Browse Series Articles

Michelle Behnke says lawyers can work each day to strengthen democracy by helping community members discuss important issues without the polarization that so often exists.

Laurie McCallum's career in the law rests on a bedrock value: Treat everyone you encounter in your practice with respect and professionalism. Read the profile by Shannon Green.

Larry Martin says there are as many perspectives and opinions on how best to move our state and nation forward as there are citizens, and that is how it should be.

Joe Forward explains the need and timeline for the special election for president-elect. Voting by electronic ballot opens Oct. 10 and closes on Oct. 25.

The history of the Wisconsin Legislature's power to suspend administrative rules and the most significant related case, Martinez v. Department of Industry, Labor & Human Relations, have been largely forgotten. As questions of the separation of powers between the branches again make their way to the Wisconsin Supreme Court, this article revisits the history and Martinez.

This article reviews seven significant Wisconsin federal court decisions from 2023 and 2024 interpreting Wisconsin law. The decisions touch on a variety of subjects: foreign statutes of limitations, minimum markup rules for gasoline, choice of wrongful death laws, intervening and superseding cause, deceptive trade practices, and false advertising.

Despite a low overall tally of opinions, the 2023-24 term was a headliner for democracy-related cases in the Wisconsin Supreme Court, and the justices show no signs of slowing down.

The author urges lawyers to monitor Securities and Exchange Commission regulatory proposals and submit comments on proposed rules that might have significant effects on business clients.

Public involvement in utility regulation in Wisconsin is expanding in pace with climate change, concerns about traditional energy sources, and increased use of renewable energy. The Citizens Utility Board fights for evidence-based outcomes and for transparency, inclusivity, and the public's right to be informed and involved about Wisconsin utilities.

The author highlights a few of the major changes made by 2023 Wis. Act 73, an overhaul of Wis. Stat. chapter 125, Wisconsin's alcohol-regulation statutes. Learn more about the act's effects on three-tier restrictions, contract manufacturing, full-service retail privileges, and regulation of venues.

Emergency rules allow an agency to implement policies much faster than going through the lengthier permanent rulemaking process, but limits on rule duration and the distinct, truncated nature of the process require careful planning and consideration.

What's it like to work at the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI)? Lindsay Fedler discusses what her tasks are as a staff attorney – and has some advice for business and corporate attorneys.