Feb. 2, 2011 – The State Bar Practice411™ Breakfast & Business: Eggs, Ethics and Answers series continues its annual statewide trek on Feb. 16 in Milwaukee and March 9 in Stevens Point. The half-day seminars assist lawyers improve their efficiency, reduce risk, and improve client relations. Topics are related to technology and ethics, and all seminars are submitted for CLE and EPR credits.

All seminars, presented in two sessions, begin with a hot breakfast at 8:15 a.m. and conclude at 12 p.m.

First session

Each program kicks off with “Ethics and Technology in the Law Firm,” presented by State Bar Law Office Management Advisor Nerino Petro.

As computer technology becomes more entrenched within the legal profession, lawyers must be aware of the potential pitfalls that can arise. Safekeeping data and your documents, protecting your computer, and guarding against digital disasters are just some of the good practice management techniques you will learn about in this session.

Second session, Feb. 16, Milwaukee

“The Top 10 Ethical Issues Facing Wisconsin Lawyers,” is presented by State Bar Ethics Counsel Timothy J. Pierce.

Ever wonder if your ethical concerns about file retention, advertising, and confidentiality are the same as your colleagues? Find out what ethics questions are most frequently asked by State Bar members and get the answers you need to comply with your professional ethical obligations.

Second session, March 9, Stevens Point

“What You Don’t Know Might Hurt You: Exploring the Ethical Pitfalls of Technology in the Law Practice,” is presented by Dean Dietrich, State Bar Professional Ethics committee chair.

The Internet communication with your staff, clients, and potential clients can put your practice at risk. Learn to take reasonable precautions with your online and social media presence. Find out how to properly use encryption, disclaimers, and common sense to avoid e-malpractice.

Spring programs in West Bend and Eau Claire

“Malpractice Considerations With Unbundled Legal Services” is presented by Tom Watson, WILMIC, at the April 20 program in West Bend.

Unbundled legal services, or limited scope representation, is a growing trend in the legal profession. This program covers issues that lawyers must consider when taking on this kind of representation. These issues include: identifying related matters to the representation, explaining the risks of limited scope representation to clients, identifying the scope of representation in writing, terminating the representation properly, communicating the representation to the court, and engaging in ghostwriting documents for clients.

Todd Scott, Minnesota Lawyers Mutual, is the speaker at the June 15 Eau Claire program. Topic to be announced.

This series is hosted by the State Bar’s Practice 411 Law Office Management Assistance Program. Tuition is $60 for members and $75 for nonmembers. The February program has been approved for 3.5 CLE and 3.5 EPR credits. The March, April, and June programs will be submitted for up to 3.0 CLE credits and up to 3.0 EPR credits.

Individual free consultations with Petro are available the afternoon of each program. Contact Petro at (608) 250-6012 or (800) 444-9404, ext. 6012 to schedule your private consultation.

Register online for the Feb. 16 or March 9 seminar or call the State Bar at (800) 728-7788.