Speaker: Chief Justice Jill Karofsky of the Wisconsin Supreme Court

Topic: Q&A With Chief Justice Jill Karofsky of the Wisconsin Supreme Court

In our upcoming conversation with Chief Justice Jill J. Karofsky, we'll look at how a career spanning prosecution, victim services, legal education, and the bench shapes her view of the law. Sample questions include: How has her background in advocacy, as Wisconsin's first Violence Against Women Resource Prosecutor and head of the Office of Crime Victim Services, informed her approach to fairness and impartiality as a judge? From her experience as general counsel and the director of education and human resources, at the National Conference of Bar Examiners, what is the biggest gap between what law schools teach and what new lawyers need in practice? And how did her approach to statutory interpretation and precedent change when she moved from the circuit court to the Supreme Court?

Justice Karofsky will offer practical guidance for early-career attorneys, particularly women building trial and appellate practices, and share the systemic issue she most hopes to see addressed during her tenure.

Registration: Please register for this luncheon here.

The registration deadline for those ordering lunch is noon on Monday, October 12th. The deadline for those attending without a lunch order is 5 p.m. on Tuesday, October 13th. LAW will be applying for 1 CLE credit for this program.

Speakers: Attorney Dera L. Johnsen-Tracy, shareholder and co-founder of Horn & Johnsen SC in Madison, Wisconsin

Topic: Wills, Trusts and Probate: Pitfalls and What Practitioners Should Be Aware Of

Registration: Please register for this luncheon here.

The registration deadline for those ordering lunch is noon on Monday, September 7th. The deadline for those attending without a lunch order is 5 p.m. on Tuesday, September 8th. LAW will be applying for 1 CLE credit for this program.

Speakers: Liz Cavell, Deputy Legal Director, & Sammi Lawrence, Staff Attorney, at the Freedom From Religion Foundation

Title: Amicus Briefs: When, Why, & How? 

This CLE will cover how various clients, including corporations, industry groups, trade or professional associations, labor unions, government entities, and more, can benefit from filing amicus briefs. Learn when filing an amicus brief is valuable, how to form a compelling argument for an amicus brief, and how amicus briefs can impact important cases.

Registration: Please register for this luncheon here.

The registration deadline for those ordering lunch is noon on Monday, August 10th. The deadline for those attending without a lunch order is 5 p.m. on Tuesday, August 11th. LAW will be applying for 1 CLE credit for this program.

Speakers: Attorneys Lindsey Cobbe and Marta Meyers of Boardman Clark

Topic: Hot Topics in Family Law - From Cohabitation Agreements to Divorce Cases

We will discuss several increasingly common topics in family law, including cohabitation agreements with multiple partners, immigration concerns when drafting marital property agreements, the legal pros and cons of entering into marriage, social media use in family law cases, “grey divorces”, and dealing with difficult clients and counsel. The presenters will provide practical tips to help better serve clients both inside and outside of the family law field. 

Registration: Please register for this luncheon here.

The registration deadline for those ordering lunch is noon on Monday, July 6th. The deadline for those attending without a lunch order is 5 p.m. on Tuesday, July 7th. LAW will be applying for 1 CLE credit for this program.

Speakers: Sara Vander Brook of The Law Center Wisconsin, Megan Stoltz of Stoltz Law, and Katie Harrell of Stafford Rosenbaum

Topic: Alternative Dispute Resolution in Family Law

The panel will explore various roles that attorneys may take in family court matters. This includes taking Guardian ad Litem appointments and acting as Parent Coordinator, Mediator, Arbitrator, or Mediator-Arbitrator. We will discuss the requirements for serving in such capacities and how the services can benefit children and families in conflict. 

Registration: Please register for this luncheon here.

The registration deadline for those ordering lunch is noon on Monday, June 8th. The deadline for those attending without a lunch order is 5 p.m. on Tuesday, June 9th. LAW will be applying for 1 CLE credit for this program.

Speakers: Attys. Maeve Pirt Meyer & Natalie Gerloff, Hawks Quindel

Topic: Social Security Disability (SSD) Basics

This CLE presentation will be helmed by two SSD practitioners who also have experience in non-disability practice areas. They will be providing a short overview of Social Security’s two disability programs, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and they will discuss how the SSD programs intersect with other practice areas. All the material will be tailored for non-SSD practitioners, and the presenters encourage attendees to bring their questions.

Registration: Please register for this luncheon here.

The registration deadline for those ordering lunch is noon on Monday, May 11th. The deadline for those attending without a lunch order is 5 p.m. on Tuesday, May 12th. LAW will be applying for 1 CLE credit for this program.

Speakers: Attorneys Leslie Elkins and Joe Andreoni

Topic: Everyone Needs a Vacation(Home)

This presentation will provide a practical overview of the legal landscape surrounding short-term rentals. It will examine Wisconsin landlord-tenant law, and the interplay with municipal law. The presentation will also address lease and short-term rental concerns.

Registration: Please register for this event here.

The registration deadline for those ordering lunch is noon on Monday, April 6th. The deadline for those attending without a lunch order is 5 p.m. on Tuesday, April 7th. LAW will be applying for 1 CLE credit for this program.

**The originally scheduled programming for this luncheon has been changed to the program outlined above. If you previously registered for the luncheon and no longer wish to attend, please notify bsnapp@habush.com no later than noon on Monday, April 6th.

Speakers: Michael Haas, Madison City Attorney

Topic: Overview of Wisconsin Election Law and Administration

Wisconsin has a unique election administration infrastructure. From its bipartisan Elections Commission to the 72 county clerks and 1,850 municipal clerks who conduct elections, Wisconsin boasts the most decentralized election administration structure in the country. This presentation will serve as a primer regarding the statutes governing that structure and a reminder of the roles of various election officials who will address the issues and conduct the upcoming elections.

Registration: Please register for this luncheon here.

The registration deadline for those ordering lunch is noon on Monday, March 9th. The deadline for those attending without a lunch order is 5 p.m. on Tuesday, March 10th. LAW will be applying for 1 CLE credit for this program.

Speakers: David Hollander & Erin Deeley, Stafford Rosenbaum LLP

Topic: Litigating Language: the Canons of Construction in Wisconsin

Erin Deeley and David Hollander will cover the basic principles Wisconsin courts apply in construing contracts, statutes, and the Wisconsin Constitution. Then, they will facilitate a game designed to cover some of the common canons of construction used by Wisconsin courts.

Registration: Please register for this luncheon here. The registration deadline for those ordering lunch is noon on Monday, February 9th. The deadline for those attending without a lunch order is 5 p.m. on Tuesday, February 10th. LAW will be applying for 1 CLE credit for this program.

Speakers: Jeff Mandell, President and General Counsel at Law Forward; Kacy Gurewitz, Staff Counsel at Law Forward

Topic: Fusion Voting: A Piece of Wisconsin History and Maybe a Fix to Some of Today’s Problems

Fusion voting is an historical practice that is getting renewed attention as an electoral reform that can address some of the problems facing our democracy. Fusion played a key role in Wisconsin’s first half century, and then the Legislature banned the practice. Now, the American Bar Association is recommending that states adopt fusion voting, the UW Law School recently held a day-long conference on fusion’s promise for Wisconsin, and a case is pending in circuit court to strike down the 1897 legislative ban on fusion voting. Two of the attorneys leading the case will come to explain what fusion voting is, how it works, what it may be able to offer at this moment in our history, and to give an update on the litigation. There will be time for Q&A, both about fusion and about other matters that Law Forward is litigating. 

Registration: Please register for this luncheon here. The registration deadline for those ordering lunch is noon on Monday, January 12th. The deadline for those attending without a lunch order is 5 p.m. on Tuesday, January 13th. LAW will be applying for 1 CLE credit for this program.

Topic: Judicial Perspectives: Insight on Service, Equity, and Evolving

Speakers: Judges Tania Bonnett, Anita Boor, Stephanie Hilton, and Benjamin Jones

Join us for a discussion with a panel if Wisconsin judges to hear their insights on service, equity, and evolving.

Please register for this luncheon here. The registration deadline for those ordering lunch is noon on Monday, December 8th. The deadline for those attending without a lunch order is 5 p.m. on Tuesday, December 9th. LAW will be applying for 1 CLE credit for this program.

Topic: Ethics Update 2025

Speakers: Sara Peterson, Ethics Counsel, State Bar of Wisconsin

During the presentation, Attorney Peterson will discuss the key points of several ethics opinions issued in 2025 by both the ABA and the State Bar of Wisconsin’s Committee on Professional Ethics.

Please register for this luncheon here. The registration deadline for those ordering lunch is noon on Monday, November 10thth. The deadline for those attending without a lunch order is 5 p.m. on Tuesday, November 11th. LAW will be applying for 1 CLE credit for this program.

Topic: Does Law Still Exist?

Speakers: Michael Haas, Richelle Martin, Kristin Degeneffe

Join us to hear a panel of expert presenters answer the question: Does Law Still Exist? This will be a conversation about how the ground is shifting under our feet. Michael Haas will kick us off with Municipal Law Responses to Rule of Law Challenges, looking at how federal disruption reaches into the day-to-day work of local governments. Then, Richelle Martin will take us into the world of startups with Rules, Risks, and Roadblocks, showing how agency decisions can slow innovation at every stage. And finally, Kristin Degeneffe will dive into healthcare with Rule-breaking Remedies, examining what happens when agencies upend access to care and insurance.

Please register for this luncheon here. The registration deadline for those ordering lunch is noon on Monday, October 6th. The deadline for those attending without a lunch order is 5 p.m. on Tuesday, October 7th. LAW will be applying for 1 CLE credit for this program.

Click here to RSVP!

Topic: Cybersecurity

Speaker: James Pearson, The Computer Center

Let's explore key strategies for staying ahead in the rapidly evolving tech landscape, focusing on cybersecurity compliance challenges faced by small and medium-sized firms. We'll cover practical security improvements, cyber liability insurance, and upcoming Microsoft changes like Windows 10 retirement and the integration of AI, such as Co-Pilot. Additionally, James will clarify myths about Windows 10 support after October 2025 and share actionable tips to strengthen your firm's security and compliance. Join us to better prepare for the future of work and technology.

Please register for this luncheon here. The registration deadline for those ordering lunch is noon on Monday, September 8th. The deadline for those attending without a lunch order is 5 p.m. on Tuesday, September 9th. LAW will be applying for 1 CLE credit for this program.

Topic: The Offense and Defense of Intellectual Property: Two sides of the same coin, intertwined for business success

Speakers: Jennifer L. Amundsen, Amundsen Law Firm

A discussion of how businesses can build value and manage risk, focusing on protection of the business's intellectual property and on avoiding misuse of 3rd party IP. This applies to business owners, including many lawyers, and to many firms’ business clients.

Please register for this luncheon here. The registration deadline for those ordering lunch is noon on Monday, August 11th. The deadline for those attending without a lunch order is 5 p.m. on Tuesday, August 12th. LAW will be applying for 1 CLE credit for this program.

Topic: Startup Investing: Beyond Shark Tank and Patagonia Vests

Speakers: Richelle Martin (Managing Partner, Winnow Fund) and Heather Wentler (Executive Director, Doyenne Group)

Lack of access to information and community are barriers often cited by diverse individuals interested in angel/venture investing. Heather Wentler and Richelle Martin will discuss the importance of diversity among investment decision-makers and provide background on investor qualifications, the investment process, and the local investor ecosystem. They'll also review a theoretical investment opportunity to give insight into the due diligence process. No prior investment experience needed; vests optional.

Please register for this luncheon here. The registration deadline for those ordering lunch is noon on Monday, July 7th. The deadline for those attending without a lunch order is 5 p.m. on Tuesday, July 8th. LAW will be applying for 1 ethics CLE credit for this program.

Topic: Reflections from the Bench: Insight/Experiences from the WI Supreme Court

Speaker: Justice Jill J. Karofsky

Join Justice Jill J Karofsky, as she shares her journey and insights from serving on the WI Supreme Court. This engaging session will explore the challenges and highlights of her judicial service, include a discussion on the decision-making process, and offer valuable perspectives for legal professionals. Attendees will also have the opportunity to ask questions and gain a better understanding of the Supreme Court's role in shaping the law

Please register for this luncheon here. The registration deadline for those ordering lunch is noon on Monday, June 9th. The deadline for those attending without a lunch order is 5 p.m. on Tuesday, June 10th. LAW will be applying for 1 ethics CLE credit for this program.

Topic: Disability and Employment Law

Speaker: Nicki Vander Meulen, Vander Meulen Law Office

What does a person with a disability mean? Can an employer refuse to hire a person with a disability? What is a reasonable accommodation?

Please register for this luncheon here. The registration deadline for those ordering lunch is noon on Monday, April 7th. The deadline for those attending without a lunch order is 5 p.m. on Tuesday, April 8th. LAW will be applying for 1 ethics CLE credit for this program.

Topic: The Impact of AI/ChatGPT on Lawyers and Related Ethical Issues

Speakers: Attorneys Matt Beier and Brian Anderson, WILMIC

In a world where technology is reshaping the legal battlefield, one revolutionary force is taking center stage… AI and ChatGPT are transforming the way lawyers practice law, but with great power comes great responsibility! Industry experts Attorney Matt Beier and Attorney Brian Anderson of WILMIC offer an eye-opening presentation that dives into the groundbreaking advancements, ethical dilemmas, and real-world implications of AI in the legal profession. From drafting legal briefs in seconds to the risks of misinformation, discover what every lawyer MUST know before embracing this game-changing technology. On April 9, 2025—Don’t just witness the future of law. Be prepared for it.

Please register for this luncheon here. The registration deadline for those ordering lunch is noon on Monday, April 7th. The deadline for those attending without a lunch order is 5 p.m. on Tuesday, April 8th. LAW will be applying for 1 ethics CLE credit for this program.

Topic: Protecting Assets: Combating POA Theft

Speaker: April DeValkenaere, Fortress Forensic Investigations 

Reduce the risk and actively safeguard against potential financial losses resulting from the misuse of a Power of Attorney document or its designated agent. Furthermore, assess the tools that directly affect your clients' assets, determine how to access and effectively utilize local resources, and establish best practices for your agency to consistently serve as strong advocates for your clients.

Please register for this luncheon here.

Topic: The Life of An Appeal

Speakers: Judge Brian Blanchard, Judge Rachel Graham, Judge JoAnne Kloppenburg, Judge Jennifer Nashold, and Judge Chris Taylor

A behind-the-scenes look at what happens to an appeal as it travels through the court system after the filing of the notice of appeal, including the handling of motions and orders and the various stages of the decision process, culminating in the issuance of an opinion.

Please register for this luncheon here. Registration opens on January 27th.

Topic: Legislative Liaison:  A Lawyer’s View of the Law as it is Being Made Most lawyers work with laws after they have been enacted and as they are being enforced.  A Legislative Liaison works on ideas that may become future laws.  What is the role of the state court system‘s Legislative Liaison?  This presentation will address the responsibilities of the Legislative Liaison, along with general information about the workings of the Legislature.

Presented by: Nancy Rottier. Nancy retired in 2021 after working for 18 years as the Legislative Liaison for the Wisconsin Court System.  She has also worked on legislative matters for the Wisconsin State Senate and for the Wisconsin Academy of Trial Lawyers (now the Wisconsin Association for Justice).  She has also worked in private practice for about 7 years, with an emphasis on family law.  She is a 1976 UW Law School graduate.

Registration for this CLE can be completed here.

Topic: Can I Tap That? Ethical Considerations in the Age of Online Dating

Speaker: Catherine White, Hurley Burish S.C.

Spend an hour scrolling through Tinder profiles and discussing the finer points of Supreme Court Rule 1.8(j). Is every single employee of your corporate client off limits? Can you swipe right on your client’s girlfriend? What if they’re in an open relationship? Not only will this earn you an ethics credit, but you’ll also get a bonus lesson in navigating Tinder.

Please register for this CLE here.

Topic: ERD

Speakers: Ramona Natera, Maria Selsor

Please register for this event here.

A brief summary of Wisconsin's arrest and conviction protections under the WFEA, a discussion of interesting recent cases, and useful tips for attorneys representing either employees or employers in wisconsin, plus special tips for multi-state employers. Maria Selsor is the Bureau Director of Hearings & Mediations for the Wisconsin Equal Rights Division, which administers and enforces over 40 labor and employment laws across the State. Prior to becoming the Director, Selsor was an Administrative Law Judge for the Division for 10 years.

Topic: Rule 702: Origins, Implications, and Standards for Admissibility of Expert Testimony

Speaker: Gail Groy (Founder and President, Groy Law Firm)

Please register for the luncheon here.

This presentation reviews past and current standards for admissibility of expert testimony and provides information regarding the amended Federal Rule of Evidence 702 legislation. After attending, participants will gain an understanding of the history of expert-qualifying standards and current rules for preparation of analytical expert reports and testimony.

Criteria embodied in Frye, Daubert and Rule 702 were introduced to assist the courts in systematizing the methodological standards used for technical forensic testimony. Briefly, the “general acceptance” standard of Frye, introduced in 1923, Frye V. United States held that expert testimony could be admitted into Court if the evidence was widely accepted in the scientific community. This standard was challenged and then superseded by the 1993 case, Daubert v. Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals. Daubert replaced the Frye standard in Federal Court. The U.S. Supreme Court in Daubert provided that as a standard expert testimony could be accepted without the need for peer review, provided that the judge acts as the gatekeeper to ensure that the expert witness was qualified, scientifically reliable, relevant, and could assist the trier of fact to understand the evidence or to determine the facts of the case on point. Specifically, “The trial judge must ensure that any and all scientific testimony or evidence admitted is not only relevant, but reliable”. Recognizing the variability extant within the Federal Courts for implementation of these rules and for clarification, Federal Rule of Evidence, Rule 702 proposed amendments were unanimously approved in May 2023 and went into effect, after the statutory period, on 1 December 2023.

LAW is pleased to honor Attorney Erin Barbato, recipient of the 2024 Marygold Melli Achievement Award. The reception will be held in Boardman Clark's Atrium. Drinks and hors d'oeuvres will be served.

Please view invitation and RSVP at this link: https://pp.events/ajngm1Pl

Topic: The Moon May be Trans*; the Legal System Is Not

Speaker: Anne Daugherty-Leiter

Please register for this event here.

Attorney Daugherty-Leiter plans to provide an overview of the work undertaken by Trans Law Help Wisconsin, Inc., a volunteer-run 503(c)(4) nonprofit, as it relates to assisting trans and nonbinary people obtain legal recognition for their authentic gender and true name and then update their legal identification documents to match. For this Dane County audience, Attorney Daugherty-Leiter will provide details about issues experienced with the local court system. She will also attempt to place our work in the context of the legal challenges facing this community nationally, hopefully enabling listeners to understand how "just existing as trans" is increasingly hard for many people, especially youth. Attorney Daugherty-Leiter will end the presentation by offering suggestions for next steps, and by taking questions if there are any.

Topic: U Visas - A Wholistic Approach to Legal Services

Speaker: Amanda Gennerman (Partner, Pines Bach)