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Features

Postmortem of a Breakdown:
A New Approach to Work

I experienced an acute depressive episode, triggered by extreme anxiety and stress. Like many lawyers, I had a lot of both. This is what happened and how a new approach to work helped me to not just recover but thrive. I share this with the hope that other lawyers will not make the same mistakes I did – pushing off the need to address their mental-health struggles. This is my story.

By Joseph A. Bugni

Wisconsin Trust Code Trailer Bill

On March 23, 2024, legislation amending the Wisconsin Trust Code took effect. The Trailer Bill provides numerous enhancements to the depth and efficacy of Wisconsin's trust law. Among the topics covered are classes of beneficiaries, representation of beneficiaries interests, nonjudicial settlement agreements, and the treatment of digital property owned by married persons.

By Mark A. Shiller

A 'How To' Guide for Lawyers
Remote Witnessing and Notarization of Estate Planning Documents

Emergency rules necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic have now been made permanent. 2023 Wisconsin Act 130 was signed into law on March 21, 2024, and took effect on March 23, 2024. Act 130 provides guidance on how and when lawyers, principal signers, notaries, and witnesses may use remote witnessing and notarization procedures for estate planning documents.

By Catherine M. Priebe & Philip J. Miller

Opinions, Voices & Ideas

President's Message
Moving the Profession Forward – Embrace Artificial Intelligence
While artificial intelligence continues to evolve, Dean Dietrich says it's time for lawyers to recognize that AI is here to stay and to use AI to enhance their law practices.

Your State Bar
Staying True and On Course
The Diversity Clerkship Program's continued operation is a victory for Wisconsin's law students and future lawyers, employers who participate in the program, and consumers of legal services in Wisconsin.

Reflections
The Quiet Odyssey: Navigating the Silence Within
Emil Ovbiagele suggests taking time and making space to forge connections with yourself amid the chaos of law practice and life.

Learning to Learn
Treat Learning as an Asset
Theresa Elliott says continuous learning enables lawyers to provide innovative solutions and deliver superior outcomes to clients.

Practice Pulse
Spring Cleaning for Lawyers: Protect Your Clients Through Planning
Spring is a great time to refocus on protecting clients' interests. Brent Hoeft has ideas for succession planning and managing the lifecycle of client files.

Women History Makers
Judge Ramona Gonzalez: Tending to Democracy
Shannon Green profiles Judge Ramona Gonzalez of the La Crosse County Circuit Court. This year, Wisconsin Lawyer is profiling women lawyers who continue to make history in the tradition of Lavinia Goodell.

Ethics
"Ethics Song '89": Conversations About More Than the Weather
Stacie Rosenzweig says lawyers must inform clients about things that significantly affect their cases, need not disclose minor mistakes, and can engage in small talk but should avoid oversharing.

Technology
Tech-Powered Communication:Boosting Efficiency and Ensuring Security
Advancements in communication technology have increased both choices and challenges, including concerns about privacy and security. James Pearson explains.

On Balance
When Lawyers Need Help, Where Do They Go?
People often put off seeking help for mental health concerns until long after they first realize they need help. Amber Ault says the Wisconsin Lawyers Assistance Program is available and can respond with help, often within 24 hours.

Solutions
Electronic Filing Revolutionizes Service and Convenience in Wisconsin Courts
Stephen Kelley reports that the Wisconsin Court System's eFiling system, the fee for which increased by $15 on May 1, 2024, remains efficient, effective, and secure.

Final Thought
Technological Changes Over 50 Years in Practice
Gard Strother recounts some of the technology changes he's experienced that have allowed courts and lawyers to make the judicial system operate more efficiently and conveniently.