Features

Recall elections: Constitutionally protected, rarely executed

April 6, 2011 — Nineteen recall committees are actively collecting signatures across Wisconsin in an attempt to recall 16 state senators. The current recall effort in Wisconsin, though constitutionally protected, is unprecedented both in size and scope. Attorney Rebecca Mason provides an overview of Wisconsin's recall law, which has been in place since 1926.

Pet peeves 101: How to impress or annoy a judge in the courtroom

April 6, 2011 — Lawyers aren't mind readers, and all judges have different expectations from lawyers who appear in their courtrooms. From scheduling conferences to motions in limine, judges recently offered advice on what attorneys can improve upon to please the court.

U.W. Law School clinic helps entrepreneurs bring ideas to the marketplace

April 6, 2011 — U.W. Law School's Law and Entrepreneurship Clinic helps start-up businesses enter the marketplace, provides practical experience to law students, and involves the private bar in the preparation of new lawyers while meeting their pro bono goals.

WisBar Media

The act of God defense: Does it still exist?

April 6, 2011 — The act of God defense — that a defendant is insulated from liability for personal injury or property damages caused by a natural cause — is rarely used. However, it may become more common in the future if predictions of catastrophic weather events caused by global warming prove true, according to attorney Tiffany Jones.