Features

Lifelines for Survivors: Labor Trafficking in Wisconsin

A person is trafficked for labor when they are exploited for another’s financial gain through threat of force, fraud, or coercion. This article provides a current perspective on labor trafficking in Wisconsin, offering views from lawyers, survivor advocates, law enforcement, a survivor, and a policy expert.

What You Need to Know as a Woman In-House Lawyer

An in-house counsel herself, the author lists 10 things she has observed women lawyers don't know or do as in-house counsel that their male counterparts seem to do quite well, which, she postulates, has resulted in a widening of the gap between men and women.

As I See It
Using Parent Coordinators to Decide Disputes Post-Divorce

With appropriate guidelines and oversight, parent coordinators can help resolve disputes between parents after divorce, quickly and cost effectively.

Opinions, Voices & Ideas

President's Message
Optimism Bias: Harnessed, It Can Be a Good Thing
Believing we won't experience negative consequences because of our actions – optimism bias – can be a two-edged sword. Cheryl Daniels thinks harnessing it can help us keep moving forward in tricky times.

Your State Bar
Representing the Underserved
The Wisconsin Law Foundation annually grants the Belle Case La Follette Awards to three recent law school graduates who represent underserved populations. Larry Martin says your contributions to the Foundation help make the awards possible.

101
Use Brain Science to Make Better Decisions
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.

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.

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.

Technology
Pick Your Winner: 2022 Smartphone Lineup
In the market for a new smartphone? James Pearson provides a handy comparison chart of the latest available smartphones to help with your purchase decision.

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.

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.

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.