​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Schedule

Schedule is subject to change​

Substantive Law Track
Practice Management Track
Technology Track
Quality of Life and Ethics Track​
​​​

Thursday, October 17, 2024​

8:30 a.m. - 8:40 a.m.

Opening Remarks​​​

8:40 a.m. - 9:55 a.m.

Opening Plenary: Litigation ABCs: D is for Discovery... and Don't Distress (1.5 CLE)

In this practical and engaging session, you’ll receive guidance on how to effectively handle discovery as both proponents and respondents. The presenters will emphasize efficient strategies tailored for clients with limited resources for cases with modest stakes. Learn to prioritize essential elements for case preparation and trial, ensuring a streamlined discovery process. ​

Presented By:

Cathleen A. Dettmann
Palmersheim Dettmann, S.C., Middleton​

Kevn J. Palmersheim​
Palmersheim Dettmann​​, S.C., Middleton​


9:55 a.m. - 10:10 a.m.

Refreshment Break​​​

​10:10 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.​

​Working with Expert Witnesses: How to Not Feel like a Novice (1.0 CLE)

Gain a solid foundation of the fundamentals of working with expert witnesses, including finding and retaining experts, supporting the expert’s preparation of their report, and preparing for depositions and trial testimony.

Moderator:

Kevin J. Palmersheim
Palmersheim Dettmann​, S.C., Middleton​

Panelists:

Cathleen A. Dettmann
Palmersheim Dettmann, S.C., Middleton

Deanne M. Koll
Bakke Norman, S.C., New Richmond

Nicholas C. Watt
Kramer, Elkins & Watt LLC, Madison​​

​​


From Inception to Succession Series: Creating a Business Plan (1.0 LPM)​

Whether you’re just starting out or have been in practice for years, a business plan is valuable (and sometimes necessary) for many reasons: to obtain financing, open a new office, recalibrate for profitability, or to expand or merge firms. Discover the basic elements, resources, and adaptations for a law firm specific business plan and leave with tools to help get you started on creating your own plan.

Presented By:

J. David Krekeler
Krekeler Law, S.C., Madison

Shannon E. Wynn​
Wynn at Law LLC, Lake Geneva​

 

Overcoming Obstacles: Implementation Mindset for Legal Tech​ (1.0 LPM)

Successfully implementing legal technology starts with the right mindset to overcome resistance, outdated habits, and inefficient processes. Discover strategies to foster a tech-friendly environment, address human obstacles, and provide actionable steps to get everyone in your firm on board with legal tech advancements.

Presented By:

Jeffrey S. Krause
Affinity Consulting Group, Waterford​

 

From Inception to Succession Series: Succession Planning (1.0 LPM​)​​

Understand the importance of planning not only for disability, death, and retirement, but any unplanned early cessation of practice. A good succession plan is crucial for the long-term health of your practice and to upholding ethical obligations to clients. You’ll also discuss the emotional and mental impact of preparing to leave the practice of law.

Presented By:

Brent J. Hoeft
State Bar of Wisconsin, Madison

Brian C. Anderson
Wisconsin Lawyers Mutual Insurance Company, Madison​


11:00 a.m. - 11:15 a.​m.

Refreshment Break​​

11:15 a.m. - 12:05 p.m.​

Alcohol Laws and Other Unique Rules and Regulations (1.0 CLE)​

Delve into the changes ushered in by Act 73, overhauling Wisconsin’s alcohol beverage regulations, including expanded retail options for producers, the new definition of “public spaces” prohibited from selling without a permit, and permitting options for wedding barn owners. You’ll also explore lesser-known commercial laws such as the Fair Dealership Law and the Unfair Sales Act.

Presented By:

Jeffrey M. Glazer
Ogden, Glazer + Schaefer, Madison

Colin Schaefer
Ogden, Glazer + Schaefer, Cedarburg​

 

From Inception to Succession Series: Digital Marketing Essentials for Law Fims: A Beginners Guide (No CLE​​​)

Get an introduction to the fundamentals of digital marketing. Explore key strategies such as identifying your target audience, website optimization, SEO, content marketing, social media engagement, budget considerations, and more! You’ll come away knowing how to effectively promote your services and reach clients in the digital age.

Presented By:

Lindsay Marty
Above the Bar Marketing LLC, Madison

Stacy J. Schlemmer
Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C., Green Bay​

 

Securely Sharing Documents ​(1.0 LPM)

Explore secure ways to share documents and information, including document management systems, client portals, encrypted email, or even electronic fax. Receive sound guidance on the options available and the pros and cons of each so you can find the best fit for your firm.

Presented By:

Nerino J. Petro, Jr.
NerinoPetro LLC, Rockford, IL

Bryan Sims
Sims Law Firm, Ltd., Naperville, IL​

 

Alternative Fee Arrangements (1.0 EPR​)

Today’s consumer-savvy clients are accustomed to flexible and convenient pricing and payment options, making the standard billable-hours formula for legal services look like a remnant from the past. In this session, you’ll explore alternative fee arrangements, walk through sample agreements, and consider relevant ethics rules.

Presented By:

Dean R. Dietrich
Weld Riley, S.C., Wausau

Timothy J. Pierce
State Bar of Wisconsin, Madison​

​ ​

12:05 p.m. - 1:45 p.​m.

Grand Opening of the Legal Expo in the Expo Hall (Lunch served to registrants)

1:45 p.m. - 2:35 p.m.​

What Every Lawyer Should Know About Immigration Law (1.0 CLE)​

Receive a high-level overview of immigration laws that non-immigration lawyers may encounter that impact other areas of practice such as employment, criminal, family, and intellectual property law.

Presented By:

Amanda K. Gennerman
Pines Back LLP, Madison

Aissa I. Olivarez
Olivarez Law Firm LLC, Madison

Gabriela Parra
Layde & Parra, S.C., West Allis

Raluca Vais-Ottosen
DeWitt LLP, Madison​

 

The Power of Culture in Law Firms: Why It Matters, Building It Intentionally, and Its Effects on the Bottom Line​ (1.0 LAU)

Discover strategies to get more value and productivity out of your staff meetings and firm retreats. You’ll discover how to build a firm culture and how to create, implement, and track KPIs. You’ll learn how to take the demographics of your team into account in adapting culture. Come away with tools to create the game-changing culture your team deserves and track its impact on firm performance.

Presented By:

Ryan Behrands
No Bull Consulting, Madison

Emily Smit
The Perk, Madison

Mary C. ​Turke
Turke & Steil LLP, Madison​

 

Cybersecurity for Solo and Small Law Firms: Updates and Best Practices ​(1.0 LPM)

In an era of ever-evolving cybersecurity threats, solo and small firm practitioners must stay vigilant. This session covers the latest cybersecurity updates, focusing on risks unique to smaller law practices. Learn best practices, tools, and strategies to protect sensitive client information, ensure compliance, and mitigate the risk of cyberattacks, keeping your practice secure in today’s digital landscape.

Presented By:

Brent J. Hoeft
State Bar of Wisconsin, Madison​

 

Protecting Your Firm and Clients When Making a Career Change (1.0 EPR​)

Discuss ethical and practical considerations to protect your firm and clients when you or a colleague make a career transition.

Presented By:

Thomas J. Watson
Wisconsin Lawyers Mutual Insurance Company, Madison

Thomas R. Schumacher
Bakke Norman, S.C., New Richmond​

​​ ​

2:35 p.m. - 3:00 p.​m.

Refreshment Break​​

3:00 p.m. - 4:20 p.m.​

Recent Changes to Estate Planning Laws (1.5 CLE)​

​Learn about recent changes to estate planning laws, including updates to Wisconsin’s Trust Code and the new provisions for remote witnessing of estate planning documents (SB 898, 626, and 759). This intermediate-level session offers essential insights for practitioners navigating these developments.

Presented By:

Catherine M. Priebe
Certus Legal Group, Ltd., Milwaukee​

Mark A. Shiller
Certus Legal Group, Ltd., Milwaukee​

 

The Effects of the Corporate Transparency Act on the Wisconsin Lawyer​ (1.5 LPM)

The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) requires certain businesses to report their beneficial owners to the Department of the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network. What does your firm need to do to ensure it’s in compliance? Receive practical guidance on navigating the CTA and a walk through on completing the forms you’ll need for compliance.

Presented By:

Samuel J. Kavalier
Ogden Glazer + Schaefer, Minneapolis, MN

Sam Wayne​
Wayne Law, S.C., Madison​​


 

AI and Legal Research​ (1.5 LPM)

Unveil the transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI) for legal research. Learn how AI is reshaping the way legal professionals conduct research, analyze case law, and predict legal outcomes. Explore the latest AI tools and platforms that streamline research processes, enhance accuracy, and provide unprecedented insights, enabling lawyers to make more informed decisions and stay ahead of the curve in a competitive landscape.

Presented By:

Christina Steinbrecker Jack
vLex United States, Washington, D.C.​

 

Unlock the Power of Adaptable Communication in Your Firm (1.5 LAU​)

Effective communication across virtual, cultural, and generational divides is crucial. This interactive session helps you enhance your communication skills and connect with anyone, anywhere. Explore your personal communication style and learn how to recognize how others prefer to receive information. You’ll come away with a toolkit of adaptable communication strategies to help you build trust, align goals, and achieve breakthrough results.

Presented By:

Mike McKay
ActionCOACH, Milwaukee​​




Friday, October 18, 2024

8:00 a.m. - 8:30 a.m.

 
How to Elevate Your Firm: Discovering State Bar of Wisconsin Group Health Benefits​ (No CLE)​

Post-pandemic health care and inflation have driven health care coverage premiums up. Find out whether the State Bar of Wisconsin’s Group Health Insurance Plan for law firms can help you provide more comprehensive health insurance coverage for attorneys, their staff, and dependents. The plan provides valuable benefits and may even lower your costs!​

Presented By:

Christine Nadolski​
Benefits Department Manager, Professional Insurance Programs, Milwaukee​


8:30 a.m. - 9:50 a.m.

Plenary Session: 25 Things Every Lawyer Should Know (1.5 CLE)

No matter if your practice is specialized or general, a broad understanding of various substantive law issues is crucial. This rapid-fire primer will equip you with essential knowledge in bankruptcy, intellectual property, tax, employment, and elder law. Speakers will cover the key five key points you need to know about each practice area, so you’re equipped with the information every solo and small firm practitioner needs.

Presented By​:

Joseph W. Boucher
Neider & Boucher, S.C., Madison

Mark J. Goldstein
Goldstein Law Group, S.C., Milwaukee

J. David Krekeler
Krekeler Law, S.C., Madison

Heather B. Poster
Becker, Hickey & Poster, S.C., Milwaukee

Melissa A. Spindler
Smith Keane LLP, Hartland


9:50 a.m. - 10:10 a.m.

Refreshment Break​​​

10:10 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.​

Election Law: How to Get Involved in Protecting Democracy (1.0 CLE)​

Receive an election year overview of Wisconsin and federal election laws, including updates, legal challenges, and amendments to Wisconsin’s Constitution. ​

Presented By:

Edwardo E. Castro
Pines Bach LLP, Madison​

 

From Inception to Succession Series: Strategic Budgeting for Law Firms (1.0 LPM)

Join this interactive session to learn the fundamentals of budgeting, including managing fixed and variable costs, and accurately projecting revenue. Explore real-world scenarios to enhance your financial planning skills so you’re well-prepared for challenges and growth opportunities. Gain valuable insights into effective financial management and the tools to ensure the financial success of your practice.

Presented By:

Adam Gardebrecht
Fine Point Consulting, Madison​

​ ​

 

What to Know About Copilot (1.0 LPM)

Discover how Microsoft’s Copilot can automate and support your firm. Copilot is a new feature designed to help you unleash your creativity, maximize productivity, and elevate your Microsoft 365 game. Available in Microsoft Bing, Edge, 365, and Windows, learn what Copilot is capable of and what it can do for you.

Presented By:

Nerino J. Petro, Jr.
NerinoPetro LLC, Rockford, IL

Bryan Sims
Sims Law Firm, Ltd., Naperville, IL​

 

50 Tips in 50 Minutes (1.0 LAU​)

This WSSFC favorite is back by popular demand, but this time with a quality-of-life track twist! Discover useful hacks and tricks designed to improve your wellbeing. Hear rapid-fire tips you can implement right away to make your life and your practice more efficient, rewarding, and enjoyable!

Presented By:

Matthew Shin
Sidebar Counseling​ LLC, Wausau

Julie M. Spoke
Office of Lawyer Regulation, Madison

Emily Logan Stedman
Husch Blackwell, Milwaukee​

Emily Veenendaal
MSN, PMHNP-BC, Western Wisconsin Health, Baldwin​​


11:00 a.m. - 11:20 a.m.

Refreshment Break

11:20 a.m. - 12:10 p.m.

A Peaceful Home Away from Home: Riparian and other Concerns Involving Family Cabins (1.0 CLE)​

There’s no room for assumptions when it comes to the future ownership and management of a family property. Help clients create a framework for the future, accounting for scheduled use, buyout of family members, repairs and maintenance, money for property upkeep, and more. In addition to estate planning issues, you’ll explore questions about riparian rights.

Presented By:

Brian A. Schuk
Schuk Law LLC, Lake Geneva

Alyssa S. Wilson
Schuk Law LLC, Lake Geneva​

 

How to Have Effective Firm Retreats and Meetings (1.0 LPM)

In this interactive session, learn strategies to enhance the value and productivity of your staff meetings and firm retreats. You’ll come away with a toolkit of techniques to help you run more efficient and impactful meetings, so you can spend more time practicing law and billing hours. If you’re considering holding a firm retreat for the first time, this session will provide you with the resources to get you started!

Presented By:

​Jessica M. Kramer
Kramer, Elkins & Watt, LLC, Madison

Mike McKay
ActionCOACH, Milwaukee​

 

E-Signature Technology and Remote Witnessing and Notarization Under Wis Stat. 140.147 and 140.145 (1.0 LPM)

Explore the evolving world of electronic signatures and remote notarization. This session focuses on the technology available to help you comply with recent amendments to Wis. Stat. §140.147 and authorizing remote ink notary (RIN) and witnessing signatures for estate planning and Wis. Stat. §140.145, authorizing remote online notarization (RON) in real estate and business transactions, and general use of e-signature technology for everyday documents. Get a comprehensive overview of the legal framework, practical applications, available options, and best practices for using e-signature and remote notarizations.

Presented By:

Cheryl A. Hipenbecker
Knight Barry Title, Inc., Milwaukee

Brent J. Hoeft
State Bar of Wisconsin, Madison

Catherine M. Priebe
Certus Legal Group, Ltd., Milwaukee​

 

Risky Business When Representing Friends and Family (1.0 EPR​)

How many times has a friend or family member come to you for legal advice, even if it’s not related to your practice areas? At this session, you’ll discuss the benefits, risks, and key ethical considerations when deciding whether or not to represent friends or family members.

Presented By:

Matthew M. Beier
Wisconsin Lawyers Mutual Insurance Company, Madison

Erin R. Ogden
Ogden Glazer + Schaefer, Madison​


12:10 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Networking Lunch and Presentation of the 2024 Lederer Award

1:30 p.m. - 2:15 p.m.

Last Break in Expo Hall - Dessert - Passport to Prizes and other Prizes Awarded

2:30 p.m. - 3:20 p.m.

Consequences of Criminal Convictions on Other Legal Matters (1.0 ​CLE)

Explore the wide-ranging consequences of criminal convictions or proceedings in various legal settings. Discover how criminal convictions impact employment opportunities and rights. You’ll also discuss the implications for family law matters and the significant potential immigration consequences, including deportation.​

Presented By:

Daniel J. Finerty
Lindner & Marsack, S.C., Milwaukee

Pamela S. McAvoy
Gabert, Williams, Konz & Lawrynk, LLP, Appleton

Aissa I. Olivarez
Community Immigration Law Center, Madison​

Timothy J. O'Brien
Bakke Norman, S.C., Eau Claire

 

Getting Help: Virtual, Remote, or Part-Time Staff?​ (1.0 LPM)

You know you need help, but you don’t want to or can’t afford to hire a full-time employee. Compare and contrast three potential options: (1) artificial intelligence; (2) hiring a vendor or freelancer that provides remote staff on a limited basis; and (3) hiring a part-time employee. Hear candid analysis of the benefits and drawbacks of each option so you can decide what might work best for your practice.

Presented By:

Jody L. Cooper
Cooper Law Office, Milton

Ashley Quinto-Powell
My VA Rocks, Madison​

 

Understanding Deepfake Technology​ ​(1.0 LPM)

Deepfakes are among the most effective, and therefore threatening, tools of disinformation. But what exactly is a deepfake? In this session, you’ll receive the answer to that question and learn ways to distinguish authentic from inauthentic content using tools such as metadata, video and audio cues, and Google.

Presented By:

Derek Riley, PhD
​Milwaukee School of Engineering, Milwaukee


Conflicts When Representing Both Parties in a Legal Transaction​ (1.0 EPR)

Is it ever okay for a lawyer to represent both sides of a legal transaction? It’s common for parties to a transaction to want to save money by hiring only one attorney, but is it a good idea? Are there certain practice areas that are better suited to this type of arrangement? Get answers to these questions and explore the ethical considerations involved in representing both sides.

Presented By:

Peyton B. Engel
Hurley Burish S.C., Madison

Dean R. Dietrich
Weld Riley S.C., Wausau

Annabelle Vang
Kowalski, Wilson & Vang LLC, Madison​


3:20 p.m. - 3:40 p.m.

Refreshment Break​​​

3:40 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Plenary Session: Don't Try This at Home - Why You Should Never Emulate TV Lawyers (1.5 EPR)

In this multimedia presentation, legal humorist Sean Carter explores the often-outrageous behavior of TV lawyers and its real-life implications. Through entertaining examples, you’ll see some of the worst TV lawyer antics and discuss how similar, though less extreme, behaviors can sometimes infiltrate real-life legal practice. You’ll find out how such conduct can undermine a lawyer’s ability to effectively serve clients and uphold professional standards.

Presented By:

Sean Carter
Mesa CLE, Mesa, AZ




Saturday, October 19, 2024

8:30 a.m. - 9:45 a.m.

Plenary Session: Move Your Clients Up or Out (1.5 LPM)

In a military career, the traditional maxim is “up or out” – you either progress or move on. And in legal practice, we all have clients we enjoy working with and others we dread hearing from. The best clients are those who are easy to work with, pay promptly, and refer other great clients. In this session, you’ll apply Moneyball concepts to grade your clients on various criteria and learn techniques to elevate your “C clients” into “B clients and “B clients” into As, so you’re delivering quality service to clients you want to work with.

Presented By:

Jeffrey S. Krause
Affinity Consulting Group, Waterford​





​​9:45 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.​

Refreshment Break / Hotel Checkout

Plenary Session: Boomers, Millennials, & Gen Z!: The Ethics of Marketing Across Generations (1.5 EPR)

Looking to expand your client base? Discover how to invigorate your marketing strategy and connect with clients across different generations. Delve into the expectations of each generational group, the tools and technologies needed to reach younger clients, and how to update your web presence to appeal to all ages. Gain insights into the ethical considerations of marketing your firm, including social media and texting/online chatting.

Presented By:

Mark Homer
GNGF | Legal Marketing Services, Cincinnati, OH​​




2024 | Wisconsin Solo & Small Firm Conference

Practice Law. Manage Business. Enjoy Life.


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Contact Us

General Info:
Sarah Clark
sclark@wisbar.org
(800) 444-9404 EXT.6036
(608) 250-6036

Sponsors:
Crystal Brabender
cbrabender@wisbar.org
(800) 444-9404 ext. 6132
(608) 250-6132