Studying how the human brain works has helped scientists learn more about decision-making. Ralph Weber presents some findings and related tips that are especially relevant for lawyers.

Jan. 07, 2022

Ethics
Lawyers' Duty of Candor: Fundamental But Fuzzy

That lawyers have a duty of candor to tribunals is clear, but, Dean Dietrich says, the contours of the obligation are not, especially when duties to clients seem more important.

Jan. 07, 2022

Reflections
Why Can't Lawyers Enjoy Even a Momentary Lapse in Chaos?

Deanne Koll wonders what it is about being a lawyer that drives us crazy in less hectic times.

Jan. 07, 2022

Managing Risk
Top 10 Tips: Avoid Spending Your Malpractice Insurance Deductible

Some lawyers never experience a malpractice claim during their entire career; others are not as fortunate. Tom Watson provides tips to avoid becoming that "unfortunate" lawyer.

Jan. 07, 2022

Marketing
Listening to the Client

Client feedback mechanisms are a fast and effective way to boost firm revenue. Heather Gray-Grant explores why law firms are not using this business practice as a standard operating procedure.

Jan. 07, 2022

Final Thought
Resolve to Elevate Self-care in 2022

Mindy Tempelis says focusing on wellness is important for everyone, especially lawyers and other members of helping professions.

Dec. 21, 2021

Free Research Tools for Wisconsin Attorneys

There are many free resources available for Wisconsin attorneys – but do you know what they are and where to find them? Amanda R. Mayer talks about free tools and websites that can give your legal research a boost.

Dec. 20, 2021

Wisconsin Supreme Court Adopts New CLE Requirements for Reactivated Lawyers

The Wisconsin Supreme Court has issued an order, effective Jan. 1, 2022, establishing new continuing legal education (CLE) attendance and reporting requirements for lawyers who reactivate their State Bar of Wisconsin membership or who are

Dec. 15, 2021

Top Tips from the Practice411 Elist in 2021

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.

Dec. 09, 2021

Marketing
The Write Way to Build Your Practice

Emily Kelchen provides tips for writing in ways that attract the attention of search engines, readers, and new clients.

Dec. 09, 2021

Final Thought
The Power of Our Profession: Volunteer

Looking to make a New Year's resolution? Kate Knowlton suggests volunteering with the State Bar of Wisconsin.

Nov. 12, 2021

101: Supplemental Examinations: Helping Clients Collect Money Judgments

"Victory" in a case in which one party is ordered to pay another isn't complete until the money changes hands. Teresa Kobelt provides tips for helping clients collect on money judgments.

Nov. 12, 2021

Reflections: Lessons Learned: Two Lawyers Who Made a Difference for Wisconsin Workers

As public sector labor and employment lawyers Timothy Hawks and Barbara Quindel prepare for retirement, Summer Murshid asks them about their careers, and what they wish they had known "back then."

Nov. 12, 2021

Ethics: Lawyers' Obligations Regarding Technology

As technology continues to evolve, Dean Dietrich says lawyers need not be computer experts, but they must understand the fundamentals of that technology, particularly regarding security.

Nov. 12, 2021

Technology: 5 Productivity Boosting Apps: Microsoft 365 for Business Subscription

James Pearson reviews five apps that will speed up routine business-management tasks, so you can focus your time and effort on clients' cases.

Nov. 12, 2021

Managing Risk: Client Files: What Should I Do With Them?

Feeling the urge to clean up your shelves or your computer? Tom Watson says make sure to keep file-retention guidelines in mind when handling client files.

Nov. 12, 2021

Solutions: Should You Be a Thought Leader? The Answer May Surprise You

For lawyers, being perceived as an expert enhances their ability to attract clients and referrals. It may also accelerate promotion within a law firm. But expertise and thought leadership are not the same thing. Teddy Snyder breaks it down.

Nov. 12, 2021

Final Thought: New Lawyers: A Generation that Might Get Left Behind the Screen

Emil Ovbiagele warns that full-time remote work policies might have unintended consequences on the long-term career development and well-being of new lawyers.

Nov. 01, 2021

Wisconsin Solo & Small Firm Conference: A Focus on Virtual Law Practice

For the second year in a row, meeting the challenges posed by the virtual practice of law was the main topic of discussion at the Wisconsin Solo and Small Firm Conference hosted by the State Bar.

Oct. 28, 2021

New Emeritus Rules Reflect Our Changing Profession

What are the changes in the Emeritus status for senior lawyers? Michael May talks about the changes, who they apply to, and why he believes they were necessary.

Oct. 21, 2021

Practice Management: The Role of Legal Administrators in U.S. Law Firms

Think of a legal administrator as the go-to person in your firm responsible for one or more job functions, and the engineer who ensures all the trains run on time. Christopher Shattuck talks with four legal administrators about their unique roles.

Oct. 21, 2021

Solutions: When Your Client Asks "Should I Hire a 'Real' Attorney?"

It's not unusual for potential clients to imply that lawyers who provide free or low-cost legal services are not "real attorneys." Kate Cook offers tips for truthfully allaying the concerns that might underlay such questions and comments.

Oct. 06, 2021

Upping Your Remote Office Game: Prepping Your Firm to Be Flexible

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.

Sep. 21, 2021

Glacial Change: Women in Law Firm & Corporate Leadership

Women achieved parity in law school classes more than three decades ago, yet the numbers today show that women are underrepresented in positions of power and influence in law firm and corporate legal environments. Why is that?

Sep. 21, 2021

President's Message: You Don't Need Darwinian Evolution to Adapt with Purpose

Cheryl Daniels says consciously adapting to changing circumstances is a uniquely human endeavor that applies to all of us if we want to survive and thrive in today's workforce and workplaces.

Sep. 21, 2021

Ethics: Wisconsin Supreme Court or ABA: Whose Rules Are the Final Authority?

Dean Dietrich explains that the Rules of Professional Conduct for Attorneys – SCR chapter 20 – are the primary guidance for behavior of lawyers who practice in Wisconsin.

Sep. 21, 2021

Managing Risk: Malpractice Claims Up in Business and Commercial Law

Tom Watson says WILMIC is seeing increases in both frequency and severity in practice areas that involve clients who are experiencing the most immediate effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sep. 15, 2021

Six Tips for Developing a Business Plan for Uncertain Financial Times

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.

Sep. 01, 2021

Tune Up Your Practice at the Virtual Solo & Small Firm Conference

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.

Sep. 01, 2021

Legal Research: The Inside Scoop on Productivity Apps

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

Sep. 01, 2021

5 Tips: Business Succession Planning for Lawyers

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

Aug. 18, 2021

Trust Account Scams Increasingly Target Wisconsin Law Firms

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.

Aug. 18, 2021

Dilemma: Accepting Cryptocurrency as Payment

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.

Jul. 21, 2021

'A Family Reunion': Virtual Wisconsin Solo & Small Firm Conference Set for October

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.

Jul. 21, 2021

Honor Service to Solo and Small-firm Lawyers: Nominations for Lederer Award Due Sept. 10

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.

Jul. 21, 2021

'A Family Reunion': Wisconsin Solo & Small Firm Conference Set for October

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.

Jul. 21, 2021

Honor Service to Solo and Small-firm Lawyers: Nominations for Lederer Award Due Sept. 10

Jul. 08, 2021

Small Business Lessons: You’ve Got Mail

What does a good romantic comedy have in common with running a small business? Stephanie Melnick talks about the lessons learned in the movie "You’ve Got Mail."

Jul. 07, 2021

When Your Client Asks ‘Should I Hire a Real Attorney?’

Attorneys practicing public interest law may frequently hear this question from a client. Kate Cook discusses ways to respond – and how that response can build a more trusting relationship with your client.

Jun. 17, 2021

Becoming a Certified Elder Law Attorney

Taking the exam to become a Certified Elder Law Attorney (CELA) is a rigorous process. Greg Banchy discusses his experience becoming a CELA – and whether it is worth the time and effort.

Jun. 16, 2021

Ethical Dilemma: Is There a Duty to Correct an Error by a Court?

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?

Jun. 04, 2021

Ethics: Court Appearances During the Pandemic

Withdrawal from representation is a viable alternative for lawyers who are concerned about their own medical conditions and the potential effects of COVID-19, says Dean Dietrich.

Jun. 04, 2021

Managing Risk: Technology Competence Is a Core Ethical Obligation

Tom Watson gives tips on competently using technology to reduce confidentiality breaches and other risky practice errors.

Jun. 04, 2021

Technology: What You Need to Know: Mandatory Appellate Court eFiling Begins July 1

Sheila Reiff and Marcia Vandercook explain appellate eFiling, which begins July 1 in the Wisconsin Court of Appeals. If you're familiar with circuit court eFiling, you'll find the appellate eFiling system familiar and easy to use.

Jun. 04, 2021

Final Thought: What Do We Got on the Spacecraft That's Good?

During crises, lawyers should take a page from NASA. Instead of being overwhelmed by the negatives, Emily Kelchen urges figuring out what we already have that is good.

May 19, 2021

Ethics & Data Breaches: Chris Shattuck at AMC

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.

May 14, 2021

What Brings You Joy? Taking Time for Self-care

Wisconsin lawyers share their tips for finding joy in the midst of a pandemic – and offer advice on building a strong foundation of self-care.

May 14, 2021

On Balance: The Secret to Lawyer Well-being

Julie Bonasso says there is not one source of feeling good, but there is a common path to finding well-being: looking within ourselves.

May 14, 2021

Ethics: Confidentiality Assured: State Bar Ethics, Practice411, and WisLAP

Dean Dietrich says calls to and from the State Bar of Wisconsin's ethics, practice management, and lawyers assistance programs are private and confidential.

May 14, 2021

Marketing: Follow Your Tug: 9 Lessons from an Accidental Entrepreneur

Are you unhappy about your current career path but nervous about going into a "great unknown"? Barbara Zabawa made the switch to solo practice; she offers tips to ease the journey.

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