Features

Deportation Deferred: Risks to Undocumented Youths and Employers

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival, a new immigration initiative, may provide temporary deportation relief for undocumented youths, but the application process might also increase the risk of being deported or terminated from employment.

No Longer a ‘Back Room’ Deal: Nontraditional Settlement Agreements Revealed

Many courts and litigation attorneys view nontraditional settlement agreements like Mary Carter and loan receipt agreements with mistrust. But such agreements, when properly structured, can promote more efficient settlement of certain lawsuits.

Contrary to the Child’s Best Interest: Jury Trials in Children’s Court Proceedings

Jury trials in CHIPS, JIPS, and TPR proceedings, although a statutory entitlement, do little to promote the judicial systems goal of fostering and protecting the best interests of children.

Opinions, Voices & Ideas

President's Message
Another Day
Kevin Klein describes what a State Bar president really does and how he does it.

Your State Bar
Seizing Opportunities
The Wisconsin Equal Justice Conference showed creative solutions help provide access to justice, says George Brown.

Trends
Nonlawyer Ownership or Investment in Law Firms
Robert Denney explores issues surrounding this trending law firm business structure.

Ethics
Sharing Office Space with Other Businesses
It is okay to share space, just be sure to protect client confidentiality, says Dean Dietrich.

Managing Risk
Report Potential Malpractice Claims: Don’t Be Shy
Don't risk a loss of insurance coverage, warns Tom Watson. Report a potential problem right away.

Technology
Top 16 Security Tips for Smartphones
Sharon Nelson and John Simek say it's vital that lawyers protect smartphone contents.

Final Thought
Clients’ Interests Versus Nonlawyer Investors
Law firms should continue to focus on clients' best interests, says Jay Rothman, not on investors' financial goals.