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Features

Big Ideas
2017 Wisconsin Legal Innovators

Who are Wisconsin's innovators? Meet these movers and shakers – and learn what drove them to put new ideas to work to solve problems and improve service to their clients and communities.

By Dianne Molvig

OWI Blood Draws: An Uncertain Road Ahead

Clear rules and consistent enforcement are as important for lawyers who prosecute and defend operating while intoxicated cases as they are for motor vehicle operators. But right now, the law regarding blood draws of drunk-driving suspects is muddled at best.

By Rex R. Anderegg

Challenging a State Agency Regulation

When a client is confronted with an onerous agency rule, the best recourse may be found in challenging the rule’s legal validity. Learn the substantive grounds and declaratory judgment procedure for challenging the legality of state agency rules in Wisconsin courts.

By J. Wesley Webendorfer

Opinions, Voices & Ideas

President's Message
Strong Courts and a Strong Bar Are Mutual Reinforcements
Paul Swanson says no matter the structure of the State Bar, the organization and lawyers must support the legitimacy of the state’s legal and judicial systems.

Your State Bar
Stepping Up for Our Communities
The public needs thoughtful members of the legal profession to step up and serve our communities, particularly by running for public office, says Larry Martin.

As I See It
Trouble by Design: Recreational Immunity Statute a Barrier to Justice
Jim Rogers argues the results of many judicial decisions have encroached on the right of injured plaintiffs to obtain remedies when they are harmed by negligent acts.

Ethics
Cell Phones: Guard Client Information
If you communicate with or about clients via cell phone, Dean Dietrich says you have an ethical duty to keep the data confidential.

Risk Management
Five Common Lawyering Mistakes – And How to Avoid Them
The types of errors that most often result in claims or grievances are easy to commit but also relatively simple to avert, says Tom Watson.

On Balance
Lawyer Well-being: Let's Own This Problem
Paula Davis-Laack says the time is now to promote psychological wellness in the profession and at your workplace.

Solutions
Upset Client? Steps to Defuse the Situation
Sally Schmidt says the speed and tone of your response in dealing with a problem makes a difference in how clients perceive your dedication to them.

Solutions
Tough Conversations: When Medicaid Planning Goes Wrong
Avery Mayne’s tips for talking to clients whose previously obtained legal advice has not gone as desired will help lawyers in client conversations in a variety of difficult situations.

Career
Pass On a Partnership Offer? Maybe
Dustin Cole says it’s critical that you fully understand the landscape you may be walking into – and that you codify it all in a partner agreement that works for you, them – and the future.

Final Thought
The Why and the How of Being a Lawyer/Police Officer
For police officer Jared Prado, a law degree underscores the importance of preparedness and appreciation of the role of police in the legal system.