May 28, 2009 – Wisconsin is the last state to grant licenses to graduates of its law schools without a bar exam. A class action suit in the U.S. Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals disputes the rationale for the “diploma privilege” and contends that it violates the U.S. Constitution.  

June 3, 2009 – With the economic recession deepening, businesses are feeling intense pressure to cut costs. Temporary or permanent layoffs, also known as Reductions in Force, or RIFs, are difficult alternatives some companies are forced to accept. Carrying out RIFs can be tricky. Missteps may give rise to discrimination claims, back-pay liability, and other issues. John D. Finerty Jr. summarizes the many considerations that go into making this decision.

May 26, 2009 – A divided Wisconsin Supreme Court approved a rule relating to interest paid on funds in accounts held by lawyers on behalf of clients or third parties. The change is expected to generate more interest that funds legal services for low-income residents, but some justices worried it might put lawyers at risk for investment losses.