutions to access to justice.

Wisconsin's arrest and conviction law governs what employers can and cannot do with respect to employment decisions, and define the rights of potential and current employees previously arrested or convicted of a crime.

Lawyers should build a reputation for being "firm but fair" about fees, staring with the first consultation, says lawyer and practice management advisor Reid Trautz.

A brief summary of common legal issues and resources available to effectively assist transgender adults and children in Wisconsin.

Young lawers: earn up to 6.0 CLE and 1.0 EPR credits and expand your network of colleagues while exploring topics of interest to young lawyers in Wisconsin. Register today – it's free for members of the State Bar of Wisconsin Young Lawyers Division.

If you donated 50 or more hours of qualifying pro bono legal services to benefit low-income Wisconsin residents in 2019, you qualify as a member of the Wisconsin Pro Bono Honor Society – certify your service by Feb. 28.

Submit your petition to represent Wisconsin's legal community through the American Bar Association House of Delegates and keep the State Bar of Wisconsin Board of Governors informed of actions at the national level.

On Sept. 26, 2019, the State Bar of Wisconsin Appellate Practice Section petitions the court to facilitate online access to petitions for review and responses, in the same manner that appellate briefs are viewable online the court's website.

More than 1,000 high school students are preparing to compete in the 2020 High School Mock Trial regional competition on Feb. 8, 2020. This year, they tackle a case involving a fictional drowning case.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

The State Bar of Wisconsin Lawyer-to-Lawyer Directory is an online resource for State Bar members to help each other by gaining and giving advice – and the possibility of gaining and giving client referrals.

By volunteering to serve on a State Bar of Wisconsin committee, not only do you help your profession, but you make lasting connections with your colleagues. State Bar President-elect Kathy Brost is seeking volunteers to serve on a committee for the 2020-21 fiscal year -- apply by April 15.

Three teen court programs, supported by the Wisconsin Law Foundation, make a significant impact in their local communities and the teenagers and families who live there by keeping teens out of the juvenile justice system.

In 2014, the Wisconsin Supreme Court unanimously adopted a rule encouraging attorneys to help low-income, self-represented litigants draft documents. Subsequent legislation scrapped that rule. Now, the court is considering whether to restore it.

What qualities you would like to see in the next dean of the University of Wisconsin Law School?

On March 13, 2019, the Office of Lawyer Regulation Procedure Review Committee petitioned the court to modify its ethics rules, specifically SCR 20:1.8(h)(3) and SCR 20:8.3 and related comments, to encourage greater reporting of professional misconduct by lawyers.

On March 13, 2019, the Office of Lawyer Regulation Procedure Review Committee and the Charging Process Subcommittee petitioned the court to modify rules to improve communications between the OLR and grievants, streamline the procedures applicable to consent reprimands, and to alleged breaches of a diversion agreement.

On March 13, 2019, the Office of Lawyer Regulation Procedure Review Committee petitioned the court to amend rules to permit the court to order permanent revocation of an attorney's law license.

On March 13, 2019, the Office of Lawyer Regulation Procedure Review Committee petitioned the court to create a new rule to provide a mechanism for enforcing disciplinary orders.

On March 13, 2019, the Office of Lawyer Regulation Procedure Review Committee petitioned the court to amend certain SCRs in chapters 21 and 22 to streamline the disciplinary process, including eliminating District Committees, allowing the OLR to reach an earlier resolution of grievances in appropriate circumstances, and to promote cooperation between the OLR and attorneys.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Is the duty owed to former clients in connection with information disclosed to third parties? What actually constitutes "generally known" information about former clients?

High School Mock Trial is one of the Wisconsin Law Foundation's signature programs, teaching teenagers about the law and our system of justice. Volunteer attorney judges are needed for regional and semi-regional competitions in February and March – sign up today.

The gig economy and the different kinds of employment that people are seeking out today is leading to a lot of questions about whether a worker is an employee or an independent contractor, says Madison attorney Caitlin Madden.

Get to know Michael P. May and Cheryl Furstace Daniels as they discuss changes affecting the profession and opportunities for the State Bar and its members.

A new federal law effective Feb. 19, 2020, is designed to simplify bankruptcy reorganizations for small businesses by reducing procedural and cost burdens.

As you determine your year-end giving, please consider supporting the Wisconsin Law Foundation. Your support is critical to our ability to fund important programs and services across Wisconsin.

Is it OK, while building your firm's presence on social media, to offer rewards to those who "like" the page and provide a good recommendation?

On June 25, 2019, the State Bar of Wisconsin petitioned the court to amend SCR 10.05(4)(m)1 to add the State Bar’s Lawyer Referral and Information Service (LRIS) to the list of assistance programs that are currently specified in the rule.

Have you or a colleague recently written an exceptional appellate brief? Think it could serve as a model for others? Enter the State Bar of Wisconsin Appellate Practice Section's competition to identify and recognize outstanding appellate briefs – entries are due Jan. 30.

Pro bono work "is a sacred duty and critical for the maintenance of our democracy," says Philomena Kebec. Meet the Odanah lawyer who not only assists pro bono clients through Wisconsin Judicare, but finds time to help fellow members of the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa.

Four common stressors and six ways to say not to holiday stress, from State Bar of Wisconsin WisLAP Coordinator Jason Magill, a licensed professional counselor.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

"Work-life balance" assumes lawyers have an option to neatly balance the responsibilities of law practice with life outside of work. Attorney Deanne Koll says focusing on being a happy lawyer may be more achievable.

From providing tips on protecting your privacy to avoiding scams, the State Bar of Wisconsin's law office management Practice411 elist offered useful practice information in 2019. Here they are, all in one place.

Wisconsin Lawyer, InsideTrack, and Section Blogs: Highlighting substantive and procedural changes in the law in 2019 and providing a voice to members on legal issues and developments of the day in Wisconsin and beyond.

Attorney and technology guru Jeff Krause says the "Moneyball" concept can help law firms see things differently, with data, and improve profitability.

A relatively new program allows survivors of domestic abuse, including children, to keep their residence addresses confidential through a substitute legal address.

Social media is not just for socializing; it can be a robust tool for legal research. Find out what you need to know about using social media for legal research and to stay abreast of legal developments.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Serving in a leadership position in a State Bar of Wisconsin division is a fantastic way to make connections throughout the state and to have a say in your profession. Here's where to find out more about running for a leadership position in your division.

Are you a leader? Or do you wish to be one? Now's your chance to put your skills into action – and gain valuable leadership experience. Run for a 2020 State Bar Board of Governors' position – petitions due March 1.

Responding to requests from members, the State Bar of Wisconsin is implementing a new prepayment plan for court assessments and member dues. Starting in January, members have the option to pay monthly installments over a six-month period. Sign up by Jan. 6.

What it means to navigate the legal system in Wisconsin as a self-represented litigant, with little or no assistance from a lawyer.

The State Bar of Wisconsin's Board of Governors, at its Dec. 6 meeting, will discuss proposals on whether to change the structure of the "emeritus" membership status, which currently applies to members age 70 and older.

Trust accounts are subject to regulation, and the Supreme Court Rule governing these accounts is long and complicated. Turns out, the rule allows a lawyer to send funds from a trust account via a wire transfer.

Help your family and clients take the right steps at the right time, with the assistance of PINNACLE's 'Advising Older Clients and Their Families.'

High school students will tackle the difficult issues presented in a fictional drowning case involving bullying and poor safety practices. Want to get involved? Volunteers – whether attorneys or judges – are needed as referees for regional and state tournament competitions.

Do you know someone deserving of recognition for their work in the profession or their community? The State Bar of Wisconsin is seeking nominations for jurist, lawyer, legal worker, and other awards – deadlines are approaching soon.

The Supreme Court of Wisconsin is seeking qualified candidates to serve as Referees in attorney disciplinary matters.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Under a new statute, attorneys can voluntarily agree to accept email service of discovery requests, responses, and other papers required to be served on counsel.

Established by the Wisconsin Supreme Court in 2017, the three-year Business Court Pilot Project has resolved nearly 80 cases on a dedicated commercial docket.

On March 13, 2019, the OLR Procedure Review Committee filed a petition asking the court to amend its confidentiality rules to balance the interests of an accused attorney against the public’s right to know and to be protected in lawyer disciplinary cases.

On March 13, 2019, the OLR Procedure Review Committee and the Reinstatement Subcommittee filed a petition asking the court to modify the Supreme Court Rules pertaining to reinstatement after an attorney’s law license has been suspended or revoked, to promote efficiency in the reinstatement process.

On March 13, 2019, the OLR Procedure Review Committee filed a petition asking the court to amend its ethics rules to encourage reporting of professional misconduct by lawyers.

The Supreme Court of Wisconsin is seeking qualified candidates to serve as Referees in attorney disciplinary matters.

Several bills pending in the Wisconsin Legislature may change the way attorneys counsel clients on estate planning matters and would allow notarizations of legal documents to be conducted electronically and remotely online.

Need the history of a particular location or event? Check out the many digital collections in Wisconsin's universities and colleges, public libraries, and state departments.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

You'll never be unprepared to handle a condominium issue – from planning and development through financing, and from insurance through governance – with the 'Wisconsin Condominium Law Handbook' from State Bar of Wisconsin PINNACLE® at your side.

A new partnership between the State Bar of Wisconsin and Total Administrative Services Corporation (TASC) can help you access tax-advantaged benefits to combat rising healthcare costs.

For her years of dedicated service, Kathleen Brost, State Bar president-elect, is the 2019 recipient of the John Lederer Distinguished Service Award from the State Bar of Wisconsin Solo, Small Firm & General Practice Section.

The State Bar of Wisconsin successfully defended the Department of Revenue's claim that OnDemand CLE seminars are subject to sales tax. The tax attorneys who represented the State Bar in the years-long case explain the decision.

'Wisconsin Lawyer' magazine and its previous iterations are now part of the HeinOnline digital archive that includes issues dating back to 1927.

How to "think like a judge," and other helpful tips from Wisconsin Appeals Court Judge Michael Fitzpatrick.

Rep. Ron Tusler (R-Harrison) and Rep. Tip McGuire (D-Kenosha), both members of the State Bar of Wisconsin, support a bipartisan package of pending bills to improve the core functions of the justice system.

For this year's Pro Bono Week, please give a bit of your time to help those in need in your community.

Health Care Open Enrollment is here. Now is the time to prepare for making the best health care coverage for your situation.

Studies show that jurors make their up their minds pretty quickly during the trial. Litigator John Claypool shares tips to get them on your side.

Retired Madison litigator Earl H. Munson Jr., of BoardmanClark, is one of two recipients of the Wisconsin Law Foundation's 2019 Charles L. Goldberg Distinguished Service Award.

Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Carl Ashley is one of two recipients of the Wisconsin Law Foundation's 2019 Charles L. Goldberg Distinguished Service Award. His colleagues see him as a change-agent for reform.

Quickly locate on-point evidentiary rules and cases with 'The Wisconsin Rules of Evidence: A Courtroom Handbook' – the on-the-spot reference for Wisconsin attorneys in the heat of trial.

When a lawyer answers a call from the State Public Defender's Office to represent a client, what should happen when the lawyer learns that the client is not actually indigent?

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

With a night of celebration honoring leaders in the profession, the Wisconsin Law Foundation celebrates 45 new Fellows, members of the legal profession who show a commitment to the profession and community service. Congratulations!

National Pro Bono Celebration Week is Oct. 20-26. We celebrate pro bono lawyers providing free legal services through programs like Wills for Heroes.

Legal Action of Wisconsin's Volunteer Lawyers Project invites lawyers to serve clients throughout Legal Action's 39-county service area. Find out more about the project's free training opportunities for pro bono lawyers with Legal Action of Wisconsin.

Whether you represent employers or employees, Wisconsin Employment Law from State Bar of Wisconsin PINNACLE helps you protect your clients' rights and livelihood.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

The State Bar's Ready.Set.Practice. mentoring program needs mentors and mentees for 2020. Those seeking a mentor should sign up by Nov. 1.

Kathleen Brost, State Bar president-elect and chair of the State Bar's Nominating Committee, says deciding to run for a State Bar officer position was one of the best decisions she’s made. Nominate yourself by Oct. 31 to run for a State Bar officer position.

Many younger lawyers gravitate to cities to start their legal careers, but "there are great advantages to being a lawyer in a smaller community," says Wisconsin Appeals Court Judge Lisa Stark.

Law firms should continually review cybersecurity practices to ensure the firm's protocols are keeping up with cybersecurity threats.

Background checks are tricky when dealing with prospective and current employees. Employment lawyers should be prepared to advise employers about arrest and conviction record discrimination.

In a ceremony on Sept. 27 in Neillsville, a floor of the Clark County Courthouse that houses courtrooms and other offices will be dedicated to former Wisconsin Supreme Court Chief Justice Bruce Beilfuss. All are welcome to attend.

The OLR Procedure Review Committee filed a rule petition asking the court to amend SCR 21.16(1m)(a) and SCR 22.29(2) to permit the court to order permanent revocation of an attorney’s law license, in certain circumstances.

The OLR Procedure Review Committee filed a rule petition asking the court to create a new rule, SCR 22.185, that would provide a mechanism for the enforcement of disciplinary orders.

The Office of Lawyer Regulation Procedure Review Committee filed a rule petition asking the court to amend Supreme Court Rules to streamline the disciplinary process.

The Joint Legislative Council filed a rule petition asking the court to amend Supreme Court Rules pertaining to the educational requirements for GAL appointments in actions affecting the family.

What are a lawyer's duties when their client dies while a case is pending? When does a lawyer's authority to act on behalf of a client end?

U.S. Senators Ron Johnson and Tammy Baldwin reestablished the Wisconsin Federal Nominating Commission.

Get quick answers to your citation questions with the 'Wisconsin Guide to Citation,' designed specifically for attorneys citing Wisconsin-specific sources and newly updated from State Bar of Wisconsin PINNACLE®.

Interested in gaining the tools and skills to make you confident as a leader? The G. Lane Ware Leadership Academy helps you do just that, according to its graduates. Apply for the 2019-20 Leadership Academy by Sept. 30.

The scams that target lawyers and trust fund accounts are evolving – are you prepared? Learn more about the latest in scams and gain tips to avoid being the next victim.

Lawyers have a role to play in helping organizational leadership understand the importance of diverse viewpoints in boardrooms.

A recent decision says employers who misclassify workers as independent contractors do not violate labor laws that prohibit employers from interfering with employees' right to organize, based on the misclassification alone.

Any decision, if the High Court decides to take the case, would have the largest impact on states, such as Wisconsin, without laws banning assault-style weapons.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Learn tips and tricks to maximize your results with Google Scholar. Law librarian Beverly G. Butula helps you make the most of this free resource in an upcoming, one-hour CLE seminar, Legal Research Using Innovative Google Methods, from the State Bar of Wisconsin PINNACLE®.

What do you need to enhance your practice? Learn tips and insights for your solo or small-firm practice at the 2019 Wisconsin Solo & Small Firm Conference, Oct. 24-26 in Wisconsin Dells.

A public hearing will be held Nov. 12 on the petition of Michael Bauer, Madison, to reinstate his Wisconsin law license.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

"The Wisconsin Public Records and Open Meetings Handbook," recently revised by State Bar of Wisconsin PINNACLE, helps you determine when governmental information and meetings must be accessible to the public.

Lessons learned from the G. Lane Ware Leadership Academy will help you enhance your practice and your leadership skills, says Academy graduate Eileen Dorfman. What kind of leader do you want to be? Gain the skills to succeed in the 2019-20 Leadership Academy – apply by Sept. 30.

Open Enrollment ends Dec. 15, 2019. As you consider your options, the State Bar of Wisconsin now offers another health care insurance option for members in firms of two or more employees. Learn how this health plan can impact your 2020 coverage.

Sometimes, clients are difficult. Three young lawyers share their strategies for dealing with them.

A joint initiative between the State Bar of Wisconsin Lawyer Assistance Program and the Senior Lawyers Division will highlight cognitive impairment among aging attorneys.

Millennials account for 40 percent of the U.S. workforce. Law firms can attract talented millennial lawyers, generally between ages 25 and 38, by focusing on law firm culture.

The new Marketplace – launched Aug. 20 – now has an easier, more intuitive shopping experience, similar to what you’ll find on other e-commerce sites.

The Board of Bar Examiners (BBE) proposes two changes to its appendices. The first involves amending BA 6.02, which identifies those matters into which the BBE may further inquire before deciding whether an applicant to the bar possesses the necessary character and fitness to practice law. The second involves changes to CLE 3.015 regarding requirements to reactivate licensure to active status.

File cleanup: What do you need to know in storing and destroying old files from closed client cases? How long do you have to wait before destroying closed client files? And do you need permission of the former client before destroying them?

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts.

If you use Wisconsin's transfer by affidavit procedure, you can now find an updated transfer by affidavit form and more on the State Bar of Wisconsin website, thanks to the State Bar's Real Property, Probate, and Trust Law Section.

Milwaukee attorney Jim Baxter was well known for his compassion and dedication to helping struggling lawyers. He was recently honored for more than 30 years of work as a volunteer with the State Bar of Wisconsin Lawyers Assistance Program.

Attending a conference is about more than simply getting CLE credits. It's about building and strengthening your connections – creating a team of fellow practitioners you can turn to when the need arises. Timothy Cody shares how expanding your network expands your business opportunities.

Attracting young lawyers to smaller Wisconsin communities continues to be an uphill struggle. But some cities, such as Wausau, are ramping up the appeal.

The finalized biennial state budget includes an increase in the hourly rate paid to private bar attorneys taking public defender cases and pay increases for state prosecutors and public defenders. Learn more about the state budget bill and other legislation.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

What do you do if a client has questions or projects outside your firm's purview? Solo and small firm lawyers can cover their bases by networking and partnering with other firms.

The OLR Procedure Review Committee and Confidentiality Subcommittee petitioned the court to modify its confidentiality rules to balance the interests of an accused attorney against the public's right to know and to be protected in applicable lawyer disciplinary cases.

The OLR Procedure Review Committee and Reinstatement Subcommittee petitioned the court to modify supreme court rules pertaining to reinstatement after an attorney’s law license has been suspended or revoked.

Researching archived legal information can provide useful insight into discovering what the law was at a set point in time. Law librarian Carol Hassler gives tips and links for finding archived legal material for your research needs.

Attorneys across the country have the opportunity to contribute to the National Conference of Bar Examiners study on what should be tested in the bar exam. The survey is available through the end of September.

For all judges on the bench and attorneys appearing in Wisconsin's circuit courts, the five judicial benchbook volumes, updated annually from State Bar of Wisconsin PINNACLE®, are the guides that help you navigate cases in state courts.

Learn tips and tricks to enhance your solo or small-firm practice at the 2019 Wisconsin Solo & Small Firm Conference, Oct. 24-26 in Wisconsin Dells.

Congratulations to the 370 lawyers who are recognized as part of the Wisconsin Pro Bono Honor Society, which honors lawyers who provide pro bono legal services in excess of 50 hours annually.

Interested in gaining more tools and skills to help you succeed, and a network of colleagues to support you? The G. Lane Ware Leadership Academy helps you do just that, according to its graduates. Apply for the 2019-20 Leadership Academy by Sept. 30.

Join us in congratulating the attorneys and staff of Stafford Rosenbaum, recipient of this year's Champions of Diversity Award, for 20 years of participation in the State Bar of Wisconsin Diversity Clerkship Program. Their commitment boosted 20 legal careers.

A U.S. Supreme Court decision overrules a 1985 decision that required takings claimants against state and local governments to seek redress in state courts.

The Wisconsin Supreme Court issued 54 authored decisions in the 2018-19 term. This article provides statistics and analysis, as well as insights from civil and criminal lawyers, with the holdings and votes in all 54 decisions.

State Bar members are invited to attend the meeting of the Executive Committee when it will conduct its annual evaluation on 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.

In 2016, there were approximately 13,500 eviction cases filed in Wisconsin. Tenants had an attorney in about 112 of the cases. The Eviction Defense Project, which provides free legal aid to low-income tenants, is working to help tenants know their rights.

Phyllis Frye, an attorney and judge in Texas, became an open transgender woman in the 1970s, and has fought to promote and protect transgender rights ever since. She is a featured speaker at the upcoming Health, Labor, and Employment Law Institute.

On March 13, 2019, the OLR Procedure Review Committee petitioned the court to modify the supreme court rules to afford referees more authority to rule on certain matters.

On March 13, 2019, the OLR Procedure Review Committee petitioned the court to amend the supreme court rules pertaining to the appointment and training of referees.

Effective July 1, 2019, the State Bar of Wisconsin will receive and administer the fee for admission pro hac vice according to the terms the court’s rule and a Memorandum of Understanding between the State Bar and the recipients of those funds. This order reflects the court’s approval of the Memorandum.

A petition to amend supreme court rules to abolish the mandatory bar and create a voluntary State Bar of Wisconsin was denied.

Job searches can give rise to conflicts for lawyers. Just when do lawyers have to notify clients that they are seeking a new position?

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

For anyone handling marital property issues, Marital Property Law & Practice in Wisconsin, from State Bar of Wisconsin PINNACLE®, provides a practical guide that answers your in-depth questions and saves you time with its quickly accessible forms and flowcharts.

Keep up with the evolving trends, technology, and political policies impacting health care and the workplace at the 2019 Health, Labor, and Employment Law Institute, Aug. 15-16, at Glacier Canyon Lodge in Wisconsin Dells.

Solo and small-firm lawyers, who is your go-to colleague for your most pressing questions? Nominate a solo or small-firm lawyer for the 2019 John Lederer Service Award. Nominations are due Aug. 19.

Learn more about current Indian law issues from notable practitioners, and hear about legal issues and opportunities for mutual state and tribal benefit from Attorney General Josh Kaul at the eighth annual Indian Law CLE, Aug. 1-2, 2019, in Wisconsin Dells.

The Wisconsin Lawyers' Fund for Client Protection Committee reimbursed more than $207K to 36 victims of lawyer theft over the past year. Committee Chair Benjamin Kurten makes a request: help prevent claims by helping each other as colleagues.

This year, State Bar of Wisconsin members who graduated law school in 1969 celebrate 50 years in the legal profession. In this article, learn some of their stories.

A new WisBar Marketplace – where you can find State Bar products or register for events – is coming in August, with improved browsing, searching, and navigation.

CNN Legal Analyst Joan Biskupic knows something about the U.S. Supreme Court: She has been covering the High Court for almost three decades.

Recent decisions by the Wisconsin and the U.S. supreme courts provide additional layers to state and federal law on burglary and the impact of prior convictions.

You've worked within the system – here's your chance to be heard. Take 10 minutes to let the Wisconsin Supreme Court's Planning and Policy Advisory Committee know what you think about critical issues within the court system.

Business clients count on their lawyers for advice about avoiding or handling disputes before or when they arise. For fast and accurate guidance and solutions, turn to Business Litigation and Dispute Resolution in Wisconsin from State Bar of Wisconsin PINNACLE®, newly revised and expanded for 2019.

Wisconsin Supreme Court assessments and State Bar of Wisconsin membership dues for fiscal year 2020 are due July 1. Statements were sent in early May.

Upon the court's own motion, and in consultation with the Board of Bar Examiners, the court has eliminated certain fees as part of the application process for admission to the Bar. The court eliminated the $100 admission fee and the $25 fee required for change of name.

The unique role of guardians ad litem (GAL) pose challenges in applying the Rules of Professional Conduct for Attorneys, such as determining whether GAL work may conflict with your other cases. Tim Pierce, State Bar of Wisconsin ethics counsel, provides insight into one particular case that may help.

Dane County Circuit Court Judge Everett Mitchell is known for his leadership in the Madison community. Recently, he outlined three principles of leadership that he uses to make a difference in the justice system.

On May 8, 2019, the Hon. Lisa K. Stark, in her capacity as Dean of the Wisconsin Judicial College petitioned the court to codify the faculty structure and appointment process for the Wisconsin Judicial College.

On March 11, 2019, the State Bar of Wisconsin petitioned the court to amend SCR Chapter 10 to allow for the option of electronic voting for State Bar elections of officers and Board of Governors members and for referenda.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Michael Dwyer is recipient of the 2019 Judge of the Year award from the State Bar of Wisconsin Bench and Bar Committee. Find out more about Judge Dwyer, and how he learned that family law best suited his desire to make a difference.

The Wisconsin Supreme Court, on its own motion, amended SCR 10.03(4)(b)2 regarding the allocation of fees an applicant for admission pro hac vice is required to pay.

The Wisconsin Legislature's Joint Finance Committee recently approved an increase in the hourly rate paid to private bar attorneys who take appointments from the state public defender's office.

Do you start your legal research with Google? Law librarian Bev Butula offers hints and tips to sharpen your research skills in this introduction to free research on Google Scholar.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Staying on top of statutory and administrative changes is essential for a well-founded practice. Rely on proven tools and systems to ensure you are never caught off guard by new legislation with Codebooks from State Bar of Wisconsin PINNACLE®.

Justice Shirley Abrahamson retires from the Wisconsin Supreme Court on July 31, 2019. RSVP by June 11 to join the celebration on Tuesday, June 18, 2019.

Stacy Alexejun and Laurna Kinnel are recognized as "outstanding" by the Young Lawyers Division. Together, they have a message: Don't wait to mentor those who follow you into the profession.

Congratulations to Milwaukee Deputy City Attorney Miriam Horwitz, the recipient of the first Diversity and Inclusion Trailblazer Award from the State Bar of Wisconsin Diversity & Inclusion Oversight Committee. Find out more about the award and its first recipient.

Changes to state and federal law means hemp is now a legal agricultural crop instead of an illegal controlled substance. Collin Schaeffer highlights several issues lawyers will be called to figure out in this new legal landscape.

Under a pending petition, lawyers would once again be able to help self-represented litigants draft court documents without identifying themselves to avoid representation entanglements.

The Fifth Annual list of Wisconsin law blogs shows lawyers continue to blog on developments in niche areas, providing a primary source of legal information.

Recently, 14 lawyers filed a petition to the state supreme court, requesting rule changes to make State Bar of Wisconsin membership voluntary.

Is it a conflict of interest to represent someone seeking a guardian appointment for your client?

Keep up with the evolving trends, technology, and political policies impacting health care and the workplace at the 2019 Health, Labor, and Employment Law Institute, Aug. 15-16, at Glacier Canyon Lodge in Wisconsin Dells.

Congratulations Judge James Evenson, recipient of the State Bar of Wisconsin 2019 Lifetime Jurist Award. During his career on the bench, he improved access to justice and the community trust in the judiciary, say those who know him.

Having a lawyer can make the difference between having a home and being evicted, says incoming State Bar President Jill Kastner. She is calling for volunteers to help improve access to justice in Wisconsin.

As we begin our search for 2019 Wisconsin Legal Innovators, previous winners encourage the legal profession to celebrate those good ideas by nominating the next class of innovators.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

A public hearing will be held June 24 on the petition of Elvis C. Banks of Southaven, Miss., to reinstate his Wisconsin law license.

The nation's High Court will soon decide whether Wisconsin's implied consent law allows warrantless blood draws on unconscious individuals arrested for drunk driving.

Two lawyers have filed a lawsuit against the State Bar of Wisconsin in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin, alleging that the mandatory status of the State Bar violates their constitutional rights.

The Director of State Courts petitioned the court to amend several court rules and procedural statutes to address the ongoing anticipated shortage of stenographic court reporters and to deem monitored digital audio reporting an accepted court reporting method, in order to permit a blended system of stenographic and digital audio reporting.

The clerk of the supreme court and court of appeals petitioned the court to authorize a pilot project and adopt an interim rule to develop and test procedures to permit exclusive electronic filing of documents in the court of appeals and supreme court.

The Office of Lawyer Regulation Procedure Review Committee petitioned the court to modify the Supreme Court Rules to afford referees more authority to rule on certain matters. The petitioner has asked the court to defer a final decision on this petition until the court has considered and decided pending rule petition 19-04.

The Office of Lawyer Regulation Procedure Review Committee and the Subcommittee on Referees petitioned the court to amend and create Supreme Court Rules and modify the court's Internal Operating Procedures pertaining to appointment and training of referees.

Some resources to launch your research when the sports or entertainment worlds intersect with your practice.

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Head to Green Bay and Lambeau Field for CLE sessions, networking, and more at the State Bar of Wisconsin Annual Meeting & Conference, June 13-14, 2019. Register today – hotel and registration discounts end May 17.

Wisconsin Supreme Court assessments and State Bar of Wisconsin membership dues statements will be sent shortly. Be sure to take advantage of member benefits and services available to you.

Welcome to 19 new Wisconsin lawyers who passed the Wisconsin bar exam in February 2019. Some are just beginning their careers in law, and others are finding new opportunities in Wisconsin.

Everyone has a role to play in eliminating sexual harassment from the workplace, and men play an important role as allies in changing the culture, according to panelists at a recent program discussing issues facing women in the legal profession.

Yale Law Professor James Forman Jr., a featured speaker at the State Bar of Wisconsin's 2019 Annual Meeting and Conference in June, talks about mass and disparate incarceration, the subject of his 2018 Pulitzer Prize-winning book.

The court, on its own motion, filed a petition to amend SCR Chapter 40, regarding admission to the bar.

When a client in a contingency-fee case may have to foreclose on their property before the case resolves, may a lawyer advance them a loan for living expenses to help them get by?

A selection of recent Wisconsin case verdicts are shared below.

Whether you live in a seller's or buyer's market, Real Estate Transactions System from State Bar of Wisconsin PINNACLE® is the key to providing good client service.

Need guidance on your retirement preparation and transition? Attend the annual Senior Lawyers Division CLE program in May – available in Eau Claire or Madison.