Wisconsin's new legislative session begins in January, starting a process that will shape the next biennial budget and include hundreds of new bills and committee hearings. Rotunda Report gives you the tips and tools you need to stay on top.
Former President Trump returns to the White House and Republicans held control of Wisconsin's Legislature in the 2024 election. Fewer attorneys serving means your voice is as important as ever.
The Nov. 5 election included several newly competitive "down ballot" races, with 28 current lawmakers having retired or lost primaries. Lobbyist Cale Battles explains.
The Nov. 5 election will include several newly competitive "downballot" races, with 28 current lawmakers having retired or lost primaries.
The State Bar’s Board of Governors policy position supports reconsideration of Wisconsin’s exoneree compensation limits by the Wisconsin Legislature to increase fairness in our justice system.
Ensuring that the legislature understands—and acts on—the need to adequately fund all aspects of the justice system is among the highest priorities of the State Bar of Wisconsin Board of Governors' legislative advocacy mission.
As the fall campaign season heats up, it’s important to consider the issues that face the legal profession, clients, and Wisconsinites in general. Today's topic: returning 17-year-olds to the juvenile justice system.
As the fall campaign season heats up, it’s important to consider the issues. Over the next few months, Rotunda Report will highlight some of the key priority policies that the State Bar supports. First among those: expungement reform.
Legislative study committees help provide guidance and solutions for lawmakers on complex, topical issues. They also provide a unique opportunity for State Bar members and the public to collaborate on the lawmaking process.
Two upcoming events sponsored by the State Bar of Wisconsin will help keep members and the public informed and engaged in fall elections.
Rep. Goyke is being honored for his leadership efforts in the 2023-24 legislative session advancing issues of importance to the judicial system.
With the oversight of the Government Relations team, the State Bar of Wisconsin, State Bar lobbying sections, and individual lawyers help with the vital task of creating legislation that serves the public, the legal profession, and the justice system.
The 2023-24 Wisconsin legislative session was a busy and successful one for the State Bar and its lobbying sections. This Rotunda Report gives a brief summary of section positions and accomplishments.
Two bills supported by the Real Property, Probate, and Trust Section were signed into law on March 21, 2024.
As the busy 2023-24 legislative session draws to a close, the Advocacy team will shift focus to engage members across the state, meeting them where they are.
The legislature is preparing to wrap up its work and send bills to the Governor. This article gives an update on several bills of interest to the State Bar and its practice sections.
Threats and acts of violence are all too common for members of the judiciary. The State Bar supports legislation that helps to protect the lives and privacy of judges, including three bills recently introduced in the Wisconsin legislature.
It is possible for policy makers to be tough on crime while at the same time bringing needed reforms that are fair and keep our communities safe, but legislative change takes time and takes effort.
Grassroots engagement is an important and growing part of the State Bar's advocacy mission. 2023 was a watershed year for grassroots impact.
The legislature is rapidly winding down, and Capitol watchers can expect a flurry of activity for the next few months. Here's where State Bar legislative advocacy stands at the end of 2023.
Court and judicial security were mentioned as top priorities for the Chief Justice in her annual State of the Judiciary address. Learn more about what the State Bar is doing to keep courtrooms, judges, and attorneys safe at work and at home.
Wisconsin is home to dozens of communities that don't have enough attorneys, limiting access to justice for residents. Learn more about what the State Bar is doing to address this shortage.
The State Bar's Advocacy team works to make sure members are up to date with legislative happenings that affect the profession. Reach out to the Advocacy staff to organize a meeting in your location.
As important to the the practice as it is to lawmaking, the Uniform Law Commission probably doesn't get enough attention or credit for its role in standardizing law across the United States.
Members of the State Bar successfully worked together to make change happen at the Capitol this legislative cycle. Learn how easy it is to become an advocate yourself.
As tension hangs over the fall session of Wisconsin's legislature, these are the issues that the State Bar and its practice sections will be monitoring.
Wisconsin's biennial budget was signed into law by Governor Evers in mid-July after several line item vetoes. The final budget will include sorely needed criminal justice funding increases.
Turning 18 marks a new stage of life for many young people, complete with new legal rights, privileges, and responsibilities. This brief guide helps young people and parents to navigate this exciting new landscape.
It can be overwhelming to try to keep up with every legislative development happening in Madison. This article gives the prospective Capitol watcher several helpful tips and links to make observing and taking action a breeze.
The Joint Finance Committee approved substantial, necessary, and historic increases to the criminal justice system, including increased starting salaries and pay progression for prosecutors and defenders and an increase to the private bar rate.
Lawmakers around Wisconsin have heard from State Bar members on the imporance of funding the criminal justice system, but they still need to hear about why the private bar rate is an important component that can't be ignored.
Civil legal aid not only helps ensure justice is served to all, but it can make courts more efficient and save taxpayers money, too. Lawmakers need to hear from you on this topic as they put together the biennial budget.
The legislature's powerful Joint Finance Committee is holding public hearings to hear from constituents on the 2023-25 state budget. Here's the best way to get your voice heard.
The State Bar's 2023 Supreme Court debate between Daniel Kelly and Janet Protasiewicz has drawn national media attention. Here's how to tune in and watch live, or view the debate at your leisure.
The State Bar of Wisconsin and partners will be hosting a Supreme Court candidate debate on Tuesday, March 21, 2023.
The State Bar is rolling out a new webpage to focus on solutions for the challenges facing Wisconsin's criminal justice system.
Wisconsin's criminal justice system is facing a watershed moment. Staff vacancies and turnover for prosecutors and defenders are pushing the system to a breaking point, and solutions must include adequate funding from the legislature.
The State Bar of Wisconsin issued a statement following Gov. Tony Evers' Feb. 15 budget address.
State Bar President Margaret Hickey makes a statement in response to the Governor's budget proposal on civil legal aid funding.
Overworked and understaffed, Wisconsin's criminal justice system is facing a crisis that has been long in the making. Legislators must address it in the upcoming biennial budget.
The State Bar is honoring four Wisconsin legislators for their leadership on issues affecting the judicial system and the legal profession.
The State Bar of Wiscconsin's Board of Governors believes in expanding eligibility for expungement for single, lower-level, non-violent criminal offenses, but lawmakers need to hear the voices of their constituents in the legal communit
The State Bar's fifteen practice sections that participate in the lobbying program are gearing up to make a big impact in the 2023 legislative session.
With a massive budget surplus projected, the upcoming legislative session offers big opportunities for government funding and tax reform, but only if the Governor and Legislature can work together.
The 2022 general election is finally in the rearview mirror. Government Relations Coordinator Cale Battles gives an overview of the election results and what the state legislature will look like in 2023.
The Judicial Council has been working for years without funding from the Legislature. It's time for that to change.
The State Bar will host an Attorney General debate for the 2022 election on October 27 at 4pm.
In September, state agencies submitted their 2023-2025 fiscal requests to help shape the upcoming budget. The State Bar supports requests for increased investment in our criminal justice system.
Part 2 of our 2022 fall elections preview focuses on legislative elections in the Wisconsin State Senate and Assembly.
State Bar of Wisconsin President Margaret Hickey makes a statement of support for an increase in funding for Wisconsin's criminal justice system.
Government Relations Coordinator Cale Battles shares insights into the statewide races of the 2022 fall elections in the first of a two-part elections preview.
The Wisconsin Primary Election is Tuesday, August 9. Don't forget to vote!
As summer heats up, the work of the legislature's study committees goes on. This article gives readers tips on how to keep up with their work.
In this short interview, we asked State Public Defender Kelli Thompson to talk about some of the most pressing issues affecting the public defense side of the justice system.
2021-2022 State Bar President Cheryl Daniels makes the case for lawyers to get involved in legislative advocacy efforts (2:20 min).
Grassroots engagement is the most powerful way to effect change, whether at the local, state, or federal level. Two recent Advocacy Network meetings highlighted the role State Bar members can play in the legislative process.
Part of the State Bar's mission is to coordinate and amplify the voice of the legal profession to Wisconsin's legislature.
This year's Annual Meeting and Conference will offer two panels that look into the unprecedented challenges that state courts and legislatures around the country have faced during the coronavirus pandemic and national unrest. Don't miss it!
The Wisconsin Legislature has announced the special study committees for 2022. State Bar members with expertise in the topic areas under study are encouraged to apply as a valuable service to the people of Wisconsin.
The Wisconsin Legislature has finished the business of the 2021-22 session. This article examines some of the bills and acts that were supported by the State Bar's lobbying practice sections.
Skyrocketing costs for a legal education are increasingly a problem for the entire legal community. Recent changes to the PSLF program may offer some relief, but borrowers must act soon.
A look back at where the State Bar of Wisconsin's legislative priorities stand as the 2021-22 session wraps up.
In part two of a series, State Bar Government Relations Coordinators Cale Battles and Lynne Davis highlight more of the legislative priorities State Bar lobbying sections hope to wrap up by the session's end.
The State Bar Government Relations team examines the work of some of the Bar's most active lobbying sections.
The 2021-2022 legislative session is rapidly coming to a close. Government Relations Coordinator Cale Battles gives an overview of how best to keep up with the goings-on of state government in the final days of session.
The Legislature has been busy this fall, but much of the legislation of State Bar concern won't be fully addressed until the spring. Here's a recap of some of the bills of interest to State Bar members and Capitol watchers.
The Business Law Section of the State Bar supports legislation that can keep Wisconsin's business climate competitive and innovative.
The State Bar of Wisconsin worked with local Bars and legal organizations to host an expungement clinic and a legislator meeting in Kenosha and a legislator meet-and-greet in Oconomowoc in September.
Wisconsin is among three remaining states that automatically sends all 17-year-old offenders to adult courts. Research has shown that public safety is protected and recidivism is reduced when these offenders are kept in the juvenile justice system.
As summer draws to a close, the legislature is poised to return to a busy fall schedule. Here's what Capitol watchers might expect regarding State Bar and Practice Section policy priorities.
Twelve members of the legislature are also members of the State Bar of Wisconsin. Two virtual "meet and greet" events helped to build relationships between lawyer-legislators, their constituents and colleagues.
Government Relations Coordinator Lynne Davis gives an overview of the State Bar of Wisconsin's lobbying program and how policy positions are selected.
Lawyer-legislators are a vitally important voice within our democracy. The State Bar of Wisconsin invites you to join your colleagues in a meet and greet with State Bar members who serve in the state legislature.
Mid-June saw major legislative developments for policies important to the State Bar, and the Joint Finance Committee has reached a final biennial budget. Here's where State Bar priorities have developed in the last two weeks.
Summer has arrived in Wisconsin as the legislature works to prepare a final budget for passage. This update reviews the bills and budget priorities of the State Bar, including civil legal aid funding, expungement, and law enforcement reform.
Two packages of bills on law enforcement reform were introduced in the legislature this session. The State Bar is supporting several of these bills, some of which were recently approved by the Senate Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety.
The state Senate held an expungement hearing, and the legislature's Joint Finance Committee removed almost 300 items from Governor Evers proposed budget. While expected, the removal will likely only increase the divide between the Governor and GOP.
This year's budget process is shaping up to be a little different than previous sessions. Gov. Relations Coordinator Cale Battles gives an update on the budget and shares ways you can reach out to your lawmakers on issues important to the legal community.
On April 7, State Bar President Kathy Brost and President-elect Cheryl Daniels testified in support of a bill to reform Wisconsin's restrictive expungement laws with changes that would expand eligibility for one-time, non-violent offenders.
The pandemic has forced institutions to adapt by moving more of their operations online. Wisconsin's legal system has followed suit, bringing the promise of expanded access to justice--but only if access to broadband internet becomes more widely available
Civil legal aid is low or no-cost civil legal assistance for those that can't afford an attorney. To ensure that all people have access to justice and to help recover from COVID-19 impacts, Wisconsin should increase investment in civil legal aid.
Gov. Tony Evers delivered his "Badger Bounce Back" budget plan to the legislature last week. The $91 billion spending plan contains many potential large scale reforms to criminal justice law and a major increase in state funding for civil legal aid.
There has never been an easier time for attorneys to follow along with the Legislature and engage in the lawmaking process. Today's issue is a helpful guide with links on how members can stay informed and get involved.
Expungement reform is one of the top priorities of the State Bar of Wisconsin. Now that a bill has been introduced in the legislature on this topic, the Bar is encouraging members to reach out to their lawmakers to support this needed reform to Wisconsin'
With majorities in both chambers, Republicans will have control over the legislative agenda, but a shaky relationship between the GOP and the Evers administration will likely temper any expectations of major policy victories.
Democrat Joe Biden is the projected winner of the 2020 Presidential contest. In State elections, Republicans gained two seats in the Senate, but lost two seats in the Assembly.
Nearly 1.4 million people in our state have a criminal record, many of whom have completed their sentences and successfully repaid their debts to society. Expungement can give ex-offenders a fresh start, but Wisconsin's lawmakers need to hear from you.
In this special episode of Rotunda Report, State Bar President Kathy Brost talks about issues important to members living and working in "Greater Wisconsin," that part of our state outside of the Dane, Milwaukee, and Fox Valley regions.
Government Relations Coordinator Lynne Davis shares an overview of the Wisconsin 2020 legislative session, focusing on State Bar policy victories, section advocacy highlights, issues left unfinished or unaddressed this session, and the direction of State
Pro Bono Program Manager Jeff Brown discusses the "Wills for Heroes" program, a pro bono service to provide wills and basic estate plans free of charge to first responders like police, firefighters, and EMT's.
In this edition of Rotunda Report Live, Government Relations Coordinator Cale Battles follows up his Senate race video with a preview of the 2020 State Assembly elections.
State Bar of Wisconsin lobbyist Cale Battles gives a preview of Fall 2020 State Senate elections, including competitive districts, seats to watch, and issues that may shape the electoral process.
Grassroots Outreach Coordinator Devin Martin discusses how attorneys can help make positive reforms happen through grassroots advocacy using the State Bar's "Advocacy Network."
In this first video edition of Rotunda Report, Jeff Brown discusses ways attorneys can get involved in much needed pro bono work while remaining safe and practicing social distancing during the pandemic.
As the American Bar Association hosts its first all-online ABA Day, the State Bar of Wisconsin holds a virtual meeting with Senator Tammy Baldwin to discuss top legislative priorities for the legal profession
Wisconsin Free Legal Answers remains open during the coronavirus outbreak to help with unmet legal needs of Wisconsin residents.
As many Wisconsinites have transitioned to remote work places, the Wisconsin Legislature soon plans to do the same.
The novel coronavirus pandemic has changed nearly every aspect of life in the past few weeks. Here's how the Governor, legislature, courts, and State Bar of Wisconsin are responding.
Social distancing measures have led to some major changes in how our civil legal aid system works.
Governor Evers signs three important bills into law, but other State Bar priorities will have to wait until next year.
Justice Dan Kelly faces Judge Jill Karovsky in the April 7th election.
The most recent Assembly and Senate floor votes see several State Bar supported bills advance to the Governor's desk.
The 2019-2020 Legislative session is rapidly drawing to a close. Learn more about where priority bills for the State Bar and its Sections are at in the last days of the process.
Legislative amendments to "ghostwriting" rules created a problem for attorneys assisting pro se litigants. Assembly Bill 705 would make it worse.
The 2019-2021 budget saw some huge victories for access to justice, while other legislative efforts await further action
The rising cost of legal education is pushing some attorneys away from certain critical fields like private bar public defense. Loan Repayment Programs are one solution to this problem.
High ideals, exemplary personal character, judicial competence, and active involvement in the community are all qualities the State Bar is seeking for the 2020 Judge of the Year and Lifetime Jurist Award recipients.
State Bar of Wisconsin endorses bills for pay progression for State Public Defenders, the creation of a state prosecutor's board, the creation of new circuit courts, and a rural loan repayment pilot program.
A new package of bills aims to address criminal justice system funding, reform, and loan assistance programs that did not make it into the 2019-2021 budget Act.
Rep. Duffy to retire at end of September, Rep. Sensenbrenner will not seek reelection.
Recent articles in the Wisconsin Rapids Tribune examine the impacts of cash bail and the shortage of criminal defense attorneys on Wisconsin's criminal justice system.
The 2019-2021 budget contains a major, historic investment that the State Bar believes will begin to address the systemic issues plaguing our state’s justice system.
What made it, and what didn't, in the final budget headed for Governor Evers' desk.
The bill has 74 co-sponsors in both parties, awaits action in the Senate.
The Joint Finance Committee passed a motion that removed 131 provisions from the Governor's proposed budget, including returning 17-year-olds to the juvenile justice system.
The Advocacy Network is a tool to help amplify the voices and experise of State Bar members with their lawmakers.
A rundown on the status of legislation important to the State Bar of Wisconsin.
The State Bar of Wisconsin will host a debate between the candidates for Wisconsin Supreme Court on Friday, March 15 at the State Bar Center in Madison.
Evers supports increase to the private bar rate, pay progression, and more ADAs and SPD staff.
Wisconsin can't wait another year to fund criminal justice. Ask incoming Gov. Evers to make it a budget priority today.
A rundown on the results from yesterday's elections.
Voting is the most basic step we can all take to ensure that our government is and remains “of the people, by the people, and for the people.”
The Wisconsin Legislative Council recently announced the 2018 study committees. The study committees provide a unique opportunity for legislators and members of the public to collaborate on complex issues and provide guidance to the Legislature.
Governor Walker signed "Sara's Law," named after Attorney Sara Quirt-Sann, who was one of four people killed in a shooting spree in Marathon County March 22, 2017. Quirt-Sann was representing the shooter's estranged wife in their divorce case.
With the assembly adjourned for the 2017-2018 session, attention now turns to the Senate's plans for their last floor session before their anticipated adjournment March 20.
The Shorewood High School mock trial team will represent Wisconsin at the 2018 National Mock Trial Championship, May 10-12, in Reno, Nevada.
The 2017-18 legislative session is quickly coming to a close. There are currently hundreds of legislative proposals still circulating, and legislative sponsors, lobbyists, and constituents are working diligently to get their bills passed before the session's scheduled conclusion in March.
The Assembly Committee on Criminal Justice and Public Safety held a public hearing Thursday on Assembly Bill 660, which is also commonly referred to as the Second Chance bill.
Recently, members of the legislature have taken notice of the issues facing private bar attorneys taking assigned counsel cases from the State Public Defender’s office.
Two Republican legislators are sponsoring legislation that would make it easier to modify child custody and placement orders.
Lawmakers have circulated legislation for the return of nonviolent, first-time 17-year-old offenders to the juvenile court’s jurisdiction.
EBDM promotes the use of research to make decisions at all levels in the justice system. The initiative is currently being piloted in eight Wisconsin counties.
Two Republican legislators are sponsoring legislation that would clarify the child custody notification process for separated parents when one chooses to relocate.
After months of negotiations, Governor Scott Walker finalized the state’s biennial budget in a signing ceremony in Neenah on Sept. 21.
The Wisconsin Legislature returned to the State Capitol this week to take final votes on the state’s biennial budget and to finish work on legislation intended to attract electronics manufacturer Foxconn to Wisconsin.
Over 100 journalists and lawyers attended the State Bar of Wisconsin’s Reporters’ Legal Workshop Friday, Sept. 8. The free event was organized to educate and assist journalists who cover legal issues and the courts and featured presentations and panels byveteran reporters, lawyers and judges.
The Wisconsin Legislature’s Joint Finance Committee takes action on items pertaining to the State Public Defender’s budget.
The State Bar sent a memo to the Joint Finance Committee to reiterate its support for pay progression, an increase in the private bar rate and additional compensation for judges and justices throughout the state.
Two of the State Bar’s legislative priorities for this upcoming session received favorable votes by the legislature’s budget writing committee on May 31. The Joint Finance Committee (JFC) approved increases in pay progression and increases in pay for judges.
The State Bar of Wisconsin strongly supports the passage of AB 331, which expands the expungement of court records for individuals under the age of 25. The State Bar has long sought changes to this statute and applauds Representatives Steffen and Goyke, as well as Senator Darling, along with other legislators’ efforts this session to address this substantial public issue.
Members of the Joint Finance Committee voted unanimously to reinstate funding for civil legal needs during the committee’s executive session on May 23. Funding for civil legal needs was dangerously close to being eliminated after Governor Scott Walker hadrequested that the program be sunset for the 2017-19 biennial budget.
Attorneys from across the country attended the American Bar Association’s (ABA) Lobby Day this week. The annual event gives lawyers an opportunity to lobby their members of Congress on important legal issues.
The State Bar of Wisconsin’s Board of Governors held their April meeting last Friday. During the meeting at the State Bar Center in Madison, the board voted to support a forthcoming petition to increase to $100 the hourly rate paid to private bar attorneys who take appointments from the State Public Defender's Office.
For the second straight budget, the Wisconsin Judicial Council is facing elimination. The proposal would have a wide ranging impact on the effectiveness and efficiencies of the justice system.
Nearly a month after Governor Walker introduced his biennial budget proposal to the legislature, members of the Joint Finance Committee (JFC) will begin their deliberations.
State Bar of Wisconsin President Fran Deisinger wrote a memo to the Joint Finance Committee asking them to support additional funding proposed in the 2017-2019 budget to provide adequate compensation to attract and retain quality attorneys throughout the justice system.
President Donald Trump’s proposed 2018 federal budget eliminates funding for the Legal Services Corporation (LSC), a move that would have profoundly negative effects on our most vulnerable citizens and our justice system in Wisconsin.
The State Bar of Wisconsin supports AB 115 and AB 116. Access to the courts is vital for all Wisconsin citizens. Everyone is entitled to their day in court in a fair and equitable manner. A well-functioning judicial system contributes to public safety and
Brookfield Academy has claimed its first state mock trial title after defeating River Falls High School in the final round of the annual two-day state competition.
The ability to follow along and watch the Legislature in action has never been easier. State Bar members and citizens can access information in real time and track any legislative action.
The Access to Civil Legal Services study committee has concluded its review of the civil justice system’s needs and the State Bar of Wisconsin would like to not only applaud their findings, but also express sincere appreciation to all involved for the time and effort put forth.
On Wednesday, Feb. 8th the Governor introduced the details of his 2017-19 Biennial Budget proposal. The wide ranging budget proposal contains $76 billion in spending over the next two years.
State Bar of Wisconsin President Fran Deisinger wrote a letter to Governor Scott Walker urging him to support funding in the FY 2017-2018 budget that provides adequate compensation for attorneys across the state.
The State Bar of Wisconsin is gearing up for the 2017 Regional Mock Trial Competition, slated for Saturday, Feb. 11, beginning at 8 a.m. There are 121 teams competing (up from last year). Almost all of the 12 regional tournaments will be held in localcourthouses around the state (see the list of regions below for a breakdown of locations and competing schools.)
Buoyed by large majorities in both the state Senate and state Assembly, Wisconsin Republican leaders have begun laying the groundwork for issues they plan to forward during the upcoming 2017-18 legislative session.
Wisconsin Republicans last night continued to flourish in down ticket races, winning an additional State Assembly seat and at least one additional State Senate seat.
Attorney Donald Schott testified today in a hearing before the U.S. Senate’s Committee on the Judiciary. The hearing is another formal step in the nomination process to become a judge for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit. The position hasbeen vacant for six years and is the longest standing federal court vacancy in the country.
The Wisconsin Joint Legislative Council has recently established their special study committees for 2016. These study committees provide a unique opportunity for legislators and members of the public to collaborate on complex issues, with intentions of providing guidance and solutions to the Legislature.
Attorneys from across the country attended the American Bar Association’s (ABA) Lobby Day last week, an annual event that gives participants an opportunity to lobby their members of Congress on important legal issues. The State Bar of Wisconsin’s representatives included President Ralph Cagle, President-elect Fran Deisinger and Past President and ABA Treasurer-elect Michelle Behnke.
The Wisconsin Legislature wrapped up its 2015-16 regular Legislative Session earlier this month with a flurry of action. The Assembly effectively adjourned in February, leaving the Senate to complete final action on a number of outstanding proposals before it adjourned in mid-March.
The State Bar of Wisconsin’s Judicial Election Steering Committee (JESC) held a public briefing at the state Capitol on Tuesday to discuss, with legislators, the group’s recommendation for a single, 16-year term for supreme court justices.
The state Legislature will once again be considering a bill that would return some 17-year-olds to juvenile court jurisdiction. The Second Chance bill, SB 280, was introduced in the senate late last week by lead author, Sen. Jerry Petrowski (R-Marathon).
Sept. 10, 2015 – Three Wisconsin legislators are circulating a bill draft that is nearly identical to last session’s Second Chance bill, calling for the return of nonviolent, first-time 17-year-old offenders to juvenile court jurisdiction.
At a joint public hearing last week, legislators and stakeholders spent several hours discussing proposed changes, which have been in the works for more than 20 years, to Wisconsin’s criminal procedure code.
Now that the governor has signed the biennial budget into law, the State Bar of Wisconsin is gearing up for a busy fall legislative session with a number of lawyer-related bills slated for introduction.
The Joint Finance Committee voted on several legal issues over the past few weeks, including a provision that will provide $1 million in grant money for civil legal services and pay progression for some state-employed attorneys.
State Bar members flocked to Capitol Hill last week for ABA Day, an annual event that gives participants an opportunity to lobby their members of Congress on a host of topics, including improved civil legal services and juvenile justice reform.
Gov. Scott Walker has officially proclaimed April 16 as Healthcare Decisions Day in Wisconsin. Healthcare Decisions Day reminds folks to complete an advance directive documenting their preferences about issues surrounding end-of-life decisions.
he Legislature’s Joint Finance Committee is making its way around the state in an effort to gather public opinion on Gov. Scott Walker’s proposed 2015-17 biennial budget. These hearings, as well as a state public comment line, give attorneys and the rest of the public an opportunity to weigh in on important budget issues.
Appleton’s Xavier High School captured its fourth state Mock Trial title after the team defeated Shorewood High School in the final round of the annual two-day state competition. Now the team will head to nationals in Raleigh, N.C.
In this video, Wisconsin Supreme Court Chief Justice Shirley Abrahamson discusses the governor’s budget recommendations and how those modifications will impact the court system.
Students from 16 Wisconsin high schools will advance to the State Bar of Wisconsin’s 32nd Annual High School Mock Trial semifinal event on Saturday, March 7 at the Dane County Courthouse in Madison.
Gov. Scott Walker introduced the 2015-17 Biennial Budget in the Assembly Chambers on Tuesday, Feb. 5. The 1,839 page bill draft contains $68 billion in spending over the next two years, and includes a number of issues that will be hotly debated by the Legislature.
The State Bar of Wisconsin is gearing up for the 2015 Regional Mock Trial Competition. This year, 116 teams will be competing on Saturday, Feb. 14 in 12 tournaments around the state.
President Barack Obama has enacted new legislation that will give attorneys the ability to house their interest-bearing client trust accounts in credit unions.
The ability to follow along and watch the Legislature in action has never been easier. State Bar members and citizens can access information in real time and track any legislative action. This article is meant to be a guide, with links for members to follow state government.
Gov. Walker has publicly set his agenda for the 2015-16 legislative session. In his "state of the state" address, the governor lays out his plans to make government smaller and more efficient, as well as focus on school reforms and accountability.
Attorneys and judges looking for a fun, fulfilling way to engage with prospective law students should consider volunteering for the State Bar of Wisconsin’s High School Mock Trial program.
Fresh from convincing fall election wins, Gov. Scott Walker and Republican leadership have started to hint at the policy items they plan to push in the 2015-16 state legislative session. The governor has indicated his desire to continue to focus on job growth, economic development and cutting and reforming taxes.
The State Bar of Wisconsin has officially released the state mock trial case for the 2015 High School Mock Trial Competition. This year, students will tackle a criminal case about a law student who shot and killed his roommate.
The State Bar of Wisconsin is encouraging attorneys and judges to enhance their volunteer résumés by becoming trained speakers for Our Courts Wisconsin, one of the organization’s premier public education programs.
Republicans in Wisconsin saw major gains with sweeping wins in races for Governor and Attorney General, and retained sizeable majorities in the State Senate and Assembly. Governor Scott Walker and Attorney General-Elect Brad Schimel rode the wave to comfortable statewide victories in their respective races.
The State Bar of Wisconsin is partnering with WISC-TV and WisPolitics to host a debate between Wisconsin Attorney General candidates Brad Schimel and Susan Happ on Wed., Oct. 29 at 7 p.m. at the State Bar Center in Madison.
The State Bar of Wisconsin is swapping its traditional Mock Trial registration process for one that is more user-friendly and easy to navigate. The new online registration tool launched in mid-September, and more than 78 teams and volunteers have already signed up for the upcoming season.
The State Bar of Wisconsin is pleased to announce that Rep. Garey Bies (R-Sister Bay) and Sen. Jerry Petrowski (R-Marathon) are the 2013-2014 recipients of the Scales of Justice award for their outstanding efforts toward increasing citizens' access to justice and improving the administration of Wisconsin's judicial system.
All court filings must be filed electronically, under a proposal by the Committee of Chief Judges, which voted unanimously in June to move forward on a plan to implement mandatory e-filing beginning in 2016.
When children are bullied, what should their families and their legal counsel do? That question is addressed in the September issue of Wisconsin Lawyer ™, a special edition that is dedicated to issues surrounding children and the law.
As incoming freshmen all over the state are getting ready to leave home for the first time and start classes, the State Bar of Wisconsin is issuing helpful reminders to new adults.
As the State Bar of Wisconsin gears up for the impending school year, the organization plans to host several training programs around the state to instruct attorneys and judges on how to be presenters for Our Courts Wisconsin, one of its top public education programs.
The State Bar of Wisconsin is calling on attorneys and judges around the state to help dispel common courtroom myths by volunteering for Our Courts Wisconsin, one of the State Bar's premier public education programs.
Help the Judicial Council Criminal Procedure Subcommittee craft revisions to the criminal discovery process. The subcommittee will meet on July 15, and is encouraging interested individuals to appear in person or submit written materials.
The Judicial Council Criminal Procedure Subcommittee is scheduled to hear testimony from interested persons on June 17 and July 15. Topics up for discussion include preliminary hearings and discovery.
A bill making its way through Congress would give attorneys the ability to house their interest-bearing client trust accounts in credit unions.
May 12, 2014 – Rhinelander High School’s mock trial team finished in eighth place out of 46 teams this past weekend at the 2014 National Mock Trial Championship, a three-day event that culminated in a final championship round Saturday night in Madison.
Wisconsin lawyers have more in common than their work with clients and ability to compose legal briefs, many also possess a desire to give back and help grow and cultivate the legal profession.
Students participating in this weekend's National High School Mock Trial Championship – which kicked off yesterday and continues with competition rounds one and two today in Madison – are in for a treat, as long as they appreciate comical references to to mbstones and severed hands.
The Board of Governors (BOG) held a discussion at its meeting in La Crosse this weekend related to the State Bar’s procedures when hiring outside counsel.
Like a scene out of a movie, more than a 1,000 people will descend upon Madison for Zombiepocalypse. But don’t worry, participants are not the undead — they are high schoolers vying for the top spot in National Mock Trial 2014.
A component of the newly released federal “Tax Reform Act of 2014” and Section 51 of a similar Senate draft bill would make substantial changes to the way law firms conduct business.
To recognize Healthcare Decisions Day, an event that reminds folks to complete an advance directive documenting their preferences about issues surrounding end-of-life decisions, the State Bar has made its consumer guide, A Gift to Your Family: Planning Ahead for Future Health Needs, available for free downloading until April 23.
The State Bar of Wisconsin National Mock Trial planning team is calling on attorneys, judges and experienced teachers and coaches from around the state to step up to the bench and volunteer to serve on a judging panel during the 2014 National High School Mock Trial Championship on May 9 and 10 in Madison.
Now that the state Senate and Assembly have adjourned, the State Bar takes an inside look at the 2013-2014 legislative session.
In this video, key legal stakeholders sit down with Steve Walters, host of WisconsinEye’s Legally Speaking, to discuss “the largest state budget cut in court system history.”
Attorneys are encouraged to volunteer to serve on newly created Legislative Council study committees. These special study committees provide a unique opportunity for legislators and members of the public to work collaboratively and deliberatively in the development of legislative solutions to complex issues.
Want to help high school students have the experience of a lifetime? Volunteer to serve as a member of a judging panel or general volunteer during the 2014 National High School Mock Trial Championship in Madison from May 6 to 10.
Assembly Bill 383 represents the 20-year-plus project of the Wisconsin Judicial Council to rewrite the state's criminal procedure code. Drafters are reaching out to key stakeholders in the criminal justice system to develop a revised version of the bill.
Rhinelander High School captured its 17th high school mock trial state title yesterday after defeating Shorewood High School in a very close final round judged by six members of the Wisconsin Supreme Court. The team will now advance to the National High School Mock Trial Tournament, May 8-10 in Madison.
Help the State Bar of Wisconsin send a bill to the governor’s desk, which would return first-time, nonviolent 17-year-old offenders to juvenile court jurisdiction.
Students from 16 Wisconsin high schools recently advanced to the State Bar of Wisconsin’s 31st Annual High School Mock Trial State Tournament, a two-day event that starts March 9 at the Dane County Courthouse in Madison.
A State Bar of Wisconsin-backed bill that would return nonviolent 17-year-olds to juvenile court jurisdiction is making headway in the legislature and the political sphere with newly announced supporters and a unanimous vote of passage out of a senate committee.
More teams have signed up to participate in the Wisconsin High School Mock Trial Program than in previous years. This year, 111 teams will compete in the mock trial regional tournaments.
Want to refine your courtroom skills and delivery? Looking at procedure and performance from a different perspective, like that of a judge, can be very helpful, and the State Bar of Wisconsin has a perfect opportunity to do just that. You can take the bench while volunteering as a judge at the National High School Mock Trial Championship in Madison from May 8 to 10.
High school mock trial teams from around the state have until Friday, Dec. 13 to sign up for the 31st Annual Regional Mock Trial Tournament. So far, 102 teams have signed up.
In this video, Madison Magazine: The TV Show host Deana Wright interviews State Bar of Wisconsin President Patrick J. Fiedler about the Second Chance Bill, a proposal that would return nonviolent, first-time 17-year-old offenders to juvenile court jurisdiction.
With several donations coming in over the past few weeks, the State Bar of Wisconsin’s National Mock Trial program is well on its way to achieving its ultimate fundraising goal of $200,000. To date, the State Bar has raised $138,000.
State Bar of Wisconsin President Patrick J. Fiedler is slated to appear on Madison Magazine: The TV Show on WISC News 3, along with Wisconsin Council on Children and Families (WCCF) Deputy Director Jim Moeser on Saturday, Dec. 7 at 9 p.m.
Winter in Wisconsin typically means one thing to its residents: snow – and lots of it. But to high school mock trial teams, it means that it’s time to begin developing arguments and pouring over a true-to-life court case in an effort to prepare for the regional high school mock trial competition, which is just a few, cold months away.
State Bar Judicial Task Force members share what they’re calling “The Wisconsin Plan” with Marquette law students, faculty and members of the community.
The State Bar of Wisconsin has inched closer to its $200,000 fundraising goal for the 2014 National Mock Trial Tournament, which will take place May 8-10 in Madison. The State Bar has raised about $118,000 to date. But more help is needed.
Wisconsin's Federal Nominating Commission, charged with making recommendations for vacancies in federal judgeships, is accepting applications for a vacancy on the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin.
Wisconsin Attorney James D. Peterson was nominated by President Barack Obama on Thursday to be a U.S. District Judge for the Western District of Wisconsin.
In this video, State Bar of Wisconsin President Patrick J. Fiedler talks to WISC-TV’s “For the Record” host Neil Heinen about juvenile justice and a bill that would return nonviolent, first-time juvenile offenders to juvenile court jurisdiction.
State Bar President Patrick Fiedler has appointed a new committee to promote and forward the recent policy position of the Board of Governors that would limit the term of office for a Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice to one, 16-year term.
After a strong start, the State Bar of Wisconsin's fundraising thermometer for the 2014 National Mock Trial Championship rests at $83,000, which is less than 50 percent of the necessary $200,000. Despite the stagnant funds, Wisconsin's National Mock Trial Executive Committee remains hopeful that they will reach their goal.
The State Bar of Wisconsin is hitting the ground running as it prepares to host the National High School Mock Trial Championship this spring. The Bar’s special event planning committee set the tone this month with a visit from the National Board, which toured prospective event sites and provided planners with a good idea of just how much work needs to be done.
Did you broadcast or post a story that enhanced the public’s understanding of the justice system between July 1, 2012 and June 30, 2013? If you did, you’re invited to enter it in the State Bar of Wisconsin’s Golden Gavel Awards competition.
A bill that would modify the relationship between a landlord and a tenant has passed the state Assembly – with amendments – by a near party-line vote of 57-37, and now moves on to the state Senate for final approval.
If you broadcasted or posted a story that ehanced the public's understanding of the justice system between July 1, 2012, and June 30, 2013, you're invited to enter it in the State Bar's Golden Gavel Awards competition.
Judges and court staff from across the state are going to great lengths this month to recognize local jurors in honor of Juror Appreciation Month.
Members of the State Bar of Wisconsin are closely monitoring a newly introduced bill that would reorganize most chapters of the criminal procedure code, as well as create new authority for courts and codify some current practices.
Members of the public will have an opportunity to voice their opinions on the Second Chance Bill – a State Bar of Wisconsin-backed initiative that would return first-time, nonviolent 17-year-old offenders to juvenile court jurisdiction – during a public hearing.
In this video, State Bar of Wisconsin President Patrick J. Fiedler gives remarks during a Sept. 5 news conference in support of a bill that would return first-time, nonviolent 17-year-old offenders to juvenile court jurisdiction.
The State Bar of Wisconsin supports a bill currently being circulated that would give first-time nonviolent 17-year-old offenders a second chance by sending them back to juvenile court.
State Bar of Wisconsin President Patrick J. Fiedler gave remarks during a news conference yesterday in support of a bill that would return first-time, nonviolent 17-year-old offenders to juvenile court jurisdiction.
The State Bar of Wisconsin is taking one of its community-based education programs on the road. Our Courts Wisconsin will make its way around the state over the next several months in an effort to further public knowledge and understanding of the courts and legal system.
Due to a growing demand to incorporate elements of Wisconsin Supreme Court proceedings into the classroom, the State Bar of Wisconsin will launch CourtEye this week, the latest in the organization’s ever- mounting list of public education programs.
The Wisconsin Legislature returns to work this fall with a heavy agenda to close out the 2013 session. The fall session will span over three months and will include floor periods in September, October and November.
In this video, Our Courts Wisconsin Speaker Committee Chair Judge Edward Leineweber puts out the call for more volunteer attorneys and judges.
As part of its ongoing mission to help young people develop an understanding and appreciation of our courts and the legal system, the State Bar welcomes back two of its dynamic public education programs: Mock Trial and Court with Class.
The State Bar of Wisconsin is aiming to help the public decipher Wisconsin’s new mining plans through a public forum on the Penokee Range Mining Proposal.
As requests for the State Bar of Wisconsin’s four Our Courts Wisconsin programs pour in, committee leaders are putting out the call for more volunteer attorneys and judges.
Aug. 2, 2013 – This video features Judge Edward Leineweber and Office of Lawyer Regulation Litigation Counsel Bill Weigel co-presenting Myths & Realities in Wisconsin’s Courts – one of Our Courts' four programs.
The State Bar of Wisconsin and its charitable arm, the Wisconsin Law Foundation, are ramping up fundraising efforts for National Mock Trial 2014 (to be held in Madison) by launching an online giving campaign.
Three names have been submitted to President Obama for the position of U.S. District Judge for the Western District of Wisconsin. U.S. Senators Johnson and Baldwin have made their recommendations following the work of the Federal Nominating Commission.
In response to the recent electrical fire at the Milwaukee County Courthouse, several judges and staff members have been working around-the-clock to provide residents with much needed court system services.
The State Bar of Wisconsin is set to host the National Mock Trial competition next spring, and organizers of the event are pleased to announce that they have received the largest donation to date – $25,000 – from the Wisconsin Law Foundation.
Now that the State Bar of Wisconsin has introduced its new Our Courts Wisconsin program, groups are lining up to request that one or more of the presentations come to their city or county.
The State Bar of Wisconsin debuted one of its four Our Courts Wisconsin programs last week to community members at the historic Richland County Courthouse in Richland Center.
The Wisconsin Supreme Court has appointed new and returning judges to serve as chiefs of the Committee of Chief Judges and the Court of Appeals, with the new appointments taking effect Aug. 1, 2013.
Gov. Walker has signed Assembly Bill 40 into law, using his partial veto power to cut 57 words or phrases from the proposed $68 billion state budget bill.
A State Bar committee presented a preliminary report to the Board of Governors in June that would significantly change the term of office for Wisconsin Supreme Court justices.
A new legislative proposal would put new restrictions on real estate brokers.
Assembly Bill 40 – more commonly referred to as the “budget bill” – passed through both legislative houses last week with only a few technical changes to the governor’s original proposal. Now the bill heads to Gov. Walker, so he can sign the bill into law.
The State Bar of Wisconsin will launch its first Our Courts program next month at the Richland Center County Courthouse.
Wisconsin Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen will become the next president of the National Association of Attorneys General (NAAG) this week.
June 19, 2013 – The National Mock Trial Championship is coming to Madison in May 2014. In this video, longtime Mock Trial Attorney Coach and National Mock Trial Executive Committee Chair Kevin Lonergan weighs in on the importance of the competition and how members can show their support.
With the clock ticking and funds to be raised, Wisconsin’s National Mock Trial Fundraising Committee is launching a major donor campaign to support their efforts.
The Joint Finance Committee approved several provisions of the governor’s proposed changes to Medical Assistance (MA) in an omnibus motion during yesterday’s final finance committee meeting.
Members of the Wisconsin Joint Finance Committee (JFC) reconsidered their position regarding pay progression for government attorneys in a motion early Wednesday morning.
Two of the State Bar of Wisconsin’s lobbying sections are actively opposing elements of the governor’s budget bill on the grounds that the provisions will negatively affect their clients.
It now appears all but certain that Wisconsin will retain the dubious distinction of being one of only four states with no appropriation for civil legal services in its state budget.
May 29, 2013 – The State Bar of Wisconsin is expressing concern regarding the Joint Finance Committee’s decision to allow the Wisconsin Court System to face a staggering funding lapse of nearly $12 million.
The Joint Finance Committee voted on Thursday to adopt a modified version of Gov. Walker’s plan calling for an expanded DNA collection program.
The Wisconsin Joint Finance Committee passed Governor Walker’s recommendation to fix a structural deficit in the State Public Defender’s (SPD) private bar appropriation, but it decided to modify his pay progression proposal for government attorneys.
The stage is set for the state of Wisconsin to support an important expansion of access to justice in our state.
Wisconsin’s Federal Nominating Commission will continue to accept applications for a vacancy on the United States District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin until Noon on Wednesday, May 29, 2013.
Governor Walker has proposed increasing the fee for recording or filing most legal instruments with a county Register of Deeds from $25 to $30 in the 2013-15 biennial budget.
Students from across the nation gathered in Indianapolis last weekend for the final series of events in the high school mock trial competition.
The Joint Finance Committee will meet in executive session at least twice this week to discuss the 2013-15 biennial budget.
Members of the American Bar Association flocked to Capitol Hill last week for ABA Day, an annual event that gives participants an opportunity to lobby their members of Congress for improved civil legal services and adequate funding of the judiciary.
The Rhinelander High School Mock Trial team has officially been congratulated for its “highly successful year as Mock Trial State Champions” by members of the state Legislature, Governor Walker and Congressman Sean Duffy.
Forty-eight volunteer judges and attorneys are participating in the State Bar of Wisconsin’s newest public education program. Our Courts Wisconsin aims to further public knowledge and understanding of the courts and legal system.
The Wisconsin Foreclosure Mediation Network held a training event in Madison this month for those interested in serving as foreclosure mediators.
The Legislative Joint Finance Committee will begin voting on specific biennial budget proposals later this week.
U.S. Senators Ron Johnson and Tammy Baldwin announced Wednesday that they have agreed to establish a Wisconsin Federal Nominating Commission to move federal nominations forward, including vacant federal judge positions in Wisconsin.
April 15, 2013 – Governor Walker has officially proclaimed April 16 as Healthcare Decisions Day in Wisconsin.
The State Bar of Wisconsin shares the state Supreme Court’s concern that the proposed reduction in the court’s budget in the 2013-15 state budget bill could have a detrimental impact on the state’s justice system.
April 9, 2013 – Finding a medical decision maker, and ensuring that they know you and your values is the key to successful end of life planning. It’s also the core message in a new video produced by the State Bar of Wisconsin.
The State Bar of Wisconsin, along with the Wisconsin Access to Justice Commission, is asking the Joint Committee on Finance to reinstate funding for civil legal services in the biennial budget.
The State Bar of Wisconsin applauds the Wisconsin Supreme Court for calling on members of the state Joint Committee on Finance to “support state funding to assist indigent self-represented persons in meeting their legal needs.”
March 22, 2013 – Twenty-six young lawyers who were nominated by legal professionals statewide are attending the first State Bar Leadership Development Summit in Madison today.
March 25, 2013 – Candidates vying for a Wisconsin Supreme Court seat – incumbent Justice Pat Roggensack and Marquette law professor Ed Fallone – covered a lot of ground last Friday in their first and only debate at the State Bar Center in Madison.
March 20, 2013 –The State Bar of Wisconsin has a long-standing public policy position in support of requiring fiscal estimates on legislation that enhances penalties and provides for prison and jail incarcerations.
Seats are still available for the only planned debate between the candidates for Wisconsin Supreme Court. The incumbent, Justice Patience Roggensack, and her challenger, attorney Ed Fallone, will debate before a live audience at the State Bar Center.
The State Bar of Wisconsin announces that Rhinelander High School is the winner of the Mock Trial State Championship and will advance to the National Mock Trial Championship in Indianapolis from May 9 to 11. Brookfield Academy took second plac
Former Governor Jim Doyle will give a keynote address on “Leadership, the Law and Public Service” to the next generation of leaders in the legal profession, as part of the 4th Annual Young Lawyers Leadership Conference in Madison on March 22.
March 6, 2013 – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has announced that it will be taking steps to amend its program guidance process in an effort to provide the public with more opportunities to weigh in on important agency decisions.
Students from 12 Wisconsin high schools will advance to the State Bar of Wisconsin’s 30th Annual High School Mock Trial semifinal event on Sunday, March 10 at the Dane County Courthouse in Madison, Wis.
Senator Glenn Grothman (R-West Bend) and Representative Steve Nass (R-Whitewater) authored a legislative proposal would change the process for how acts are published and the date when they become effective.
Following a year of contentious legislative proposals that sparked numerous legal challenges, State Senator Michael Ellis (R-Neenah) drafted legislation requiring the Wisconsin Supreme Court to take original jurisdiction over any legal challenge on the gr
Governor Walker has released a Small Business Regulatory Review Board report highlighting a total of 218 administrative rule changes.
Bolstered by a rare budget surplus and improving tax revenues, Gov. Scott Walker introduced his biennial budget proposal, Assembly Bill 40, last night to the Wisconsin Legislature. While details of the governor’s plan are still emerging, it does contain anumber of items of interest to State Bar members.
Feb. 20, 2013 – Two Wisconsin legislators have renewed their push to pass tougher state OWI laws.
On the cusp of presenting his biennial budget proposal, Gov. Scott Walker has released details on new public safety initiatives aimed at assisting domestic abuse and sexual assault victims.
Feb. 4, 2013 – A new legislative proposal changes the process for how acts are published and the date when they become effective.
Feb. 4, 2013 – Now that Governor Walker has released a Small Business Regulatory Review Board report highlighting a total of 218 administrative rule changes and 307 modifications that the governor believes will help relieve the regulatory burden on small business, Assembly leaders have announced their own plan to review all 1,768 chapters of the Administrative Code.
Nov. 14, 2012 – Just months after losing control of the state Senate due to recall elections, Senate Republicans will return with the majority in January as a result of winning one open seat and likely retaking a seat lost during the recall election. Senate Republicans were able to win in the 12th Senate District left open by the retirement of Jim Holperin and won the 18th Senate District after challenger Rick Gudex defeated incumbent Senator Jessica King.
