In its 2010 landmark decision in Padilla v. Kentucky, the U.S. Supreme Court held that defense counsel have an affirmative Sixth Amendment duty to advise noncitizen clients of the potential immigration consequences of their pleas. The decision overturned Wisconsin and federal court precedent and substantially affects Wisconsin prosecutors and defense counsel and their clients.

If a foreclosure involves a federal interest, the requirements of 28 U.S.C. § 2410 apply, preempting any conflicting state statutes. This overview helps attorneys navigate the federal process and avoid the common mistakes and problems that can slow down or derail a state foreclosure proceeding.

2009 Wis. Act 402 imposes uniformity across Wisconsin’s more than 250 diverse municipal courts, with standards that bolster the courts’ independence, clarify regulation and procedure, and enhance professionalism. Changes to court operations go into effect on Jan. 1, 2011.