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# Stafford Rosenbaum LLP

Wisconsin Attorneys | Madison & Milwaukee WI

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## Posts

- [Blogs](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blogs/)
- [Attorney Alexander Ferrone Presents on Real Estate Traps & Fraud for National Business Institute](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/attorney-alexander-ferrone-presents-real-estate-traps-fraud-for-national-business-institute/) - Attorney Alex Ferrone presents on traps and fraud in real estate transactions for business law audience Stafford Rosenbaum Attorney Alexander Ferrone will present on hidden defects and disclosure traps in real estate transactions, and broker, agent, and contractor fraud as part of a daylong CLE program, available live online or via on-demand recording. The program,
- [Update: Wisconsin Supreme Court Grants Petition for Review that Asks Court to Reevaluate Its Approach to Statutory Interpretation](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wisconsin-supreme-court-grants-petition-for-review-to-reevaluate-statutory-interpretation/) - On June 16, 2026, the Wisconsin Supreme Court voted to grant review in Abby Windows, LLC v. LIRC, 2024AP001013. The Court’s order scheduled briefing in the case to begin in July of 2026, meaning that the Court will presumably hear and decide the case during the 2026-27 term. Justice Rebecca Grassl Bradley, whose term expires
- [Attorneys Pam Ploor & Brian Sajdak Present for League of Wisconsin Municipalities](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/attorneys-pam-ploor-brian-sajdak-present-for-league-of-wisconsin-municipalities/) - Two Stafford Rosenbaum attorneys present at LWM Municipal Attorneys Institute Two attorneys at Stafford Rosenbaum will give separate presentations during the League of Wisconsin Municipalities' 2026 Municipal Attorneys Institute Conference. Attorney Pam Ploor will present on employment law topics relating to FMLA leave and pregnancy and maternity accommodations on Thursday, June 18. Attorney Brian Sajdak
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Sponsors 2026 Election Matters Seminar Series](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/election-and-political-law/stafford-rosenbaum-sponsors-2026-election-matters-seminar-series/) - Election Matters seminar series, back for 2026, hosted by Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Sponsored in its entirety by Stafford Rosenbaum, Election Matters 2026 is a series of free seminars hosted by the Elections Research Center and State Democracy Research Initiative (SDRI) at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. The educational series will bring together diverse experts to tackle evolving election-related issues. Join us
- [Attorneys Seep Paliwal & Erin Rome Present on AI Contract Drafting for Association of Corporate Counsel](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/attorneys-seep-paliwal-erin-rome-present-on-ai-contract-drafting-for-association-of-corporate-counsel/) - Stafford Rosenbaum discusses AI contract drafting with Association of Corporate Counsel - Wisconsin members Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys Seep Paliwal and Erin Rome, and co-presenter Attorney Matt Beier of WILMIC, will present “Contract Drafting and Review in the Era of AI” on Friday, May 15, at the ACC-WI Annual Chapter Conference and Meeting of Members. Their
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Environment & Land Use Law Attorneys Present at Great Outdoors 2026](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/stafford-rosenbaum-environment-land-use-law-attorneys-present-at-great-outdoors-2026/) - Stafford Rosenbaum attorneys to present during State Bar of Wisconsin's Great Outdoors seminar Attorneys Erin Deeley, Klara Henry, Jane Landretti, and Zoe Pawlisch will present during The Great Outdoors 2026 seminar on Wednesday, April 29, 2026 (or via webcast), as part of the State Bar of Wisconsin's daylong program on the legal frameworks governing Wisconsin’s
- [Update: The Ghost of Procedural Rules Past](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/update-the-ghost-of-procedural-rules-past/) - In 2024, we wrote about Bowie v. Settecase, No. 2022AP1561 (Wis. Ct. App. Dec. 12, 2023) (per curiam) (unpublished). There, the Court of Appeals deemed the defendant’s summary judgment argument waived because the case went to trial and “a party who proceeds to trial waives the right to appeal an order denying his or her
- [When the “Expert” Is an Algorithm](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/litigation/when-the-expert-is-an-algorithm/) - When AI Provides Courtroom Expertise Artificial Intelligence is a hot topic in every field, but, too often, when it comes to the legal system, it is lawyers’ and judges’ struggles with AI that make news, time after time. But while everyone is talking about “hallucinated” case citations, some are focusing on the other ways AI
- [Attorney Mason Higgins Presents to State Bar's Bankruptcy, Insolvency, & Creditors' Rights Section](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/bankruptcy-and-creditors-rights/attorney-mason-higgins-presents-ethical-advocacy-in-bankruptcy-proceedings-state-bar-wisconsin/) - Attorney Mason Higgins presents on ethical advocacy in bankruptcy proceedings for the State Bar of Wisconsin Attorney Mason Higgins presented "Dazed & Pro Se: Ethical Advocacy When the Other Side Has No Bankruptcy Lawyer" at the State Bar of Wisconsin’s Bankruptcy, Insolvency, and Creditors’ Rights Section’s educational retreat on February 26, 2026. Attorney Higgins presented
- [Attorney Nikki Yang Presents on Trusts & Estates at Madison Area Chinese Community Organization](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/trust-estates-law/attorney-nikki-yang-presents-on-trusts-estates-at-madison-area-chinese-community-organization/) - Attorney Nikki Yang presents on trusts and estate planning during legal education series for Madison Area Chinese Community Organization Stafford Rosenbaum Attorney Nikki Yang will give a presentation to a Madison Area Chinese Community Organization (MACCO) audience on Saturday, February 28. Attorney Yang leads legal education series often, providing introductory overviews of various aspects of
- [Attorney Jessica Mederson Earns Wisconsin Law Journal Construction Law Honor](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/construction-law/attorney-jessica-mederson-wisconsin-law-journal-construction-law/) - Stafford Rosenbaum Attorney Jessica Mederson recognized in Wisconsin Law Journal for construction law Originally published on wislawjournal.com on January 7, 2026. A commercial litigator for over 20 years, Jessica Mederson began her career in Texas before bringing her national perspective and experience to Wisconsin, representing clients in construction, manufacturing, business and intellectual property disputes across the
- [Attorney Scott Smith Authors State Bar Blog Post on Wisconsin Municipal Construction Contracts](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/attorney-scott-smith-authors-state-bar-blog-post-on-wisconsin-municipal-construction-contracts/) - Attorney Scott Smith authors post for State Bar of Wisconsin Business Law Section Blog Attorney Scott Smith published a blog post with the State Bar of Wisconsin's Business Law Section in December 2025. The post, "Five Terms Wisconsin Municipalities Should Revise Before Signing Construction Contracts," discusses how cities, villages, school districts, and utilities across Wisconsin
- [Attorneys Egle & Manthe Present on Support Tools for New Small Businesses in Wisconsin](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/support-for-new-small-businesses-wisconsin/) - Attorneys James Egle and Rick Manthe present on support available to small business owners for Wisconsin Family Business Center Attorneys James B. Egle and Rick A. Manthe will present to an audience of small business and family business owners during the Wisconsin Family Business Center’s Food for Thought program on Wednesday morning, November 19. “Unlocking
- [Attorney Seep Paliwal Moderates State Bar of Wisconsin Panel on Cultural Competency in Family Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/family-law/attorney-seep-paliwal-moderates-state-bar-of-wisconsin-panel-on-cultural-competency-in-family-law/) - Attorney Seep Paliwal moderates panel during State Bar's Cultural Competency in Family Law Cases training In January 2025, the Supreme Court of Wisconsin approved providing CLE credit for cultural competency training. Stafford Rosenbaum Attorney Seep Paliwal will moderate a presentation featuring a panel of experts during the State Bar of Wisconsin’s very first offering of
- [The End of the Textualist Era? Wisconsin Supreme Court Presented with Opportunity to Overturn Kalal](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wisconsin-supreme-court-presented-with-opportunity-to-overturn-kalal/) - In a concurrence to one of the Wisconsin Supreme Court’s blockbuster opinions from the 2024-25 term, SEIU Healthcare Wis. v. WERC, 2025 WI 29, 416 Wis. 2d 688, 22 N.W.2d 876 (Dallet, J., concurring), Justice Dallet called on the Court to reevaluate Wisconsin’s current—and oft-cited—approach to statutory interpretation as set forth in State ex rel.
- [Attorney Rick Manthe Presents on Municipal Zoning for Wisconsin Towns Association](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/government-law/attorney-rick-manthe-presents-municipal-zoning-for-wisconsin-towns-association/) - Attorney Rick Manthe presents on municipal zoning during Town Law Conference Attorney Rick Manthe will give a presentation on Friday, October 31, to a Wisconsin Towns Association audience as part of the organization's annual, daylong 2025 Town Law Conference. The Wisconsin Towns Association collaborates with the UW-Extension Local Government Center and the University of Wisconsin
- [Attorney Tiffany Highstrom Presents on Finances and Taxes in Family Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/family-law/attorney-tiffany-highstrom-presents-finance-and-tax-in-family-law/) - Attorney Tiffany Highstrom presents on 2025 tax and finance changes for the Collaborative Family Law Council of Wisconsin Attorney Tiffany Highstrom will present on Thursday, October 30, during the Collaborative Family Law Council of Wisconsin's 2025 Tax Webinar. The seminar will be presented by a panel of experts focusing on changes in taxes, finances, donations,
- [Attorney Brian Sajdak Presents for Wisconsin Municipal Clerks Association](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/government-law/attorney-brian-sajdak-presents-for-wisconsin-municipal-clerks/) - Attorney Brian Sajdak discusses records retention during Wisconsin Municipal Clerks Association Meeting Stafford Rosenbaum Attorney Brian Sajdak will present on records retention during the District 5 Meeting of the Wisconsin Municipal Clerks Association on October 23, 2025. Brian's presentation is part of a daylong meeting on a variety of topics prepared by the Wisconsin Municipal
- [Attorney Paul Kent Earns Wisconsin Law Journal Powerlist Honor](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/attorney-paul-kent-earns-wisconsin-law-journal-powerlist-honor/) - Stafford Rosenbaum Attorney Paul Kent recognized by Wisconsin Law Journal on Environmental Law Attorney Powerlist Originally published on wislawjournal.com on September 29, 2025. Paul Kent has experienced firsthand the ebb and flows of environmental law and not only a practicing attorney but as an educator. “I started teaching in 1989 and it was the first wave
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Team Wins Unanimous Ruling from Wisconsin Supreme Court](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/stafford-rosenbaum-team-wins-unanimous-ruling-from-wisconsin-supreme-court/) - Today, six months after oral argument, the Wisconsin Supreme Court unanimously ruled in favor of our client, Lynnea Landsee-Pulikkila, and reversed a 2019 decision of the Wisconsin Court of Appeals. The majority opinion, authored by Justice Ann Walsh Bradley, recognized that the court of appeals “jumped the gun” by imposing a constructive trust in this
- [New Standard for Designating Attorney Who Drafts Will To Serve as Estate’s Personal Representative](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/new-standard-for-designating-attorney-who-drafts-will-to-serve-as-estates-p/) - The Wisconsin Court of Appeals recently limited the circumstances under which an attorney might serve as personal representative of an estate. In In Re the Estate of Ann H. McMaster Dewey, No. 2016AP865, 2017 WL 1497548 (Wis. Ct. App. Apr. 26, 2017), a decedent nominated her estate planning attorney, Robert Wilmot, as her successor personal representative. Upon
- [Seventh Circuit Reiterates Fundamental Principles of Trademark Law (and Litigation Strategy)](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/seventh-circuit-reiterates-fundamental-principles-of-trademark-law-and-liti/) - The Seventh Circuit recently reiterated long-standing trademark principles while rejecting a litigant’s change in strategy post-trial. The decision in S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc., v. Nutraceutical Corporation and Nutramarks, Inc. involved use of the “BUG OFF” mark on insect repellant products. S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. acquired a registration for the “BUG OFF” mark and
- [Why Your 18 Year-Old Needs Powers of Attorney for Finances and Healthcare](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/trust-estates-law/why-your-18-year-old-needs-powers-of-attorney-for-finances-and-healthcare/) - As parents, you may not realize that once your child turns 18 years-old, federal and state law restrict your ability to access your child’s healthcare records and to make healthcare and financial decisions on your child’s behalf. This becomes problematic if your adult child were ever to become incapacitated, and unable to make those decisions
- [Wisconsin Court of Appeals deems restrictive covenant unenforceable as to short-term rentals](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wisconsin-court-of-appeals-deems-restrictive-covenant-unenforceable-as-to-s/) - Consider the following facts: a couple owns a single-family waterfront residence on a private dead-end road. The lots on the road are subject to the following restrictive covenant (among others): “there shall be no commercial activity allowed on any of said lots.” They begin renting out the residence on a short-term basis, advertising the property
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court Strikes Down Legislative Committee’s Veto of Administrative Rules](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wisconsin-supreme-court-strikes-down-legislative-committees-veto-of-administrative-rules/) - Wisconsin Supreme Court Strikes Down Legislative Committee’s Veto of Administrative Rules, Dramatically Reshaping Agency Rulemaking Introduction On July 8, 2025, the Wisconsin Supreme Court struck down five statutes that, since 2018, have empowered four members of a ten-member legislative committee, the Joint Committee for Review of Administrative Rules (“JCRAR”), to effectively veto an agency’s proposed
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court Unanimously Concludes Legislature's Lame-Duck Settlement Statute Is Unconstitutional](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wisconsin-supreme-court-unanimously-concludes-legislatures-lame-duck-settlement-statute-is-unconstitutional/) - Supreme Court of Wisconsin Unanimously Concludes Legislature's Lame-Duck Settlement Statute Is Unconstitutional Since 2018, Wis. Stat. § 165.08(1), or the “Settlement Statute,” has forbidden the Wisconsin Department of Justice (“DOJ”) from settling or discontinuing any civil action without the approval of the Wisconsin State Legislature. On June 17, 2025, in a decisive win for the
- [Attorney Tiffany Highstrom Presents on Preparation of Financial Statements in Family Law Cases](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/family-law/attorney-tiffany-highstrom-presents-on-preparation-of-financial-statements-family-law/) - Attorney Tiffany Highstrom to present "The Preparation of Financial Statements in Family Law Cases 2025" for the State Bar of Wisconsin Attorney Tiffany Highstrom will present on best practices for preparing financial statements for family court cases on Thursday, July 24, 2025, during the State Bar of Wisconsin’s CLE seminar, "The Preparation of Financial Statements in
- [Attorney Nikki Yang Leads & Presents Legal Education Series at Madison Chinese Chamber of Commerce](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/attorney-nikki-yang-leads-legal-education-series-at-madison-chinese-chamber-of-commerce/) - Attorney Nikki Yang leads legal education series for Madison Chinese Chamber of Commerce, presents on criminal law Stafford Rosenbaum Attorney Nikki Yang will give a presentation to an audience at the Greater Madison Chinese Chamber of Commerce. Attorney Yang leads a regular legal education series at the Chamber, providing introductory overviews of various aspects of
- [Attorney Douglas M. Poland Earns Wisconsin Law Journal Powerlist Honor](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/attorney-douglas-poland-wisconsin-law-journal-powerlist/) - Stafford Rosenbaum Attorney Doug Poland recognized on Appellate Law Powerlist by Wisconsin Law Journal Originally published by Wisconsin Law Journal on June 23, 2025. The power of collaboration is what Douglas Poland believes is the foundation for his numerous wins, believing there’s no such thing as a self-made, super-star lawyer. Poland is a partner at Stafford Rosenbaum, with
- [DNR Authorized to Address PFAS Contamination without First Identifying “Hazardous Substances” per Wisconsin Supreme Court](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/dnr-authorized-to-address-pfas-contamination-without-first-identifying-hazardous-substances/) - Wisconsin Supreme Court holds that DNR has authority to address PFAS contamination without first promulgating rules identifying each contaminant as a “hazardous substance” Introduction On June 24, 2025, the Wisconsin Supreme Court issued a landmark environmental decision in Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce, Inc. v. DNR. The Court concluded that the Department of Natural Resources (“DNR”)
- [Attorney Brian Sajdak Presents at League of Wisconsin Municipalities Conference](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/government-law/attorney-brian-sajdak-presents-at-league-of-wisconsin-municipalities-conference/) - Attorney Brian Sajdak discusses Wisconsin levy limits with Municipal Attorneys Institute audience members Stafford Rosenbaum Attorney Brian Sajdak will give a presentation, “When the Levy Breaks: Navigating the Murky Floodwaters of Wisconsin’s Levy Limit,” to an audience of municipal and government lawyers during the 2025 League of Wisconsin Municipalities Municipal Attorneys Institute on June 11.
- [After Wave of Environmental Regulation Rollbacks, Trump Administration Announces PFAS-Combatting Initiatives](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/after-wave-of-environmental-regulation-rollbacks-trump-administration-announces-pfas-combatting-initiatives/) - Initiatives to Combat PFAS Announced After Environmental Regulation Rollbacks The second Trump term has already been marked by significant environmental deregulation, including targeting major climate change, energy efficiency, environmental justice, and air pollution policies established over the decades since the first wave of environmental regulatory schemes began in the 1970s.[1] These rollbacks have been compounded
- [Attorneys Jessica Mederson & Pahoua Thao Present at Association of Corporate Counsel - Wisconsin Conference](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/attorneys-jessica-mederson-pahoua-thao-association-of-corporate-counsel-wisconsin/) - Stafford Rosenbaum discusses data privacy regulation and risk to Association of Corporate Counsel - Wisconsin Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys Jessica Mederson and Pahoua Thao, as well as in-house Cotiviti Attorney Krista Baisch, will give a presentation to an audience of corporate counsel lawyers during the 2025 Association of Corporate Counsel - Wisconsin Conference on May 15,
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court Upholds Governor’s “400-Year Veto” and Affirms Expansive Partial-Veto Power](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/litigation/wisconsin-supreme-court-upholds-governors-400-year-veto-and-affirms-expansive-partial-veto-power/) - Supreme Court of Wisconsin Upholds Gov. Evers’ 400-Year Veto, Affirms Partial-Veto Power The Wisconsin governor’s partial-veto power is unique. Although some states grant governors the power to veto entire budget line items, Wisconsin’s governor may veto discrete parts of appropriation bills, including words, punctuation marks, and digits. See generally Wis. Const. art. V, § 10(1)(b),
- [Attorney Jessica Mederson Presents on Energy Resiliency in Construction Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/construction-law/attorney-jessica-mederson-presents-energy-resiliency-climate-change-in-construction/) - Attorney Jessica Mederson presents on construction law and resiliency measures amid a changing climate On Thursday, May 1, Attorney Jessica C. Mederson will give a "Strategies for Incorporating Energy Resiliency and Climate Change into Construction Projects and Contracts" presentation at Centro Hispano of Dane County. Part of the daylong Construction Law Update: Current Trends in
- [Attorney Anthony Menting Earns Wisconsin Law Journal Powerlist Honor](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/family-law/attorney-anthony-menting-earns-wisconsin-law-journal-powerlist-honor/) - Stafford Rosenbaum Attorney Tony Menting recognized on Family Law Powerlist by Wisconsin Law Journal Originally published on wislawjournal.com on March 27, 2025. Similar to surgeons or CPAs, Anthony Menting believes that divorce lawyers must be clinical and objective. While he acknowledges the emotional aspects of family law, Menting helps his clients navigate them by clearly detailing
- [Attorney Vanessa Wishart Presents Legal Updates in Wisconsin Water & Environmental Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/attorney-vanessa-wishart-presents-legal-updates-wisconsin-water-environmental-law/) - Attorney Vanessa Wishart provides legal updates in Wisconsin water law to WI Wastewater Operators Association Attorney Vanessa Wishart will give legal updates on Wisconsin water and environmental law as part of a daylong symposium on March 18, 2025, to an audience of municipal officials, water treatment plant operators, contractors, and consultants. The 2025 Spring Biosolids
- [Court of Appeals Concludes Ballots Lacking Election Official Endorsements Must Be Counted](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/court-of-appeals-concludes-ballots-lacking-election-official-endorsements-must-be-counted/) - Wisconsin Court of Appeals issues opinion that voting ballots lacking endorsements from elections officials must be counted On March 6, 2025, the Wisconsin Court of Appeals (Dist. IV) issued a must-read election law opinion declining to toss out three ballots cast in a Rock County election. Gonfiantini v. Rock Cnty. Bd. of Canvassers, No. 2024AP1233
- [Attorneys Iana Vladimirova & Rich Latta Moderate Discussions at ALFA International Seminar](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/attorneys-iana-vladimirova-rich-latta-alfa-international-seminar/) - Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys Latta and Vladimirova speak to ALFA International business audiences during International Client Seminar Two attorneys at Stafford Rosenbaum, the Wisconsin member law firm of global legal network ALFA International, participated in the organization's International Client Seminar on March 6-9, 2025. Attorney Rich Latta moderated a panel discussion, "The More Things Change—What Happens
- [Attorneys Kent & Landretti Present on Wisconsin Water Law Issues](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/attorneys-kent-landretti-present-on-wisconsin-water-law/) - Attorneys Paul Kent & Jane Landretti present on current legal issues in Wisconsin water law Attorneys Paul Kent and Jane Landretti will give a presentation on Wednesday, March 5, during the 2025 Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance Conference. The two-day Conference will cover topics like regulation and guidance, climate change, green infrastructure, dissolved phosphorus capture, watershed recovery,
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court Limits Standing to Appeal Decisions from the Wisconsin Elections Commission](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/litigation/wisconsin-supreme-court-limits-standing-to-appeal-decisions-from-wec/) - On February 18, 2025, in a 4-3 vote, the Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled that Kenneth Brown, a voter who raised a number of claims challenging the Racine City Clerk’s use of 22 alternate absentee ballot sites to facilitate in-person absentee voting for the August 2022 primary election, lacked standing to seek judicial review of the
- [Attorney Jane Landretti Presents on Wisconsin Water and Drainage Laws](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/attorney-jane-landretti-presents-on-wisconsin-water-and-drainage-laws/) - Attorney Jane Landretti Presents on Drainage Installation to UW-Madison Extension Attorney Jane Landretti will present "Drainage Law: What You Need to Know Before You Install" to an agriculture industry audience on Thursday, Febrary 20, 2025, in Fond du Lac. This drainage workshop is designed for farmers, landowners, and those who install their own tile systems
- [Attorneys Thao & Smith Present on Use of AI Platforms to Wisconsin Business Owners](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/attorneys-thao-smith-present-on-ai-use-to-wisconsin-business-owners/) - Attorneys Pahoua Thao and Scott J. Smith present at the Wisconsin Family Business Center Attorneys Pahoua Thao and Scott J. Smith will present to an audience of small and family business owners during the Wisconsin Family Business Center's Food for Thought program on Wednesday, February 12. "Potential Pitfalls and Risks for Family Businesses Using AI
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court Preserves Privacy Protections for Court Records of Voters Subject to Guardianships, Affirms Unified Nature of Court of Appeals](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/litigation/wisconsin-supreme-court-preserves-privacy-protections-for-voters-subject-to-guardianships/) - By a 5-2 vote, on January 17, 2025, the Wisconsin Supreme Court vacated a District II Court of Appeals decision holding that county registers in probate must provide, in response to requests under Wisconsin’s public records law, copies of Notice of Voting Eligibility (“NVE”) forms—court records relating to determinations of the competency of individuals to
- [Attorney Seep Paliwal Gives Inns of Court Presentation on Generative Artificial Intelligence](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/intellectual-property-and-entertainment-law/attorney-seep-paliwal-presents-generative-artificial-intelligence-inns-of-court/) - Attorney Seep Paliwal presents on Generative AI from intellectual property law perspective Attorney Seep Paliwal will give a Generative AI presentation to an audience of James E. Doyle American Inn of Court members on November 20, 2024. "Generative Artificial Intelligence: Its Pitfalls and Impact on Intellectual Property Law" will cover the risks, benefits, and reliability
- [Generative Artificial Intelligence 101: An Introduction](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/generative-artificial-intelligence-101-an-introduction/) - What is Generative AI, what can it do, and what should you be worried about? Generative artificial intelligence technology (“Generative AI”) has seen a surge in advancement and attention in the past few years. With the release of ChatGPT and other generative artificial intelligence models (also referred to as “generative AI programs” or simply AI
- [Generative Artificial Intelligence 101: Copyright Infringement Lawsuits Ahead for Tech Companies](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/generative-artificial-intelligence-101-copyright-infringement/) - Technology companies are facing a series of lawsuits alleging copyright infringement. Throughout our Artificial Intelligence 101 blog series, we've discussed the hypothetical legal troubles Generative AI can cause. To wrap things up, our final blog post is an overview of the many pending lawsuits that could decide the legal future of Generative AI. OpenAI, the
- [Generative Artificial Intelligence 101: Federal Law Still Does Not Address Use of Generative AI](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/federal-law-still-does-not-address-use-of-generative-artificial-intelligence/) - United States federal law still does not address use of Generative AI, though lawmakers have proposed legislation addressing various issues. In our previous Generative Artificial Intelligence 101 blog post, we discussed intellectual property infringement as a legal risk of using Generative AI. Today, we jump into a discussion of the various other legal liabilities associated
- [EPA Issues Final Lead & Copper Rule Improvements with $2.6 Billion Allocated to Support Replacement of All Lead Drinking Water Pipes in the US](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/epa-final-lead-copper-rule-supporting-replacement-of-lead-drinking-water-pipes/) - EPA finalizes Lead and Copper Rule improvements aimed at replacing lead drinking water pipes in the United States On October 8, the Biden Administration issued its long-awaited final rule, the “Lead and Copper Rule Improvements” (the “LCRI”), requiring drinking water systems across the country identify and replace all lead water pipes within a 10-year period.[1]
- [Attorney Mason Higgins Presents during Annual Debtor-Creditor Bankruptcy Update for State Bar](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/bankruptcy-and-creditors-rights/attorney-mason-higgins-presents-at-debtor-creditor-bankruptcy-update-state-bar/) - Attorney Mason Higgins to present at State Bar of Wisconsin's Annual Debtor-Creditor Bankruptcy Updates Stafford Rosenbaum Attorney Mason Higgins will present on real estate issues in bankruptcy, including single-asset real estate issues commercial leases, on Wednesday, November 6, for the Annual Debtor-Creditor Bankruptcy Update for the Eastern District, and on Thursday, November 7, for the
- [Bosses Beware: Safety Comes First in the Face of Extreme Weather](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/employee-safety-first-in-extreme-weather/) - Employers, safety first for your employees in extreme weather circumstances. The tragic stories that we all saw in the path of destruction left by recent hurricanes is a good reminder that no community is safe from the damages of climate change and extreme weather. Out of many tragic stories, one that received a great deal
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys Present at and Sponsor Wisconsin Towns Association Conference](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/government-law/stafford-rosenbaum-attorneys-2024-wisconsin-towns-association-conference/) - Attorneys Larry Konopacki and Derek Punches present at Wisconsin Towns Association's Town Law Conference Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is proud to sponsor the 2024 Town Law Conference, hosted by the Wisconsin Towns Association and the University of Wisconsin-Madison Local Government Education Program. Topics of the virtual conference, taking place on October 25, 2024, include town regulation
- [Generative Artificial Intelligence 101: The High Risk of Intellectual Property Infringement with Use of Generative AI](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/generative-artificial-intelligence-101-risk-of-intellectual-property-infringement/) - Use of Generative AI output carries a high risk of intellectual property infringement liability, particularly with respect to infringement of copyright protected works. In our previous Generative Artificial Intelligence 101 blog post, we highlighted the various ways in which Generative AI is unreliable and still incapable of truly replicating human work. In today’s post, we Meredith Foss
- [Attorney David Hollander's 'Return of Dicta' Article Featured on Wisconsin Lawyer Cover](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/litigation/attorney-david-hollander-wisconsin-lawyer-return-of-dicta-article/) - Attorney David Hollander co-authors article featured on cover of October 2024 Wisconsin Lawyer Attorney David P. Hollander has been featured for the second time on the cover of Wisconsin Lawyer magazine. The State Bar of Wisconsin published "The Return of Dicta Under Wisconsin Law?" by Atty. Hollander and co-author, the Hon. Michael R. Fitzpatrick (Ret.),
- [Attorney Seep Paliwal Presents on Commercial Contracts for State Bar of Wisconsin](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/attorney-seep-paliwal-presents-on-commercial-contracts-for-state-bar-of-wisconsin/) - Attorney Seep Paliwal presents during State Bar business law CLE seminar series Attorney Seep Paliwal will discuss the basics of commercial contracts with a panel of other experts over the noon hour on Thursday, October 10, during the State Bar of Wisconsin's "Business Lawyer Starter Kit Series: Commercial Contracts," available to watch as a webcast.
- [Generative Artificial Intelligence 101: Evaluating the Consistency and Reliability of Generative AI for Content Creation](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/generative-artificial-intelligence-101-consistency-reliability-of-generative-ai-content-creation/) - Generative AI still cannot consistently or reliably create content without substantial inaccuracies, racial and gendered biases, or outright fabrications. In our previous Generative Artificial Intelligence 101 blog post, we defined Generative AI and its many benefits. This time we will discuss why we cannot rely on Generative AI completely, just yet. While Generative AI is
- [Generative Artificial Intelligence 101: What Is Generative AI, and What Are Its Benefits?](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/generative-artificial-intelligence-101-what-is-generative-ai-and-what-are-its-benefits/) - What Is Generative AI, and What Are Its Benefits? To understand the impact of generative artificial intelligence technology (Generative AI), it is helpful to understand first how this technology differs from artificial intelligence that has been in routine use by many industries. Artificial intelligence encompasses any theory, computer system, or software that is developed to
- [Attorney Jessica Mederson Presents at State Bar of Wisconsin's 2024 Environmental Law Update](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/attorney-jessica-mederson-presents-at-state-bar-of-wisconsins-2024-environmental-law-update/) - Attorney Mederson to present on climate change during State Bar's Annual Environmental Law Update Attorney Jessica C. Mederson will present with a panel of other experts during the State Bar of Wisconsin's 36th Annual Environmental Law Update on Thursday, September 12, 2024. Jessica and the other panelists' portion of the Environmental Law Update promises to
- [Attorney Clementine Uwabera to Speak to Local and National Audiences during Upcoming Engagements](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/litigation/attorney-clementine-uwabera-speaks-locally-nationally/) - Attorney Clementine Uwabera speaks in Dane County Circuit Court and during ALFA International seminar in the coming week Attorney Clementine Uwabera will speak on Friday, September 6, at the Dane County Courthouse, moving the court to swear in Judge Payal Khandhar, who was recently appointed a Dane County Circuit Court Branch 2 Judge by Governor
- [Court Strikes Down Nationwide FTC Final Rule Banning Nearly All Non-Competes](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/court-strikes-down-nationwide-ftc-final-rule-banning-nearly-all-non-competes/) - Employers across the U.S. can breathe a sigh of relief. A federal court in Dallas, Texas stopped the Federal Trade Commission’s Final Rule banning almost all non-competition agreements. The case is Ryan LLC v. Chamber of the United States of America et al. (N.D. Tex., Case No. 3:24-cv-00986-E; Documents 211 [opinion] and 212 [final judgment]).
- [Attorney Jamie Konopacky to Present at State Bar of Wisconsin's Annual Indian Law CLE](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/federal-indian-and-tribal-law/attorney-jamie-konopacky-state-bar-of-wisconsins-indian-law-cle/) - Attorney Jamie Konopacky to present at the Stafford Rosenbaum sponsored Annual Indian Law Conference Attorney Jamie Konopacky will present at the State Bar of Wisconsin's 12th Annual Indian Law Conference on August 16, 2024. She will speak as part of a panel on energy and environmental sovereignty in local tribal nations. The panel discussion is
- [Attorney Pahoua Thao Presents on AI & Data Privacy Policies for Corporate Counsel](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/attorney-pahoua-thao-presents-ai-data-privacy/) - Attorney Pahoua Thao Presents on AI & Data Privacy Policies for Association of Corporate Counsel - Wisconsin On Wednesday, July 31, Attorney Pahoua Thao will give a CLE presentation to an audience of corporate counsel on artificial intelligence and data privacy best practices for businesses. Sponsored entirely by Stafford Rosenbaum LLP, the presentation will take
- [Split Decisions on Motions to Block FTC Final Rule on Non-Competes](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/split-decisions-on-motions-to-block-ftc-final-rule-on-non-competes/) - Split Decisions on Federal Trade Commission Final Rule on Non-Competition Clauses in Employment Agreements Employers anxiously awaiting a final decision on challenges to the Federal Trade Commission’s Final Rule banning nearly all non-competition clauses in employment agreements will have to continue to wait. One court refused to block the challenge. Another court preliminarily agreed with
- [Supreme Court Ruling Prompts New Guidance for Municipal Clerks on Drop Boxes for Absentee Voting Ballots](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/election-and-political-law/supreme-court-ruling-prompts-new-guidance-for-municipal-clerks-on-drop-boxes-for-absentee-voting-ballots/) - Municipal clerks are once again able to use drop boxes to collect returned absentee voting ballots. As many municipal clerks will tell you, “drop boxes” for the return of government documents, including ballots, have been used throughout the state for decades, often in the form of slots or boxes at municipal buildings. They became more
- [Attorneys Poland & Deeley Present at State Bar of Wisconsin's Annual Meeting](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/election-and-political-law/attorneys-douglas-poland-erin-deeley-present-state-bar-wisconsin-annual-meeting/) - Attorneys Douglas Poland & Erin Deeley present for State Bar on Wisconsin’s election administration and recount laws Attorneys Douglas M. Poland and Erin Deeley will present on a panel on Thursday, June 20, at the State Bar of Wisconsin's Annual Meeting and Conference in Green Bay. Their presentation is part of a three-day program of
- [Attorney Katherine Harrell Presents at State Bar of Wisconsin’s Annual Meeting](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/family-law/attorney-katherine-harrell-presents-at-state-bar-of-wisconsins-annual-meeting/) - Attorney Katie Harrell presents on family law mediation and arbitration for State Bar Attorney Katie Harrell will present as part of a panel on Thursday, June 20, at the State Bar of Wisconsin’s Annual Meeting and Conference in Green Bay. Her presentation is part of a three-day program of CLEs and other sessions for legal
- [Update on Federal Trade Commission’s Ban of Almost All Non-Competition Agreements](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/update-on-federal-trade-commissions-ban-of-almost-all-non-competition-agreements/) - Update on FTC’s ban of almost all employer non-competition agreements September 4, 2024, is the effective date of the Federal Trade Commission’s (“FTC”) Final Rule banning nearly all non-competition agreements. The litigation filed to stop the rule is percolating through the courts. This blog post will provide a brief update on the litigation and recommendations
- [Attorney Rick Manthe to Present at the Municipal Attorneys Institute for the League of Wisconsin Municipalities](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/government-law/attorney-rick-manthe-presents-for-league-of-wisconsin-municipalities/) - Attorney Rick Manthe presents at the 2024 Municipal Attorneys Institute Attorney Rick Manthe will speak on a panel during the 2024 Municipal Attorneys Institute, an annual conference hosted by the League of Wisconsin Municipalities. Stafford Rosenbaum is a sponsor of the conference, taking place June 12-14, 2024, which brings together attorneys and municipal officials to
- [Attorney Jessica Mederson Presents on Sustainability and Resiliency in the Built Environment](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/attorney-jessica-mederson-presents-on-sustainability-and-resiliency-in-the-built-environment/) - Attorney Mederson to present for the National Institute of Building Sciences Attorney Jessica Mederson and co-presenter, Construction Resilience Engineer Mónika Serrano, will present "Balancing Sustainability and Resiliency in the Built Environment" to an audience at the National Institute of Building Sciences Building Innovation Conference 2024 on Thursday, May 23. Designers, architects, engineers, developers, and others in
- [Attorney Katherine Harrell Presents on Family Mediation & Arbitration to Milwaukee Bar Association](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/family-law/attorney-katherine-harrell-presents-on-family-mediation-arbitration-to-milwaukee-bar-association/) - Attorney Katie Harrell to present on family law mediation/arbitration during Milwaukee Bar Association CLE Attorney Katie Harrell will present "Point/Counterpoint: Advantages and Pitfalls of the Family Mediation/Arbitration Hybrid Process" on a panel on May 21, 2024. The presentation will take place in person at the Milwaukee Bar Association, and its organizers will apply for 1.5
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys Present on Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law for State Bar CLE](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/stafford-rosenbaum-attorneys-present-on-wisconsin-fair-dealership-law-for-state-bar-cle/) - Attorneys Deeley, Fisher, & Brodkey to present on Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law for State Bar Attorneys Erin Deeley, Matthew Fisher, and Isaac Brodkey will present "Wisconsin's Fair Dealership Law: 50 Years and Counting 2024" to an audience registered through the State Bar of Wisconsin. The presentation will give an overview, key developments since 1974, the
- [Attorneys Vladimirova and Reiher to Present at Association of Corporate Counsel Wisconsin Conference](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/bankruptcy-and-creditors-rights/attorneys-vladimirova-reiher-present-at-association-of-corporate-counsel-wisconsin/) - Attorneys Iana Vladimirova and Olivier Reiher to Present on Chapter 11, Subchapter V Bankruptcy at ACC-WI Conference Attorneys Iana Vladimirova and Olivier Reiher will present at the Association of Corporate Counsel Wisconsin Annual Chapter Conference and Meeting of Members, taking place May 16 and 17. The Conference is specially designed for in-house counsel and provides
- [Motion Filed for Temporary Injunction Seeking to Ensure Absentee Voting for Disabled Wisconsinites](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/election-and-political-law/temporary-injunction-filed-absentee-voting-for-disabled-wisconsinites/) - Stafford Rosenbaum and WilmerHale file motion for temporary injunction seeking allowance of absentee ballots for Wisconsin voters with disabilities Last week, Stafford Rosenbaum and WilmerHale filed a motion for a temporary injunction in a new case seeking to ensure that Wisconsin voters with disabilities are able to cast their votes by absentee ballot. Wisconsin’s election
- [Attorney Tiffany Highstrom Presents at the State Bar of Wisconsin’s Guardian ad Litem Training 2024](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/family-law/attorney-tiffany-highstrom-presents-at-state-bar-of-wisconsin-guardian-ad-litem-training/) - Attorney Tiffany Highstrom to present on the role of a guardian ad litem Attorney Tiffany Highstrom will present on the role of a guardian ad litem on Wednesday, May 8, during the State Bar of Wisconsin's Guardian ad Litem Training 2024. As part of a panel, she will discuss tips for how to interview children;
- [FTC Voted to Ban Almost All Non-Competition Agreements](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/ftc-voted-to-ban-almost-all-non-competition-agreements/) - Federal Trade Commission bans most non-compete agreements in employment contracts On April 23, 2024, the Federal Trade Commission approved a Final Rule that bans almost any agreement that restricts where a worker may work after he or she leaves his or her current employer. Such an agreement is a non-competition agreement. The Final Rule is
- [FTC to Vote on Whether to Ban Non-Compete Agreements](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/ftc-vote-on-whether-to-ban-non-compete-agreements/) - Federal Trade Commission will vote on banning non-compete agreements On Tuesday, April 23, 2024, the Federal Trade Commission will hold a special Open Commission Meeting to vote on whether to issue a proposed final rule preventing most employers from enforcing non-compete agreements. On January 19, 2023, the FTC published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in
- [EPA Finalizes First-Ever National Drinking Water Standard for PFAS](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/epa-finalizes-first-ever-national-drinking-water-standard-for-pfas/) - Law Clerk Klara A. Henry assisted in the drafting of this blog post. Environmental Protection Agency Finalizes Drinking Water Standard for PFAS Contaminants Nationwide On April 10, 2024, the EPA issued a highly anticipated final rule establishing legally enforceable limits for five types of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, often called “forever chemicals”). The rule
- [Attorneys Clementine Uwabera & Pahoua Thao Present at Municipal Insurance Conference](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/government-law/attorneys-uwabera-thao-present-at-municipal-insurance-conference/) - Attorneys Uwabera and Thao Present on Data Privacy and Transparency during League of Wisconsin Municipalities' League Mutual Insurance Spring Conference Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys Clementine Uwabera and Pahoua Thao will give a presentation on Tuesday, April 23, as part of the two-day, sold-out League of Wisconsin Municipalities' League Mutual Insurance Spring Conference 2024. To an audience
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys Address Sustainability and Resiliency in the Built Environment for The Municipality Magazine](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/government-law/sustainability-and-resiliency-in-the-built-environment-the-municipality-magazine/) - Attorneys Jessica Mederson, Rick Manthe, and Derek Punches Author "Addressing Sustainability and Resiliency in the Built Environment" "Addressing Sustainability and Resiliency in the Built Environment" was originally published in The Municipality magazine's April 2024 issue. Attorneys Mederson, Manthe, and Punches discuss with The Municipality magazine the continuing impacts of climate change, how to incorporate sustainable
- [The Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law Enters Its 50th Year: Open Issues](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/the-wisconsin-fair-dealership-law-enters-its-50th-year-open-issues/) - The Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law has been an integral feature of Wisconsin law, shaping the state’s economy for the past 50 years. To those protected by the law, the WFDL provides valuable security to their business operations and their employees. By contrast, the WFDL has been criticized as inefficient, vague, and protectionist by parties who
- [The Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law Enters Its 50th Year: An Introduction](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/wisconsin-fair-dealership-law-enters-50th-year/) - On April 5, 1974, Governor Patrick Lucey signed the Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law into law, hailing it as the Magna Carta for small businesses. In his words, the WFDL was enacted to “protect the thousands of small businessmen in Wisconsin” who operate “filling stations, building materials and supply houses, lumber yards, sports equipment stores” and
- [Wisconsin's New Regulation of AI and Deepfakes in Political Communications](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/election-and-political-law/wisconsins-new-regulation-of-ai-and-deepfakes-in-political-communications/) - As the capabilities of generative artificial intelligence have increased, so have concerns that generative AI might be used to manipulate voters and the administration of elections in the 2024 presidential election and primaries. The first warning shot came in New Hampshire on January 21, 2024, two days before the New Hampshire Presidential Primary Election, when
- [Attorney Vanessa Wishart Presents on PFAS Impacts at Wastewater Treatment Plants](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/vanessa-wishart-pfas-wastewater-treatment-plants/) - Attorney Vanessa Wishart Presents PFAS Impacts at Wastewater Treatment Plants for Wisconsin Wastewater Operators Association On Tuesday, March 19, 2024, Attorney Vanessa Wishart will speak on per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) impacts at wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) at the 2024 Spring Biosolids Symposium in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. Vanessa's presentation is part of a daylong seminar for
- [Attorney Johanna Allex to Present on Special Needs Trusts](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/trust-estates-law/attorney-johanna-allex-presents-special-needs-trusts/) - Attorney Johanna Allex will present on Special Needs Trusts for the Madison Public Library Foundation on Monday, November 20, from 12:00-1:00 PM.
- [Attorney Pamela M. Ploor Provides Labor & Employment Law Updates](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/attorney-pamela-ploor-provides-labor-employment-law-updates/) - Attorney Pam Ploor presents and authors recent updates to labor & employment law in Wisconsin Attorney Pamela Ploor authored “Artificial Intelligence in Municipal Employment” for the March 2024 edition of the League of Wisconsin Municipalities magazine, The Municipality. The article addresses government guidance, risks, and recommendations for the use of AI tools in municipal employment,
- [Let March Madness Begin! The SEC Finally Announces its Climate Disclosure Rule](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/sec-announces-climate-disclosure-rule/) - Securities and Exchange Commission Finally Announces Climate Disclosure Rule While some people have been eagerly anticipating college basketball’s March Madness, others have been anticipating the SEC’s long-awaited climate disclosure rule, which was finally announced today. As discussed previously (in a climate-related disclosures blog post from a year and a half ago), this rule is highly contentious
- [Attorney Douglas Poland Presents at State Bar of Wisconsin's Annual Constitutional Law Symposium](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/election-and-political-law/attorney-douglas-poland-presents-wisconsin-bar-constitutional-law-symposium/) - Attorney Doug Poland to Present on Updates in Election Administration and Access to Voting at the Wisconsin State Bar On Thursday, December 7, Attorney Doug Poland will present on recent updates in election administration and access to voting at the State Bar of Wisconsin's Annual Constitutional Law Symposium 2023. The presentation is part of a day-long
- [Attorney Amy Collins O'Hara Presents on Divorce for State Bar of Wisconsin](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/family-law/attorney-amy-collins-ohara-presents-on-divorce-for-state-bar-of-wisconsin/) - Attorney Amy Collins O'Hara to Present on the Elements of a Divorce during State Bar CLE Program On Friday, January 26, Attorney Amy Collins O'Hara will present on the elements of a divorce during the State Bar of Wisconsin's Handling a Basic Divorce 2024. Her presentation is part of a day-long CLE for member and non-members
- [Attorneys James Egle and Jill Martin Present on Business Succession for the Wisconsin Family Business Center](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/attorneys-james-egle-jill-martin-present-business-succession-wisconsin-family-business-center/) - Attorneys Jim Egle and Jill Martin Present "Business Succession and Transition" Attorneys Jim Egle and Jill Martin recently presented on business succession and transition for members and guests of the Wisconsin Family Business Center. Their presentation was part of the FBC's recurring Speaker Series, with a January program focused on helping family members navigate the
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Election & Political Law Attorneys File Amicus Brief in United States Supreme Court](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/election-and-political-law/stafford-rosenbaum-attorneys-file-amicus-brief-in-united-states-supreme-court/) - Stafford Rosenbaum Files Amicus Brief in U.S. Supreme Court of Behalf of Former Governors ahead of 2024 Presidential Election Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys Jeff Mandell, Doug Poland, Rachel Snyder, and Carly Gerads filed an amicus brief in the U.S. Supreme Court today on behalf of three former Republican Governors—Montana’s Marc Racicot, Massachusetts’s Bill Weld, and New
- [Attorney Vanessa Wishart Presents on PFAS Regulation at 2024 Government Affairs Seminar](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/attorney-vanessa-wishart-presents-on-pfas-regulation-at-2024-government-affairs-seminar/) - Attorney Vanessa Wishart Discusses Water Law Regulatory Updates as Part of PFAS Panel On Thursday, February 15, 2024, Attorney Vanessa Wishart will give a regulatory update on per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) at the 2024 Government Affairs Seminar in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. Vanessa's update is part of the PFAS portion of the daylong seminar, during
- [Attorney Jeffrey Mandell Presents on Election Law & the Wisconsin Constitution](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/election-and-political-law/attorney-jeff-mandell-presents-election-law-wisconsin-constitution/) - Attorney Jeff Mandell to give several presentations on Election Law and Wisconsin Constitution in 2024's first quarter Jeff spoke to the Carpenters’ Union North Central States Legislative Conference at the Monona Terrace on February 29, 2024. He presented an update on the redistricting case surrounding Wisconsin's legislative maps. On March 7, Jeff will speak to
- [Attorney Jamie Konopacky to Speak at Midwest Alliance of Sovereign Tribes Meeting](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/federal-indian-and-tribal-law/attorney-jamie-konopacky-midwest-alliance-of-sovereign-tribes/) - Attorney Jamie Konopacky speaks alongside Congress members to Great Lakes Tribal Nations during Midwest Alliance of Sovereign Tribes meeting Attorney Jamie Konopacky will be in Washington, D.C. this week for a meeting during the Midwest Alliance of Sovereign Tribes (MAST) Impact Week 2024. She will be speaking alongside several members of Congress before dozens of
- [In Theatres this March: Bad River Film](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/litigation/bad-river-film/) - Join Stafford Rosenbaum in watching the film Bad River, in theatres from March 15-20, 2024. The movie documents the Bad River Band’s ongoing fight for sovereignty against Canadian energy company Enbridge. The movie will play at AMC Fitchburg 18, Ashland Bay Cinema 6, and at select theatres across the country. 50% of all profits from
- [The Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law Enters Its 50th Year: Relationship with the Wisconsin Motor Vehicle Dealer Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/wisconsin-fair-dealership-law-50th-year-wisconsin-motor-vehicle-dealer-law/) - How the Wisconsin Motor Vehicle Dealer Law Relates to the Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law A common misunderstanding is that the Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law governs (only) automobile dealerships. That belief is not entirely surprising given that automobile dealerships are the most ubiquitous, public-facing “dealership” in the country. Earlier installments of Stafford Rosenbaum's Wisconsin Fair Dealership
- [Wisconsin Appeals Court Upholds Rejection of Wetland Fill Permit in Kohler Golf Course Project](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/wisconsin-appeals-court-upholds-rejection-of-wetland-fill-permit/) - When it reviews a wetland individual permit application, the DNR must consider the impacts of the entire project proposing wetland fill, and not only the physical footprint of the proposed fill itself. DNR’s purview of secondary impacts extends to otherwise unregulated activities of the permitted project where they result in significant adverse environmental consequences. In
- [The Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law Enters Its 50th Year: Novel Applications](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/wisconsin-fair-dealership-law-novel-applications/) - The Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law (WFDL), found in Chapter 135 of the Wisconsin Statutes, extends good cause, proper notice, and cure protections to an “extraordinarily diverse set of business relationships.” The WFDL’s litigation history illustrates the eclectic mix of relationships protected by the statute, including alcohol distributors, forklift resellers, custom log home distributors, water spa
- [Attorney Jessica Mederson Presents at The Precast Show on Resilience in Building Design](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/construction-law/attorney-jessica-mederson-presents-on-resilience-in-building-design/) - Attorney Jessica Mederson Presents "Enhancing Resilience in Building Design: A Critical Response to Climate Change Challenges" Understanding the threats posed by climate change and incorporating resilience into building design and the construction process are pivotal strategic priorities for the built environment and related industries. Jessica's presentation will discuss the legal exposure the precast industry can
- [The Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law Enters Its 50th Year: Preemption](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/wisconsin-fair-dealership-law-preemption/) - How Preemption Limits the Scope of the Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law In an earlier blog post on the Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law’s excluded relationships, we discussed that while the WFDL is arguably the most expansive and encompassing dealership or franchise statute in the country, its scope is not unlimited. There are exceptions to its application
- [The Ghost of Procedural Rules Past: Wisconsin Court of Appeals Applies Waiver to Party Failing to Appeal a Non-Appealable Order](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wisconsin-court-of-appeals-applies-waiver-to-party-failing-to-appeal-non-appealable-order/) - Attorneys Jeff Mandell and David P. Hollander Explain Wisconsin Appellate Court Decision to Apply Waiver to Party Failing to Appeal a Non-Appealable Order Waiver is a well-established concept under Wisconsin law, defined as the intentional relinquishment of a known right. E.g., Loren Imhoff Homebuilder, Inc. v. Taylor, 2022 WI 12, ¶13, 400 Wis. 2d 611,
- [Attorney Tiffany Highstrom to Present on Ethics for GALs & Family Law Practitioners](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/family-law/attorney-tiffany-highstrom-to-present-on-ethics-for-gals-family-law-practitioners/) - Attorney Tiffany Highstrom Presents to Guardians Ad Litem & Family Law Practitioners On December 7, from 12:00-1:00 PM, Attorney Tiffany Highstrom will lead and present on a webinar panel sponsored and hosted by the Collaborative Family Law Council of Wisconsin (CFLCW). Avoiding Ethical Pitfalls: A Webinar for GALs & Family Law Practitioners will cover the
- [Attorney Jeff Mandell in the Media Spotlight Surrounding Wisconsin Redistricting](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/election-and-political-law/attorney-jeff-mandell-media-redistricting/) - Attorney Jeff Mandell Receives Wisconsin and Nationwide Attention on Redistricting and Wisconsin Legislative Maps Stafford Rosenbaum Partner Jeff Mandell made an appearance on the November 19, 2023 edition of UpFront, a Wisconsin TV broadcast produced by ABC on Sunday mornings. He is part of the counsel team leading oral arguments before the Wisconsin Supreme Court
- [The Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law Enters Its 50th Year: Situated in Wisconsin](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/wisconsin-fair-dealership-law-situated-in-wisconsin/) - How the Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law Affords Protections to Businesses Based Out of State In an earlier post, we discussed when the relationship between two parties qualifies as a protected dealership under the Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law and how the statute may apply to an eclectic mix of commercial arrangements. For a WFDL-protected dealership to
- [The Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law Enters Its 50th Year: Contracting Around the WFDL](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/contracting-around-wisconsin-fair-dealership-law/) - Contracting around the Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law As explained in an earlier blog post defining a dealership under the Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law, the existence of a “contract or agreement, either expressed or implied, whether oral or written” is necessary for a relationship to be protected by the Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law. In most business
- [Attorneys James Egle and Iana Vladimirova to Present on the Corporate Transparency Act](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/attorneys-james-egle-iana-vladimirova-corporate-transparency-act/) - Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys Address the Corporate Transparency Act with Business Owners On Wednesday, November 15, 2023, the University of Wisconsin - Madison's Family Business Center will host morning and lunchtime presentations during its Food for Thought program. Attorneys Jim Egle and Iana Vladimirova will present on the Corporate Transparency Act, coming into effect on January
- [Attorney Derek Punches Authors ATV and UTV Regulation Article for The Municipality Magazine](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/government-law/attorney-derek-punches-atv-regulation-article-the-municipality/) - Stafford Rosenbaum Government and Municipal Law Attorney Derek Punches Authors "Exploring Municipal Regulation of ATVs and UTVs" for The Municipality Magazine Attorney Derek Punches wrote an article for The Municipality magazine's November 2023 issue, focusing on the regulation of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and utility terrain vehicles (UTVs). "Exploring Municipal Regulation of ATVs and UTVs" is
- [The Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law Enters Its 50th Year: Adverse Actions](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/wisconsin-fair-dealership-law-adverse-actions/) - The Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law provides that a grantor cannot “terminate, cancel, fail to renew, or substantially change the competitive circumstances” of a protected dealership without providing good cause, proper notice, and an opportunity to cure. Wis. Stat. §§ 135.03-.04. Most adverse actions are easy to identify: a phone call terminating the relationship, a letter
- [The Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law Enters Its 50th Year: Excluded Relationships](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/wisconsin-fair-dealership-law-excluded-relationships/) - Earlier in Stafford Rosenbaum’s Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law blog series, we explained that the WFDL extends good-cause, notice, and opportunity-to-cure protections to an extraordinarily diverse set of businesses, including beauty product wholesalers, lawn and farm equipment distributors, and even municipal contractors. That said, the statute and case law have created specific and limited exceptions to
- [New Food Delivery Service Regulation on the Horizon?](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/new-food-delivery-service-regulation-on-the-horizon/) - Last year, we wrote about a bi-partisan group of state senators and members of the state assembly introducing legislation to regulate third-party food delivery services in Wisconsin. Although that legislation stalled, an expanded group of state legislators has re-introduced a similar bill with some slight modifications. The 2023 proposed legislation seeks to create three requirements
- [In Bost v. Illinois State Board of Elections, Seventh Circuit Reiterates the Low Bar for Intervention and Further Explains the “Uniqueness” Interest for Intervention Purposes](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/litigation/bost-v-illinois-state-board-of-elections-uniqueness-interest-for-intervention-purposes/) - The Democratic Party of Illinois may not intervene in a suit relating to mail-in voting, according to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit. The case, Bost v. Illinois State Board of Elections, arose when Congressman Michael Bost and two voters challenged an Illinois law that permits completed mail-in ballots to be counted
- [The Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law Enters Its 50th Year: Remedies](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/wisconsin-fair-dealership-law-remedies/) - The Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law (WFDL), Wis. Stats. § 135.01 et seq., is triggered only when a grantor takes or plans to take an action that has considerable impact on the relationship with its dealer. Whether that action is termination, cancellation, non-renewal, or substantially changing the competitive circumstances of the relationship, needless to say, the
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court Rules Integrated Systems Analysis Does Not Apply to Evaluating Insurance Coverage Under a CGL Policy](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wi-supreme-court-rules-integrated-systems-analysis-does-not-apply-to-insurance-coverage-under-cgl-policy/) - In 5 Walworth, LLC v. Engerman Contracting, Inc., 2023 WI 51, the Wisconsin Supreme Court addressed insurance coverage under a commercial general liability policy for damages allegedly caused by the deficient construction of an inground swimming pool. The pool cracked, causing water to leak into and destabilize the surrounding soil. Attempts were made to fix
- [The Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law Enters Its 50th Year: Notice and Cure](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/wisconsin-fair-dealership-law-notice-and-cure/) - The protections conferred by the Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law extend beyond good cause. The WFDL expressly requires that a grantor issue a dealer proper notice with an opportunity to cure prior to terminating, not renewing, cancelling, or substantially changing the dealership. As discussed in our previous post, what constitutes proper notice turns, in part, on
- [The Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law Enters Its 50th Year: What Is Good Cause?](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/wisconsin-fair-dealership-law-what-is-good-cause/) - Good cause is the core protection provided by the Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law. In a dealership relationship covered by the WFDL (see our previous blog post that defines a dealership as it pertains to the Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law), the grantor cannot terminate, fail to renew, cancel, or substantially change the competitive circumstances of the
- [You Do Not Have to Sign your Life Away: A Brief Primer on the Benefits of Marital Property Agreements](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/family-law/benefits-of-marital-property-agreements/) - This post explains Wisconsin law as to ownership of property at death and divorce without a Marital Property Agreement and why executing a Marital Property Agreement can alter those laws to protect business interests and simplify transfer of ownership upon death.
- [Keeping Construction Workers Safe in the Face of Climate Change and Extreme Heat](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/keeping-construction-workers-safe-in-the-face-of-climate-change-and-extreme-heat/) - It’s May 1st, which means it’s the beginning of construction safety week. It’s also the day those of us living in Wisconsin can begin to believe we won’t see snow again for at least a few months. And while we’re all looking forward to warmer days ahead, we also have to prepare for days that
- [The Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law Enters Its 50th Year: What Is a Dealership?](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/wisconsin-fair-dealership-law-enters-50th-year-what-is-a-dealership/) - The Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law is a robust trade law that prohibits “grantors” from terminating, failing to renew, cancelling, or substantially changing “dealerships” without good cause, proper notice, and an opportunity to cure. With a few select exceptions, the WFDL applies generally, and a wide range of businesses have successfully claimed protection under the statute,
- [Wisconsin Court of Appeals Allows Negligence Claims for Cybersecurity Attacks, Holds that Invasion of Privacy Claims Require Intentional Conduct](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/negligence-claims-for-cybersecurity-attacks-allowed-but-invasion-of-privacy-requires-intention/) - The Wisconsin Court of Appeals allows negligence claims against businesses for cybersecurity attacks to move forward but holds that invasion of privacy claims require intentional conduct. In the age of technology, more businesses are choosing to store their records in electronic databases for a variety of reasons, such as reducing paper files or to centrally
- [Beyond Building Green: Resiliency Resources and Potential Requirements for Addressing Climate and Extreme Weather](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/resiliency-resources-and-potential-requirements-for-addressing-climate-and-extreme-weather/) - Incorporating resiliency into the built environment is something architects and engineers are increasingly focusing on in the face of the threats posed by climate change. Both the insurance industry and evolving standards of care may also soon require engineers and architects to incorporate resiliency into their designs, even if individual professionals do not feel climate
- [Wisconsin Court of Appeals Rejects Village’s Attempt to Condemn Property for Sidewalk](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wisconsin-court-of-appeals-rejects-villages-attempt-to-condemn-property-for-sidewalk/) - To exercise the power of eminent domain, Wisconsin municipalities must comply with Chapter 32 of the Wisconsin Statutes. However, the power of eminent domain cannot be used to acquire property to create a “pedestrian way.” In a recently decided case, Sojenhomer LLC v. Village of Egg Harbor (2021AP1589 March 14, 2023) (publication recommended), the Wisconsin Court
- [Brett Favre’s Hail Mary—What First Amendment Hurdles Will the Former Packer Face in His New Defamation Cases?](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/litigation/brett-favres-hail-mary-first-amendment-hurdles-in-defamation-cases/) - This article was originally published in February 2023. An updated version of this article is forthcoming in the May 2023 edition of Wisconsin Lawyer magazine. As he so often did during his 15 years as the Green Bay Packers MVP quarterback, Brett Favre has dominated the news cycle during the NFL’s playoff season this year.
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court: Restatement’s Risk-Utility Test Does Not Replace the Consumer-Contemplation Test as the Standard for Determining “Unreasonably Dangerous” Products](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wi-supreme-court-risk-utility-test-does-not-replace-consumer-contemplation-for-determining-unreasonably-dangerous-products/) - Interpreting for the first time the product liability statute adopted in 2011, the Wisconsin Supreme Court refuses to adopt Restatement (Third) of Torts Section 2(b) and holds that the consumer-contemplation test remains the standard for determining whether a product is “unreasonably dangerous” in a strict liability claim. Last month, in Murphy v. Columbus McKinnon Corp., 2022
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court: Restatement’s Risk-Utility Test Does Not Replace the Consumer-Contemplation Test as the Standard for Determining “Unreasonably Dangerous” Products (Extended Post)](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wi-supreme-court-risk-utility-test-does-not-replace-consumer-contemplation-test-for-determining-unreasonably-dangerous-products-extended-version/) - Interpreting for the first time the product liability statute adopted in 2011, the Wisconsin Supreme Court refuses to adopt Restatement (Third) of Torts Section 2(b) and holds that the consumer-contemplation test remains the standard for determining whether a product is “unreasonably dangerous” in a strict liability claim. Last month, in Murphy v. Columbus McKinnon Corp., 2022
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court Issues Significant Opinion: Insurers Cannot Use Preclusion Principles to Sidestep Duty to Defend](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wi-supreme-court-finds-insurers-cannot-use-preclusion-to-sidestep-duty-to-defend/) - Wisconsin Supreme Court issues significant insurance coverage opinion, finding that insurers cannot use preclusion principles to sidestep duty to defend. On January 26, 2022, the Wisconsin Supreme Court weighed in on one potential exception to the “complaint test” as a method of determining whether an insurance company has a duty to defend a lawsuit brought
- [Global Resiliency Building Guidelines: What Engineers and Architects Need to Know about Building Codes and Climate Change](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/global-resiliency-building-guidelines-what-engineers-architects-need-to-know/) - Building codes are something most of us don’t hear much about (unless you binge-watch HGTV reno shows like I do). Created to establish minimal life safety requirements for the construction/renovation of buildings, they can vary from state to state and even town to town. Building codes first became part of the American legal landscape in
- [A Skeptical View of Daubert Motions in Two Recent Wisconsin Court of Appeals Decisions](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/skeptical-view-of-daubert-motions-in-wisconsin-court-of-appeals/) - Litigants routinely rely upon expert witnesses to provide opinion testimony at trial based on their specialized knowledge, training or experience. Also common, the opponent sees serious methodological flaws and thus reaches for a well-known weapon: a Daubert motion asking the trial court to exclude from evidence the report and any associated testimony. Originating in Daubert
- [The SEC May Require Companies to Disclose Climate-Related Risks and Information](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/the-sec-may-require-companies-to-disclose-climate-related-risks-and-information/) - As governments across the globe and at every level—from local to national—work to find productive means of addressing the increasing threats posed by climate change, a new government agency entered the fray last spring: the SEC. In March, the SEC proposed that companies begin providing climate-related information disclosures. The potential implementation of the rule, however,
- [Non-Delegation in Wisconsin after Becker v. Dane County: The Dissenters](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/non-delegation-in-wisconsin-after-becker-v-dane-county-the-dissenters/) - A prior post discussed how, in Becker, et al. v. Dane County, et al., Nos. 2021AP1343 & 2021AP1382, the Wisconsin Supreme Court recently turned back an effort to revive the non-delegation doctrine, a tool that—at least in its sharper versions—could be used to pare back much of the modern administrative state. This post picks up
- [Non-Delegation in Wisconsin after Becker v. Dane County](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/non-delegation-in-wisconsin-after-becker-v-dane-county/) - At the end of its 2021-22 term, the Supreme Court released its long-awaited decision in Becker, et al. v. Dane County, et al., Nos. 2021AP1343 & 2021AP1382. The case affirmed the validity of orders issued by the joint public health department of Dane County and the City of Madison to control COVID-19 by, among other
- [Court of Appeals Holds that Prejudgment Interest Can Be Triggered without a Demand](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/prejudgment-interest-can-be-triggered-without-demand/) - Recently, the Wisconsin Court of Appeals touched on two important insurance issues: covered autos under Wis. Stat. § 632.32(3) and prejudgment interest under Wis. Stat. § 628.46(1). In January 2016, Jason and Wendy Foerster’s thirteen-year-old son was directed by his uncle to drive a Chevrolet Tahoe to the child’s grandparents’ house to retrieve a piece
- [Supreme Court of Wisconsin Denies Legislative Redistricting Rulemaking Petition](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/supreme-court-of-wisconsin-denies-legislative-redistricting-rulemaking-petition/) - The Supreme Court of Wisconsin recently denied a petition submitted by former Assembly Speaker Scott Jensen, represented by the Wisconsin Institute for Law and Liberty (“WILL”), proposing new procedural rules limited solely to legal challenges to new legislative districts, including requiring such challenges to be brought solely to the Wisconsin Supreme Court. Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys
- [Denial of Variance Request Regarding Lakefront Yard Setback Requirements](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/denial-of-variance-request-regarding-lakefront-yard-setback-requirements/) - Cox v. City of Madison Zoning Board of Appeals, Appeal No. 2020AP478 (July 8, 2021) Kathleen Cox purchased property on Lake Mendota with the plan to demolish and rebuild the existing house and wet boathouse. A wet boathouse is one that is built over excavated shoreline with the lake water underneath, into which a boat
- [Wisconsin Court of Appeals Rejects Attempted Underinsured Motorist Double Dip](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wi-court-of-appeals-rejects-attempted-uim-double-dip/) - At the close of summer, the Wisconsin Court of Appeals rejected an insurance company’s attempt to “double dip” and reduce its underinsured motorist ("UIM") coverage responsibility to an insured based on a liability payment made to another insured.[1] The case arose from an automobile accident that caused the death of Michael Shimeta and serious injuries
- [Wisconsin Court of Appeals Rules that Reckless Homicide Cannot Constitute an Accident for Purpose of Insurance Coverage](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/court-of-appeals-rules-reckless-homicide-cannot-constitute-an-accident-for-insurance/) - Recently, the Wisconsin Court of Appeals ruled in a case that tests the interaction between criminal law and civil liability. In Dostal v. Strands, 2020AP1943 (Oct. 19, 2021), the court held that an insured’s criminal conviction for second-degree reckless homicide precluded a mother’s claim against the insurer for damages arising from the death of her child.
- [League of Women Voters of Wisconsin Files Lawsuit to Reactivate 31,854 Voters](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/election-and-political-law/league-of-women-voters-of-wisconsin-files-lawsuit-to-reactivate-31854-voters/) - The League's second challenge to unjust voter purges in Wisconsin seeks to reinstate voters before 2022 midterm elections. MADISON — Today, the League of Women Voters of Wisconsin, represented by Fair Elections Center, Law Forward Inc., and Stafford Rosenbaum LLP, filed suit in federal court to reinstate more than 31,000 registered Wisconsin voters who were
- [Wisconsin Legislature Considers Bill to Regulate Third-Party Food Delivery Services](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/wisconsin-legislature-considers-bill-to-regulate-third-party-food-delivery-services/) - The use of third-party food delivery services has skyrocketed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Companies such as Grubhub, Uber Eats, and DoorDash provide customers with greater access to their favorite restaurants without having to leave the comfort of their own homes. But the use of such delivery services has also caused troubles for customers and restaurants
- [What Wisconsin Wholesalers Need to Know about the Treasury Department’s Competition Report](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/wi-wholesalers-treasury-competition-report/) - Last summer, President Joe Biden issued Executive Order 14036 targeting “any unlawful trade practices in the beer, wine, and spirits markets, such as certain exclusionary, discriminatory, or anticompetitive distribution practices,” as well as “patterns of consolidation in production, distribution, or retail beer, wine, and spirits market.” The Executive Order required that the United States Department
- [Statutory Updates in Family Law, Part III](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/family-law/statutory-updates-in-family-law-part-iii/) - Recently, the Wisconsin Legislature adopted several new statutes related to family law. This is the third installment of those legislative changes, and the adoption of the Uniform Deployed Custody and Visitation Act is one of the more substantive additions to this series. 2021 Wisconsin Act 161, or the Uniform Deployed Custody and Visitation Act,
- [Statutory Updates in Family Law, Part II](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/family-law/statutory-updates-in-family-law-part-ii/) - This blog continues to focus on some of the procedural and substantive legal changes that resulted from the 2021-2022 Legislative Session. 2021 Act 204: Codifying Keller and Creating Uniformity in Procedure In addition to some of the procedural statutory updates in the last blog post, a new procedural format was established for litigants in family
- [Wisconsin Joins the Majority: Profit Losses Due to COVID-19 Not Insured](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/wisconsin-joins-the-majority-profit-losses-due-to-covid-19-not-insured/) - Nationwide, restaurants and bars felt financial strain over the past two years. With measures in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19, many food and beverage businesses were subject to restrictions on the use of their in-person dining rooms. In a recent case, the Wisconsin Supreme Court found that COVID-19 related business interruption losses were
- [Statutory Updates in Family Law, Part I](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/family-law/statutory-updates-in-family-law-part-i/) - Over the last several years, the Wisconsin Legislature, in the wake of the 2018 Joint Legislative Council Study Committee on Child Placement and Support, several new legislative initiatives were introduced. The COVID-19 pandemic delayed the passage of many of these bills, but several passed in the 2020-2021 Legislative Session. Many of these statutes are procedures,
- [Seventh Circuit Rejects Students’ Claim that University’s Refusal to Refund Fees During COVID Closures Amounts to Constitutional Violation](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/7th-circuit-rejects-students-constitutional-violation-claim/) - Public bodies deal with many of the same legal issues as private enterprises—plus a host of unique risks that arise because they are public actors. Public bodies therefore must take care to ensure that they are not violating the protected constitutional rights of their citizens, employees, contractors, or (in the case of schools) students. A
- [Seventh Circuit Resolves Open Question Under Class Action Fairness Act](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/litigation/seventh-circuit-resolves-open-question-under-class-action-fairness-act/) - CAFA Background and Exceptions On March 16, 2022, the Seventh Circuit issued its opinion in Schutte v. Coix Health, resolving an open question about the breadth of the Class Action Fairness Act (“CAFA”). 28 USC § 1711 et seq. Congress enacted CAFA in 2005 to expand the availability of federal courts to class action defendants;
- [Court of Appeals Determines City Development Condition Is Unconstitutional Taking](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/city-development-condition-is-unconstitutional-taking/) - This month, the Court of Appeals affirmed a circuit court decision that held that the City of Brookfield engaged in an unconstitutional taking when it conditioned the approval of a subdivision development on construction of a new public street. The Court of Appeals determined that this “exaction” was not permissible because it did not address
- [A Textbook Example of the Grey Market](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/a-textbook-example-of-the-grey-market/) - Out of the scores of disputes that arise with respect to “grey market” distribution channels, what are the odds that a case involving a Thai student doing business as “bluechristine99” on eBay would reach the U.S. Supreme Court? “Grey market” refers to the sale of genuine branded products outside of established distribution channels established by
- [Does Size Matter Under Price Discrimination Laws? Seventh Circuit Says “Not Always”](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/does-size-matter-under-price-discrimination-laws-seventh-circuit-says-not-a/) - Late last week, the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals rejected Woodman’s Food Markets’ claim that Clorox Company violated federal price discrimination laws when it ceased selling “large packs” of certain products to Woodman’s, while continuing to sell such large packs to discount warehouses such as Costco and Sam’s Club. A three-judge panel of the Seventh
- [Wine and Spirits Distributors Said To Be Seeking Legislative Protections](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/wine-and-spirits-distributors-said-to-be-seeking-legislative-protections/) - The Wheeler Report reported on Thursday that five trade associations have raised concerns to statelegislators about rumored proposed amendments to Wisconsin’s Fair Dealership Law that would make it easier for wine and spirits distributors to transfer brand distribution agreements to third parties. One letter to legislators dated May 14, 2015 was jointly authored by the
- [Going-Out-Of-Business Sale: Is The Label Accurate?](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/going-out-of-business-sale-is-the-label-accurate/) - American TV & Appliance, a fixture on the Madison retail scene for over 40 years, announced in mid-February that it is going out of business. In the days since, customers have flocked to American’s stores for its “Going Out Of Business” sale. Everyone loves a bargain. Promotions described as a “close out”, “selling out” or
- [“Frankenstein” Veto Language Interpreted by Federal District Court](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/frankenstein-veto-language-interpreted-by-federal-district-court/) - A recent post on this blog noted that wine distributors were not covered by an expansion of the definition of “dealer” under 1999 amendments to the Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law (“WFDL”) due to “a creative partial veto from then-Gov. Thompson.” That creative partial veto was front and center in a decision and order issued last
- [Fore! Governmental Entities May Need To Consider Applicability Of WFDL](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/fore-governmental-entities-may-need-to-consider-applicability-of-wfdl/) - If ultimately upheld on appeal, the trial court’s initial holdings in a lawsuit filed by four golf professionals against the City of Madison, alleging a breach of the Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law by the City, have the potential to establish that the WFDL applies to governmental entities as well as private businesses. To date, no
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court Decision Raises Fair Dealership Law Questions Beyond Municipal Liability](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wisconsin-supreme-court-decision-raises-fair-dealership-law-questions-beyon/) - The primary issue in Benson v. City of Madison, 2017 WI 65, is clearly the question of whether the Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law (“WFDL”) reaches contractual relationships involving municipalities. As discussed here, this is an issue of first impression, and the Court’s holding has broad implications. There are, however, additional aspects of the decision worth
- [Crowdfunding Comes To The Franchise World](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/crowdfunding-comes-to-the-franchise-world/) - We’ve been curious to see whether crowdfunding would find the world of franchising. Traditionally, the solicitation of investors through general advertising has been severely restricted under federal and state securities law; these limitations also apply to crowdfunding, or seeking capital contributions through online solicitation of the masses. The JOBS Act of 2012 sought to remove
- [Wisconsin Permits Electronic Filing of Franchise Registration Forms](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/wisconsin-permits-electronic-filing-of-franchise-registration-forms/) - Rarely are the terms “law” and “early adopter of technology” found in the same sentence. This certainly is true as to some aspects of franchise regulation. Whereas most businesses regularly send and receive documents electronically, most state franchise registration forms still are filed the old-fashioned way – by mail or other physical delivery. As of
- [Preemption principles applied to dismiss Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law claim](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/preemption-principles-applied-to-dismiss-wisconsin-fair-dealership-law-clai/) - In a recent decision of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, the court held that an arbitration panel’s finding that federal securities laws preempt the application of the Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law (WFDL) could be made by the panel “without [panel members] taking leave of their senses.” The rulingprovidesan example ofanother
- [Putting “Secrets” in the FDD: A Franchisor Nondisclosure Trap](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/putting-secrets-in-the-fdd-a-franchisor-nondisclosure-trap/) - The Federal Trade Commission mandates disclosure of “any material action involving the franchise relationship during the last fiscal year” under Item 3 of the Franchise Disclosure Document (“FDD”), which must be provided to all prospective franchisees. But as a recent opinion of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit illustrates, this seemingly innocuous
- [Additional Insured Endorsements: Beware!](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/additional-insured-endorsements-beware/) - Many franchise agreements require that the franchisee name the franchisor as an “additional insured” on the franchisee’s liability insurance policies. Similar requirements are included in many distribution agreements. The purpose of this coverage is to protect the “additional insured” from claims relating to the operations of the party purchasing the policy, as well as the
- [When Does The Statute of Limitations Begin to Run on WFDL Claims?](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/when-does-the-statute-of-limitations-begin-to-run-on-wfdl-claims/) - Although the Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law (“WFDL”) provides significant protections for franchisees and dealers against termination and non-renewal, the statute of limitations for filing WFDL claims is one year. That short limitations period can be a minefield for parties seeking relief under the WFDL. For 30 years, the Wisconsin Supreme Court’s ruling in Les Moise,
- [Out-of-state franchisor’s royalties and the Wisconsin income tax](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/out-of-state-franchisors-royalties-and-the-wisconsin-income-tax/) - Assume you have never set foot in a particular state. Let’s say that state is Iowa. But you do business with a party in Iowa – a party that has contracted for the right to franchise your business concept in Des Moines, Iowa. The Iowa party sends you weekly royalties based on its sales from
- [The Good, the Bad, the Uncertain: Developments In Franchisor Liability](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/the-good-the-bad-the-uncertain-developments-in-franchisor-liability/) - The legal debate over imposing vicarious liability of franchisors – or making franchisorsliable for the acts of their franchisees and franchisees’ employees – has flared up this year, thanks in large part to a recent court decision and policy directives emanating from the Office of the General Counsel of the National Labor Relations Board. The
- [Getting Off The Ground](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/getting-off-the-ground/) - Begin, be bold, and venture to be wise. --Roman poet Horace* This is my inaugural post on Wisconsin Franchise and Distribution Law, a blog created to distribute useful information collected in the course of my work at Stafford Rosenbaum LLP to clients, friends and blog followers. In our daily practice, my colleagues at Stafford Rosenbaum
- [Eroding Exclusivity: The Saga of JCP, Macy's and Martha Stewart](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/eroding-exclusivity-the-saga-of-jcp-macys-and-martha-stewart/) - Some observations on the ongoing trialinNew YorkSupreme Courtinvolving Macy’s, J.C. Penney (“JCP”) and Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia (“MSLO”), asthe disputepertains to the franchise and distribution industry: Carveouts to exclusivity clauses should be viewed warily by the party purportedly receiving exclusive rights. In the Macy’s/JCP/MSLO dispute, MSLO had granted Macy’s the exclusive right to market certain
- [New Law Limits Franchisors’ Joint Employer Liability Exposure In Wisconsin](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/new-law-limits-franchisors-joint-employer-liability-exposure-in-wisconsin/) - In an environment where franchisors are increasingly concerned about being deemed “joint employers” with their franchisees, the Wisconsin Legislature has provided some welcome relief. It has enacted legislation that provides franchisors with assurances that they will not be treated as an “employer” of the employees of a franchisee for purposes of Wisconsin laws pertaining to
- [Cousins Subs decision: No fiduciary duty to 50% shareholder](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/dealership-and-franchise-law/cousins-subs-decision-no-fiduciary-duty-to-50-shareholder/) - Do the co-founders of a franchise company owe a fiduciary duty to each other by virtue of their roles as equal owners of the business? Last week, the Wisconsin Court of Appealsruled that the answer isno,affirming the dismissal of certain claims in a decision recommended for publication by the court. The estate of one co-founder
- [Paid Sick Leave Legislation Introduced in Congress](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/paid-sick-leave-legislation-introduced-in-congress/) - Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) and Representative Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) recently introduced legislation referred to as “the Healthy Families Act” that would require employers with 15 or more employees to provide those employees with paid sick leave. As proposed, the legislation provides generous benefits for employees. Some highlights are: Employees would earn one hour of paid
- [Undocumented Workers Can Bring Wage and Hour Claims](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/undocumented-workers-can-bring-wage-and-hour-claims/) - According to a recent Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals decision, undocumented workers are entitled to sue under federal law for minimum wage and overtime. The Eleventh Circuit does not govern Wisconsin, but Wisconsin employers should nonetheless pay attention to the ruling. Paying all employees at least minimum wage and all overtime due will help keep
- [Facebook Postings Trashing Supervisor Are Protected By the NLRA](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/facebook-postings-trashing-supervisor-are-protected-by-the-nlra/) - The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) recently decided that an employer violated the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) when it terminated employees who complained about the conduct of their supervisor on Facebook. The case is Design Tech. Grp. LLC d/b/a Bettie Page Clothing. The NLRA prohibits all employers, both union and non-union, from punishing employees
- [Is Obesity Now A Disability Under the Americans With Disabilities Act?](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/is-obesity-now-a-disability-under-the-americans-with-disabilities-act/) - The American Medical Association voted last month to classify obesity as a disease requiring a range of medical interventions to advance obesity treatment and prevention. Given the broad definition of “disability” under the Americans With Disabilities Act and the Wisconsin disability anti-discrimination act, it may not be too long before courts start ruling that obesity
- [Department of Labor to Crack Down on Independent Contractor Misclassification](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/department-of-labor-to-crack-down-on-independent-contractor-misclassificati/) - The Secretary of the Department of Labor just announced that the Department will be cracking down on employers’ misclassification of employees as independent contractors with respect to minimum wage and overtime requirements. Employers need to review whether those workers employers label “independent contractors” are properly classified for wage and hour purposes, as well as worker’s
- [EEOC Challenges Standard Separation Agreement Terms as Unlawful](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/eeoc-challenges-standard-separation-agreement-terms-as-unlawful/) - Think your standard employee separation agreement complies with the law? According to the Equal Opportunities Commission (EEOC), it may not. The EEOC recently filed a lawsuit in federal court challenging terms of a CVS employment separation agreement. Specifically, the EEOC is alleging that several terms of the agreement unlawfully restrict the rights of employees who
- [Legislation to Expand federal FMLA Proposed](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/legislation-to-expand-federal-fmla-proposed/) - A member of Congress recently introduced a bill to amend the federal Family and Medical Leave Act is several significant ways. HR 3999 would amend the current Act to provide as follows: *Cover employers with 25 + employees (current only applies to employers with 50 + employees). *Permit employees to take "parental involvement" leave to
- [Hiring Teens This Summer? Make Sure to Do It Right!](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/hiring-teens-this-summer-make-sure-to-do-it-right/) - It has already started--high school students are blanketing employers in their area with applications for summer employment. Are you ready? Most employers know that special rules apply to teenage employees, but it never hurts to review the basics. The most basic rule is that both federal and Wisconsin have laws and regulations addressing teen employment
- [Proposed Rule Will Dramatically Increase The Number of Employees Eligible For Overtime](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/president-orders-new-rule-that-will-dramatically-increase-the-number-of-emp/) - Currently, employers cannot classify positions as exempt from federal overtime rules unless they pay workers in those positions a minimum annual salary of at least $23,660.[1] President Obama has directed the federal Department of Labor to change that. On June 29, 2015, President Obama announced a proposed rule that would expand the number of employees
- [Employers Should Consider Periodic Review of FMLA Policies and Practices to Prepare for Audit](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/employers-should-consider-periodic-review-of-fmla-policies-and-practices-to/) - The federal Department of Labor (DOL) will likely be increasing on-site audits of employer Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) practices in an effort to increase compliance with that law. To keep FMLA policies and practices audit-ready, employers should periodically conduct their own internal audit. The audit should include: A review of policies, notices and
- [Regulations That Will Increase Overtime Costs Moving Forward](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/regulations-that-will-increase-overtime-costs-moving-forward/) - By now, employers are familiar with the proposed Wage and Hour regulations governing federal overtime exemption. These regulations, as proposed, would, among other things, increase the minimum salary necessary (but not sufficient) to retain overtime exemptions. The regulations would also change the rules with respect to the “highly compensated” exemption. If you have employees that
- [Time for a FMLA Practice and Policy Self-Audit](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/tbd/) - In recent years, the federal Department of Labor (DOL) has been focusing significant investigative efforts on employer’s system-wide practices regarding the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). System-wide practices are those that affect at least several employees or multiple employer locations. Such practices include: How an employer handles the administration of medical certification forms. For
- [Eligibility for Health Insurance Can Be Tied to Participation in a Wellness Plan](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/eligibility-for-health-insurance-can-be-tied-to-participation-in-a-wellness/) - A federal district court judge sitting in the Western District of Wisconsin recently held that an employer that conditioned eligibility for health benefits on participation in its wellness plan did not violate the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) because the terms of its health plan brought it within the Act’s “safe-harbor” provision. See Equal Employment
- [Seventh Circuit Weighs In on Church Plan Exemption Under ERISA](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/seventh-circuit-weighs-in-on-church-plan-exemption-under-erisa/) - Just how broad is the “church plan” exemption from the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (“ERISA”)? Not broad enough to exempt a retirement plan established by church-affiliated hospital, according to the United States Court of Appeals in Stapleton v. Advocate Health Care Network, No. 15-1368, 2016 WL 1055784 (7th Cir. Mar. 17, 2016), in affirming
- [Seventh Circuit: Self-Serving Statements Best Served with a Side of Factual Support](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/seventh-circuit-self-serving-statements-best-served-with-a-side-of-factual/) - Whitaker v. Wisconsin Department of Health Services, 849 F.3d 681 (7th Cir. 2017), recently served up a refresher on the role of self-serving affidavits in summary judgment proceedings. In Whitaker, the plaintiff alleged that she was fired by a state agency as a result of intentional discrimination based upon her disability. Whitaker suffered from chronic
- [Seventh Circuit Expands Title VII Coverage to Include Sexual Orientation Claims](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/seventh-circuit-expands-title-vii-coverage-to-include-sexual-orientation-cl/) - The Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit recently held in Hively v. Ivy Tech Community College, 853 F.3d 339 (7th Cir. 2017), that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. In doing so, it overruled its own longstanding precedent and put itself in conflict
- [Multi-Month Medical Leave Not A Reasonable Accommodation Under the ADA](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/multi-month-medical-leave-not-a-reasonable-accommodation-under-the-ada/) - The Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit recently held in Severson v. Heartland Woodcraft, Inc., 2017 U.S. App. LEXIS 181197*, 872 F.3d 476 (7th Cir. 2017) that a leave for medical purposes of two months or more is not a reasonable accommodation under the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). In so doing, however,
- [Court Distinguishes Employers Ability to Recoup Draws on Commission](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/court-distinguishes-employers-ability-to-recoup-draws-on-commission/) - The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals recently issued a decision holding that hhgregg Inc.’s practice of paying at least minimum wage to commissioned employees when earned commissions fell short of minimum wage during a given pay period, and then later deducting that amount if the employee made more than minimum wage in the future, did
- [WI Supreme Court Concludes Non-Compete Statute Applies to Non-Solicitation of Employees Agreement](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/wi-supreme-court-concludes-non-compete-statute-applies-to-non-solicitation/) - In Manitowoc Co. v. Lanning, 2018 WI 6, decided January 19, 2018, a 5-2 majority of the Wisconsin Supreme Court concluded that a non-solicitation of employees agreement (“NSE”) can be subject to scrutiny under Wis. Stat. § 103.465. Under the statute, enacted in 1957, any covenant by an employee “not to compete” with a former
- [U.S. Supreme Court Holds Employers May Require Individual Arbitration of Employment Disputes](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/u-s-supreme-court-holds-employers-may-require-individual-arbitration-of-em/) - In a case that began in Verona, Wisconsin, the U.S. Supreme Court held earlier this week that the National Labor Relations Act (“NLRA”) does not prohibit employment agreements requiring arbitration of grievances on an individual basis. See Epic Systems Corp. v. Lewis, No. 16-285 (May 21, 2018). Epic Systems extends a string of cases over
- [Employee Rights Under the National Labor Relations Act Poster](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/employee-rights-under-the-national-labor-relations-act-poster/) - Just a reminder-as of April 30, 2012, most private sector employers must post a notice advising employees of their rights under the National Labor Relations Act. Even non-union employers must comply. If an employer posts other personnel policies or workplace notices on an internal or external website, it must also post the notice on that
- [Employers No Longer Subject to Compensatory/Punitive Damage Awards in Wisconsin Discrimination Cases](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/employers-no-longer-subject-to-compensatory-punitive-damage-awards-in-wisco/) - Good news for employers! On April 6, 2012, Governor Walker signed into law a bill that repeals legislation that permitted employees who successfully sued their employers for employment discrimination to recover compensatory and punitive damages. Available remedies are now limited to back pay, out-of-pocket expenses, reinstatement or front pay, and attorneys' fees. The legislation will
- [Reasonable Accommodations--How Long Is Too Long?](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/reasonable-accommodations-how-long-is-too-long/) - The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) recently sued AutoZone, alleging that the employer violated the Americans With Disabilities Act by, among other things, failing to provide a reasonable accommodation to one of its employees. The employee had a 15-pound lifting restriction. According to the complaint, AutoZone had been accommodating the restriction for nearly two years,
- [EEOC Finds Transgender Discrimination Violates Federal Anti-Discrimination Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/eeoc-finds-transgender-discrimination-violates-federal-anti-discrimination/) - The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) recently decided that workplace discrimination on the basis of gender identity, a change of sex and/or transgender status constitutes discrimination on the basis of sex, which is prohibited by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Title VII is one of the federal anti-discrimination statutes. Background Mia
- [Discrimination Based on Illegal Immigrant Status Not Prohibited By Federal Anti-Discrimination Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/discrimination-based-on-illegal-immigrant-status-not-prohibited-by-federal/) - The Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit recently decided that workplace discrimination on the basis of status as an illegal immigrant does not violate Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, one of the federal anti-discrimination laws. See Cortezano v. Salin Bank & Trust Co., 2012 WL 1814258 (May 21, 2012). Decisions of the
- [NLRB Issues Guidance on Employer Social Media Policies](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/nlrb-issues-guidance-on-employer-social-media-policies/) - The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has issued a report addressing social media policies that employers create for employees to follow. The report gives examples of employer restrictions that run afoul of the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), as well as those that are valid. The content of the report applies to both union and
- [Guidance On the $2,500 Health FSA Limit](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/guidance-on-the-2500-health-fsa-limit/) - The IRS has issued a notice providing guidance regarding the $2,500 per plan year health flexible spending account (FSA) limit created by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Key points from the notice are: the $2,500 limit does not apply for plan years that begin before 2013; the “plan year” is the plan year
- [Non-Compete Agreements—Looking At It From The Other Side](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/non-compete-agreementslooking-at-it-from-the-other-side/) - A growing number of employers now require employees to sign non-compete agreements as a condition of employment. Not many, however, think to ask prospective employees whether they are subject to a non-compete agreement with their current/former employer. Failure to do so early on in the hiring process can have serious—and expensive—consequences. If you do not
- [Can Asking for Social Networking Passwords Get An Employer In Trouble?](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/can-asking-for-social-networking-passwords-get-an-employer-in-trouble/) - Social networking is everywhere. It is rare for anyone in the workforce to not have at least a Facebook or LinkedIn account. Many employers are convinced that access to these accounts will provide tons of valuable information on prospective employees, so much so that some employers have now begun asking potential hires for passwords to
- [NEW SEVENTH CIRCUIT CASE ADDRESSES TRANSFER AS A REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/new-seventh-circuit-case-addresses-transfer-as-a-reasonable-accommodation/) - Assume an employee came to you and said that he was unable to do his job because of a disability, but that he could perform the duties of a vacant job in another department. You already have three other applicants for the position, each of whom is more qualified than the disabled employee. What do
- [Recent NLRB Decisions Invalidating Common Employer Policies Applies to Non-Union Employers, Too!](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/recent-nlrb-decisions-invalidating-common-employer-policies-applies-to-non/) - As mentioned in my March 29, 2012 blog entry, even non-union employers are subject to some of the provisions of the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA). One relevant provision is Section 7. Section 7 provides, among other things, that all employees, whether union or not, have the right to engage in “concerted activities for the
- [The Importance of the Interactive Process in Defense of ADA Claims](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/the-importance-of-the-interactive-process-in-defense-of-ada-claims/) - A recent case issued by the federal Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals (which governs employers in Wisconsin) underscores the importance of engaging in an interactive process with a disabled employee who has asked for a reasonable accommodation under the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA). In Hoppe v. Lewis University, an employee claimed that she suffered
- [Can Employers Be Liable For Discriminating Based on Appearance?](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/can-employers-be-liable-for-discriminating-based-on-appearance/) - In Wisconsin, some local ordinances, like City of Madison Ordinance 39.03, prohibit employers from discriminating on the basis of physical appearance. In those jurisdictions, Wisconsin employers need to be careful what they say in job announcements or during the hiring process regarding an §applicant’s physical appearance to avoid a potential discrimination charge. But what about
- [Better Late Than Never – Updating FMLA Practices](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/better-late-than-never-updating-fmla-practices/) - Although the new federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) regulations went into effect in early 2013, it seems that many employers have yet to come into compliance with them. Given this reality, a brief overview of the substance of the regulations is in order. Posting The Department of Labor (DOL) has issued a new
- [Seventh Circuit Limits Job Seekers’ Age Claim Rights Under Federal Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/seventh-circuit-limits-job-seekers-age-claim-rights-under-federal-law/)
- [Employers’ Obligations When Using Third Parties to Conduct Background Checks](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/employers-obligations-when-using-third-parties-to-conduct-background-checks/)
- [NLRB Revises Independent Contractor Standard](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/nlrb-revises-independent-contractor-standard/)
- [Employee Not Covered by the FMLA Gets Day in Court Due to Employer Representations](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/employee-not-covered-by-the-fmla-gets-day-in-court-due-to-employer-represen/)
- [DOL Proposed Overtime Regulations That Increase the Salary Threshold](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/dol-proposed-overtime-regulations-that-increase-the-salary-threshold/)
- [Words Can Hurt You – Failing to Stop Rumors Can Lead to Liability for Sexual Harassment](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/words-can-hurt-you-failing-to-stop-rumors-can-lead-to-liability-for-sexual/)
- [Workplace Civility Rules Upheld by National Labor Relations Board](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/workplace-civility-rules-upheld-by-national-labor-relations-board/) - In the wake of the National Labor Relations Board’s (the Board) decision in Boeing Co., 365 NLRB No. 154 (Dec. 14, 2017), the office of the Board’s General Counsel recently released a memo finding that a company’s “Commitment to My Co-Workers” policy was a lawful workplace-civility rule. The policy required workers to, among other things, maintain healthy relationships with
- [NLRB Further Defines Concerted Activity](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/nlrb-further-defines-concerted-activity/) - The National Labor Relations Act protects employees—even those in non-union workplaces—engaged in protected concerted activity for the purposes of mutual aid and protection. But what does “concerted” activity mean? A recent National Labor Relations Board decision, Alstate Maintenance, 367 NLRB No. 68, helps define the contours of the term. In Alstate, the employer provided skycap services at an airport.
- [Under Federal FMLA, Employers Cannot Allow Employees to Exhaust Other Paid Leave](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/under-federal-fmla-employers-cannot-allow-employees-to-exhaust-other-paid-l/) - The National Labor Relations Act protects employees—even those in non-union workplaces—engaged in protected concerted activity for the purposes of mutual aid and protection. But what does “concerted” activity mean? A recent National Labor Relations Board decision, Alstate Maintenance, 367 NLRB No. 68, helps define the contours of the term. In Alstate, the employer provided skycap services at an airport.
- [Employers Beware: Governor to Focus on Rooting Out Misclassification of Independent Contractors](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/employers-beware-governor-to-focus-on-rooting-out-misclassification-of-inde/) - Figuring out whether you can lawfully classify a worker as an independent contractor can be complicated. There are different standards for different laws. In Wisconsin, worker’s compensation and unemployment compensation laws each have their own definition of “independent contractor.” There is yet a different test for the purposes of wage and hour laws. Employers may
- [Employers Must Now File EEO-1 Component 2 Data By September 30, 2019](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/employers-must-now-file-eeo-1-component-2-data-by-september-30-2019/) - A district court has ordered that employers covered by EEO-1 reporting requirements must submit 2018 wage and hour data for their workforces by September 30, 2019. The EEOC has also determined that 2017 wage and hour data must also be reported by September 30, 2019. Employers will submit these reports as “Component 2” of the
- [Supreme Court to Decide if Prohibition on Sex Discrimination covers Sexual Orientation/Identity](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/supreme-court-to-decide-if-prohibition-on-sex-discrimination-covers-sexual/) - The U.S. Supreme Court has announced that it will hear three cases addressing whether discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and transgendered status constitutes discrimination “because of sex” and therefore prohibited under Title VII. The Court agreed to hear two of the cases together to resolve a split in the U.S. Circuit Courts as
- [DOL Proposes Regular Rate of Pay Regulations](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/dol-proposes-regular-rate-of-pay-regulations/) - The federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) requires employers to pay non-exempt employees overtime pay at 1½ times their “regular rate of pay” for hours worked over 40 in a workweek. In calculating the regular rate of pay, employers must count all “remuneration for employment,” unless expressly excluded by the FSLA or DOL’s regulations implementing
- [Under Wisconsin Law, Commute Time is Non-Compensable Even if Using Employer's Vehicle](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/under-wisconsin-law-commute-time-is-non-compensible-even-if-using-employers/) - The Wisconsin Supreme Court recently decided that Wisconsin law does not require employers to pay employees for the time spent driving company vehicles between their homes and job sites. Kieninger v. Crown Equipment Corp. Federal law has a similar rule, but it is subject to more limitations than the Wisconsin rule. Under federal law, employees are
- [Use It Or Lose It:  SCOTUS Ruling Means Employer Defense To Discrimination Claims Can Be Waived](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/use-it-or-lose-it-scotus-ruling-means-employer-defense-to-discrimination-cl/) - On June 3, 2019, the U.S. Supreme Court unanimously held that failure of an employee to file a discrimination claim with the EEOC prior to bringing a discrimination lawsuit does not deprive a court of jurisdiction over the suit. That means that an employer can waive the defense to a discrimination claim based on failure
- [Are You Ready? Reminder: New White-Collar Exemption Rule is Effective January 1, 2020.](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/are-you-ready-reminder-new-white-collar-exemption-rule-is-effective-january-1-2020/) - Under the Federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) “white collar” exemption, employees are exempt and not entitled to overtime if: (1) a “duties” test establishing that the employees are executive, administrative or professional employees as defined by federal rules is met; (2) employees are paid on a salary or fee basis; and (3) employees are
- [Court Must Adjudicate the Merits before Transferring Properties to Trust Over Owner’s Objection](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/court-must-adjudicate-the-merits-before-transferring-properties-to-trust-over-owners-objection/) - In City of Milwaukee v. Choudry, 2018AP1693 (Dec. 27, 2019), the Wisconsin Court of Appeals reversed a circuit court order transferring the defendant’s properties into a trust. The appellate court held that, because the trial court never made a final judgment on the merits of the case, it lacked authority to impose a remedy. Starting in
- [Employment Law Update:  Families First Coronavirus Response Act](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/employment-law-update-families-first-coronavirus-response-act/) - On March 18, 2020, President Trump signed the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) into law. This economic stimulus plan is designed to address the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on Americans and contains two provisions that will impact employers with 1 – 500 employees effective April 2, 2020. Specifically, the FFCRA mandates emergency paid
- [DOL Issues Regulations Implementing the Families First Coronavirus Response Act](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/employment-and-labor-law/dol-issues-regulations-implementing-the-families-first-coronavirus-response-act/) - On April 1, 2020, the US Department of Labor issued regulations implementing the paid sick leave (PSL) and expanded FMLA (EFMLA) leave portions of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA). A full description of all of the provisions of the regulations is beyond the scope of this blog, but some of the key highlights
- [U.S. Supreme Court Holds Employment Protection Reaches Sexual Orientation and Transgender Status](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/u-s-supreme-court-holds-employment-protection-reaches-sexual-orientation-and-transgender-status/) - Title VII is the portion of the federal Civil Rights Act that prohibits employers from discriminating on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, and national origin. It was first adopted by Congress in 1964. Last week, in a 6-3 ruling, the U.S. Supreme Court interpreted Title VII to prohibit discrimination on the basis of
- [The SECURE Act](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/trust-estates-law/the-secure-act/) - The SECURE (Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement) Act which was signed into law in late December makes wide ranging changes effecting IRAs, 401(k)s and other qualified retirement plans and retirement plan beneficiaries. The provisions in the Act may require changes to existing estate plans and will necessarily shape future plans. Some of the
- [Attention Parents: Are Your Kids Headed to College during the COVID-19 Pandemic? Here’s Why They Need Powers of Attorney](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/trust-estates-law/why-college-kids-need-powers-of-attorney/) - A power of attorney is a document that allows someone to appoint an agent to act on their behalf in the event that they become incapacitated or unable to make decisions on their own. These documents relate to financial and healthcare matters. One of the greatest benefits of a power of attorney is that it
- [Important Trusts and Estates Tax Changes Could Come in 2022](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/trust-estates-law/important-trusts-and-estates-tax-changes-2022/) - On March 25, 2021, Senators Sanders, Gillibrand, Reed, Van Hollen, and Whitehouse released a bill to the Senate that, if signed into law, will cause substantial changes to the Internal Revenue Code that pertain, among other things, to estate, gift, and generation-skipping transfer taxes.. A similar bill was read into the House by Representative Gomez.
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court Holds that Wisconsin Elections Commission Is Not Obligated to Conduct Mass Deactivation of Voter Registrations](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/election-and-political-law/wi-elections-commission-not-obligated-to-conduct-mass-deactivation-of-voter-registrations/) - In a straightforward interpretation and application of the Wisconsin Statutes and procedural standards governing writs of mandamus, on April 9, 2021, the Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled 5-2 in State of Wis. Ex rel. Timothy Zignego v. Wisconsin Elections Commission, 2021 WI 32, that the Wisconsin Elections Commission (“WEC”) was not obligated by Wisconsin Statutes Section
- [Seventh Circuit Calls into Question “Stalking-Horse” Election Claims](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/election-and-political-law/seventh-circuit-calls-into-question-stalking-horse-election-claims/) - Earlier this month, the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals decided a case involving allegations that a candidate for public office orchestrated a plan to put two other candidates on the ballot to split voters and ensure a victory. The case, Gonzales v. Madigan, No. 20-1874, 2021 WL 857476 (7th Cir. Mar. 8, 2021), could have
- [Stafford Rosenbaum's Election and Political Law Team Hard at Work Post-Election](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/election-and-political-law/election-and-political-law-team-hard-at-work-following-2020-election/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP’s election and political law attorneys have had a 2020 filled with noteworthy cases. The new practice group was launched this year, co-chaired by Attorneys Jeff Mandell and Doug Poland, and has been even busier in the last quarter of the year with cases involving presidential post-election results challenges. Stafford Rosenbaum represents Wisconsin
- [Court of Appeals Accepts Petition for Interlocutory Appeal on Discretionary Immunity, Reverses in Favor of Stafford Rosenbaum’s Client to Dismiss Case](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/court-of-appeals-reverses-in-favor-of-stafford-rosenbaums-client-to-dismiss-case/) - At the end of last week, the Court of Appeals recommended for publication an opinion resulting from a permissive interlocutory appeal sought by Stafford Rosenbaum on behalf of the City of Monroe. Stafford sought the appeal after the trial court denied the City’s motion for summary judgment asserting absolute and governmental immunity in response to
- [Court of Appeals Holds that a Continuing Trespass Does Not Circumvent the Notice of Injury Requirements](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/continuing-trespass-does-not-circumvent-notice-of-injury-requirements/) - The Wisconsin Court of Appeals recently found that a continuing trespass does not create a new “event” each day that it remains on the property. See Ebert v. Village of Gresham, 2020 WL 6278316, ¶¶ 2, 13. Because a new event is not created each day, a claimant must file a notice of injury within
- [Court of Appeals Confirms that an Unimproved Platted Public Road May Not Be Adversely Possessed](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/court-of-appeals-confirms-that-an-unimproved-platted-public-road-may-not-be-adversely-possessed/) - A property owner, Timothy Casa De Calvo, sued the Town of Hudson claiming that he adversely possessed real property adjacent to his house. The property in question had been dedicated about 31 years before as a street on a subdivision plat. The circuit court granted summary judgment in favor of the Town, and the court
- [DNR issues guidance on adaptive management](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/dnr-issues-guidance-on-adaptive-management/) - The DNR issued a guidance document on the adaptive management compliance option for the phosphorus water quality based effluent limits. The guidance document is intended to help sources identify whether they are a good candidate for adaptive management and if so, how to develop a successful adaptive management plan. The DNR readily admits that it
- [DNR’s proposed "guidance on guidance" and guidance on TMDL implementation](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/dnrs-proposed-guidance-on-guidance-and-guidance-on-tmdl-implementation/) - The Department has proposed a new process to provide for more opportunities for the public to give input on key natural resources decisions and to standardize the Department’s process for developing guidance. The policy is intended “to promote participation and transparency.” Under the proposed process, new draft guidance documents will be available on the DNR
- [March 20, 2013 United States Supreme Court Expands Use of Citizen Suits](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/march-20-2013-united-states-supreme-court-expands-use-of-citizen-suits/) - Today, in Decker v. Northwest Environmental Defense Center, the United States Supreme Court ruled that citizen suits under section 505 of the Clean Water Act may be used to challenge EPA’s interpretation of its own regulations at any time after the regulation has been promulgated so long as the challenge states that the rule is
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court issues opinion in the Lake Koshkonong Lake Level Dispute](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/wisconsin-supreme-court-issues-opinion-in-the-lake-koshkonong-lake-level-di/) - The Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled on a number of issues regarding the DNR’s authority when reviewing lake level petitions. The Court concluded that the DNR properly considered the impact of the Petition's proposed water levels on public and private wetlands in and adjacent to Lake Koshkonong. However, the Court concluded that the DNR inappropriately relied
- [Additional Phosphorus Compliance Option proposed in AB 680/ SB 547](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/additional-phosphorus-compliance-option-proposed-in-ab-680-sb-547/) - The main objective of Assembly Bill 680/ Senate Bill 547 is to provide an additional phosphorus compliance option for point sources that can provide certainty for planning and implementation, avoid large capital and operating costs with advanced treatment and make real progress in reducing phosphorus from point and nonpoint sources. The basic structure of the
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of April 14, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-april-14-2014/) - April 14, 2014: The Brownfields Study Group will hold a Waterfront Revitalization Subcommittee meeting. The agenda includes discussion on the definition of sediment versus soil, beneficial reuse of dredge spoils and performance standards for sediments, dredge spoils and area of interaction between water and ordinary high water mark. April 14, 2014: The DNR will hold
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of April 21, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-april-21-2014/) - April 21, 2014: The DNR and Department of Health Services and representatives from the Holtz Krause Landfill Steering Committee will hold an open house to clarify the issues raised following DNR’s issuance of the Notification of Residual Contamination Letter. April 22, 2014: The Brownfields Study Group Economic Impact Committee will hold a meeting regarding the
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of April 28, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-april-28-2014/) - May 1, 2014: The DNR will hold a public hearing on the proposed revisions to chs. NR 200, 201, 203, and 205, Wis. Adm. Code relating to the WPDES permit program. The proposed revisions focus on permit processing and permit issuance procedures. May 2, 2014: The Groundwater Coordinating Council will have a public meeting. Topics
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of May 5, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-may-5-2014/) - May 5, 2014: The DNR will hold a public hearing regarding an air pollution control construction permit application including plans and specifications for construction and initial operation of three new large (24.5 million gallons each) crude oil storage tanks, modification of two large (under construction) crude oil storage tanks, increased pipeline 61 capacity, associated piping
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of May 12, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-may-12-2014/) - May 12, 2014: The Waterfront Revitalization Brownfields Study Group will hold a public meeting regarding the issue of aging infrastructure and legacy issues. May 13, 2014: The DNR will hold a public hearing regarding an air pollution control construction and operation permit application submitted by John Deere Horicon Works. The application includes plans and specifications
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of May 19, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-may-19-2014/) - May 20, 2014: The DNR will hold a public hearing on the preliminary determination to grant a variance from the lowest achievable emission rate limits for benzene and an operation permit for Brillion Iron Works Inc. May 20, 2014: The Stream and Wetlands Crossing Work Group will hold a public meeting. The agenda includes standards
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of June 2, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-june-2-2014/) - June 3, 2014:The Division of Hearings and Appeals will hold a Class 1 contested case public hearing in the matter of the application of Waupaca County to abandon and remove the Little Hope Dam on the Crystal River, Town of Dayton, Waupaca County. June 5, 2014: The DNR Brownfields Study Group Economic Impact Committee will
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of June 8, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-june-8-2014/) - June 10, 2014: The DNR will hold a public hearing on the proposed reissuance of the WPDES permit for United Liquid Waste Recycling Inc. in Clyman, Wisconsin. June 12, 2014: The Division of Hearings and Appeals will hold a prehearing conference in the Matter of Wisconsin Public Service Corporation (WPSC) – Weston Plan, Air Pollution
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of June 16, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-june-16-2014/) - June 16, 2014 – An open house on the Ashland NSP Lakefront Superfund Site will be held regarding the progress and upcoming work at the Site. The meeting will begin with an overview of the work that will be done and the potential impacts on the neighborhood. Representatives will also be available one hour and
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of June 23, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-june-23-2014/) - June 23, 2014 – The DNR will hold a public hearing on the air pollution control permit application submitted by Hi-Crush Whitehall LLC for construction and operation of an industrial sand mine and processing plant located at W20757 Country Road Q, Independence in Trempealeau County. June 23, 2014 – The DNR Brownfields Study Group Local
- [Proposed Guidance Regarding Common Plan of Development for Construction Site Storm Water Discharges.](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/proposed-guidance-regarding-common-plan-of-development-for-construction-sit/) - The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has proposed guidance regarding the extent of best management practices a developer must implement for the "common plan of development" requirement for construction site storm water discharges. The purpose of the guidance is to answer the question whether a developer has to install storm water management facilities to account
- [Mistake in Survey Map Doesn't Allow State to Take Property Without Just Compensation](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/court-of-appeals-finds-mistake-in-csm-does-not-allow-state-to-take-property/) - In Somers USA, LLC v. Wisconsin Department of Transportation, 2014AP1092 (recommended for publication), the Wisconsin Court of Appeals recently held that the State could not rely on a scrivener’s error on a certified survey map (CSM) in order to take private property without paying just compensation. Somers purchased land abutting Interstate 94 in Kenosha County
- [2017 Wisconsin Act 203 Makes Significant Changes to Procedure Relating to Post-Divorce Relocation](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/family-law/2017-wisconsin-act-203-makes-significant-changes-to-procedure-relating-to-p/) - 2017 Wisconsin Act 203 (“Act 203”) recently made significant changes to the law that governs when one divorced parent seeks to relocate geographically far away from their child’s other parent. This post summarizes Act 203’s changes to prior law and details the new procedures and standards applicable under the Act. Act 203, which went in
- [Changes Likely to Wisconsin Child Placement and Support Laws](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/family-law/changes-likely-to-wisconsin-child-placement-and-support-laws/) - In 2018, Stafford Partner, Tiffany Highstrom, was appointed to the Wisconsin Legislative Council’s Study Committee on Child Placement and Support. The Committee includes legislators and citizens with special knowledge on a given subject. Committees are often tasked with drafting legislation, which they then present to the Council. If a majority of the Council approves the
- [Wisconsin Court of Appeals Allows Inclusion of Parking Lot Income in Milwaukee Property Tax Assessment](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wisconsin-court-of-appeals-allows-inclusion-of-parking-lot-income-in-milwaukee-property-tax-assessment/) - In Milwaukee Block 10 Properties v. City of Milwaukee, the Wisconsin Court of Appeals reaffirmed two key principles in its reversal of a circuit court decision which ordered the City of Milwaukee to revise its property tax assessment for the Aloft Hotel. First, Wisconsin affords substantial deference to property tax assessments prepared by municipalities. Property
- [Wisconsin Court of Appeals Strikes Down Insurer’s Limitation on Underinsured Motorist Coverage](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/insurers-limitation-on-underinsured-motorist-coverage-struck-down/) - The Wisconsin Court of Appeals recently held that Wisconsin law precludes enforcement of a provision in an insurance policy that purported to limit underinsured motorist (“UIM”) coverage to only those insureds who sustain bodily injury or death. Ryan Johnson died from injuries sustained in a collision involving an underinsured vehicle. Johnson’s minor son, Elliot Brey,
- [Unique COVID-19 Recovery Needs Addressed through Local Government Aid](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/unique-covid-19-recovery-needs-addressed-through-local-government-aid/) - Last week Governor Evers announced a $200 million program for local leaders entitled “Routes to Recovery: Local Government Aid Grants.” The program intends to address Wisconsin communities’ urgent and unique situations surrounding COVID-19 recovery. Funded by federal CARES Act dollars, these grants are in addition to the $1 billion in state-wide COVID-19 related aid that
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Helps Pier Owner Simplify Wisconsin Law on Permit Exemptions](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/stafford-rosenbaum-helps-pier-owner-simplify-wisconsin-law-on-permit-exemptions/) - Recently the Court of Appeals released an opinion holding that municipal pier regulations enacted pursuant to Wis. Stat. § 30.13(2) cannot be applied to a pier that qualifies for a state permit exemption under Wis. Stat. § 30.12(1g)(f). As a result, the Court of Appeals reversed the trial court’s decision in order to rule in
- [Seventh Circuit Decides “Corn Syrup” Advertising Feud between Molson Coors and Anheuser-Busch](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/seventh-circuit-decides-on-corn-syrup-advertising-feud-between-molson-coors-and-anheuser-busch/) - The Seventh Circuit has weighed in on the highly publicized advertising dispute between beer giants Molson Coors and Anheuser-Busch. See Molson Coors Beverage Company v. Anheuser-Busch Companies, LLC, Nos. 19-2200, 19-2713, 19-2782, 19-3097 & 19-3116 (7th Cir. May 1, 2020). In early 2019, Anheuser-Busch began advertising that Miller Lite and Coors Light use corn syrup
- [DNR Can Consider Cumulative High Capacity Well Impacts Under New Attorney General Decision](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/dnr-can-consider-cumulative-high-capacity-well-impacts-under-new-attorney-general-decision/) - On May 1, 2020, Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul reversed his predecessor’s opinion prohibiting the Department of Natural Resources (“DNR”) from considering the cumulative impacts of high capacity wells[1] on waters of the state. The events leading up to this reversal are critical to understanding the current and future effects of this new Attorney General
- [Court Reiterates that Not All Government Actions that Diminish Property Value Are Compensable](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/court-reiterates-that-not-all-government-actions-that-diminish-property-value-are-compensable/) - State and local governments have a variety of powers. They can take private property for public use, but they have to fairly compensate the property owner. They can also use their police power—a broad array of authority to protect public health and safety—to regulate the use of property. The Wisconsin Court of Appeals’ recent decision
- [Supreme Court Expands Scope of Clean Water Act](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/environment-and-land-use-law/supreme-court-expands-scope-of-clean-water-act/) - The scope of the Clean Water Act (“CWA”) expanded under the Supreme Court’s ruling in County of Maui v. Hawaii Wildlife Fund, 590 U.S. ___ (2020). The Court found that the CWA requirement for a permit prior to discharging a pollutant to navigable water could apply to pollutant discharges to groundwater that subsequently travel to
- [Court of Appeals Applies Economic Loss Doctrine to Subcontractor Dispute under Interrelated Contracts Theory](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/economic-loss-doctrine-applied-to-subcontractor-dispute-under-interrelated-contracts-theory/) - The Wisconsin Court of Appeals recently issued a decision expanding the economic loss doctrine to horizontal claims by subcontractors who lack contractual privity. See Mechanical, Inc. v. Venture Electrical Contractors, Inc., No. 2018AP2380 (Apr. 22, 2020). The issue was whether one subcontractor could assert a negligence claim seeking purely economic losses (in this case delay
- [Seventh Circuit Upholds Dismissal of Subcontractor’s Meritless Claims for Damages Based on Customary Bid Negotiations with General Contractor](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/seventh-circuit-upholds-dismissal-of-meritless-claims/) - Earlier this week, the Seventh Circuit affirmed the district court’s order granting our client’s, Annex Construction, LLC, motion for summary judgment dismissing all claims brought against it by a framing subcontractor, Skyrise Construction Group, LLC. See Skyrise Construction Group, LLC v. Annex Construction, LLC, Case No. 19-1461 (7th Cir. April 21, 2020). In a unanimous
- [The Coronavirus Relief Fund: Show Wisconsin Municipalities the Money](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/the-coronavirus-relief-fund-show-wisconsin-municipalities-the-money/) - Direct Grants to States for Coronavirus Expenses Title V of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (the “CARES Act” or the “Act”), Section 5001, provides for the distribution of $139 billion to the States, excluding the District of Columbia, from the Coronavirus Relief Fund (a new Title VI to the Social Security Act).
- [The CARES Act’s $500 Billion Municipal Liquidity Facility: What’s in It for Wisconsin Municipalities?](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/the-cares-acts-500-billion-municipal-liquidity-facility/) - Section 4003(a) in Title IV of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (the “CARES Act”) provides the much discussed $500 billion “bailout” that will be used under Section 4003(b) to finance (1) finance airlines, (2) cargo air carriers, (3) “national security” businesses, and, (4) Federal Reserve programs to lend to, or otherwise support
- [Wisconsin Small Business Guide to the CARES Act](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/wisconsin-small-business-guide-to-the-cares-act/) - The programs in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, signed into law March 27, 2020, are intended to assist business owners. When implemented, there will be many new resources available for small businesses, as well as certain nonprofits and other employers. This guide provides information about the major programs and initiatives that
- [Potential Insurance Coverages Available to Wisconsin Businesses for Losses Arising from COVID-19 Pandemic](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/potential-insurance-coverages-available-to-wisconsin-businesses-for-losses-arising-from-covid-19-pandemic/) - With the recent outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19) evolving into a worldwide pandemic, virtually every business stands to incur substantial economic losses. One of the options businesses should consider to limit or otherwise mitigate these losses is whether any of the policies in their insurance portfolios for which they paid substantial premiums should be shouldering
- [Court of Appeals Declines Request to Further Complicate Administrative Rule-Making Process](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/court-of-appeals-declines-request-to-further-complicate-administrative-rule-making-process/) - The Court of Appeals recently rejected an attempt to further complicate Wisconsin’s administrative rule-making process, and solidified the ability of agencies to respond to public comments during rulemaking. Applegate-Bader Farm, LLC v. Wisconsin Department of Revenue, 2020 WI App 7, stemmed from an administrative rule proposed by Wisconsin Department of Revenue (DOR) relating to the
- [Court of Appeals Decision Complicates Insureds’ Ability to Obtain Coverage From Claims-Made Insurers](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/court-of-appeals-decision-complicates-insureds-ability-to-obtain-coverage-from-claims-made-insurers/) - The Wisconsin Court of Appeals recently issued an insurance coverage decision likely to induce heartburn for risk management personnel responsible for deciding whether and when to notify their liability insurers regarding speculative future claims that may arise. See Vistelar, LLC v. Cincinnati Spec. Ins. Co., No. 2019AP633 (Feb. 25, 2020). At issue in this case
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court Declines To Change Successor Liability Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/wisconsin-supreme-court-declines-to-change-successor-liability-law/) - In 2018, we flagged an unpublished, per curiam decision by the Wisconsin Court of Appeals as unusual. It seemed that the court of appeals, while adhering to the most recent precedent, was strongly signaling that it thought that precedent was wrongly decided and that the Wisconsin Supreme Court should revisit the scope of exceptions to
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court Procedural Orders Limit Circuit Court Authority To Issue Injunctions](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wisconsin-supreme-court-procedural-orders-limit-circuit-court-authority-to-issue-injunctions/) - The Wisconsin Constitution grants circuit courts the power to “issue all writs necessary in aid of [their] jurisdiction.” Wis. Const. art. VII, § 8. And the Legislature has expressly authorized circuit courts to issue injunctions. Wis. Stat. §§ 813.01, 813.02. Yet, in two unsigned and unpublished procedural orders issued this past spring, the Supreme Court
- [Towns Can Still Enforce Some Shoreland Frontage Requirements](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/government-relations/towns-can-still-enforce-some-shoreland-frontage-requirements/) - In State of Wisconsin ex rel. Michael Anderson v. Town of Newbold, 2018AP547 (Oct. 29, 2019), the Wisconsin Court of Appeals, District III, recently upheld a minimum-shoreland-frontage requirement adopted under a town’s subdivision authority, even though an identical requirement could not be validly adopted within the town’s zoning authority. Michael Anderson owns a lot with
- [7th Circuit Finds Broad Breach of Contract Exclusion in Prof Services Liability Policy Unenforceable](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/7th-circuit-finds-broad-breach-of-contract-exclusion-in-prof-services-liability-policy-unenforceable/) - Recently, in Crum & Forster Specialty Insurance Co. v. DVO, Inc., Slip Op., Case No. 18-2571 (7th Cir. Sept. 23, 2019) (“Slip Op.”), the Seventh Circuit held that, under Wisconsin insurance policy interpretation principles, an insurer may not avoid its coverage responsibilities by invoking an exclusion that is broad enough to fully encompass the scope
- [Court of Appeals, District II, Upholds Town’s Denial of CUP for Cell Tower](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/government-relations/court-of-appeals-district-ii-upholds-towns-denial-of-cup-for-cell-tower/) - In Eco-Site LLC et. al. v. Town of Cedarburg, 2019 WI App 42, the Wisconsin Court of Appeals, District II affirmed the Town of Cedarburg’s authority to deny Eco-Site LLC’s conditional use permit application to build a cell tower. After a full discussion of the information and issues, the Town Board denied Eco-Site’s application on
- [ENFORCEMENT OF MUNICIPAL SIGN ORDINANCES: JUDGE POSNER SENDS A MESSAGE](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/enforcement-of-municipal-sign-ordinances-judge-posner-sends-a-message/) - By definition, dissenting opinions have no precedential value. Yet they can provide important perspectives into the judges who decide to write them and the manner and direction in which the law might evolve. An example may be Seventh Circuit Judge Posner’s dissent in Construction and General Laborers’ Local No. 330 v. Town of Grand Chute,
- [Estate Planning for Your Digital Assets](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/trust-estates-law/estate-planning-for-your-digital-assets/) - So your estate plan carefully addresses disposing of your home, car and bank account. But what about your digital assets? There are two different types of digital assets. One type is assets such as bank and investment accounts that you manage online which are really no different than accounts you manage with a paper trail.
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of September 30, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-september-30-2013/) - October 2, 2013: The Division of Hearings and Appeals will hold a contested case hearing in the matter of the denial of the application of Gary Glojek to place a structure on the bed of Green Bay, Village of Ephraim in Door County. October 2, 2013: The Assembly Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security
- [Recent Wisconsin Court of Appeals Makes Professional Malpractice Claims Even Harder for Plaintiffs](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/recent-wisconsin-court-of-appeals-makes-professional-malpractice-claims-eve/) - When a plaintiff brings a malpractice case against a doctor, a lawyer, or any other professional, the plaintiff faces a built-in disadvantage. The professional has greater knowledge of and deeper training in the subject matter than the plaintiff does. As a result, the plaintiffs in professional malpractice cases frequently turn to expert witnesses as a
- [Rules for Lawyers Derail Fiancée’s Unjust Enrichment Claim Against Menard](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/rules-for-lawyers-derail-fiancees-unjust-enrichment-claim-against-menard/) - Watts v. Watts, 137 Wis. 2d 506, 405 N.W.2d 303 (1987) provides the legal framework for unjust enrichment or joint enterprise claims asserted by non-married, cohabitating partners when a relationship ends. In Sands v. Menard, Case Nos. 2012AP2377 and 2015AP870, the Wisconsin Court of Appealsupheld dismissal ofWatts-type claims brought by an attorney and former fiancée
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court Hears Oral Arguments on Important Public Records Case](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wisconsin-supreme-court-hears-oral-arguments-on-important-public-records-ca/) - On September 18, 2015,the Wisconsin Supreme Court heard oral arguments inNew Richmond News v. City of New Richmond. Video and audio of the oral arguments are available on Wisconsin Eye here. This case involves the interplay between the Wisconsin Public Records Law, which generally provides for the disclosure of municipal records to the public, and
- [Who needs a Will?](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/trust-estates-law/who-needs-a-will/) - A Will is the formal legal document setting out who receives your property at your death and who should oversee the process of gathering, inventorying and distributing your assets. Who needs a Will? In short, most people. For many the key motivation to creating a Will is to set out who should inherit their property.
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of September 23, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-september-23-2013/) - September 24-25, 2013: The Natural Resources Board agenda includes request for public hearing authorization for proposed rules affecting chs. NR 400, 405, 408, and 410 relating to consistency with federal major source permit review requirements and clean up rules related to the former indirect source permit program and an informational item on the Wisconsin Nutrient
- [Wisconsin Issues Emergency Rule Implementing Wayfair Requiring Internet Sellers to Collect Sales Tax](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/wisconsin-issues-emergency-rule-implementing-wayfair-requiring-internet-sel/) - On September 6, 2018, the Wisconsin Department of Revenue (“WDOR”) issued Emergency Rule 1819 requiring out-of-state internet sellers to collect and remit Wisconsin sales taxes if the seller’s sales or number of transactions exceed the substantial nexus thresholds upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court in its June 21, 2018 decision in South Dakota v. Wayfair,
- [What Will Follow from Wholesale Changes to Wisconsin’s Class-Action Statute?](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/what-will-follow-from-wholesale-changes-to-wisconsins-class-action-statute/) - On July 1, 2018, for the first time in more than a century, major changes to Wisconsin’s class-action statute took effect. See Supreme Court Order No. 17-03, 2017 WI 108. As a result, Wis. Stat. §803.08 now mirrors, nearly identically, Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 23, which governs class-action suits in federal courts. The harmonization
- [Management Policies Generally Will Not Abrogate Employment-At-Will](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/management-policies-generally-will-not-abrogate-employment-at-will/) - The Wisconsin Court of Appeals recently reversed a circuit court decision that awarded a physician-employee $2.2 million against his employer, Dean Health Systems (Dean). Bukstein, M.D. v. Dean Health Systems, Inc., No. 2016AP920 (Wis. Ct. App. July 20, 2017) (recommended for publication). The dispute revolved around whether Bukstein was an employee at-will who Dean could
- [Seventh Circuit Holds that Municipality Did Not Violate Business’s Constitutional Rights](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/seventh-circuit-holds-that-municipality-did-not-violate-businesss-constitut/) - In Black Earth Meat Market, LLC v. Village of Black Earth, No. 15-3818 (7th Cir. Aug. 24, 2016), the Seventh Circuit held that the Village of Black Earth’s efforts to close a slaughterhouse, which included threatened litigation to abate an alleged nuisance, did not violate due process or equal protection. In 2001, Black Earth Meat
- [Under Unique Wisconsin Statute, Court Refuses to Enforce Covenant Against Poaching Employees](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/under-unique-wisconsin-statute-court-refuses-to-enforce-covenant-against-po/) - One of your “big fish” executives leaves employment with your company and goes to work for a competitor. Soon, other employees are leaving. Surely not by coincidence, they join your former big fish, working for your competitor. But your company had locked up Mr. Big Fish with a three-pronged agreement, which included a non-solicitation of
- [Wisconsin Courts Apply Recent US Supreme Court Decision in OWI Refusal Cases](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wisconsin-courts-apply-recent-us-supreme-court-decision-in-owi-refusal-case/) - The United States Supreme Court issued its decision in Birchfield v. North Dakota, 579 U.S. ___, 2016 U.S. LEXIS 4058 (June 23, 2016) only weeks ago. More information on the Birchfield decision is available here. In the brief time since Birchfield was decided, the Wisconsin Court of Appeals has already issued multiple opinions interpreting Wisconsin’s
- [Seventh Circuit Holds Wisconsin Law Allows Mortgage Lien On Vendor’s Interest Under Land Contract](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/seventh-circuit-holds-wisconsin-law-allows-mortgage-lien-on-vendors-interes/) - The Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals recently held that, under Wisconsin law, a mortgage can properly attach a lien to the vendor’s interest in a land contract. The court stated that the mortgage’s broad language encompassed the borrowers’ interest in the land contract as collateral and the lender perfected its lien by recording the mortgage
- [Court of Appeals Upholds Scare Gun Ordinance](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/court-of-appeals-upholds-scare-gun-ordinance/) - In Town of Trempealeau v. Klein, 2014AP2719, the Wisconsin Court of Appeals provided an instructive ordinance analysis in upholding a Scare Gun Ordinance. Wendell Klein owned a farm in the Town of Trempealeau, Wisconsin. The farm was in close proximity to a United States Fish and Wildlife Refuge, and as a result, many blackbirds harmed
- [Appeals Court Rules Milwaukee Residency Requirement Trumps State Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/appeals-court-rules-milwaukee-residency-requirement-trumps-state-law/) - In Milwaukee Police Association v. City of Milwaukee, No. 2014AP400 (Wis. Ct. App. July 21, 2015) (publication recommended), the Wisconsin Court of Appeals held that Wis. Stat. §66.0502, which essentially prohibits residency requirements in local governments, does not trump the City of Milwaukee’s Ordinance requiring its employees to reside within the City. Section66.0502, signed into
- [Motor Bicycle May Be "Motor Vehicle" For Purposes Of Applying OWI/PAC Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/motor-bicycle-may-be-motor-vehicle-for-purposes-of-applying-owi-pac-law/) - In State v. Koeppen, the Wisconsin Court of Appeals decided an interesting issue with respect to OWI/PAC violations: Whether the defendant could violate Wisconsin OWI/PAC statute, Wis. Stat. § 346.63(1) by operating a motor bicycle with a prohibited alcohol concentration and/or while under the influence. Specifically, the court addressed whether a motor bicycle is a
- [Municipal Law Memo: Court Issues Another Immunity Decision](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/municipal-law-memo-august-4-2014/) - Court Issues Another Immunity Decision Last week, the Wisconsin Supreme Court issued its decision in Legue v. City of Racine, another immunity case involving the operation of an emergency vehicle. The case arose from a motor vehicle accident involving plaintiff’s vehicle and a City of Racine police car driven by Officer Amy Matsen. The officer
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of September 16, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-september-16-2013/) - September 18, 2013: The DNR will hold a public meeting to update the public on the status of the Northern States Power Lakefront Superfund site in Ashland. September 19, 2013: The DNR will hold a public informational hearing with respect to the proposed Wisconsin Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit reissuance and nutrient management plan for
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of September 2, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-september-2-2013/) - September 4, 2013: The Senate Committee on Workforce Development, Forestry, Mining and Revenue will hold a public hearing on Senate Bill 278. This bill would limit public access to managed forest land that is located in a proposed mining site. The bill exempts from the requirement that recreational activities be allowed on managed forest land
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of August 26th, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-august-26th-2013/) - August 27, 28 and 29th, 2013: The DNR will hold public hearings on proposed revisions to ch. NR 114 subchapter I, Wis. Adm. Code, relating to the certification of requirements of wastewater treatment system and plant operators. August 29th, 2013: The DNR will hold a public hearing on an air permit application for submitted by
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of August 5, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-august-5-2013/) - August 6, 2013: The Senate Committee on Environment and Forestry will hold a public meeting regarding chapters NR 120, 128, 151, 162, 166, 218 and 219 for the right the rules initiative. There will be no opportunity for public testimony. The Committee will also hold an executive session on AB 131, SB 189 and SB
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Welcomes Attorney John S. Greene](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/stafford-rosenbaum-welcomes-attorney-john-s-greene/)
- [Seventh Circuit Clarifies Applicability of Economic Loss Doctrine to Liability Insurance Coverage](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/seventh-circuit-clarifies-applicability-of-economic-loss-doctrine-to-liabil/) - The Seventh Circuit recently clarified the potential impact of Wisconsin’s Economic Loss Doctrine on the availability of liability insurance coverage for commercial insureds facing defective product claims. See Haley et al. v. Kolbe & Kolbe Millwork Co. et al., Nos. 16-3563 & 16-3648 (7th Cir. 2017). In holding that coverage was available for the defective
- [Wisconsin Court of Appeals Reiterates Clear Prohibition on Judicial Fact Investigation](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wisconsin-court-of-appeals-reiterates-clear-prohibition-on-judicial-fact-in/) - For years, the legal profession has debated the propriety of judges conducting independent research into facts undeveloped in or omitted from legal briefs. Last year, the Seventh Circuit moved to the forefront of that debate when a panel of that Court splintered over the propriety of using non-record information to inform its deliberations. See Rowe
- [Europe’s New Personal Data Protection Law Will Have Broad Impact on U.S. Businesses](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/europes-new-personal-data-protection-law-will-have-broad-impact-on-u-s-bus/) - SAS and OMP The European Union Parliament enacted the General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”), which aims to protect the personal information of individuals in the EU. Many U.S. businesses will have to comply with the GDPR if they have personal information—which includes a variety of data from name to birthdate, home address to IP address,
- [Court of Appeals Suggests Possible Path To Waiver of PFC Review](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/court-of-appeals-suggests-possible-path-to-waiver-of-pfc-review/) - Court of Appeals Suggests Possible Path To Waiver of PFC Review Can a municipality and a public safety employee agree to waive the disciplinary process before a police and fire commission under Wis. Stat. § 62.13(5). Yes, at least in some circumstances, according to the Wisconsin Court of Appeals. City of Janesville v. WERC, 193
- [Wis. Supreme Court Finds TID Findings are Legislative Determinations, Subject to Certiorari Review](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wis-supreme-court-finds-tid-findings-are-legislative-determinations-subjec/) - Wis. Supreme Court Finds TID Findings are Legislative Determinations, Subject to Certiorari Review In a recent 5-2 decision, the Wisconsin Supreme Court held, inter alia, that findings of blight and a corresponding need for Tax Incremental Districts (TIDs) were “legislative determinations” and therefore not susceptible to full declaratory judgment review. Voters with Facts v. City
- [The Not-So-Scenic Pit: Court Reaffirms Limited Local Control Over Certain Solid Waste Facilities](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/the-not-so-scenic-pit-court-reaffirms-limited-local-control-over-certain-so/) - The issue of local control is once again front and center in a recent Wisconsin Court of Appeals decision, Scenic Pit LLC v. Village of Richfield, No. 2015AP2291 (June 28, 2017) (recommended for publication). Scenic Pit LLC sought to open a clean fill solid waste facility in the Village of Richfield. Such facilities accept disposal
- [Seventh Circuit: Wisconsin Debtors Can Shield Some Annuities from Creditors](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/seventh-circuit-wisconsin-debtors-can-shield-some-annuities-from-creditors/) - No debtor owes his or her creditors more than the law demands. Late last month, the Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit made clear that annuities that qualify for favorable tax treatment are fully exempt from a Chapter 7 bankruptcy estate. See Wittman v. Koenig, No. 15-2798, slip op. (7th Cir. July 26, 2016).
- [Update to Earlier Post on Seventh Circuit’s Imposition of Sanctions for Forum Shopping](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/update-to-earlier-post-on-seventh-circuits-imposition-of-sanctions-for-foru/) - In June, I wrote about the Seventh Circuit imposing sanctions on an attorney for engaging in forum shopping. This week, the Seventh Circuit issued another opinion in that case. Christopher D. Stombaugh, the attorney sanctioned in this case, sought rehearing. His petition argued, for the first time, that 28 U.S.C. §1927 does not authorize sanctions
- [Court of Appeals: Statute of Frauds Does Not Nix Unsigned Agreement to Convey Property Upon Death](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/court-of-appeals-statute-of-frauds-does-not-nix-unsigned-agreement-to-conve/) - The Wisconsin Court of Appeals recently adjudicated a dispute about the legal standard applicable to a decades-old contract to transfer property after the owner’s death. See Haug v. Greve, 2015AP54 (April 26, 2016). The case involved the common law statute of frauds, as well as two Wisconsin statutes adopted at the very end of the
- [A Split Between Federal and State Law – Appealing Foreclosure Judgments](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/a-split-between-federal-and-state-law-appealing-foreclosure-judgments/) - In Bank of America v. Martinson, No. 13-3892 (7th Cir. July 5, 2016), the Seventh Circuit recently dismissed an appeal from a foreclosure judgment – issued by a federal court after removal from Wisconsin state court – based on Circuit precedent that a judgment of foreclosure is not a final, appealable order. The Circuit precedent
- [Court of Appeals Upholds Agency Rule Banning Weapons on City Buses](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/court-of-appeals-upholds-agency-rule-banning-weapons-on-city-buses/) - The Wisconsin Court of Appeals issued an opinion in Wisconsin Carry, Inc. v. City of Madison, 2015AP146 (Recommended for Publication), clearly distinguishing between agency rules and ordinances or resolutions when applying the preemption provision outlined in section 66.0409, Wis. Stats. Section 66.0409 relates to the local regulation of firearms, and includes a preemption provision precluding
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court Denies Newspaper's Request for Attorney Fees and Costs](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wisconsin-supreme-court-denies-newspapers-request-for-attorney-fees-and-cos/) - In Journal Times v. City of Racine Board of Police and Fire Commissioners, 2015 WI 56, __ Wis. 2d __, __, N.W.2d __ the Wisconsin Supreme Court recently determined the Newspaper did not prevail in substantial part and, therefore, was not entitled to recover fees and costs incurred in litigation of an Open Records Law
- [Municipal Law Memo: 7th Circuit Issues Opinion in Constitutional Case Arising from Zoning Decision](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/municipal-law-memo-august-14-2014/) - Seventh Circuit IssuesOpinion in Constitutional Case Arising from Zoning Decision In CEnergy-Glenmore Wind Farm #1, LLC v. Town of Glenmore, the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit demonstrated its hesitance to insert itself into local zoning decisions. Prelude, a company whose assets were later purchased by plaintiff, CEnergy, obtained a conditional use
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of August 19th, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-august-19th-2013/) - August 19th, 2013: Comments are due on the DNR’s draft guidance on the Sanitary Sewer Overflows Rule Implementation Guidance Document. August 20th, 2013: The DNR will hold a public meeting on Phase II of the Lincoln Park Project and Milwaukee River Channels Sediment projects. The EPA’s consultants for this project have completed the sediment sampling
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of August 12, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-august-12-2013/) - August 13, 2013: The DNR will hold a public hearing on an air pollution control construction permit application submitted by Expera Speciality Solution (previously known as Wausau Papers LLC). The permit applications includes plans and specifications for construction and operation of the replacement of up to five existing coal fired boilers with up to three
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of July 29th, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-july-29th-2013/) - No DNR public hearings this week. August 1, 2013: The revisions to chapter NR 210, Wisconsin Administrative Code to update and clarify the requirements for sanitary sewerage overflows becomes effective on August 1, 2013. Permittees with permits out on public notice should review their draft permits to ensure that the revised language is incorporated in
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of July 8th, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-july-8th-2013/) - July 8, 2013: The DNR will hold a public hearing on supplemental information the DNR plans to submit to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in support of a redesignation request for the Milwaukee-Racine Nonattainment Area for the 2006 24-hour PM2.5 National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) submitted to EPA on June 5, 2012. July 8,
- [Condemnor’s Duty to Negotiate in Good Faith is Limited to Compensation](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/condemnors-duty-to-negotiate-in-good-faith-is-limited-to-compensation/) - Condemnor’s Duty to Negotiate in Good Faith is Limited to Compensation In Zastrow v. American Transmission Company LLC, Case No. 17-AP-1848 (July 3, 2018) (unpublished) the Wisconsin Court of Appeals confirmed that a condemnor’s duty to negotiate in good faith relates only to the issue of compensation. American Transmission Company (ATC) held a pre-existing transmission
- [WI Courts Continue To Limit Criminal Expungement, Even as Legislature Considers Expanding Scope](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wi-courts-continue-to-limit-criminal-expungement-even-as-legislature-consid/) - In May, Representatives Steffer (R-Howard) and Hoyke (D-Milwaukee) introduced 2017 AB 331 in the Wisconsin Assembly. The proposed legislation would change current Wisconsin law to make expungement available to those previously convicted of a crime or who were ineligible for expungement at the time their case was resolved, and it would expand the number of
- [How Will Wis. Stat. § 895.463 Affect Disputes Over the Validity of Zoning Regulations?](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/how-will-wis-stat-895-463-affect-disputes-over-the-validity-of-zoning-reg/) - A new statutory provision adopted as part of 2015 Wisconsin Act 391 asserts that, in any dispute, “the court shall resolve an ambiguity in the meaning of a word or phrase in a zoning ordinance or shoreland zoning ordinance in favor of the free use of private property.” Wis. Stat. §895.463. On its face, this
- [State Law Preempts Local Landlord/Tenant Notice Requirement](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/state-law-preempts-local-landlord-tenant-notice-requirement/) - In Olson v. City of La Crosse, No. 2015AP127 (Wis. Ct. App. July 16, 2015) (publication recommended), the Wisconsin Court of Appeals, District IV, held that a city ordinance requiring landlords to notify tenants of city inspections under the city’s inspection and registration program was preempted by Wis. Stat. § 66.0104(2)(d)1.a. The City of La
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of July 22, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-july-22-2013/) - No DNR public hearings this week. In the past couple of weeks, a number of opinions of note have been released. United States of America, et al v. Midwest Generation, et al.: The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 7th Circuit concluded that enforcement of new source review (NSR) violations are limited to five years
- [Seventh Circuit Reaffirms Stringent Standards for Municipal Liability in Civil Rights Actions](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/seventh-circuit-reaffirms-stringent-standards-for-municipal-liability-in-ci/) - Since the United States Supreme Court’s seminal decision in Monell v. New York Department of Social Services, a municipality can be only found liable for civil rights claims brought under 42 U.S.C § 1983 if a plaintiff can show that a policy or custom of the municipality caused the violation of his or her constitutional
- [Enbridge Pipeline Expansion Likely to Proceed After Proof of Insurance](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/enbridge-pipeline-expansion-likely-to-proceed-after-proof-of-insurance/) - Enbridge Corporation (“Enbridge”) transports crude oil through a pipeline that runs from Superior, Wisconsin to Pontiac, Illinois. Enbridge wants to expand the volume of crude oil pumped through their line. The Dane County Board of Supervisors granted Enbridge a conditional use permit (“CUP”), subject to two insurance-related conditions. Condition 7 required Enbridge to procure and
- [Discharged Police Officer Has No Constitutional Entitlement to Pay During Pendency of His Appeal](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/discharged-police-officer-has-no-constitutional-entitlement-to-pay-during-p/) - As we reported in November 2016, the Wisconsin Court of Appeals upheld a decision by the Milwaukee City Board of Fire and Police Commissioners (“Board”) to terminate the employment of Milwaukee Police Department (“MPD”) Officer Daniel Vidmar for falsifying a document to take possession of an unclaimed dirt bike from MPD inventory. While Officer Vidmar
- [Court of Appeals Issues Decision in O’Donnell Park Parking Structure Litigation](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/court-of-appeals-issues-decision-in-odonnell-park-parking-structure-litigat/) - On July 11, the Wisconsin Court of Appeals addressed a couple of notable legal issues in litigation arising out of the O’Donnell Park Parking Structure panel collapse. Wosinski et al. v. Advance Cast Stone Co. et al., Nos. 2014AP1961, 2213, 2274, 2660, 2015AP1212 (Ct. App. 2017). Steven and Amy Wosinski, their son Eric, and their
- [Supreme Court’s Non-Decision in State v. Lynch Raises Questions About How the Court Does Its Work](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/supreme-courts-non-decision-in-state-v-lynch-raises-questions-about-how-th/) - Last week, the Wisconsin Supreme Court threw up its hands in a case it had agreed to adjudicate. At issue were what consequences attend a criminal complainant’s refusal to waive the privilege of keeping personal mental health treatment records private. See State v. Lynch, 2016 WI 66. This echoed the last time the Court considered
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court Reaffirms Four-Corners Rule Governs Duty to Defend, No Exceptions](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wisconsin-supreme-court-reaffirms-four-corners-rule-governs-duty-to-defend/) - The Wisconsin Supreme Court recently issued two decisions, Marks v. Houston Casualty Co., 2016 WI 53, and Water Well Solutions Service Group, Inc. v. Consolidated Insurance Co., 2016 WI 54, concerning the four-corners rule, which was the subject of our previous blog post. Water Well and Marks reaffirm the application, without exception, of the four-corners
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court Favors Dodgeville on Retroactivity Question in Property Tax Litigation](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wisconsin-supreme-court-favors-dodgeville-on-retroactivity-question-in-prop/) - This week, the Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled in favor of the City of Dodgeville, represented by Stafford Rosenbaum, in a major procedural dispute related to property tax litigation between the City and Lands’ End. Lands’ End, Inc. v. City of Dodgeville, 2016 WI 64. The Court’s decision affirms the plain text of the statute governing
- [The Wisconsin Supreme Court Takes a Second Bite at the Apple in 'Fontana Builders' Case](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/the-wisconsin-supreme-court-takes-a-second-bite-at-the-apple-in-fontana-bui/) - In Fontana Builders, Inc. v. Assurance Co. of America, the Wisconsin Supreme Court recently considered an insurance dispute featuring intricate facts and presenting a procedural puzzle. It may well be, as Justice Rebecca Bradley suggests in her separate opinion, that the outcome is motivated at least partially by a sense that the facts in this
- [Municipal Law Memo - July 19, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/municipal-law-memo-july-19-2014/) - City of New Richmond to Appeal Circuit Court DPPA/Open Records Decision: The City of New Richmond has announced its intention to appeal the decision of St. Croix County Circuit Court Judge Howard Cameron in the New Richmond News, et al. v. City of New Richmond case. This case garnered the attention of municipalities and police
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of July 15, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-july-15-2013/) - July 17, 2013:The Assembly Committee on Natural Resources and Sporting Heritage will hold an executive session on Assembly Bill 75 relating to the applicability of a county shoreland ordinance area annexed by, or incorporated as, a city or village. A similar bill (SB 183) has been passed by the Senate Committee on Economic Development and
- [Right to Appeal an Order on a Motion to Compel Arbitration: Wisconsin Supreme Court Makes It Final](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/right-to-appeal-an-order-on-a-motion-to-compel-arbitration-wisconsin-suprem/) - Buried in many modern contracts (from standard construction industry contracts to employment agreements, and from consumer contracts to mortgages and leases) are agreements to arbitrate any existing or future disputes. These arbitration provisions may appear innocuous, but, when a subsequent dispute develops between the contracting parties and one party prefers to be in court, a
- [Public Records Requests: Form Matters](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/public-records-requests-form-matters/) - Wisconsin’s Public Records Law requires officials to provide “the greatest possible information” in response to public records requests. Wis. Stat. § 19.31. In Lueders v. Krug, the Wisconsin Court of Appeals, District II, clarified that this mandate requires officials to provide electronic copies of materials if electronic copies are requested. In June 2016, Bill Lueders emailed
- [Supreme Court Ends Great Weight Deference to Agency Legal Interpretations, Splinters on Rationale](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/supreme-court-ends-great-weight-deference-to-agency-legal-interpretations-s/) - Supreme Court Ends Great Weight Deference to Agency Legal Interpretations, Splinters on Rationale For decades, Wisconsin courts deferred to administrative agencies’ interpretation of statutes and regulations under certain conditions. See Harnischfeger Corp. v. LIRC, 196 Wis. 2d 650, 659–60, 539 N.W.2d 98 (1995). The Supreme Court of Wisconsin put an end to this practice in
- [Wisconsin Court of Appeals Upholds Municipal Snowplowing Against Public Purpose Doctrine Challenge](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wisconsin-court-of-appeals-upholds-municipal-snowplowing-against-public-pur/) - The Town of Argonne is a small community in northern Wisconsin, near Michigan’s upper peninsula. For more than 60 years, the Town has removed snow from residents’ private driveways upon request. The Town handled snow removal pursuant to contracts, funding the work through fees paid for the service and not through tax revenues. The Town’s
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court Holds Municipalities Are Subject to Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wisconsin-supreme-court-holds-municipalities-are-subject-to-wisconsin-fair/) - In a shocking decision that will increase the cost of local governance and limit the ability of local governments to control their own affairs, the Wisconsin Supreme Court held last week that the Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law (“WFDL”) applies to municipalities. Benson v. City of Madison, 2017 WI 65. The remainder of this post discusses
- [Supreme Court Resolves Scope of Church Plan Exemption Under ERISA](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/supreme-court-resolves-scope-of-church-plan-exemption-under-erisa/) - By an unanimous (8-0) decision issued June 5, 2017, the United States Supreme Court broadly construed the “church plan” exemption from the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (“ERISA”), to include benefit plans established by church-affiliated organizations. Advocate Health Care Network v. Stapleton, Nos. 16–74, 16–86, 16–25, ___ U.S. ___ (2017), 2017 WL 2407476 (U.S. 2017).
- [Supreme Court Upholds Warrantless Breath Tests and Limits Penalties for Blood Test Refusals](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/supreme-court-upholds-warrantless-breath-tests-and-limits-penalties-for-blo/) - In Birchfield v. North Dakota, 579 U.S. __ (June 23, 2016), the United States Supreme Court held warrantless breath tests incident to arrest for drunk driving constitutional, but found warrantless blood tests unconstitutional. The Court also held that, despite the existence of implied consent laws in all States, criminal penalties cannot be imposed against drivers
- [Wisconsin Court of Appeals Suggests Circuit Courts Have Discretion Not to Follow Procedural Rules](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wisconsin-court-of-appeals-suggests-circuit-courts-have-discretion-not-to-f/) - A recent Wisconsin Court of Appeals seems to suggest that circuit courts have broad latitude in complying with the Wisconsin Rules of Civil Procedure. First Nat’l Bank of Am. v. Hanson, No. 2015AP925 (Wis. Ct. App. July 6, 2016). While judges should construe the Rules to “secure just, speedy, and inexpensive determination[s]” in litigation, the
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court Holds that Milwaukee Cannot Enforce City Employee Residency Requirements](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wisconsin-supreme-court-holds-that-milwaukee-cannot-enforce-city-employee-r/) - In Milwaukee Police Association v. City of Milwaukee, 2016 WI 47, the Wisconsin Supreme Court held that Wis. Stat. § 66.0502 precludes the City from enforcing its residency requirement. For many years, the City of Milwaukee has required its city employees to reside within city limits as a condition of employment. On June 20, 2013,
- [Beware the Liability Boogeyman](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/beware-the-liability-boogeyman/) - When it comes to opposing governmental decision-making, ‘boogeyman’ threats are not just the stuff of bedtime stories. Traditionally, the term ‘boogeyman’ serves as a common allusion to a mythical creature used in many cultures to frighten children into good behavior. If many nay-sayers at local governmental meetings are to be believed, these ‘boogeyman’ are no
- [Seventh Circuit Imposes Monetary Sanctions Against Lawyer for Forum Shopping](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/seventh-circuit-imposes-monetary-sanctions-against-lawyer-for-forum-sh/) - It is fairly accepted that strategic considerations factor into most plaintiffs’ choices of forum in which to sue. Yet the Seventh Circuit last week held that such forum shopping can rise to the level of conduct punishable by monetary sanctions. See Boyer v. BNSF Ry. Co., Nos. 14-3131 & 14-3182, slip op. (7th Cir. June
- [Local Governments Win in Supreme Court Government Speech Case](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/local-governments-win-in-supreme-court-government-speech-case/) - In Walker v. Texas Division, Sons of Confederate Veterans, Inc., 576 U.S. ___ (2015), the U.S. Supreme Court held, 5-4, that Texas may deny a proposed specialty license plate design featuring the Confederate flag because specialty license plate designs are government speech. Texas offers automobile owners a choice between ordinary and specialty license plates. Those
- [High Court Strikes Down Sign Ordinance](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/high-court-strikes-down-sign-ordinance/) - In Reed v. Town of Gilbert, 576 U.S. __ (2015), the United States Supreme Court held unconstitutional a sign ordinance differentiating between ideological, political and temporary directional signs. The Town of Gilbert, Arizona’s sign ordinance restricted the display of outdoor signs without a permit. The ordinance included exemptions for various categories of signs, each of
- [Recent Case Highlights the Importance of Clarity and Follow Through In Avoiding Family Disputes](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/trust-estates-law/recent-case-highlights-the-importance-of-clarity-and-follow-through-in-avoi/) - The recent Wisconsin Court of Appeals decision In the Matter of the Living Trust of Margaret Sheedy and Patrick Sheedy highlights not only the importance of clear drafting, but also follow through in avoiding family disputes in estate planning. The case involves a dispute between six siblings regarding the treatment of their parent’s cabin in
- [Supreme Court Upholds Reversal of City’s Rescission of Conditional Use Permit](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/supreme-court-upholds-reversal-of-citys-rescission-of-conditional-use-permi/) - In Oneida Seven Generations Corp. v. City of Green Bay, 2015 WI 50, the Wisconsin Supreme Court found that the City’s decision to rescind the conditional use permit (“CUP”) initially granted to Oneida Seven Generations (“Oneida Seven”) was improper. Oneida Seven submitted an application to the City Plan Commission for a CUP relating to a
- [Environmental Week in Preview -- Week of July 1, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-july-1-2013/) - Happy Fourth of July! Not much is going on this week due to the holiday. Although comments are due on the draft updates to the Guidance on Thermal Water Quality Standards, the proposed additions to the 303(d) list and the revisions to the WisCALM guidance. Also, the DNR has until July 1 to review plans
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of June 3, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-june-2013/) - June 5, 2013: The DNR will hold a public hearing regarding the proposed air pollution control construction permit application submitted by Wisconsin Public Service Corporation for ReACT activated carbon control system and associated operations on Weston Unit #3. June 6, 2013: The Division of Hearings and Appeals will hold a telephone prehearing conference in the
- [The Final Countdown: Changes to Discovery Rules (and more!) Await Litigants Starting Next Month](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/the-final-countdown-changes-to-discovery-rules-and-more-await-litigants-sta/) - As litigants turn the calendar on June, significant new rules await for cases filed after July1, 2018. Rather than take its cues from the Wisconsin Supreme Court, which traditionally governed procedural rules, the Legislature enacted substantial changes to Wisconsin’s laws on discovery. In 2017 WI Act 235, the Legislature implemented many new rules covered below
- [U.S. Supreme Court Decides Wisconsin Takings Case, Adopts Complex Test, and Approves Merger Clauses](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/u-s-supreme-court-decides-wisconsin-takings-case-adopts-complex-test-and-a/) - The U.S. Supreme Court decided a major regulatory takings case last week, ending a Wisconsin land-use battle that lasted more than a dozen years. See Murr v. Wisconsin, No. 15-214 (U.S. June 23, 2017). It is not common for a case to jump from an unpublished, non-precedential opinion in a state intermediate court of appeals
- [Court of Appeals counts small-claims time limit tightly, though statutes suggest looser approach](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/court-of-appeals-counts-small-claims-time-limit-tightly-though-statutes-sug/) - How do small-claims parties count time? It seems like a small question that should have a simple answer, but in practice it has proven a vexing one. In Team Property Management, LLC v. Reiss, No. 2016AP2163 (Wis. Ct. App. May 24, 2017) (unpublished), the Wisconsin Court of Appeals determined that the ten-day window after a
- [Why Murr v. Wisconsin is a Fascinating Takings Case that the U.S. Supreme Court Should Not Decide](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/why-murr-v-wisconsin-is-a-fascinating-takings-case-that-the-u-s-supreme-c/) - The U.S. Supreme Court is commanding attention this week for its decisions in the final, and sometimes more contentious, cases of this Term. And while we too are following the Court this week, we’re also looking at a case the Court will hear in the fall. Murr v. Wisconsin, No. 15-214 (U.S.), is a fascinating
- [Part 1: The Factual and Procedural Background of Murr v. Wisconsin](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/part-1-the-factual-and-procedural-background-of-murr-v-wisconsin/) - The case involves two adjacent riverfront lots along the St. Croix River in northwest Wisconsin. In 1968, the Upper St. Croix River was one of eight rivers granted federal protection under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. In 1972, another act of Congress extended protection to the Lower St. Croix River. Legislation and regulation on
- [Part 2: Why the Supreme Court Should Decide Not to Decide Murr v. Wisconsin](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/why-the-supreme-court-should-decide-not-to-decide-murr-v-wisconsin/) - The amicus brief we filed on behalf of WCA, WTA and the League did not delve into the merits of the takings issue that the parties are disputing. Rather, it sought to complement the parties’ arguments and assist the Court in two ways: First, based on our clients’ expertise as representatives of Wisconsin local governments,
- [Part 3: The Arguments of the Parties and the Federal Government in Murr v. Wisconsin](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/part-3-the-arguments-of-the-parties-and-the-federal-government-in-murr-v-w/) - The dispute over the validity of the St. Croix County zoning ordinance at issue in Murr really depends on how you define the petitioners’ property. (For an overview of the facts of this case, click here.) If, like the petitioners, you believe that Lots E and F are separate properties and must be considered as
- [Wisconsin Municipal Law Memo - June 23, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wisconsin-municipal-law-memo-june-23-2014/) - Wisconsin Supreme CourtDecidesInteresting Coverage Case: Last week, the Wisconsin Supreme Court issued its decision in Jackson v. Wisconsin County Mutual Insurance Corporation, 2014 WI 36, clarifying the definition of “using” a motor vehicle for purposes of determining coverage under an underinsured motorist policy. The plaintiff, Rachelle Jackson, a Milwaukee County deputy sheriff, was patrolling the
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of June 24th, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-june-24th-2013/) - June 25th, 2013 – The Wastewater Operator Certification Workgroup will hold a public meeting regarding its continuing work on the revisions to the Ponds, Lagoons & Natural Systems study guide and certification exam for waterwater treatment plant operators. June 26th, 2013 – The Natural Resources Board will hold a meeting in Wausau. The agenda includes
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of June 17th, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-june-17th-2013/) - June 17-21, 2013: The full legislature is likely to be taking up the budget this week. There are a number of environmental provisions in the budget including the removal of citizen’s rights to challenge high capacity well applications on the basis of the DNR’s failure to review cumulative impacts and restricts local governmental entities from
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of June 10, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-june-10-2013/) - June 10, 2013: The DNR will hold a public hearing on nine wastewater permits for facilities that have been allocated a wasteload in the Rock River Basin Total Maximum Daily Load. The facilities include: Village of Brownsville, Leroy Sanitary District, Village of Lomira, City of Mayville, Village of Theresa, Ashippun Sanitary District, Village of Hustisford,
- [What the U.S. Supreme Court’s Bethune-Hill Decision Means for Legislative Intervenors in Wisconsin](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/what-the-u-s-supreme-courts-bethune-hill-decision-means-for-legislative-in/) - Earlier this week, the U.S. Supreme Court decided in Virginia House of Delegates v. Bethune-Hill, No. 18-281 (U.S. June 17, 2019), that one chamber of the Virginia legislature lacked legal standing to appeal a federal court order requiring that some legislative districts be withdrawn. Virginia’s Attorney General had defended the districts in the trial court, but
- [Drug Recognition Evaluators and Daubert](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/drug-recognition-evaluators-and-daubert/) - The Wisconsin Court of Appeals recently held that testimony from a police officer trained as a drug recognition evaluator (“DRE”) is based upon “specialized knowledge” subject to Wisconsin’s Daubert standard under Wis. Stat. § 907.02. State v. Chitwood, 2015AP97, ¶ 32 (Wis. Ct. App. Apr. 13, 2016). In its published decision, the court further held
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court Accepts Important Open Records Case](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wisconsin-supreme-court-accepts-important-open-records-case/) - The Wisconsin Supreme Court announced that New Richmond News v. City of New Richmond, is among the cases it has recently accepted for review. This case involves the interplay between the Wisconsin Open Records Law, which generally provides for the disclosure of municipal records to the public, and the Driver’s Privacy and Protection Act (DPPA),
- [Wisconsin Municipal Law Memo - May 5, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wisconsin-municipal-law-memo-may-5-2014/) - State Supreme Court Accepts Another Case With Potential McNeely Issues: The Wisconsin Supreme Court has accepted another case that may provide guidance on the application of the Missouri v. McNeely decision in Wisconsin. State v. Foster involves a defendant charged with a sixth offense OWI. Unlike the two other cases accepted recently by the supreme
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of May 6, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-may-6-2013/) - May 6, 2013: The DNR will hold a public hearing on an air pollution control permit application submitted by Motor Castings Company – Plant 1. The application includes plans and specifications for modification and operation of a thermal sand reclamation unit. May 7, 2013: The DNR will hold a public meeting to present information regarding
- [Supreme Court Finds Unexpected Difference between Corporations and Limited Liability Companies](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/supreme-court-finds-unexpected-difference-between-corporations-and-limited/) - In Marx v. Morris, 2019 WI 34, the Wisconsin Supreme Court interpreted the Wisconsin LLC Act in an unexpected way. Specifically, Marx held that LLC members may bring suit in their capacity as members, instead of on behalf of the LLC, against other members, even when the harm alleged is primarily to the LLC. This deviates from corporate
- [State Can Raise New Argument in Civil Forfeiture Action, Even After Dismissing Criminal Charges](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/state-can-raise-new-argument-in-civil-forfeiture-action-even-after-dismissi/) - Some civil and criminal cases rely on indistinguishable facts. However, a recent Wisconsin Court of Appeals decision – Wisconsin v. Scott, et. al., 2017AP1345 – demonstrated that the parties need not make indistinguishable arguments in each case. In 2016, police seized drugs, money and vehicles pursuant to a search warrant for the Scotts’ property. However, it
- [New Bill Helps Municipalities Construct and Maintain Stormwater Ponds](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/new-bill-helps-municipalities-construct-and-maintain-stormwater-ponds/) - One critical component of stormwater management in many municipalities is the use of stormwater retention ponds. These ponds temporarily store stormwater runoff and release it through a designed outlet structure that helps reduce pollutant loads into waterways and controls erosion. Legislation enacted on April 26, 2016, 2015 Wisconsin Act 387, provides greater latitude for municipalities
- [Governor Walker Signs Riparian Rights and Wetlands Bill into Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/government-relations/governor-walker-signs-riparian-rights-and-wetlands-bill-into-law/) - On April 26, 2016, Governor Scott Walker signed Senate Bill 459 into law. Now known as 2015 Act 387 (the “Act”), the proposal will clarify riparian landowners’ rights in a number of areas, including boathouse maintenance and repair, boat shelter construction, seawall installation and replacement, wetland applications, and sensitive area designations. The questions surrounding these
- [Two Recent Decisions Shed Light on Prohibition of Double Jeopardy for Criminal Defendants](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/two-recent-decisions-shed-light-on-prohibition-of-double-jeopardy-for-crimi/) - The Wisconsin Court of Appeals recently decided two cases in which criminal defendants objected to efforts by the State to prosecute them twice for the same crime. Both the U.S. Constitution (in the Fifth Amendment) and the Wisconsin Constitution (in article I, section 8) prohibit double jeopardy. The defendant in the first case prevailed on
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of May 27, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-may-27-2013/) - May 28, 2013: The DNR will hold a public meeting to review the ambient air quality monitoring network. The DNR will review the changes that occurred in 2013 and will present an outline of proposed changes for 2014. An explanation will be provided for each deviation from the previous year’s plan as well as the
- [Noncompliance with Notice-of-Claim Statute Is Affirmative Defense, Must Be Pleaded](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/noncompliance-with-notice-of-claim-statute-is-affirmative-defense-must-be-p/) - Wis. Stat. § 893.80(1d) requires a potential claimant to provide notice, including “an itemized statement of the relief sought,” to a government entity within 120 days of the event giving rise to a potential suit. In Maple Grove Country Club Inc. v. Maple Grove Estates Sanitary District, 2019 WI 43, the Wisconsin Supreme Court recently held
- [Wis. Supreme Court Narrows Fraudulent-Transfer Exception, Suggests Stringent Pleading Requirements](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wis-supreme-court-narrows-fraudulent-transfer-exception-suggests-stringent/) - Generally, companies purchasing the assets of another company are not responsible for the seller’s liabilities. One long-established, but poorly defined, exception applies when the assets are transferred fraudulently in an effort to evade liabilities. In Springer v. Nohl Electric Products Corp., the Wisconsin Supreme Court took a step towards clarifying (and perhaps limiting) this fraudulent-transfer
- [Court of Appeals Reverses Agency Prohibition on Strip Searches at Juvenile Residential Care Centers](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/court-of-appeals-reverses-agency-prohibition-on-strip-searches-at-juvenile/) - In Milwaukee Academy v. Department of Children and Families, 2016 AP 2377, the Wisconsin Court of Appeals faced the question of whether residential care centers for minors are prohibited from ever strip-searching residents. The Court concluded that state law does not contain a blanket prohibition against strip searches in all circumstances. The specific strip search
- [Wisconsin Court of Appeals Rejects Novel Argument Against Enforcing Personal Guarantee](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wisconsin-court-of-appeals-rejects-novel-argument-against-enforcing-persona/) - In Bank Mutual v. Sherman, No. 2015AP2357 (Ct. App. May 17, 2017) (per curiam), the Wisconsin Court of Appeals held that an ex-husband continued to be liable for a commercial debt he guaranteed years earlier, for his then-wife. The court was not persuaded by the ex-husband’s novel argument that after the couple’s divorce and her
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court Reaffirms Bright-Line Building Permit Rule](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wisconsin-supreme-court-reaffirms-bright-line-building-permit-rule/) - In McKee Family I, LLC and JD McCormick Company, LLC v. City of Fitchburg, 2017 WI 34, No. 2014AP1914 (April 12, 2017), the Wisconsin Supreme Court affirmed the bright-line building permit rule, under which a property owner cannot claim vested rights absent submission of an application for a building permit that conforms to the zoning
- [U.S. Supreme Court Reaffirms Capacious Scope of Federal Fair Housing Act](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/u-s-supreme-court-reaffirms-capacious-scope-of-federal-fair-housing-act/) - The Supreme Court of the United States recently decided Bank of America Corp. v. City of Miami, Nos. 15-1111 & 15-1112, slip op. (U.S. May 1, 2017). The Court remanded the case for further proceedings, and it remains far from clear whether the City can prevail in the end. But the case illustrates the striking
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court Provides Little Guidance with Hyper-textual Ruling on Service of Process](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wisconsin-supreme-court-provides-little-guidance-with-hyper-textual-ruling/) - Before filing suit against the state for the actions of a state employee, a plaintiff must notify the attorney general. Specifically, notice “shall be served upon the attorney general at his or her office in the capitol by certified mail.” Wis. Stat. §893.82(5). Because the attorney general’s office in the capitol does not accept mail
- [New Richmond Decision Provides Some Clarity on Public Records, but Questions Still Remain](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/new-richmond-decision-provides-some-clarity-on-public-records-but-questions/) - The Wisconsin Court of Appeals issued a decision in the ongoing case of New Richmond News v. City of New Richmond, 2014AP1938 on May 10, 2016. The decision provides much anticipated instruction on the interplay between the Wisconsin Public Records Law and the Driver’s Privacy and Protection (DPPA). However, the decision also leaves many questions
- [Wisconsin Municipal Law Memo - May 16, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wisconsin-municipal-law-memo-may-16-2014/) - Wisconsin Courts Issue Public Records Decision: The Wisconsin Court of Appeals recently issued a decision in an interesting public records case, Ardell v. Milwaukee Board of School Directors. Ardell made a public records request to MBSD seeking disclosure of records relating to an MBSD employee. Applying the public records balancing test, MBSD initially decided to
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of May 20, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-may-20-2013/) - May 20, 2013: The DNR will hold a public hearing on a proposed wastewater discharge permit for Ziegler Dairy Farms and GL Dairy Biogas LLC/ Middleton Digester. There are two linked projects, the proposed Dane County Manure Handling Facility (Middleton Digester) to be operated by GL Dairy Biogas, LLC and the expansion they have planned
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of May 13, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-may-13-2013/) - May 14, 2013: The Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection board meeting will include the request to approve the final draft rule related to the farmland preservation program. The rule creates ch. ATCP 49 which specifies the application content and process for receiving certification of farmland preservation plans and ordinances, authorizes additional uses allowed
- [Court of Appeals Reaffirms Parties Cannot Recover Lost Profits for Unlawful Activity](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/court-of-appeals-reaffirms-parties-cannot-recover-lost-profits-for-unlawful/) - The Wisconsin Court of Appeals recently decided 200 Broadway LLC v. City of Milwaukee, Case No. 2016AP273 (May 2, 2017). The decision is interesting both for its central holding that a party is not entitled to damages for lost profits from an unlawful business, and because the appellate court relied heavily on nineteenth century precedent.
- [Wisconsin Court of Appeals Clarifies when a Plaintiff’s Claim Accrues for Limitations Purposes](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wisconsin-court-of-appeals-clarifies-when-a-plaintiffs-claim-accrues-for-li/) - To bring a lawsuit, a plaintiff must file suit in a timely manner. Different kinds of claims face different time limits—limitation periods, in legalese. These limitation periods generally measure time from when the plaintiff’s cause of action first accrues. But that in itself is not very helpful. The Wisconsin Court of Appeals in Bleecker v.
- [Wisconsin Court of Appeals Rules for First Time on Waivers of Right to a Civil Jury Trial](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wisconsin-court-of-appeals-rules-for-first-time-on-waivers-of-right-to-a-ci/) - The Wisconsin Constitution guarantees the right to jury trial, even for civil litigants. Art. I, § 5. It also expressly provides for the waiver of that right “in the manner prescribed by law.” Id. In Parsons v. Associated Banc-Corp., No. 2014AP2581, slip op. (Wis. Ct. App. May 10, 2016), the Wisconsin Court of Appeals illuminated,
- [Supreme Court Reasserts FERC Authority Over Wholesale Markets, Open to Incentives for New Investment](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/u-s-supreme-court-reasserts-ferc-authority-over-wholesale-electricity-mark/) - Earlier this year, the Stafford Rosenbaum Appellate Practice blog addressed the U.S. Supreme Court decision in FERC v. Electric Power Supply Association, 136 S. Ct. 760 (U.S. 2016), which discussed the boundary between the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and the authority of state regulators over electricity markets. Last week, in Hughes
- [Court of Appeals Explains Options for Appealing Police and Fire Commission Disciplinary Actions](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/court-of-appeals-explains-options-for-appealing-police-and-fire-commission/) - In Dillenberg v. Hobart/Lawrence Police & Fire Commission, No. 2015AP1313 (March 30, 2016), the Wisconsin Court of Appeals provided a clear overview of the two different procedural paths available after a Police and Fire Commission levies discipline. The decision—which upheld Dillenberg’s discharge from the police department—is an excellent primer on statutory and certiorari review under
- [Recent Developments in Online Contracts and Liability Waivers](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/recent-developments-in-online-contracts-and-liability-waivers/) - Two recent cases—one in the Seventh Circuit and one in the Wisconsin Supreme Court—struck down broad contracts seeking to bind consumers who had no opportunity to negotiate terms. While the cases deal with completely different subject matter and apply different substantive law, both reached similar results. Companies and customers alike should pay heed. * *
- [New Law Affecting Board of Review Procedures](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/new-law-affecting-board-of-review-procedures/) - 2013 Wisconsin Act 228 made some new changes to the law governing the Board of Review that took effect January 1, 2015. The major changes to the law are as follows: The municipality must send notices of changed assessment to the property owner at least 30 days before the meeting of the board when the
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of April 7, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-april-7-2014/) - April 8-11, 2014: The Division of Hearings and Appeals will hold a contested case hearing regarding the air pollution control construction permit issued to FML Sand, LLC. April 9, 2014: The Natural Resources Board agenda includes a request to adopt changes to NR 157, NR 219 and NR 233 related to analytical test methods and
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of April 29, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-april-29-2013/) - April 29, 2013: The DNR will hold a public hearing on an air pollution control construction application submitted by Enbridge Energy regarding plans and specifications for construction and operation of increased incoming and outgoing capacity, modify LDAR for new and existing operations (subject to BACT) and construction of two new tanks. April 30, 2013: The
- [Environmental Week In Preview – Week of April 8, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-april-8-2013/) - April 10, 2013:The Assembly Committee on Natural Resources and Sporting Heritage will hold a public hearing on a number of bills – Assembly Bills 8, 75 and 84. Assembly Bill 8 relates to restrictions on hunting within a specified distance of hospitals, sanatoriums, or school grounds and restrictions imposed by local governmental units on hunting
- [Striking Deer Insufficient to Establish Reasonable Suspicion in OWI Case](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/striking-deer-insufficient-to-establish-reasonable-suspicion-in-owi-case/) - On April 22, 2015, the Wisconsin Court of Appeals issued a decision in Village of Chenequa v. Schmalz, 2015AP94-FT, an OWI case involving an interesting set of facts. Village Police Officer, Richard Johns, observed Schmalz’s vehicle traveling below the speed limit at 3:00 a.m. on a Sunday morning. Officer Johns also reported that Schmalz was
- [Wisconsin Municipal Law Memo - April 28, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wisconsin-municipal-law-memo-april-28-2014/) - New LawMay Lead to Changes in the Prosecution of Marijuana Possession: A new law relating to the prosecution of marijuana possession in Wisconsin, 2013 Wisconsin Act 293, was recently enacted. The new law gives municipalities broader authority to enact ordinances prohibiting the possession of marijuana or a synthetic cannabinoid. Previously, ordinances could only prohibit possession
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court Enforces Contractual Pre-Litigation Jury Waiver](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wisconsin-supreme-court-enforces-contractual-pre-litigation-jury-waiver/) - The Wisconsin Supreme Court issued a decision in Parsons v. Associated Banc-Corp., 2017 WI 37, upholding the enforceability of a contractual pre-litigation jury waiver. The court also found that although the motion to strike plaintiff’s jury demand was filed almost three years after the litigation commenced, it was not untimely. The majority decision is written
- [Court of Appeals Expands Municipal Protection Conferred by Wisconsin’s Recreational Immunity Statute](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/court-of-appeals-expands-municipal-protection-conferred-by-wisconsins-recre/) - Wisconsin’s recreational immunity statute, Wis. Stat. § 895.52, provides municipalities with broad immunity from liability for injuries to any person engaged in recreational activities on municipal property. The statute sets forth a three-part definition of recreational activity. The first part of the section defines recreational activity as “any outdoor activity undertaken for the purpose of
- [In a Vicious Dog Bite Case, Court Awards Only the Cost of a Replacement Dog](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/in-a-vicious-dog-bite-case-court-awards-only-the-cost-of-a-replacement-dog/) - On April 7, 2016, the Wisconsin Court of Appeals issued a decision regarding the proper measure of damages when a family dog was attacked and severely injured by a larger dog owned by neighbors. This issue had been expressly left open by the Wisconsin Supreme Court in Rabideau v. City of Racine, 2001 WI 57.
- [Is Denial of a Litigant’s Request for Anonymity Immediately Appealable?](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/is-denial-of-a-litigants-request-for-anonymity-immediately-appealable/) - Is denial of a plaintiff’s request to bring suit without disclosing their identity within the “‘small class’ of non-final orders that are deemed final and immediately appealable” under the collateral order doctrine? Doe v. Village of Deerfield, No. 15-2069, slip op. at 4 (7th Cir. Apr. 12, 2016). The Seventh Circuit considered that question for
- [Municipalities May Continue to Draw Districts Based on Total Population](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/title/) - The one-person, one-vote rule requires states and local governments to draw congressional districts with populations as close to perfect equality as possible. Recently, in Evenwel v. Abbott, 578 U.S. ___ (2016), the United States Supreme Court held states and local governments may apportion state legislative districts based on total population. The Evenwel decision confirmed that
- [Recent Legislative Changes Affecting Municipalities](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/recent-legislative-changes-affecting-municipalities/) - There have been a number of changes to the current law as a result of the most recent legislative session, many of which will affect municipalities. Summaries of these acts are provided below. Absentee Ballots 2015 Wisconsin Act 209 clarifies that when an absentee ballot is requested prior to the 47th day before a partisan
- [Policy Items Removed From Budget, Budget Committee Begins Its Work](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/government-relations/policy-items-removed-from-budget-budget-committee-begins-its-work/) - Although not required by law to do so, the Legislature’s non-partisan Legislative Fiscal Bureau (“LFB”) routinely responds to individual members’ requests to identify all of the non-fiscal policy items included in the biennial budget. The LFB generally identifies these items as having no fiscal effect on the state budget or having policy implications that far
- [Wisconsin Municipal Law Memo - April 22, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wisconsin-municipal-law-memo-april-22-2014/) - Wisconsin Supreme Court Accepts Cases Which May Provide Guidance on McNeely: The Wisconsin Supreme Court recently accepted two cases which may provide some guidance on the application of the recent US Supreme Court Missouri v. McNeely decision in Wisconsin. The McNeely decision has created some uncertainty in the application of Informed Consent Laws, as the
- [Wisconsin Municipal Law Memo - April 10, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wisconsin-municipal-law-memo-april-10-2014/) - Wisconsin Supreme Court Decides Special Assessments Case The Wisconsin Supreme Court recently reversed the court of appeals decision in CED Properties LLC v. City of Oshkosh. The case involved special assessments levied by the City against a property owned by CED on the corner of Murdock Avenue and Jackson Street. The city levied assessments against
- [Wisconsin Municipal Law Memo - April 2, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wisconsin-municipal-law-memo-april-2-2014/) - Senate Ends Legislative Session By Passing Bills Affecting Municipalities: On April 1st, the legislative session ended. The Senate passed a number of bills in its last session that affect municipalities. Summaries of these bills are provided below along with a brief update on some bills that have been discussed in prior posts. County Clerks 2013
- [Happy Earth Week!](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/happy-earth-week/) - Environmental Week in Preview – Week of April 22, 2013 April 24th, 2013 – Natural Resources Board meeting. The agenda, once again, includes no action items or scope statement requests on air, water or waste issues. The Board will be taking comment on the public participation method and will review the new public input process
- [Environmental Week In Preview – Week of April 15, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-april-15-2013/) - April 16, 2013: The DNR will hold a public hearing on an air pollution control permit application from Waupaca Foundry. The permit application includes plans and specifications for modifications of an existing sand cooler process and the construction of a replacement shakeout process. April 16, 2013: The DNR will hold a public hearing on an
- [Scabby the Rat is Deflated](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/scabby-the-rat-is-deflated/)
- [Entertainment Law: Why Creative Professionals Need an Attorney](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/intellectual-property-and-entertainment-law/entertainment-law-why-creative-professionals-need-an-attorney/) - As a filmmaker, writer, musician, photographer, visual artist or other creative professional, your core business is developing your craft and your work. But the business of being a creative professional requires the assistance of attorneys who are knowledgeable about your creative work and industry. An attorney with this background can assist you with certain key legal services
- [New Technologies Will Present New “Walking Quorum” Challenges for Governmental Bodies](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/new-technologies-will-present-new-walking-quorum-challenges-for-governmenta/) - A “walking quorum” is a series of gatherings among separate groups of members of a governmental body, each less than quorum size, who agree, tacitly or explicitly, to act uniformly in sufficient number to reach a quorum. Recognizing that a walking quorum may produce a predetermined outcome and deprive the public the opportunity to observe
- [U.S. Supreme Court Decides Bankruptcy Case in Favor of Trustees’ Avoidance Powers](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/u-s-supreme-court-decides-bankruptcy-case-in-favor-of-trustees-avoidance-p/) - The Supreme Court unanimously decided a bankruptcy issue that had the circuit courts across the country split. The Court weighed in favor of trustees’ ability to avoid debtors’ pre-petition transfers. Merit Mgmt. Grp., LP v. FTI Consulting, Inc. (Feb. 27 2018). Specifically, the Court analyzed an exception to trustees’ avoidance powers carved out in the
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court holds that courts cannot privatize determinations of legal rights](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wisconsin-supreme-court-holds-that-courts-cannot-privatize-determinations-o/) - Private parties can agree to resolve their disputes through arbitration. When they do so, courts enforce those agreements, and the merits of the parties’ disputes are not addressed within the judicial branch. Instead, the parties pay arbitrators to consider evidence, hear argument, and issue binding decisions. But what happens if the court, rather than the
- [In Which the Wisconsin Court of Appeals Fails to Distinguish Between a Dog and a Horse](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/in-which-the-wisconsin-court-of-appeals-fails-to-distinguish-between-a-dog/) - In July 2011, Jerome Drexler died riding his motorcycle. He crashed into a horse on Highway 97 in Marathon County. The horse (whose post-crash condition the court of appeals does not report), along with three others also running loose that day, belonged to Edward Schwartz. Under an oral agreement, Schwartz and his horses were residing
- [Wisconsin Municipal Law Memo - March 6, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wisconsin-municipal-law-memo-march-6-2014/) - New Changes May Require OWI 1st In-Person Appearance: The Wisconsin Senate Committee on Transportation, Public Safety and Veterans and Military Affairs recently approved a bill that would require any person cited for a first offense operating while intoxicated to appear in person to make his or her plea. Currently, a person cited for first offense
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of March 3, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-march-3-2014/) - March 3, 2014: The legislature will hold a joint legislative committee hearing on SB 632 which regulates a municipality’s ability to regulate frac sand mining and processing operations. This bill is a scaled down version of SB 349 which included a broad preemption of local control over water and air regulation. Although SB 632 fixes
- [Wisconsin Municipal Law Memo - March 3, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wisconsin-municipal-law-memo-march-3-2014/) - ExtraterritorialAuthority Discussed in Delavan Case The Wisconsin Court of Appeals recently decided Lake Delavan Property Company, LLC v. City of Delavan, finding the City’s denial of a proposed plat within the extraterritorial jurisdiction was based on the proposed use of the land, and thus, was prohibited under § 236.45(3)(b), Wis. Stats. In 2004 and 2006,
- [Environmental Week In Preview – Week of April 1, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-april-1-2013/) - April 2, 2013: The Assembly Committee on Energy and Utilities will hold an executive session on Assembly Bill 39 relating to the power and duties of an electric transmission company and certificates of public convenience and necessity and permits for certain electric generating facilities and high-voltage transmission lines. The bill proposes to clarify when an
- [Environmental Week in Preview -- Week of March 4, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-march-4-2013/) - March 5 and 6th, 2013: The DNR Bureau of Endangered Resources initiated and completed a review of Wisconsin’s rare species and now proposes changes to Ch. NR 27, Wis. Adm. Code which will add eight species and remove 16 species to the Wisconsin endangered and threatened species list and will update 20 scientific names. The
- [Seventh Circuit Predicts That Wisconsin Will Adopt Learned Intermediary Doctrine](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/seventh-circuit-predicts-that-wisconsin-will-adopt-learned-intermediary-doc/) - The Seventh Circuit recently addressed an open issue under Wisconsin products liability law—do manufacturers of prescription drugs or medical devices satisfy their duty to warn of product risks by informing prescribing physicians (rather than the patients themselves) of those risks? In In re: Zimmer, NextGen Knee Implant Products Liability Litigation, No. 16-3957 (7th Cir. Mar.
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court Decision Leaves Certified Questions Unanswered](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wisconsin-supreme-court-decision-leaves-certified-questions-unanswered/) - In State v. Howes, 2017 WI 18, the Wisconsin Supreme Court analyzed a warrantless blood draw in an OWI in light of, Missouri v. McNeely, 133 S. Ct. 1552 (2013), in which the U.S. Supreme Court addressed the constitutionality of warrantless blood draws to prevent dissipation in alcohol concentration. Howes, however, may not provide Wisconsinites
- [Attorney General Files Amicus Brief in Wisconsin Carry, Inc. v. City of Madison](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/attorney-general-files-amicus-brief-in-wisconsin-carry-inc-v-city-of-madi/) - On March 18, 2016, the Wisconsin Attorney General filed an amicus brief in Wisconsin Carry, Inc. v. City of Madison, 2015AP000146. This case involves a City of Madison Transit and Parking Commission rule prohibiting riders on city buses from carrying weapons and the possible preemption of that rule by Wis. Stat. § 66.0409, precluding any
- [Budget Hearings Conclude, JFC Set to Begin Voting…Maybe](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/government-relations/budget-hearings-conclude-jfc-set-to-begin-votingmaybe/) - Every budget year, the legislature’s Joint Finance Committee and its non-partisan budget office, the Legislative Fiscal Bureau (“LFB”), must complete a number of routine – if not ministerial – tasks prior to taking a single vote on the budget bill. Typically, those actions are bookended by the JFC receiving budget briefings from major agencies and
- [Wisconsin Municipal Law Memo - March 28, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wisconsin-municipal-law-memo-march-28-2014/) - Wisconsin Assembly Passes Bills Affecting Municipalities: The Wisconsin Assembly recently passed a number of bills that will impact municipalities. Below are summaries of each of these bills, which address a wide variety of issues. The State Senate is poised to addressed some additional bills in its last session on April 1, 2014. Tax Incremental Districts
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of March 24th, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-march-24th-2014/) - March 24, 2014: An open house and informational meeting will be held regarding the Ashland Northern States Power Lakefront Superfund Site. Remediation work will begin this spring for the on-land portion of the Superfund site. Details of the activities for 2014 and the potential impacts to the neighborhood will be shared. Work is expected to
- [Environmental Week In Preview -- Week of March 25, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-march-25-2013/) - March 27, 2013: Natural Resources Board Meeting. The agenda includes request for approval of scoping statement on proposed rules affecting the construction and operation air permit program. The scoping memorandum states that the proposed rules are not intended to alter existing policy or establish new policy. The primary goal of the proposed rules is to
- [Court of Appeals Denies Nonprofit Medical Clinics from Claiming Property Tax Exemption](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/court-of-appeals-denies-nonprofit-medical-clinics-from-claiming-property-ta/) - The Wisconsin Court of Appeals recently held that a hospital owned by a non-profit entity failed to demonstrate that three medical clinics it also owns are not used as “doctor’s offices,” and therefore are not exempt under Wisconsin’s nonprofit hospital property tax exemption. Mile Bluff Medical Center, Inc. v. Village of Necedah, City of New
- [Only Wisconsin Case Before U.S. Supreme Court this Term Should Not Be Decided](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/only-wisconsin-case-before-u-s-supreme-court-this-term-should-not-be-decid/) - There is only one Wisconsin case at the U.S. Supreme Court this Term. Murr v. Wisconsin (No. 15-214) will be heard on March 20—but the Court should not decide it. As this blog has previously detailed, the Murr case involves a dispute about how land-use regulations adopted to protect the Lower St. Croix River apply
- [Plain Language in Oshkosh Special Events Ordinance Prevails](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/government-relations/plain-language-in-oshkosh-special-events-ordinance-prevails/) - Many municipal ordinances do not define each term in each section. Instead, municipalities may rely on a common meaning to define an ordinance term. The Wisconsin Court of Appeals in City of Oshkosh v. Kubiak, 2016AP804 (Wis. Ct. App. Feb. 15, 2017) (unpublished opinion) (recommended for publication), affirmed this fact. In Kubiak, the Wisconsin Court
- [Court of Appeals Addresses Scope of Wisconsin's Right-to-Farm Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/court-of-appeals-addresses-scope-of-wisconsins-right-to-farm-law/) - In Village of Black Earth v. Black Earth Meat Market, LLC, Nos. 2015AP912 & 2015AP913 (Wis. Ct. App. Mar. 17, 2016) (per curiam), the Court of Appeals considered the scope of Wisconsin’s Right-to-Farm law and its interaction with municipal authority. Black Earth Meats operated a slaughterhouse and retail meat market business in the Village. As
- [Justice Thomas Breaks His Silence – What it Means for Your Oral Argument](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/justice-thomas-breaks-his-silence-what-it-means-for-your-oral-argument/) - On February 29, 2016 Justice Clarence Thomas broke his ten year silence from the bench, asking not just one question during oral argument, but nine. What does this mean for appellate attorneys preparing for oral argument? Plenty. By the time an appellate attorney is preparing for oral argument, the briefs will have been filed, perhaps
- [Appeals Court Finds City Does Not Have Governmental Immunity in Explosion Case](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/appeals-court-finds-city-does-not-have-governmental-immunity-in-explosion-c/) - In Oden v. City of Milwaukee, No. 2014AP130, slip op. (Wis. Ct. App. Mar. 3, 2015), the court of appeals held that the City of Milwaukee was not entitled to summary judgment on the grounds that the City was immune from a negligence suit involving a gas leak and eventual explosion of a City resident’s
- [Wisconsin Municipal Law Memo - March 20, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wisconsin-municipal-law-memo-march-20-2014/) - Assembly Passes Bills Affecting Municipalities: On March 18th, the Wisconsin State Assembly passed a number of bills that will affect municipalities. A brief summary of these bills is provided below. A number of additional bills will be addressed at the Assembly's March 20th session. Alcohol Licenses 2013 Senate Bill 250 relates to Class B alcohol
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of March 17, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-march-17-2014/) - March 18, 2014: The comment period will end for comments regarding draft DNR guidance on how TMDL waste load allocations will be implemented within MS4 permits. The guidance also discusses how a MS4 permitee will be expected to model its MS4 service area and storm water management measures to show compliance with TMDL requirements. March
- [Wisconsin Municipal Law Memo - March 13, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wisconsin-municipal-law-memo-march-13-2014/) - State Senate Passes Bills Affecting Municipalities: On March 11, 2014, the Wisconsin State Senate passed a number of bills that will affect municipalities. A short summary of these bills is provided below. A number of bills affecting municipalities will be addressedduring the March 18, 2014 Assembly session. Stay tuned for updates! Tax Incremental Districts 2013
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of March 18, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-march-18-2013/) - March 19, 2013 – Public hearing on the proposed revisions to wastewater pretreatment for DNR, pretreatment programs of publicly owned treatment works and for industries discharging wastewater to POTWs. The revisions incorporate federal pretreatment requirements and enable Wisconsin’s pretreatment requirements to more closely conform to federal pretreatment regulations found in 40 CFR Part 403. March
- [Environmental Week In Preview – Week of March 11, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-march-11-2013/) - March 11, 2013: The DNR will hold a public meeting to gather public input on the potential installation of a second ozone monitor in Kenosha County. In April 2012, the DNR indicated in a letter that a location for an ozone monitor that would be more representative of general population exposure may be investigated. This
- [Copyright 101 for Businesses and Artists](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/intellectual-property-and-entertainment-law/copyright-101-for-businesses-and-artists/)
- [Wisconsin’s Property Tax Assessment Statutes Challenge to be Decided by the Wisconsin Supreme Court](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wisconsins-property-tax-assessment-statutes-challenge-to-be-decided-by-the/) - The Wisconsin Supreme Court will soon decide whether Wisconsin’s law on property tax assessment is constitutional. The Court heard oral arguments for Milewski v. Town of Dover, No. 2015AP152, 2016 WL 1761988 (Wis. Ct. App. May 4, 2016) (unpublished opinion) last month, and the Wisconsin Realtors Association, the Institute for Justice, and the Wisconsin Department of Justice
- [U.S. Supreme Court to Clarify State’s Treatment of Military Disability Benefits in Divorce Case](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/u-s-supreme-court-to-clarify-states-treatment-of-military-disability-benef/) - On March 20, 2017, the Supreme Court will hear arguments in Howell v. Howell, No. 15-1031 (U.S.). The case involves a conflict between a federal law, the Uniformed Services Former Spouses’ Protection Act (“USFSPA”), and a state court spousal support order. The Supreme Court is now hearing this case because different states have reached different
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court: Blood Draw by EMT in County Jail for OWI Test](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wisconsin-supreme-court-blood-draw-by-emt-in-county-jail-for-owi-test/) - Under Wisconsin law, blood can be drawn from a person arrested for operating a vehicle while intoxicated “OWI”) to determine the presence or quantity of alcohol in the person’s body. However, only a physician, registered nurse, medical technologist, physician assistant, phlebotomist, or other medical professional who is authorized to draw blood, or person acting under
- [Wrap-up of Stafford Rosenbaum Recent and Imminent Appellate Arguments](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wrap-up-of-stafford-rosenbaum-recent-and-imminent-appellate-arguments/) - On January 27, 2016, Stafford Rosenbaum senior associate Erika L. Bierma argued United States v. Harrington, Nos. 14-3010 & 14-3028, before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit. This case deals with whether or not Mr. Harrington knowingly and voluntarily waived his right to counsel at sentencing. Mr. Harrington was represented by prior
- [Shortcuts to Appeal Can Come Back to Haunt You](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/shortcuts-to-appeal-can-come-back-to-haunt-you/) - In any given case, litigation can be a long and winding road. Because so many discrete issues arise along the way, it is often tempting to seek a shortcut to early appellate review. To be sure, interlocutory appeals can help ensure a case is resolved correctly and in reasonable time, as evidenced not only by
- [Will the Four-Corners Rule Continue to Determine Whether an Insurer Bears the Duty to Defend?](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/will-the-four-corners-rule-continue-to-determine-whether-an-insurer-bears-t/) - Insurance policies often provide that the insurer will provide (that is, bankroll) a legal defense for the insured, if a third party brings claims against the insured that arise from an occurrence covered by the insurance policy. The litigation process can be both extended and expensive. Moreover, which party bears ultimate liability—whether the occurrence actually
- [Proposed Wisconsin Budget Provision Potentially Impacts Municipalities](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/proposed-wisconsin-budget-provision-potentially-impacts-municipalities/) - As part of his 2015-17 biennial budget proposal Governor Scott Walker has recommended consolidating municipal (town, village and city) property tax assessment into a county wide assessment where, with limited exceptions for 1st and 2nd class cities, counties would administer the system. The proposal would consolidate the state’s 1,851 taxing districts into a single assessment
- [Property Assessment Consolidation Proposal Raises Questions From Local Governments](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/government-relations/property-assessment-consolidation-proposal-raises-questions-from-local-gove/) - As part of his 2015-17 biennial budget proposal Governor Scott Walker has recommended consolidating municipal (town, village and city) property tax assessment into a county wide assessment where, with limited exceptions for 1st and 2nd class cities, counties would administer the system. The proposal would consolidate the state’s 1,851 taxing districts into a single assessment
- [New Budget Includes Revised Approach to Property Assessment](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/new-budget-includes-revised-approach-to-property-assessment/) - Governor Walker's budget proposal, introduced February 3rd, recommendstransitioning fromthe current system of municipal property assessment to countywide property assessment. The proposed transition would begin in 2016 and be completeby 2017. Cities with a population over 39,000 (1st and 2nd class cities) may choose to maintain their own assessment approach,provided they meet certain regulations. Counties may
- [2015-17 Biennial State Budget Introduced, Major Provisions Unveiled](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/government-relations/2015-17-biennial-state-budget-introduced-major-provisions-unveiled/) - On February 3, 2015, Governor Scott Walker unveiled his $68.3 billion state spending plan. The Joint Finance Committee subsequently introduced the appropriations bill, which is now known as Assembly Bill 21/Senate Bill 21. Highlights of the major provisions of Governor Scott Walker’s spending plan include: Proposed all funds spending of $35.9 billion in FY15 and
- [Wisconsin Municipal Law Memo - February 27, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wisconsin-municipal-law-memo-february-27-2014/) - State Senate Will Consider Mandatory OWI Appearances: The Wisconsin Senate Committee on Transportation, Public Safety and Veterans and Military Affairs approved a bill that would require any person cited for a first offense operating while intoxicated to appear in person to make his or her plea. Currently, a person cited for first offense OWI, a
- [Wisconsin Municipal Law Memo: February 3, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wisconsin-municipal-law-memo6/) - Court of Appeals Clarifies Ignition Interlock Requirements/Prior Convictions The Wisconsin Court of Appeals recently clarified in Village of Grafton v. Seatz that even when a defendant’s prior OWI conviction is more than ten years old, the court must still order the installation of an ignition interlock device if the defendant is convicted of a subsequent
- [Environmental News – Week of February 25th, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-news-week-of-february-25th-2013/) - Hearings and Meetings: February 26, 2013: DNR hearing on air pollution control construction permit application submitted by WE Energies - Biomass-Fueled Cogeneration Facility, located at 200 Grand Avenue, Rothschild. February 26, 2013: Senate Committee on Government Operations, Public Works, and Telecommunications public hearing on SB 35 relating to the procedure for certificates of public convenience
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court Weighs in on Defense Costs Dispute Between Liability Insurers](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wisconsin-supreme-court-weighs-in-on-defense-costs-dispute-between-liabilit/)
- [Seventh Circuit Reminds That Failure to Timely Plead an  Affirmative Defense Can Be Fatal](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/seventh-circuit-reminds-that-failure-to-timely-plead-an-affirmative-defense/)
- [Top 5 Reasons You Should Register Your Trademarks](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/intellectual-property-and-entertainment-law/top-5-reasons-you-should-register-your-trademarks/)
- [Seventh Circuit Throws Ice Cold Water on Attempt to Undo Adverse State Court Decision](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/seventh-circuit-throws-ice-cold-water-on-attempt-to-undo-adverse-state-cour/)
- [The NLRB Creates a New Standard for Evaluating Workplace Rules’ Effect on the Right to Unionize](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/the-nlrb-creates-a-new-standard-for-evaluating-workplace-rules-effect-on-th/) - In The Boeing Company and Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace, IFPTE Local 2001 the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) articulated a new standard for determining whether employers’ rules and handbook provisions violate the National Labor Relations Act’s (NLRA) prohibition on rules that interfere with employees’ right to join labor organizations and bargain collectively.
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of February 24th, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-february-24th-2014/) - February 26, 2014: The Natural Resources Board agenda includes the request for adoption of two rule packages regarding well drilling, one request for hearing authorization for a rule package concerning the WPDES permit program and four scope statement approval requests regarding both air and water rules. The proposed rules for adoption concern heat exchange drilling,
- [Environmental News – Week of February 18th, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-news-week-of-february-18th-2013/) - Hearings and Meetings: February 18, 2013: Pubic informational meeting to provide update on petroleum contamination and cleanup from a pipeline spill in Washington County, Town of Jackson. February 19, 2013: Public informational meeting to review analysis of possible near road monitoring sites in Milwaukee and to recommend a site for a new air monitoring station.
- [Stafford Helps Municipalities Preserve “Discretionary” Immunity  in Wisconsin Supreme Court](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/stafford-helps-municipalities-preserve-discretionary-immunity-in-wisconsin/)
- [Seventh Circuit Holds Pharmaceutical Product Liability Claims Preempted By Federal Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/seventh-circuit-holds-pharmaceutical-product-liability-claims-preempted-by/) - The Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals held on January 19, 2018, that federal law preempts thousands of product liability claims, brought under the laws of various states, concerning Depo-T (a testosterone drug). Guilbeau v. Pfizer Inc., No. 17-2056 (7th Cir.). The case illuminates the intersection of tort law, federal regulation, and intellectual property. Generally, a
- [SNOOPING ON YOUR SPOUSE MAY VIOLATE FEDERAL PRIVACY LAWS - And Complicate Your Divorce](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/snooping-on-your-spouse-may-violate-federal-privacy-laws-and-complicate-you/) - In the midst of an acrimonious divorce, Paula Epstein surreptitiously placed an auto-forwarding “rule” on her husband’s email account that automatically—and unbeknownst to him—forwarded a copy of every email he received to her. Through this arrangement, Paula discovered emails between her husband (Barry) and several women. She then accused him of infidelity as part of
- [Wisconsin Court of Appeals Considers Personal Jurisdiction Based on Website Publication](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wisconsin-court-of-appeals-considers-personal-jurisdiction-based-on-website/) - In Salfinger v. Fairfax Media Ltd., No. 2015AP150 (Wis. Ct. App. Jan. 20, 2016) (recommended for publication), the Wisconsin Court of Appeals recently faced questions about personal jurisdiction over a foreign newspaper publisher. The case is particularly interesting because it takes precedents from the Industrial Age about the interaction necessary for a court to exercise
- [Single-Family Dwelling Zoning Ordinance Did Not Exclude Rentals](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/single-family-dwelling-zoning-ordinance-did-not-exclude-rentals/) - In Heef Realty & Investments, LLP v. City of Cedarburg Bd. of Appeals, No. 2014AP62, slip op. (Wis. Ct. App. Feb. 4, 2015) (recommended for publication), the court of appeals held that the Cedarburg Board of Appeals erred in interpreting the single-family dwelling zoning ordinances to preclude short-term rentals. Several property owners purchased homes to
- [Facebook Legacy: After-Death Settings](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/trust-estates-law/your-facebook-executor-facebook-after-death-settings/) - As we reported in Estate Planning for Your Digital Assets, the law is rapidly developing at the intersection of death and social media. Facebook has announced it will now enable users to direct the disposition their accounts. Other platforms are likely to follow suit. Facebook users can now plan what happens to their account at
- [Significant Changes to State’s Environment, Natural Resources Programs Proposed in Governor’s Budget](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/government-relations/significant-changes-to-states-environment-natural-resources-programs-propos/) - Although Governor Scott Walker proposed a number of sweeping changes to education policy, transportation funding and UW System administration, also included in his proposed budget were significant changes to the state’s environment and natural resources programs and agencies. Among the most significant modifications are: Prohibitions on the Stewardship Fund from obligating new debt for land
- [Wisconsin Municipal Law Memo - February 13, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wisconsin-municipal-law-memo-february-13-2014/) - Courts Address Extraterritorial Jurisdiction: The Wisconsin Court of Appeals recently decided Lake Delavan Property Company, LLC v. City of Delavan, finding the City’s denial of a proposed plat within the extraterritorial jurisdiction was based on the proposed use of the land, and thus, was prohibited under §236.45(3)(b), Wis. Stats. In 2004 and 2006, the Company
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of December 9th, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-december-9th-2013/) - December 10-11, 2013: The agenda for the Natural Resource Board meeting includes a request for adoption of proposed changes to the certification of wastewater operators, adoption of proposed revisions relating to statewide minimum standards for shoreland zoning , the approval of the Secretary’s executive order to extend deadline for county adoption of updated ordinances under
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court Confirms Limited Liability Exposure For Banks Upon Embezzlement By Employees](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wisconsin-supreme-court-confirms-limited-liability-exposure-for-banks-upon/)
- [Has the Wisconsin Court of Appeals Shown A Path to Change Successor Liability Law?](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/business-law/has-the-wisconsin-court-of-appeals-shown-a-path-to-change-successor-liabili/) - Ordinarily, an appellate court’s per curiam opinion—an unsigned ruling issued “by the court” rather than in the name of the authoring judge—does not merit close examination. In Wisconsin, per curiam opinions are unpublished and may not be cited in future cases, even for persuasive value. Thus, it would be easy to overlook the court of
- [Two Strikes and You’re Out: 7th Circuit Addresses Federal and State Rules on Voluntary Dismissal](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/two-strikes-and-youre-out-7th-circuit-addresses-federal-and-state-rules-on/) - Earlier this week, in Dvorak v. Granite Creek GP Flexcap I, LLC, No. 18-1892, 2018 WL 5801244 (7th Cir. Nov. 6, 2018), the Seventh Circuit addressed the interaction between federal and state rules governing voluntary dismissals of actions. Both Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 41(a) and its corresponding Illinois statute provide a “two strikes” rule: a plaintiff
- [Stafford files U.S. Supreme Court amicus brief on scope of 5th Amendment Self-Incrimination Clause](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/stafford-files-u-s-supreme-court-amicus-brief-on-scope-of-5th-amendment-se/) - The Fifth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees that “no person . . . shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself.” U.S. Const. amend. V. In February, the Supreme Court of the United States will hear City of Hays, Kansas v. Vogt (No. 16-1495), a case about the scope
- [WI COURT OF APPEALS CONFIRMS LIMITED LIABILITY EXPOSURE FOR BANKS UPON EMBEZZLEMENT BY EMPLOYEES](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wi-court-of-appeals-confirms-limited-liability-exposure-for-banks-upon-embe/) - On December 12, 2017, the Wisconsin Court of Appeals addressed a civil dispute arising from the high-profile criminal embezzlement scheme committed by Koss Corporation Vice President of Finance, Sujata (“Sue”) Sachdeva. At issue were allegations Koss made against its bank seeking recovery on the theory that the bank committed bad faith in not detecting the
- [2017 WISCONSIN ACT 67 MAKES MAJOR CHANGES TO WISCONSIN LAND USE LAW](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/2017-wisconsin-act-67-makes-major-changes-to-wisconsin-land-use-law/) - A new law signed by Governor Walker makes major changes to how private property can be regulated in Wisconsin. This new law, 2017 Wisconsin Act 67 (the “Act”), makes broad changes. This post addresses two aspects of the Act: changes to conditional use permits and preemption of clauses that merge substandard lots. Conditional use permits
- [Court of Appeals Decides Wis. Stat., Ch. 90, Applies Equally to Cities, Villages, and Towns](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/court-of-appeals-decides-wis-stat-ch-90-applies-equally-to-cities-villag/) - Over 150 years ago, the Wisconsin legislature passed a law, now codified in Chapter 90 of the Wisconsin Statutes, to resolve conflicts over fences separating neighboring agricultural lands. Chapter 90 requires fences partitioning farmland from neighboring properties. Chapter 90 also provides detailed requirements for what constitutes a sufficient partition fence and provides cost sharing and
- [Court of Appeals denies costs to individual who prevailed against unconstitutional forfeiture](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/court-of-appeals-denies-costs-to-individual-who-prevailed-against-unconstit/) - More than thirty years ago, the Wisconsin legislature adopted the Wisconsin Equal Access to Justice Act. That statute, modeled on the federal Equal Access to Justice Act, provides that an individual or small business that prevails in a suit brought by any state agency or in a challenge to an administrative rule may recover litigation
- [Seventh Circuit reaffirms that issue preclusion applies to United States government](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/seventh-circuit-reaffirms-that-issue-preclusion-applies-to-united-states-go/) - Anyone who has watched a television legal drama knows that different standards of proof apply in a criminal prosecution and a civil trial; a prosecutor must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, while civil liability requires only a bare majority (a preponderance, in legalese) of the evidence. The Seventh Circuit’s recent decision in United States
- [Court Prevents County from Regulating Private Underage Drinking Parties](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/court-prevents-county-from-regulating-private-underage-drinking-partie/) - In County of Fond du Lac v. Muche, No. 2015AP2223 (Wis. Ct. App. Oct. 26, 2016) (recommended for publication), the Wisconsin Court of Appeals, District II, invalidated Fond du Lac’s social host ordinance because it did not strictly conform with Wis. Stat. §125.07(1) regulating underage drinking. On June 20, 2015, Muche hosted a party at
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court Remands New Richmond Case to Court of Appeals](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wisconsin-supreme-court-remands-new-richmond-case-to-court-of-appeals/) - On December 18, 2015, the Wisconsin Supreme Court issued a decision in the case of New Richmond News v. City of New Richmond, 2015 WI 106, but the decision does not provide the clarity many in the municipal law world hoped it would. Instead, the Court’s decision, available here, vacates its decision to accept the
- ["Mass" Action Lawsuit Against School District Will Proceed](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/mass-action-lawsuit-again-school-district-will-proceed/) - In Townsend et al. v. Neenah Joint School District, 2013AP2839 (Recommended for Publication), the Wisconsin Court of Appeals clarified that while class actions involving unnamed parties cannot comply with Wisconsin's notice of claim statute, mass actions involving multiple but adequately identified parties may comply. Numerous teachers in the Neenah Joint School District served a notice
- [Wisconsin Municipal Law Memo](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wisconsin-municipal-law-memo1/) - Month in Review, November, 2013: With the upcoming holiday season and the end of the legislative session in sight, there was much activity in the area of municipal law in November. One change that will benefit municipalities is the increase in the maximum municipal court cost that may be recovered from a municipal court defendant.
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of December 30th, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-december-30th-2013/) - No public hearings this week. January 4, 2014: Comments due on EPA’s proposed rulemaking on regulatory clarifications relating to water quality standards. The proposed rulemaking includes revisions to how the EPA administrator determines that a new or revised water quality standard is necessary, designated uses, requirements of triennial reviews, implementation of antidegradation, variances and compliance
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of December 16th, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-december-16th-2013/) - December 16, 2013: The Division of Hearings and Appeals will continue a contested case hearing in the matter of the conditional high capacity well approval for two potable wells to be located in the Town of Richfield, Adams County issued to Milk Source Holdings, LLC on March 13, 2013. December 16 & 17, 2013: The
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of December 2, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-december-2-2013/) - December 2, 2013: Every three years, the DNR reviews Wisconsin’s water quality standards or related guidance for development or revision during the following three years. This process is called the triennial standards review process. The DNR is accepting comments to determining the priorities for the 2015-2017 triennial standards review process. The form for submitting topics can be
- [U.S. Supreme Court Holds That Federal Age Discrimination Law Applies to All Public Employers](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/u-s-supreme-court-holds-that-federal-age-discrimination-law-applies-to-all/) - In the first opinion of its new term, the United States Supreme Court unanimously held that the federal Age Discrimination in Employment Act (the “ADEA”) applies to all public employers, regardless of the number of employees that the entity has. The ruling in Mount Lemmon Fire District v. Guido affirmed the Ninth Circuit Court of
- [Circuit Court Ordered to Enforce Option-to-Purchase Provision in Commercial Real Estate Lease](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/circuit-court-ordered-to-enforce-option-to-purchase-provision-in-commercial/) - District II of the Wisconsin Court of Appeals recently remanded a commercial lease dispute back to the Waukesha County Circuit Court, directing the court to enforce the parties’ agreed-upon option-to-purchase provision as written. See Headstart Building, LLC v. National Centers for Learning Excellence, Inc., No. 2016AP434 (Wis. Ct. App. Nov. 8, 2017). The dispute originated
- [U.S. Supreme Court Reiterates That Not All Procedural Time Limits Are Jurisdictional](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/u-s-supreme-court-reiterates-that-not-all-procedural-time-limits-are-juris/) - The U.S. Supreme Court’s first decision of the current term involves a suit alleging age and sex discrimination in the workplace. But the Court addressed only an important, though technical, issue about deadlines for appellate filings. Hamer v. Neighborhood Housing Services of Chicago, No. 16-658, was argued on October 10. The Supreme Court quickly turned
- [Stafford Rosenbaum files Supreme Court brief on behalf of International Center for Law & Economics](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/stafford-rosenbaum-files-supreme-court-brief-on-behalf-of-international-cen/) - Courts generally defer to agency expertise when reviewing administrative rules that regulate conduct in areas where Congress has delegated authority to specialized executive-branch actors. An entire body of law—administrative law—governs agency actions and judicial review of those actions. And at the federal level, courts grant agencies varying degrees of deference, depending on what kind of
- [Court of Appeals Affirms Police Officer’s Discharge After Taking Unclaimed Property](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/court-of-appeals-affirms-police-officers-discharge-after-taking-unclaimed-p/) - In Vidmar v. Milwaukee City Bd. of Fire Police Commissioners, No. 2015AP1832 (Ct. App. Nov. 15, 2016) (recommended for publication), the court of appeals upheld a decision by the Milwaukee City Board of Fire and Police Commissioners (Board) to terminate an officer for rules violations arising out of his falsifying a document that allowed him
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court to Determine Scope of Open Meetings Law in School District Dispute](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wisconsin-supreme-court-to-determine-scope-of-open-meetings-law-in-school-d/) - In July 2011, as John Krueger’s son prepared to enter ninth grade in the Appleton Area School District, Krueger became concerned about the curriculum for the ninth-grade Communication Arts course. He requested the District offer an alternative curriculum for that course. The Superintendent asked members of the District’s Assessment, Curriculum, and Instruction Department to address
- [Town's Special Assessments for Roads Upheld](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/towns-special-assessments-for-roads-upheld/) - In First State Bank v. Town of Omro, No. 2015AP403 (Wis. Ct. App. Nov. 11, 2015) (recommended for publication), the Wisconsin Court of Appeals, District II, held that a municipality may use its police powers to build roads and levy special assessments against the land benefitted after a developer defaults in its obligation to build
- [Court of Appeals Upholds Fire Protection Fee Ordinance](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/court-of-appeals-upholds-fire-protection-fee-ordinance/) - On November 12, 2015, the Wisconsin Court of Appeals decided Town of Hoard v. Clark County, No. 2015AP678, upholding a Town of Hoard ordinance assessing a fee for fire protection on County-owned property located within the Town. The Town of Hoard located in Clark County operates a fire department jointly with other municipalities in the
- [Governor Signs Four New Bills Impacting Municipalities and Towns Into Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/governor-signs-four-new-bills-impacting-municipalities-and-towns-into-law/) - On Wednesday, November 11 the Governor signed four bills into law relating to municipalities and towns. 2015 Wisconsin Act 79 allows municipalities that opt to post legal notices to post the notice in one public place and publish the notice on the municipality’s Internet site, instead of posting the notice in three public places. 2015
- [Disciplinary Process – Police and Fire Commission](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/disciplinary-process-police-and-fire-commission/) - Police officers and firefighters manage difficult and often dangerous situations. Fortunately, most protective services employees are dedicated public servants, and smaller communities may see years go by without need for formal disciplinary action against an officer or firefighter. When an issue arises, the municipality must adhere to applicable procedures to reach a just resolution that
- [Estate Planning for Pets](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/trust-estates-law/estate-planning-for-pets/) - An often overlooked component of the new Wisconsin Trust Code, Wis. Stat. § 701.0408 authorizes pet trusts in Wisconsin for the first time. The new statute creates a new estate planning mechanism for furry family members. Previously, a Wisconsin pet owner hoping to direct funds for the care of pets in the event of his
- [Same-Sex Couples May Now Benefit from Portability of Estate Tax Exemptions](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/trust-estates-law/same-sex-couples-may-now-benefit-from-portability-of-estate-tax-exemptions/) - Since 2011, married couples in Wisconsin are able to use portability of estate tax exemptions. This means that upon the first spouse’s death, their unused estate tax exemption would “port” over to the surviving spouse. In 2014, each person has an estate tax exemption of $5.34 million, so a person can transfer $5.34 million free
- [Court of Appeals Finds Fee in Lieu of Room Tax Constitutes an Illegal Tax](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/court-of-appeals-finds-fee-in-lieu-of-room-tax-constitutes-and-illegal-tax/) - The Wisconsin Court of Appeals (District II) recently held that a fee in lieu of room tax charged by the City of Delavan to owners of units in the Lodges at Lake Lawn Resort Condominium was an illegal tax. The fee was charged to unit owners who chose not to rent their units to the
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of November 25th, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-november-25th-2013/) - Happy Thanksgiving! November 26th, 2013: The DNR will hold a public hearing on an air pollution control construction permit application submitted by WE Energies for a biomass-fueled cogeneration facility located in Rothschild, Wisconsin. The application includes plans and specifications for changes to emission limitations for hazardous air pollutants for a biomass fired boiler. November 26th,
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of November 18th, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-november-18th-2013/) - November 18, 2013: The Division of Hearing and Appeals will hold a telephone prehearing conference in regard to the air pollution control construction permit issued to FTS International Services, LLC located in Arcadia, Trempealeau County, to construct and initially operate an industrial sand mine and processing plant. November 20, 2013: The DNR will hold a
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of November 4, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-november-4-2013/) - November 5, 2013: The DNR will hold a public hearing on proposed revisions to chapters NR 400, 405, 408 and 410 relating to consistency with federal major source permit review requirements and clean-up of rules related to the former indirect source program. November 5, 2013: The Assembly Committee on Jobs, Economy and Mining with hold
- [7th Circuit Expands Wisconsin Law, Makes “Substantial Truthfulness” a Tortious Interference Defense](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/7th-circuit-expands-wisconsin-law-makes-substantial-truthfulness-a-tortious/) - The Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals recently took an expansive view of Wisconsin law on tortious interference with employment. Wesbrook v. Ulrich, No. 15-3870 (7th Cir. Oct. 20, 2016). Wesbrook involves co-workers speaking negatively about another co-worker. Under Wisconsin law, negative statements will not support a tortious interference with an at-will employment claim if the
- [Attorney Fee Award Resulting from Overtrial is Non-Dischargeable Domestic Support Obligation](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/attorney-fee-award-resulting-from-overtrial-is-non-dischargeable-domestic-s/) - On occasion, a court finds a party’s approach to litigating a family court action so unreasonable that it invokes the doctrine of overtrial. When a party is found to have engaged in overtrial, the court may sanction the offending party by ordering that party to pay the other side’s attorney fees. Ondrasek v. Ondrasek, 126
- [Five Estate Planning Considerations for People Going Through Divorce](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/trust-estates-law/five-estate-planning-considerations-for-people-going-through-divorce/) - Going through divorce can be very difficult, stressful and painful, so it is not uncommon for divorcing parties to neglect their estate plan. But what would happen if you died during the divorce process or shortly thereafter? Who would make healthcare or financial decisions for you if you were incapacitated during a divorce proceeding? Who
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of November 11, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-november-11-2013/) - November 11 and 15, 2013: The DNR will hold a public hearing on proposed rule revisions required by section 103 of 2013 Wisconsin Act 1, the Ferrous Mining Law. The proposed rules apply statewide and are not specific to any one project. The proposed rules clarify that ferrous mining activities are regulated by subchapter III
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of October 7, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-october-7-2013/) - There are no DNR public hearings this week. What to look for in coming weeks: October 21, 2013: The DNR is taking comment on the draft guidance for reassigning wasteload allocations in TMDLs. The guidance covers the situations where the wasteload allocation may need to be adjusted or reassigned to correct allocation errors in a
- [Wisconsin Court of Appeals Affirms Limited Scope of Insurance Agents’ Duties to Insureds](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wisconsin-court-of-appeals-affirms-limited-scope-of-insurance-agents-duties/) - District III of the Wisconsin Court of Appeals recently addressed the scope of an insurance agent’s duties to an insured when retained to procure insurance coverage. See Olson et al. v. Wisconsin Mutual Ins. Co. et al., Case No. 2017AP1567 (Oct. 2, 2018) [https://wscca.wicourts.gov/caseDetails.do?caseNo=2017AP001567&cacheId=FD38D2808B90DA8A4890651728193F6B&recordCount=1&offset=0]. By affirming the circuit court’s decision to dismiss the insured’s negligence
- [Court of Appeals Interprets Wisconsin’s Fraudulent Transfer Law in a Garnishment Action](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/court-of-appeals-interprets-wisconsins-fraudulent-transfer-law-in-a-garnish/) - The Wisconsin court of appeals clarified in Beck v. BidRX, LLC the requisite elements to proving a fraudulent transfer claim under Wis. Stat. Ch. 242. App. No. 2017AP2043 (Ct. App. Aug. 15, 2018). The court reversed the circuit court’s ruling that a fraudulent transfer occurred because there was no evidence that the transfers were for
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court Upholds Dismissal of Claims by John Menard’s Former Fiancée](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wisconsin-supreme-court-upholds-dismissal-of-claims-by-john-menards-former/) - The Wisconsin Supreme Court issued its last decision of 2017 in Sands v. Menard, 2017 WI 110, which involved a Watts v. Watts-type unjust enrichment claim by Debra Sands, the former fiancée of president and CEO of Menard, Inc., John Menard, Jr. In a 5-2 decision authored by Chief Justice Roggensack, the court upheld the
- [U.S. District Court Enjoins Proposed Overtime Regulations](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/u-s-district-court-enjoins-proposed-overtime-regulations/) - In Nevada v. United States Department of Labor, the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas determined that the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) overstepped its administrative authority in issuing Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) regulations relating to overtime pay. 218 F. Supp.3d 520 (E.D. Tex. 2017). DOL wrote the regulations in
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court Sets Tight Standard of Proof for Conspiracy to Misappropriate Trade Secrets](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/wisconsin-supreme-court-sets-tight-standard-of-proof-for-conspiracy-to-misa/) - The Wisconsin Supreme Court recently clarified the evidentiary requirements for establishing a conspiracy to misappropriate trade secrets under Wis. Stat. § 134.90. See North Highland Inc. v. Jefferson Machine & Tooling Inc. et al., 2017 WI 75, 898 N.W.2d 74 (2017). In a narrow 4-3 decision written by Justice Ann Walsh Bradley, the Court concluded
- [Divided Wisconsin Supreme Court Changes Law on Fourth Amendment](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/divided-wisconsin-supreme-court-changes-law-on-fourth-amendment/) - In State of Wisconsin vs. Richard L. Weber, 2014AP304-CR (Wis. Nov. 29, 2016), a divided Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled that a police officer does not violate the Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution by pursuing an individual suspected of a minor traffic violation into that suspect’s own home. The Fourth Amendment, like a similar provision
- [Life Insurer Must Pay Benefits to Current Policyholder, Even Absent Insurable Interest](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/life-insurer-must-pay-benefits-to-current-policyholder-even-absent-insurabl/) - The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit recently issued an opinion on how Wisconsin law addresses life insurance policies where the beneficiary is unrelated to the insured. See Sun Life Assurance Co. of Canada v. U.S. Bank Nat’l Ass’n, No. 16-1049 (7th Cir. Oct. 12, 2016). The decision recites a longstanding common-law rule
- [Tax Increment Financing: Financial Gaps and Bottoms Lines](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/tax-increment-financing-financial-gaps-and-bottoms-lines/) - Given the limited financial resources and tools available to municipalities, tax increment financing (“TIF”) is about the only meaningful tool available to finance larger infrastructure projects, and to incentivize private development activity. This post discusses a number of questions that need to be addressed when a municipality is deciding to support a development with TIF.
- [The Best Laid Plans: Avoiding Three Common Estate Planning Mistakes](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/trust-estates-law/the-best-laid-plans-avoiding-three-common-estate-planning-mistakes/) - For many clients working with estate planners, the finished product is carefully packaged and centered around either a Will or Revocable Living Trust. After leaving the estate planner's office, seemingly innocent decisions can undo the work done to the Will or Trust and negate clients’ intentions. Three of these common estate planning mistakes are described
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of January 6, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-january-6-2014/) - January 7, 2014: The DNR will hold a public hearing on a proposal to modify permit number 3-NO-1999-2-02032LS issued to Philip Myers for placement of a pier on the bed of Lake Superior. The proposed modification of the Myers’ pier will require the expansion of the flow-through opening from 12 feet to 60 feet. The
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of October 21, 2013.](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-october-21-2013/) - October 21, 2013: The DNR will hold a public hearing on the proposed WPDES permit reissuance for Fish, Crystal and Mud Lake Rehabilitation District. The District has applied for reissuance of their existing WPDES that regulates the discharge of excess water from Fish Lake to the Lower Wisconsin River at a location in the Roxbury
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of October 14, 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-october-14-2013/) - October 16, 2013: The DNR will hold a public hearing on the proposed WPDES permit modification and nutrient management plan for New Chester Dairy LLC in Grand Marsh. The Dairy currently has 12,540 animal units and has a total of 43,432 acres available for land application of manure and process wastewater. The purpose of the
- [Top 10 Municipal Law Developments of 2017](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/top-10-municipal-law-developments-of-2017/) - Stafford Rosenbaum’s Government Law and Government Relations teams continuously stay apprised of the latest developments in Wisconsin municipal law. Below, in no particular order, are the top 10 municipal law developments of 2017. 2017 Wisconsin Act 67 made broad changes to conditional use permits and preemption of clauses that merge substandard lots. For more information
- [APPEALS COURT CLARIFIES APPLICABILITY OF WORKER’S COMPENSATION STATUTE TO TEMPORARY EMPLOYEE CLAIMS](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/appeals-court-clarifies-applicability-of-workers-compensation-statute-to-te/) - In a recent decision, the Wisconsin Court of Appeals addressed the insurance implications of a car accident made unusual because at least two of the deceased workers were employees of temporary help agencies. See Ehr et al. v. West Bend Mutual Insurance Co. et al., Case No. 2017AP142 (Wis. Ct. App. January 9, 2018) [decision].
- [Appeals Court Limits Pro Rata Insurance Policy Distributions To Post-Trial Liability Determinations](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/appeals-court-limits-pro-rata-insurance-policy-distributions-to-post-trial/) - In Lovelien et al. v. Austin Mutual Insurance Company et al., No. 2016AP1679 (Wis. Ct. App. Dec. 27, 2017), the Wisconsin Court of Appeals addressed an issue that often arises when multiple claimants allege damages against an insured and the total damages claims exceed the coverage limits of the relevant insurance policy: does Wisconsin law
- [Seventh Circuit Decision Calls for Class Action Reform](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/seventh-circuit-decision-calls-for-class-action-reform/) - In its recent decision in Manistee Apartments, LLC. v. City of Chicago, No. 15-3113 (7th Cir. Dec. 20, 2016), a three-judge panel of the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the district court’s dismissal of the plaintiff’s class-action complaint. Potentially more interesting than the decision itself was the court’s express call for changes to the
- [Court of Appeals Allows Riparians to Place a Pier on Privately Owned Flowage Bed](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/court-of-appeals-allows-riparians-to-place-a-pier-on-privately-owned-flowag/) - A recent case from District III of the Wisconsin Court of Appeals, Movrich v. Lobermeier, No. 2015AP583 (Ct. App. Nov. 29, 2016), addresses the right of owners of property adjacent to a flowage to access the flowage and install a pier on the flowage bed when the portion of the flowage bed abutting that owners’
- [D.C. Circuit Refuses to Stay Implementation of EPA Clean Power Plan; Legal Challenges to Proceed](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/d-c-circuit-refuses-to-stay-implementation-of-epa-clean-power-plan-legal-c/) - Last week, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit denied requests from more than two dozen states (including Wisconsin) and several energy industry interests to halt implementation of the EPA’s Clean Power Plan while their legal challenges to the regulatory regime are adjudicated. Through the Clean Power Plan, EPA seeks to reduce carbon
- [U.S. Supreme Court Affirms FERC Authority Over Demand Response](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/u-s-supreme-court-affirms-ferc-authority-over-demand-response/) - Under the Federal Power Act, the federal government (through the Federal Electricity Regulatory Commission, or FERC) regulates the interstate wholesale market in electricity, while state utility commissions regulate intrastate retail markets in electricity. This division of regulatory authority is cleaner in theory than in practice, because, as the U.S. Supreme Court recognized in a highly
- [Top 10 Municipal Law Developments of 2015](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/top-10-municipal-law-developments-of-2015/) - Stafford Rosenbaum’s Government Law and Government Relations teams continuously stay apprised of the latest developments in Wisconsin municipal law. Below, in no particular order, are the top 10 municipal law developments of 2015. 1. Sign regulation. In Reed v. Town of Gilbert, 576 U.S. __ (2015), the United States Supreme Court held unconstitutional a sign
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court Grants and Declines Appeals on Municipal Issues.](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/wisconsin-supreme-court-grants-and-declines-appeals-on-municipal-issues/) - This week, the Wisconsin Supreme Court released its decisions relating to requests to hear various appeals, including some that address municipal issues. The court accepted a case that will address the issues of probable cause and reasonable suspicion based on an officer’s mistaken understanding of the law. In State v. Houghton, 2013AP1581, the officer’s initial
- [Court Determines Defendant’s Breach of Contract Constituted a “Wrongful Act”](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/court-determines-defendants-breach-of-contract-constituted-a-wrongful-act/) - The Wisconsin Court of Appeals issued a decision that clarifies an exception to the general rule that attorneys’ fees are not recoverable damages. Talmer Bank & Trust v. Jacobsen, No. 2017AP752-FT (Wis. Ct. App. Jan. 10, 2018). The court held that a litigant may recover attorneys’ fees if he or she is forced into litigation
- [Top 10 Municipal Law Developments of 2016](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/top-10-municipal-law-developments-of-2016/) - Stafford Rosenbaum’s Government Law and Government Relations teams continuously stay apprised of the latest developments in Wisconsin municipal law. Below, in no particular order, are the top 10 municipal law developments of 2016. Public records; open meetings. Three important cases affecting Wisconsin Public Records and Open Meetings Law came down this year. First, in New
- [Seventh Circuit Continues to Limit Federal Jurisdiction Over Class-Actions, Despite CAFA Statute](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/seventh-circuit-continues-to-limit-federal-jurisdiction-over-class-actions/) - In 2005, Congress passed the Class Action Fairness Act (“CAFA”) “to facilitate adjudication of certain class actions in federal court.” Dart Cherokee Basin Operating Co., LLC v. Owens, 135 S. Ct. 547, 554 (2014). CAFA relaxed the strictures of diversity jurisdiction to allow more plaintiffs to file class actions in federal court, and it provided
- [Drone Wars: Municipal Regulation Awaken](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/drone-wars-municipal-regulation-awaken/) - The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) predicts that by 2020, 30,000 drones, or small unmanned aircraft (sUAS), could be occupying U.S. airspace at any given moment. In response to privacy concerns related to this increase in drone use, numerous state and local governments have enacted legislation to regulate drone use. But, can municipalities regulate drones in
- [Proposed Legislation May Affect Municipalities](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/municipal-law/proposed-legislation-may-affect-municipalities/) - With the Wisconsin Legislature in session, there are a number of proposed bills that may affect municipalities in a variety of ways, including: Proposed Bill Clarifies Meaning of Final Orders for Appeal of Municipal Matters. A bill proposed by State Representative Ott would clarify when a matter is considered “final” for purposes of pursuing an
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of January 20th, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-january-20th-2014/) - January 22, 2014: The Natural Resource Board agenda includes requests for adoption of two rule packages regarding air management rules. The first rule package covers changes made to the control of mercury emitted by coal-fired electric generating units (EGUs). The rule proposes to extend the compliance date for the second, more stringent state mercury rule
- [Environmental Week in Preview – Week of January 13, 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/uncategorized/environmental-week-in-preview-week-of-january-13-2014/) - January 13, 2014: Comments are due on the proposed DNR guidance on exempting low-hazard wastes from solid waste regulations. Examples of wastes that have in the past been granted low-hazard waste exemptions include: wood wastes from manufacturing process (as livestock bedding); high-salt wastewaters from food plants (as highway deicers); contaminated sediments (as fill material) and
- [Court of Appeals Weighs in on Class Action Cert Issues Under Federal Standard Recently Adopted in WI](https://www.staffordlaw.com/blog/appellate-law/court-of-appeals-weighs-in-on-class-action-cert-issues-under-federal-standard-recently-adopted-in-wi/) - Last month, District I of the Wisconsin Court of Appeals was provided an opportunity to review a circuit court’s grant of a motion for class certification under the newly-revised version of Wis. Stat. § 803.08, which adopted the language and scope of FRCP 23, the federal class certification analogue. See Harwood v. Wheaton Franciscan Services, Inc., et

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- [Home](https://www.staffordlaw.com/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is a full-service law firm with two convenient office locations in Madison and Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Over 140 years of dedication to businesses, governments, nonprofits, and individuals has proven that effective client communication continues to be the heart of our practice.
- [Our Clients](https://www.staffordlaw.com/about-us/our-clients/) - Our representative clients include: Corporations AF Holding, Inc. (Anytime Fitness Clubs) AstraZeneca Berntsen International, Inc. Big Gain Wisconsin, LLC Bishops Bay Country Club Education Analytics, Inc. Erdman Company FCA N.A., LLC First Business Bank Fiscal Assistance, Inc. Gates Collision Centers General Beer Distributors General Beverage Sales Company Glass Nickel Pizza Co. Gordon Flesch Company, Inc. Integrity
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## News & Events

- [Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Sponsors "Election Matters 2023" Series](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-sponsors-election-matters-2023-series/) - Sponsored in its entirety by Stafford Rosenbaum LLP, the Elections Research Center and State Democracy Research Initiative (SDRI) at the University of Wisconsin - Madison will host a series of seminars during Election Matters 2023. This event series will bring together diverse experts to tackle evolving election-related issues. “Year in Review: Democracy Litigation in SCOTUS and the
- [Attorney Nikki Yang Elected Dane County Bar Association Director-at-Large](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-nikki-yang-elected-dane-county-bar-association-director-at-large/) - Attorney Nikki Yang voted DCBA Director-at-Large Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is thrilled to announce that Attorney Nikki Yang has been elected to the Director-at-Large position with the Dane County Bar Association! She will serve a two-year term, beginning this year. Nikki welcomes the opportunity to connect more with her fellow Dane County attorneys through involvement in
- [Attorney Clementine Uwabera Earns In Business Madison's 40 Under 40 Recognition](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-clementine-uwabera-in-business-madison-40-under-40/) - Attorney Clementine Uwabera Awarded In Business Madison's "40 Under 40" Honor Stafford Rosenbaum is incredibly proud to share that Attorney Clementine Uwabera has been honored with an In Business Madison 40 Under 40 award! The annual 40 Under 40 honors forty of the most successful and civic-minded young professionals under the age of 40 in
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Welcomes Attorney Marianna Nichols](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-welcomes-attorney-marianna-nichols/) - Stafford Rosenbaum is excited to announce a new associate in the firm’s Madison, Wisconsin, office: Attorney Marianna Nichols! Marianna is a graduate of the University of Mississippi School of Law. She practices with Stafford Rosenbaum’s Business Law Team, and her practice focuses on matters involving corporate law, real estate, and financing transactions, as well as
- [Attorneys Isaac Brodkey & Katherine Tompson Promoted to Partners at Stafford Rosenbaum](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/2026-partner-announcement/) - Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys Isaac Brodkey & Katherine Tompson promoted to partner in 2026 Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is thrilled to announce that Attorneys Isaac S. Brodkey and Katherine M. Tompson have been promoted to partners in the firm as of January 1, 2026. Attorney Isaac S. Brodkey first joined Stafford Rosenbaum in 2020 as a law clerk.
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Honored with Best Law Firms Recognition](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-best-law-firms-2026/) - Stafford Rosenbaum ranked among 2026 Best Law Firms Stafford Rosenbaum LLP has been recognized in the 2026 edition of Best Law Firms®, ranked by Best Lawyers®, regionally in 27 practice areas! Firms included among the 2026 Best Law Firms set standards in legal skill and service in the United States, measured by our firm's performance,
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Welcomes Attorney Alexander H. Ferrone](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-welcomes-attorney-alexander-h-ferrone/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is proud to announce the addition of a new associate in the firm's Milwaukee office, Attorney Alexander H. Ferrone! Alex is a Marquette University Law School graduate with a practice focused on business, real estate, and foundations and nonprofits. He regularly advises clients on complex commercial transactions; mergers and acquisitions; entity selection;
- [Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Welcomes Attorneys and Legal Assistant/Paralegals from Palmersheim Dettmann S.C.](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-welcomes-palmersheim-dettmann/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP welcomes attorneys and staff from Palmersheim Dettmann S.C. Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is pleased to announce the addition of attorneys and legal assistant/paralegals from Palmersheim Dettmann, SC, to the firm’s Madison office. Effective November 1, 2025, Attorneys Kevin Palmersheim, Cathleen Dettmann, and Erin Rome will join the firm as partners, and Lori Hanson
- [Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Welcomes Attorney Kelly Gorman](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-llp-welcomes-attorney-kelly-gorman/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is thrilled to announce a new associate in the firm’s Milwaukee, Wisconsin, office: Attorney Kelly Gorman! Kelly is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin Law School, with Honors, and focuses her practice on trusts and estates and business law. Kelly enhances the firm's commitment to exceptional client service by providing thorough,
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Welcomes Attorney Noah Dregne](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-welcomes-attorney-noah-dregne/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is ecstatic to announce a new associate in the firm’s Madison, Wisconsin, office: Attorney Noah Dregne! Noah is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin Law School, magna cum laude, and is a dedicated litigator with a special focus on business law. Noah is highly accomplished already, combining a robust academic background
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Welcomes Attorney Ginger Pinkerton](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-welcomes-attorney-ginger-pinkerton/) - Stafford Rosenbaum is thrilled to announce a new associate in the firm’s Milwaukee, Wisconsin, office: Attorney Ginger Pinkerton! Ginger is a graduate of Case Western Reserve University School of Law with a practice focused on litigation. Ginger gained invaluable practical experience with the entire process of litigation, from initial pleadings to appeals procedure, during the
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Sponsors 2025 Election Matters Seminar Series](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-sponsors-2025-election-matters-seminar-series/) - Sponsored in its entirety by Stafford Rosenbaum, Election Matters 2025 is a series of free seminars hosted by the Elections Research Center and State Democracy Research Initiative (SDRI) at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. The educational series will bring together diverse experts to tackle evolving election-related issues. Please join us on Friday, October 3, from 3:00-4:15pm Central for “Money,
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Celebrates Best Lawyers of 2026](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-celebrates-best-lawyers-2026/) - Best Lawyers Honors Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys for 2026 Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is thrilled to announce that 21 of the firm’s attorneys have been recognized by Best Lawyers for 2026! The Best Lawyers organization highlights attorneys based entirely on feedback from their peers, gathering “the consensus opinion of leading lawyers about the professional abilities of their colleagues”
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Welcomes Attorney James Woywod](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-welcomes-attorney-james-woywod/) - Stafford Rosenbaum is ecstatic to announce a new associate in the firm's Madison, Wisconsin, office: Attorney James B. Woywod! James is a graduate of DePaul University College of Law with a practice focused on government and municipal law, utility law, and litigation. James regularly advocates for and represents municipalities, businesses, nonprofits, and individuals before trial
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Announces New Partners: Attorneys Carly Swinick (Gerads) & Seep Paliwal](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-announces-new-partners-attorneys-carly-gerads-seep-paliwal-pahoua-thao/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is excited to announce that Attorneys Carly Swinick (Gerads) and Seep Paliwal have been promoted to partners in the firm as of January 1, 2025. Attorney Carly Gerads joined Stafford Rosenbaum in 2021 as a senior associate. A graduate of Marquette University Law School, Carly is a skilled trial and appellate litigator
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Welcomes Attorney Dan Kaminsky](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-welcomes-attorney-dan-kaminsky/) - Stafford Rosenbaum is thrilled to announce that a new partner has joined its Milwaukee, Wisconsin, office! Attorney Daniel A. Kaminsky is a graduate of Marquette University Law School with a practice focused primarily on commercial real estate. Dan brings tremendous experience and accomplishments to Stafford Rosenbaum's Real Estate Law and Business Law teams, and the
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Welcomes Attorney Sophie Lepien](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-welcomes-attorney-sophie-lepien/) - Stafford Rosenbaum is happy to announce a new associate in the firm’s Madison office, Attorney Sophia C. Lepien! Sophie is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin Law School with a practice focused primarily on family law. She has a unique gift for sensitively advocating for the rights of her clients during some of life's
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Welcomes Attorney Nikki Yang](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-welcomes-attorney-nikki-yang/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is proud to introduce a new addition to the firm's team of talent, Attorney Nikki Yang! She is an associate with a practice focused on litigation, working primarily in Stafford Rosenbaum's Madison office. Attorney Yang received her Juris Doctorate from Anhui University of Finance and Economics and two subsequent Master of Laws
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Welcomes Attorney Brian Sajdak](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-welcomes-attorney-brian-sajdak/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is excited to announce the addition of a new partner to its roster of outstanding government lawyers, Attorney Brian Sajdak! Working primarily from the firm’s Milwaukee office, Attorney Sajdak is a graduate of Marquette University Law School, and he has 17 years of experience practicing municipal law, serving as municipal counsel to
- [Attorneys Manthe and Potter Join Stafford Rosenbaum Board of Directors](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorneys-manthe-potter-stafford-rosenbaum-board-of-directors/) - Attorneys Rick Manthe and Jared Potter elected members of Board of Directors at Stafford Rosenbaum Stafford Rosenbaum is proud to announce new additions to its Board of Directors: Attorneys Rick A. Manthe and Jared M. Potter! Elected by the firm’s senior partners to serve a three-year term through February 2028, during their terms on the
- [Attorney Mason Higgins Earns National Black Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 Honor](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-mason-higgins-national-black-lawyers-top-40-under-40/) - Attorney Mason Higgins recognized with "Top 40 Under 40" honor from the National Black Lawyers Stafford Rosenbaum is extremely proud to share that Attorney Mason Higgins has been honored with a Top 40 Under 40 recognition by the National Black Lawyers! Honorees for this recognition are chosen based on outstanding reputations, notable achievements and court
- [Lori Kannenberg Dorn Honored with Wisconsin Law Journal Award for Legal Leaders](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/lori-dorn-wisconsin-law-journal/) - Lori Dorn receives Wisconsin Law Journal Unsung Heroes award Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is proud to announce that Director of Administration Lori Kannenberg Dorn, CLM, is a recipient of a 2024 Unsung Heroes award from the Wisconsin Law Journal! Lori will be honored on November 21 at the Wisconsin Law Journal’s Legal All-Star Awards ceremony. The Unsung Heroes award
- [Attorney Jessica Mederson Honored by Wisconsin Law Journal](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-jessica-mederson-honored-by-wisconsin-law-journal/) - Attorney Jessica Mederson receives Women in the Law award Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is proud to share that Attorney Jessica C. Mederson is a recipient of a 2024 Women in the Law award from the Wisconsin Law Journal! The award serves to recognize women lawyers who are accomplished leaders in their practice, organization, and community. Jessica
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys Celebrate 2024 Super Lawyers](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-attorneys-celebrate-2024-super-lawyers/) - Stafford Rosenbaum is proud to announce that eleven of its attorneys have earned 2024 Super Lawyers honors! Super Lawyers selects attorneys using a multiphase selection process involving peer nominations and evaluations combined with independent research on peer recognition and professional achievement. The objective is to create a credible, comprehensive, and diverse listing of outstanding attorneys that
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Celebrates Best Law Firms Honor for 2025](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-celebrates-best-law-firms-honor-for-2025/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP ranked among the Best Law Firms for 2025 Stafford Rosenbaum LLP has been recognized in the 2025 edition of Best Law Firms®, ranked by Best Lawyers®, regionally in 28 practice areas! Firms included in the 2025 Best Law Firms list are recognized for professional excellence with consistently impressive ratings from clients and
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Welcomes Attorney Ben Alexander](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-welcomes-attorney-ben-alexander/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is proud to announce the addition of a new associate in the firm’s Milwaukee office, Attorney Ben Alexander! Ben is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin Law School, 2022 cum laude, and he is a litigator who specializes in commercial litigation matters. He also practices on Stafford Rosenbaum's Dealership and Franchise
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Receives 'Best Women-Led Law Firms' Honor from Wisconsin Law Journal](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-best-women-led-law-firms-wisconsin-law-journal/) - Stafford Rosenbaum recognized with a Wisconsin Law Journal "Women in the Lead" honor Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is proud of its recent recognition with a "Women in the Lead" distinction by the Wisconsin Law Journal! The award highlights lawyers and law firms that have demonstrated commitment to women leadership in the community, legal profession, and in
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Welcomes Attorney Klara Henry](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-welcomes-attorney-klara-henry/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is thrilled to announce the addition of a new associate in the firm's Madison office, Attorney Klara Henry! Klara is a graduate of the University of Texas School of Law, and she practices environment and land use law as well as administrative law, largely focusing her practice on water and wetlands law.
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Sponsors Election Matters 2024 Educational Series](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-sponsors-election-matters-2024/) - Sponsored in its entirety by Stafford Rosenbaum LLP, the Elections Research Center and State Democracy Research Initiative (SDRI) at the University of Wisconsin-Madison will host a series of seminars during Election Matters 2024. This event series will bring together diverse experts to tackle evolving election-related issues. Join us for an Election Matters 2024 panel, "Safeguarding the Vote: Election
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Welcomes Attorney Kieran O'Day](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-welcomes-attorney-kieran-oday/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is ecstatic to announce that Attorney Kieran M. O’Day has joined the firm! An associate in Stafford Rosenbaum’s Madison office, Kieran has a robust background in litigation and appeals, government and municipal law, election and political law, and corporate litigation, which makes him an outstanding addition to the firm and its extensive
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Welcomes Attorney Zoe Pawlisch](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-welcomes-attorney-zoe-pawlisch/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is extremely proud to announce that Attorney Zoe A. Pawlisch has joined the firm! An associate in the Madison office, Zoe practices election and political law, appellate litigation, general civil litigation, and commercial law. The firm wholeheartedly believes that Zoe and her background make excellent additions to its culture and its dedication
- [Attorney Tiffany Highstrom to Speak at Investiture of Judge Theresa Beck](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-tiffany-highstrom-to-speak-at-investiture-of-judge-theresa-beck/) - Attorney Tiffany Highstrom will speak during the investiture of Judge Beck of Jefferson County Branch 2 Attorney Tiffany Highstrom will give a speech on on behalf of Judge Theresa Beck, Jefferson County Branch 2 Judge, at Judge Beck's investiture on September 4, 2024, at the Jefferson County Courthouse. Judge Beck was appointed as Circuit Court
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Welcomes Attorney Ian Lane](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-welcomes-attorney-ian-lane/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is thrilled to welcome Attorney Ian S. Lane! An associate in the firm's Madison office, Ian practices municipal law, environmental law, and business law. Ian has a variety of experiences that supplement his Marquette University Law School background, and he makes an excellent addition to these practice areas. Prior to becoming an
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Congratulates Madison's Black Business Hub on Grand Opening](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-congratulates-madisons-black-business-hub-on-grand-opening/) - Congratulations to the Urban League's Black Business Hub on its grand opening! The Urban League of Greater Madison officially opens its Black Business Hub at 2352 S. Park Street in Madison on August 24, 2024, with a special ribbon-cutting ceremony beginning at 12:30pm, live music and entertainment for all ages, food and refreshments, and a
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Welcomes Attorney Stephen Goettsche](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-welcomes-attorney-stephen-goettsche/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is excited to announce a new associate in the firm’s Madison office: Attorney Stephen Goettsche! Stephen is a litigator with a practice focused on election and political law, municipal, and commercial matters. A great start to his career as an attorney, he has an impressive background of honors and internships to reference
- [Stafford Rosenbaum's 2025 Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaums-2025-best-lawyers-ones-to-watch/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is proud to share that two of its attorneys have been recognized as Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch for 2025! The Best Lawyers organization highlights Ones to Watch based entirely on feedback from other attorneys, gathering “the consensus opinion of leading lawyers about the professional abilities of their colleagues” in each of
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Celebrates 2025 Best Lawyers & Lawyers of the Year](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-2025-best-lawyers/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is ecstatic to announce that 19 of the firm’s attorneys have been recognized as Best Lawyers for 2025! The Best Lawyers organization highlights attorneys based entirely on feedback from their peers, gathering “the consensus opinion of leading lawyers about the professional abilities of their colleagues” in each of their geographical and practice areas.
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Recognized as a Top Law Firm in Dane County](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-recognized-as-a-top-law-firm-in-dane-county/) - Stafford Rosenbaum named a top law firm in Dane County, Wisconsin Stafford Rosenbaum LLP has received special People's Choice recognition by Madison.com, The Wisconsin State Journal, and the Cap Times. The firm has been nominated a finalist by readers of these publications, which means that of all the law firms in Dane County, it is
- [Attorney James Statz Receives Top Five Honor for Dane County Lawyers](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-james-statz-top-five-dane-county-lawyers/) - Attorney Jim Statz named a top attorney in Dane County, Wisconsin by Madison.com Attorney Jim Statz has received a special People's Choice recognition for his work as a business lawyer by Madison.com, The Wisconsin State Journal, and the Cap Times. He has been voted as a finalist, which means that of all the attorneys in
- [Press Release: Temporary Injunction Allows Email Delivery of Accessible Absentee Ballots for Voters with Print Disabilities](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/email-delivery-of-accessible-absentee-ballots/) - This press release was originally published by the League of Women Voters of Wisconsin and Disability Rights Wisconsin. For Immediate Release: June 25, 2024 Contacts: Molly Carmichael, Communications Manager, League of Women Voters of Wisconsin, mcarmichael@lwvwi.org, (608)256-0827 Kit Kerschensteiner, Director of Legal and Advocacy Services, Disability Rights Wisconsin, kitk@drwi.org, (608)308-2642 Today a Dane County Circuit
- [Attorney Katherine Tompson Elected Dane County Bar Association Director-at-Large](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-katherine-tompson-elected-dane-county-bar-association-director-at-large/) - Attorney Katie Tompson Voted DCBA Director-at-Large Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is extremely proud to announce that Attorney Katherine Tompson has been elected to the Director-at-Large position with the Dane County Bar Association! She will serve a two-year term, beginning this year. Katie appreciates the connection with her fellow Dane County attorneys fostered by involvement in DCBA
- [Attorney Katie Tompson Runs for Dane County Bar Association Leadership Position](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/vote-for-attorney-katie-tompson-dcba-director-at-large/) - Attorney Katherine Tompson seeks election to Dane County Bar Association Director-at-Large position Attorney Katie Tompson has been nominated and is running for the seat of Director-at-Large of the Dane County Bar Association. If elected, she will serve a two-year term. We enthusiastically urge all DCBA members to sign into their DCBA account and vote in
- [Honoring the Legacy of Attorney William Rieser](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/honoring-the-legacy-of-attorney-william-rieser/) - We at Stafford Rosenbaum LLP are saddened to announce the death of a former partner, Attorney William T. Rieser, on May 9, 2024. Beginning work with the firm in 1957, Atty. Rieser enjoyed a fruitful career in energy and public utilities law, serving until his retirement from the partnership in 1990. From the 1960s until
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Congratulates Centro Hispano on New Location Grand Opening](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-congratulates-centro-hispano-on-new-location/) - Congratulations to Centro Hispano of Dane County on the grand opening of its new building! Centro Hispano of Dane County has opened a new location at 2403 Cypress Way in Madison, celebrated on April 26, 2024, with a special ribbon-cutting ceremony, music, artistic performances, food vendors, and an atmosphere of joy and unity. Funding for
- [Attorney Jared Potter Earns Wisconsin Law Journal Powerlist Honor](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-jared-potter-earns-wisconsin-law-journal-powerlist-honor/) - Attorney Jared M. Potter has earned a special spotlight from the Wisconsin Law Journal as part of its Powerlist program. Jared was recognized among 33 other Wisconsin attorneys for his family law and trusts and estates work, ranking on the Powerlist for leadership in his practice, determined based on news throughout the year, recommendations from
- [Attorney Denasha Scott Reelected to Stafford Rosenbaum Board of Directors](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-denasha-scott-reelected-to-stafford-rosenbaum-board-of-directors/) - Stafford Rosenbaum Partners Reelect Attorney Denasha Scott to Firm Leadership Stafford Rosenbaum is delighted to announce that Attorney Denasha Scott has been reelected by the firm’s senior partners for a fourth term on the Board of Directors, serving through February 2027. By the end of her fourth term, Denasha will have devoted 12 years to
- [Attorney Jessica Mederson Elected to Stafford Rosenbaum Board of Directors](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-jessica-mederson-elected-to-stafford-rosenbaum-board-of-directors/) - Stafford Rosenbaum Board of Directors Welcomes Attorney Jessica Mederson Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is ecstatic to announce a new addition to its Board of Directors, Attorney Jessica C. Mederson! Elected unanimously by the firm’s senior partners to serve a three-year term through February 2027, during her term on the Board, Jessica will oversee the firm’s human
- [Attorney Katherine Harrell Elected Managing Partner of Stafford Rosenbaum LLP](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-katie-harrell-stafford-rosenbaum-managing-partner/) - Attorney Katie Harrell Elected Stafford Rosenbaum Managing Partner Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is thrilled to announce that Attorney Katherine C. Harrell has been elected Managing Partner! Continuing her service on the firm’s five-member Board of Directors, Katie will serve this term through February 2027. During her previous term on the Board, Katie oversaw the firm’s human
- [Attorney Erin Deeley Earns In Business Madison's Forty Under 40 Honor](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-erin-deeley-forty-under-40/) - Attorney Erin Deeley Awarded with In Business 40 Under 40 Recognition and Reception Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is thrilled to share that Attorney Erin Deeley has been honored with an In Business Madison 40 Under 40 award! The annual Forty Under 40 honors 40 of the most successful and civic-minded young professionals under the age of
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Announces New Partners David Hollander and Clementine Uwabera](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-new-partners-david-hollander-clementine-uwabera/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is pleased to announce that Attorneys David P. Hollander and Clementine Uwabera have been promoted to partners in the firm as of January 1, 2024. Attorney David Hollander joined Stafford Rosenbaum LLP in 2022 as a senior associate. David focuses his practice on litigation and appeals, representing clients in a variety of
- [Attorney Mason Higgins Joins Stafford Rosenbaum LLP](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-mason-higgins-joins-stafford-rosenbaum/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is thrilled to announce a new associate in the firm's Madison office: Attorney Mason Higgins! Mason is a litigator with a practice focusing on businesses, financial institutions, municipalities, and their insurers through civil and bankruptcy disputes. Prior to joining Stafford Rosenbaum, Mason was a member of the bankruptcy and creditors’ rights subgroup
- [Five Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys Designated as Super Lawyers Rising Stars for 2023](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-attorneys-super-lawyers-rising-stars/) - Stafford Rosenbaum is thrilled to congratulate five of its attorneys who have earned 2023 Super Lawyers Rising Star distinctions! Rising Star honors are designated for attorneys who stand out as talented professionals early in their careers. Super Lawyers selects attorneys using a multiphase selection process involving peer nominations and evaluations combined with independent research on
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys Publish Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law Essay in Wisconsin Law Review](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/wisconsin-fair-dealership-law-essay-wisconsin-law-review/) - Attorneys Jeffrey Mandell and Isaac Brodkey Publish Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law Essay in Wisconsin Law Review On Tuesday, November 14, Attorneys Jeff Mandell and Isaac Brodkey authored and published an article for the Wisconsin Law Review. The article, "Recent U.S. Supreme Court Decision Shows that the Dormant Commerce Clause Does Not Preclude Wisconsin Fair Dealership
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Celebrates Ten Super Lawyers in 2023](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-super-lawyers-2023/) - Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys Honored with Super Lawyers Designations Stafford Rosenbaum is proud to announce that 10 of its attorneys have earned 2023 Super Lawyers honors! Super Lawyers selects attorneys using a multiphase selection process involving peer nominations and evaluations combined with independent research on peer recognition and professional achievement. The objective is to create a credible,
- [Managing Partner Chris Hughes Discusses Leadership in a Pandemic with In Business Magazine](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/chris-hughes-discusses-leadership-in-a-pandemic/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Managing Partner Chris Hughes spoke to In Business magazine on leadership strategies for the December 2020 issue. In the article, Attorney Hughes discusses how the law firm has adapted to changes during the COVID-19 pandemic and offers advice to other business managers based on how his management style has had to evolve.
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Ranked a Best Law Firm for 2024](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-best-law-firm-2024/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Ranked among the Best Law Firms for 2024 Stafford Rosenbaum LLP has been recognized in the 2024 edition of Best Law Firms®, ranked by Best Lawyers®, regionally in 27 practice areas. Firms included in the 2024 Best Law Firms list are recognized for professional excellence with persistently impressive ratings from clients and peers.
- [Attorney Clementine Uwabera Earns National Black Lawyers “40 Under 40” Honor](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-clementine-uwabera-earns-national-black-lawyers-40-under-40-award/) - We are extremely proud to share that Attorney Clementine Uwabera has been honored with the National Black Lawyers (NBL) 40 Under 40 award! National Black Lawyers is a professional and educational organization dedicated to promoting its members as subject-matter experts, building a national network of the nation's top African American attorneys, and facilitating the exchange
- [Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Welcomes Attorney Scott J. Smith](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-welcomes-attorney-scott-j-smith/) - We are very excited to announce that a new senior associate has joined Stafford Rosenbaum’s Madison office, Attorney Scott J. Smith. Scott brings nearly three decades of experience in the legal profession to the firm, serving businesses and individuals on business law matters including contract advising, drafting, and negotiating; business organization and transactional work; tax
- [Attorney Iana Vladimirova Earns American Bankruptcy Institute's 2023 "40 Under 40" Leadership Award](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-iana-vladimirova-earns-american-bankruptcy-institutes-40-under-40-award/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is proud to announce that Attorney Iana A. Vladimirova has earned a special recognition as an American Bankruptcy Institute 2023 "40 Under 40" class member! The organization recently announced the honorees of its 40 Under 40 award program, which identifies 40 top industry professionals under age 40 from across the country. The honorees
- [Attorney Iana A. Vladimirova Joins Stafford Rosenbaum LLP](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-iana-vladimirova-joins-stafford-rosenbaum/) - We are extremely proud to announce that a new partner has joined the Madison office of Stafford Rosenbaum: Attorney Iana A. Vladimirova. Iana brings more than a decade of experience to the firm, serving businesses and corporate entities, large financial institutions, condominium associations, and equipment finance lenders. We wholeheartedly believe that her background, focusing on
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Celebrates Two 2024 Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-celebrates-2024-best-lawyers-ones-to-watch/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is thrilled to share that two of the firm’s attorneys have been recognized as Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch for 2024! The Best Lawyers organization highlights Ones to Watch based entirely on feedback from other attorneys, gathering “the consensus opinion of leading lawyers about the professional abilities of their colleagues” in each
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Welcomes Attorney Jill R. Martin](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-welcomes-attorney-jill-martin/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is thrilled to announce that a new partner, Attorney Jill R. Martin, has joined the firm’s Milwaukee office! With about 20 years in practice, serving individuals, families, businesses, charitable organizations, and financial professionals, Jill’s trusts and estates background nestles itself perfectly into the seasoned and well-rounded Stafford Rosenbaum trusts and estates team.
- [20 Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys Recognized as Best Lawyers for 2024](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-best-lawyers-2024/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is incredibly proud to announce that 20 of the firm’s attorneys have been recognized as Best Lawyers for 2024, and, among these 20, we are happy to celebrate four new attorneys to the roster for this year! The Best Lawyers organization highlights attorneys based entirely on feedback from their peers, gathering “the consensus
- [Four Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys Named Lawyer of the Year](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/four-stafford-rosenbaum-attorneys-named-lawyer-of-the-year/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is elated to share that four of its attorneys have been named a Best Lawyers 2024 Lawyer of the Year! Congratulations to the following Attorneys of the Year: Matthew P. Dregne, for his land use and zoning law work Anthony J. Menting, for his family law work Douglas M. Poland, for his
- [Attorney James C. Severson Joins Stafford Rosenbaum's Family Law Practice](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-james-severson-joins-stafford-rosenbaum/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is excited to announce that a new partner, Attorney James C. Severson, has joined the firm’s Madison office! With more than a decade in practice, serving clients in family law and other matters, we confidently believe that James and his skillset fit perfectly into the culture of the firm and among the
- [Attorney Clementine Uwabera Elected Dane County Bar Association President](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-clementine-uwabera-elected-dane-county-bar-association-president/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is thrilled to announce that Attorney Clementine Uwabera has been elected as the Dane County Bar Association’s next President-Elect, effective June 1, 2023. She will spend the next year shadowing the current DCBA President and officers and will begin her term as DCBA President on June 1, 2024. Attorney Uwabera is a
- [Wisconsin State Journal Names Stafford Rosenbaum LLP a Winner of the Madison Top Workplaces 2023 Award](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/wisconsin-state-journal-names-stafford-rosenbaum-madison-top-workplaces-2023/) - Madison, Wisconsin, March 27, 2023 - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP has been awarded a Top Workplaces 2023 honor by the Wisconsin State Journal. The list is based solely on employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey administered by employee engagement technology partner, Energage, LLC. The confidential survey measures 15 culture drivers that are critical to the
- [Attorney David P. Hollander Interviewed to Discuss Brett Favre Defamation Case](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-david-p-hollander-interviewed-to-discuss-brett-favre-defamation-case/) - Attorney David P. Hollander appeared this month on the Sports & Entertainment Risk Management Alliance (SERMA) Podcast to discuss the hurdles that former Green Bay Packer Brett Favre will have to clear in his newly filed defamation claims. Favre brought the defamation claims against a Mississippi state official and two sports broadcasters after they made
- [Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Welcomes Attorney Erin Deeley](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-llp-welcomes-attorney-erin-deeley/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is proud to announce the addition of a new partner to the firm’s Madison office: Attorney Erin K. Deeley. With more than a decade of public-sector practice, first as a litigator and then as in-house government counsel, Erin will work regularly on Stafford Rosenbaum’s litigation, appellate, government, municipal, environment and land use,
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Announces New Partners, Olivia Dunn and Rick Manthe](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-announces-new-partners-olivia-dunn-and-rick-manthe/) - Stafford Rosenbaum is thrilled to announce two new partners in the firm, effective January 1, 2023: Attorneys Olivia M. Dunn and Rick A. Manthe. Attorney Olivia Dunn joined Stafford Rosenbaum LLP in 2016 as a law clerk and became an associate in 2017. Olivia focuses her practice on commercial transactions, real estate and public utility
- [11 Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys Named 2022 Super Lawyers](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/11-stafford-rosenbaum-attorneys-named-2022-super-lawyers/) - Stafford Rosenbaum is proud to announce that 11 of its attorneys have earned 2022 Super Lawyers honors! Super Lawyers selects attorneys using a multiphase selection process involving peer nominations and evaluations combined with independent research on peer recognition and professional achievement. The objective is to create a credible, comprehensive, and diverse listing of outstanding attorneys
- [Five Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys Named 2022 Rising Stars by Super Lawyers](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/five-stafford-rosenbaum-attorneys-named-2022-rising-stars-by-super-lawyers/) - Stafford Rosenbaum is thrilled to congratulate five of its attorneys who have earned 2022 Super Lawyers Rising Star distinctions! Rising Star honors are designated for attorneys who stand out as talented professionals early in their careers. Super Lawyers selects attorneys using a multiphase selection process involving peer nominations and evaluations combined with independent research on
- [Stafford Rosenbaum to Host DCBA Fridays at 4 Event](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-to-host-dcba-fridays-at-4-event/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is hosting the next Fridays at 4 event, a Dane County Bar Association social gathering, on Friday, October 28, from 4-6pm. Join fellow DCBA members in the firm's Madison office for end-of-week refreshments and casual conversation. Stafford Rosenbaum's Madison office is located at 222 W. Washington Avenue, 9th floor. Visitor parking is
- [Attorney John P. Shanahan Joins Stafford Rosenbaum LLP](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-john-p-shanahan-joins-stafford-rosenbaum/) - Stafford Rosenbaum is delighted to welcome a new partner to the firm, Attorney John P. Shanahan! John practices complex corporate litigation in state and federal court and has over a decade of experience. He focuses his litigation practice on business, construction, employment and labor law, and intellectual property, and his range of expertise makes a
- [Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Welcomes Attorney Jessica Mederson](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-welcomes-attorney-jessica-mederson/) - We are proud to announce that a new partner has joined Stafford Rosenbaum’s Madison office, Attorney Jessica C. Mederson! A business and intellectual property litigator with over 20 years in practice, she focuses on construction, contracts, UCC litigation, employment and labor law, director/officer and shareholder litigation, and patent infringement litigation—and she is a brilliant and
- [Attorney Danielle E. Becker Joins Stafford Rosenbaum LLP](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-danielle-e-becker-joins-stafford-rosenbaum-llp/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is thrilled to announce that Attorney Danielle E. Becker has joined the firm's Madison office as an associate! Danielle has a history in the legal field, having served trusts and estates clients, attorneys, and financial professionals as a staff member at another Madison law firm. Danielle is comfortable and confident through various phases
- [17 Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys Recognized as Best Lawyers](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/17-stafford-rosenbaum-attorneys-recognized-as-best-lawyers/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is thrilled to announce that 17 of the firm's attorneys have been recognized as Best Lawyers for 2023! The Best Lawyers organization highlights attorneys based entirely on feedback from their peers, gathering “the consensus opinion of leading lawyers about the professional abilities of their colleagues” in each of their geographical and practice
- [Attorneys Mandell and Statz Named 2023 Lawyer of the Year](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorneys-mandell-and-statz-named-2023-lawyer-of-the-year/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is proud to share that Attorney Jeffrey A. Mandell and Attorney James I. Statz have each been named a Best Lawyers 2023 Lawyer of the Year! Best Lawyers honors are based exclusively on peer review, gathering "the consensus opinion of leading lawyers about the professional abilities of their colleagues" in their region
- [Attorney JP Croake Joins Stafford Rosenbaum LLP](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-jp-croake-joins-stafford-rosenbaum-llp/) - We at Stafford Rosenbaum LLP are so excited to announce that a new partner has joined the firm, Attorney JP Croake! JP has an extensive background in business and real estate, and he is a fantastic addition to Stafford Rosenbaum’s business law and real estate law teams. Prior to joining Stafford Rosenbaum, JP spent his
- [Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Welcomes Attorney Derek Punches](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-llp-welcomes-attorney-derek-punches/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is proud to announce the addition of a new associate, Attorney Derek Punches! Derek joined the firm’s Madison office on May 31, and he practices municipal and environmental law. Derek spent the last 10 years as a legal professional in the Wisconsin State Senate. He was a policy advisor and committee clerk,
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Sponsors New “Election Matters 2022” Series](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/new-elections-matter-2022-series/) - Sponsored in its entirety by Stafford Rosenbaum LLP, this midterm election season, the Elections Research Center and State Democracy Research Initiative at the University of Wisconsin-Madison will co-host a series of seminars called “Election Matters 2022.” This event series will bring together diverse experts to tackle evolving election-related issues. Upcoming topics include election administration, the Voting Rights
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Sponsors Madison Park Foundation's 5th Annual Picnic in the Park](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-sponsors-picnic-in-the-park/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is a proud sponsor of the 5th Annual Picnic in the Park, an expertly crafted, 'step back in time' themed event that includes lavish food and drinks as well as live music. As many people may not know, Madison public parks were actually privately created by a group of influential and civic-minded
- [Attorney Jim Statz Elected to Stafford Rosenbaum LLP’s Board of Directors](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/atty-statz-elected-to-stafford-board/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP recently announced that Attorney James I. Statz has been elected to its five-member Board of Directors, to serve a term through February 2025, and will oversee the firm’s information technology goals. Attorney Statz is a Partner in the firm’s Madison office and has been involved in its Technology and Work Systems, Process
- [Attorney David P. Hollander Joins Stafford Rosenbaum](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-david-p-hollander-joins-stafford-rosenbaum/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is pleased to announce that Attorney David P. Hollander has joined the firm’s Madison office! David comes to Stafford Rosenbaum as a senior associate with an array of experience as a trial and appellate litigator. David’s practice focuses on business, insurance coverage, real estate, construction, and intellectual property law, in addition to
- [Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Welcomes Attorney Colin T. Roth](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-llp-welcomes-attorney-colin-t-roth/) - We at Stafford Rosenbaum LLP are ecstatic to announce a new partner at the firm, Attorney Colin T. Roth! Colin brings to the firm an impressive background in trial and appellate work, and we believe he is an excellent addition to our litigation, appellate, election and political law, dealership and franchise law, and government law
- [Attorney Olivier H. Reiher Joins Stafford Rosenbaum LLP](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-olivier-h-reiher-joins-stafford-rosenbaum-llp/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is proud to welcome a new partner to the firm, Attorney Olivier H. Reiher, who will be stationed in the firm’s Milwaukee office location. Olivier has a practice focused on business law, and he makes an excellent addition to Stafford Rosenbaum’s business team, with a decade and a half of experience with
- [Attorney Michael J. Allen Joins Stafford Rosenbaum LLP](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-michael-j-allen-joins-stafford-rosenbaum-llp/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is thrilled to welcome a former partner back to its team, Attorney Michael J. Allen. Michael returns to the firm after 17 years in solo practice with Energy Law Wisconsin, a firm he founded to address the unique needs of clients involved in renewable energy development and energy efficiency projects. He is
- [Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Welcomes Attorney Carly Gerads](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-llp-welcomes-attorney-carly-gerads/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is proud to announce the addition of a new senior associate to its roster of standout litigators! Specializing in commercial litigation, Attorney Carly Gerads has joined the firm’s Milwaukee office with a practice focusing on litigation, election and political law, appellate law, and business law. Before joining Stafford Rosenbaum, Carly was a
- [Attorney Mathias Rekowski Joins Stafford Rosenbaum LLP](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-mathias-rekowski-joins-stafford-rosenbaum-llp/) - Stafford Rosenbaum is thrilled to share that Attorney Mathias Rekowski has joined the firm as an associate. Practicing in the Milwaukee office, his scope of work involves trusts and estates, business law, and municipal law. Mathias started at Stafford Rosenbaum as a law clerk in 2019 and assisted attorneys on a variety of matter types.
- [Five Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys Earn 2022 'Lawyer of the Year' Designation](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/five-stafford-rosenbaum-attorneys-earn-2022-lawyer-of-the-year-designation/) - We at Stafford Rosenbaum LLP are thrilled to announce that, in addition to our attorneys' Best Lawyers 2022 honor, the Best Lawyers organization has further distinguished the following group of attorneys for the Lawyer of the Year award. Congratulations to Attorneys Bryan Kleinmaier, Douglas Poland, Ted Waskowski, Daphne Webb, and Dick Yde for this high
- [Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Celebrates 19 Attorneys with Best Lawyers Distinctions](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-llp-celebrates-19-attorneys-with-best-lawyers-distinctions/) - Each year, Best Lawyers publishes a list of the best attorneys in America who practice in a variety of areas. All candidates are submitted by third-party nominators and are vetted thoroughly. We at Stafford Rosenbaum LLP are excited to announce that 19 of our attorneys have been selected for 2022! Congratulations to each of the
- [Visiting Stafford Rosenbaum LLP](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/visiting-stafford-rosenbaum-llp/) - We look forward to seeing you in Stafford Rosenbaum's Madison and Milwaukee offices. Our number one priority is to keep our clients and employees safe and healthy. We have implemented a complete, detailed employee plan to guard our office against infection and spread, but, in accordance with guidance from the Center for Disease Control (CDC)
- [Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Welcomes Atty. Isaac Brodkey](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-llp-welcomes-atty-isaac-brodkey/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is proud to announce that Attorney Isaac S. Brodkey has joined the firm’s Madison office as an associate. With a practice focused primarily on commercial, insurance, and municipal matters, Isaac is a great fit for the firm’s litigation team. Isaac’s range of work done as a clerk prior to finishing law school,
- [Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Welcomes Atty. David M. Davis](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-llp-welcomes-atty-david-m-davis/) - We at Stafford Rosenbaum LLP are ecstatic to announce that Attorney David M. Davis has joined the firm’s Milwaukee office as a partner. Dave has spent over 40 years in trusts and estates and business law focusing on transactional work. His goal is to offer assurance and simplify the complexities of life and business transitions
- [Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Celebrates Diversity with LGBTQ+ Pride Celebration](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-llp-celebrates-diversity-with-lgbtq-pride-celebration/) - Our firm acknowledges and encourages LGBTQ+ pride year-round, but this year, on June 28th, in line with the anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising in 1969, Stafford Rosenbaum will hold an in-office day of celebration for employees to signify the diversity and acceptance that Pride Month brings to our community and world. Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is
- [Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Welcomes Attorney Jane Landretti](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-llp-welcomes-attorney-jane-landretti/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is thrilled to announce that Attorney Jane Landretti has joined the firm as a partner! With a rich background in the public sector, including seven years as a Department of Natural Resources attorney and, more recently, as Chief Legal Counsel for the Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection, the firm feels
- [A Tribute to Attorney Kurt M. Simatic](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/a-tribute-to-attorney-kurt-m-simatic/) - We at Stafford Rosenbaum LLP recently experienced the devastating loss of a Partner, Attorney Kurt Simatic, to a sudden and unexpected illness. Kurt graduated cum laude from Marquette University Law School, and he joined the firm in 2018, bringing with him experience in all aspects of litigation and a background in working at the Wisconsin
- [Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Welcomes Attorney Pamela M. Ploor](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-llp-welcomes-attorney-pamela-m-ploor/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is proud to welcome Attorney Pamela M. Ploor to the firm as a Partner in its Milwaukee office. Pamela’s practice, in which she has more than 25 years of experience, focuses on employment and labor law, litigation, and business law. Atty. Ploor represents and advises companies and municipalities on a full array
- [Reflecting on the Life and Career of Attorney Richard Hollern](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/reflecting-on-the-life-and-career-of-attorney-richard-hollern/) - We at Stafford Rosenbaum LLP are saddened to announce the death of a former partner, Attorney Richard Hollern. From 1969 until his retirement, Atty. Hollern enjoyed a breadth of trial work at Stafford Rosenbaum, where he focused on litigation matters. “Dick was a great trial lawyer and an honest man, characterized by sheer intelligence and
- [Attorney Denasha Scott Reelected to Stafford Rosenbaum's Board of Directors](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-denasha-scott-reelected-to-stafford-rosenbaums-board-of-directors/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP recently announced that Attorney Denasha A. Scott has been reelected for her third term on the firm’s Board of Directors, serving through February 2024. Attorney Scott, whose previous role on the Board was to manage the firm’s succession planning goals, will now oversee its finances. Atty. Scott counsels individuals and families on
- [Attorney Katherine Harrell Elected to Stafford Rosenbaum's Board of Directors](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-katherine-harrell-elected-to-stafford-rosenbaums-board-of-directors/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP recently announced that Attorney Katherine Harrell has been elected to its five-member Board of Directors, to serve a term through February 2024, and will oversee the firm’s succession planning goals. Attorney Harrell is a Partner in the firm’s Madison office and has been involved in its diversity and inclusion efforts for several
- [Attorney James B. Egle Named Managing Partner at Stafford Rosenbaum LLP](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-james-b-egle-named-managing-partner-at-stafford-rosenbaum-llp/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP recently announced that Attorney James Egle has been elected Managing Partner on the firm’s Board of Directors. Atty. Egle is currently serving his third term as a member of the firm’s five-member Board. “Jim oversaw many of the firm’s financial goals during his regular terms on the Board,” said Christopher Hughes, the
- [Honoring the Legacy of Attorney Lawrence Clancy](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/honoring-the-legacy-of-attorney-lawrence-clancy/) - We at Stafford Rosenbaum LLP are saddened to announce the death of a former partner, Attorney Lawrence Clancy, following an 18-month battle with acute myeloid leukemia. In 2011, Atty. Clancy brought to the firm career-long achievements and experience in business and corporate law, banking and finance, bankruptcy, and real estate. “It was an honor to
- [Attorney Kurt Simatic Named Partner at Stafford Rosenbaum LLP](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-kurt-simatic-named-partner/) - Attorney Kurt Simatic has been named partner at Stafford Rosenbaum LLP, effective January 1, 2021. He is based in the firm’s Madison office. Attorney Simatic joined Stafford Rosenbaum LLP in 2018 with a focus on litigation, appellate law, and government law. His experience includes a broad range of litigation work in state and federal courts,
- [Attorney Katie Harrell Participates in State Bar's 'Marketing and Networking Diverse Law Firms' Discussion](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-katie-harrell-participates-in-state-bars-marketing-and-networking-diverse-law-firms-discussion/) - Attorney Katie Harrell contributed to a video publication for the State Bar of Wisconsin's InsideTrack on January 6, 2021. In this publication, "5 Tips: Law Firm Marketing and Networking," Attorney Harrell participates with other attorney panelists to provide five of the best pieces of advice by local lawyers for business development, from simple organization to
- [Two Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys to Offer Free Legal Consultations for Centro Hispano of Dane County on Sept. 30, 2020](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/two-stafford-rosenbaum-attorneys-to-offer-free-legal-consultations-for-centro-hispano-of-dane-county-on-sept-30-2020/) - Attorneys Katie Harrell and Seep Paliwal will spend a virtual day at Centro Hispano of Dane County on Wednesday, September 30th, 2020 to offer free legal consultation. Attorney Harrell has an extensive background in all aspects of family law as well as trusts and estates. Click here to read more about Katie. Attorney Paliwal's practice
- [Lawyer of the Year Awarded to Five Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys for 2021](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/lawyer-of-the-year-awarded-to-five-stafford-rosenbaum-attorneys-for-2021/) - In addition to a Best Lawyer distinction, the Best Lawyers organization also recognized an elite group of attorneys who stand out as Stafford Rosenbaum LLP’s Lawyers of the Year. We are excited to announce that four of our partners have been selected for 2021. Congratulations to Attorneys Matt Dregne, Ed Hughes, Bruce Huibregtse, Doug Poland,
- [Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Welcomes Attorney Katherine Tompson](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-llp-welcomes-attorney-katherine-tompson/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is proud to announce that Attorney Katherine M. Tompson has joined the firm's hardworking group of associates. Atty. Tompson's practice will center on family law, and she has experience managing cases through various stages of divorce actions, mediation, and children's matters. Katie completed her Juris Doctorate at Marquette University Law School, where
- [Best Lawyers Recognizes 21 Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Attorneys for 2021](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/best-lawyers-recognizes-20-stafford-rosenbaum-llp-attorneys-for-2021/) - Best Lawyers publishes a list every year of top attorneys in a variety of practice areas throughout the country. All potential candidates are submitted via third-party nomination and must endure a rigorous vetting process. Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is excited to announce that twenty-one of our partners and associates have been selected for 2021. Congratulations to
- [Atty. Pahoua Thao Is Welcomed to Stafford Rosenbaum LLP](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/atty-pahoua-thao-is-welcomed-to-stafford-rosenbaum-llp/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is delighted for Attorney Pahoua Thao to join the firm as a senior associate. Atty. Thao’s practice focuses on municipal and litigation matters. She is experienced in managing cases in all stages of litigation in both state and federal court, and she has spent several years representing insurance clients in municipal litigation
- [Atty. Clementine Uwabera Joins Stafford Rosenbaum LLP](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/atty-clementine-uwabera-joins-stafford-rosenbaum-llp/) - We are happy to announce that Attorney Clementine Uwabera has joined Stafford Rosenbaum LLP as a senior associate attorney. Atty. Uwabera has several years of experience in litigation strategy and management, personal injury, insurance law, criminal defense, settlement agreements, commercial agreements, complex negotiations, and mediation and arbitration. Clementine’s prior experience includes serving as a civil
- [Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Welcomes Atty. Douglas M. Poland](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-llp-welcomes-atty-douglas-m-poland/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is pleased to welcome Attorney Douglas M. Poland to the firm as a partner attorney. Doug’s practice focuses on complex litigation, with emphasis on business, contract, and real estate disputes; election and voting rights law; environmental toxic torts; products liability; and consumer fraud lawsuits. Doug has more than 25 years of significant
- [STAFFORD ROSENBAUM LLP | RESPONSE TO COVID-19 EMERGENCY](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-llp-response-to-covid-19-emergency/) - With new Coronavirus (COVID-19) developments happening every day, Stafford Rosenbaum LLP continues to monitor the situation. We are doing everything we can to meet our clients’ needs while keeping our employees and clients safe. In addition, we are actively working to prevent the spread of the virus. Our offices remain open and client services will
- [Jeff Mandell to Introduce Stacey Abrams Live](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/jeff-mandell-to-introduce-stacey-abrams-live/) - Tune in at 1:00 PM (2:00 PM ET); Attorney Jeff Mandell will introduce Stacey Abrams and a panel discussion on protecting our democracy. Go to https://www.acslaw.org/2020-acs-national-convention/ to watch live or a recording of the introduction and panel discussion.
- [Stafford Rosenbaum honored with 22 attorneys listed in “The Best Lawyers in America”](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-honored-with-22-attorneys-listed-in-the-best-lawyers-in-america/) - The Best Lawyers in America© recognized 22 attorneys from Stafford Rosenbaum LLP in its 2020 edition, including eight "Lawyer of the Year" recipients. Due to their exhaustive peer-review survey, and because lawyers are not required or allowed to pay a fee to be listed, inclusion in Best Lawyers is considered a high honor. For more
- [Attorney Larry Konopacki to speak on Hemp Industry in Wisconsin](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-larry-konopacki-to-speak-on-hemp-industry-in-wisconsin/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Partner Larry Konopacki will present on February 11 as a part of the February 2020 Dane County Bar Association (“DCBA”) luncheon program. Attorney Konopacki’s presentation, titled “The Re-Emergence of the Hemp Industry in Wisconsin” will cover topics including the legislative process relating to hemp, significant provisions in the applicable laws, market-center legal
- [Attorneys Amy Collins O’Hara, Kyle W. Engelke, and Vanessa D. Wishart Named Partner](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorneys-amy-collins-ohara-kyle-w-engelke-and-vanessa-d-wishart-named-partner/) - Attorneys Amy Collins O’Hara, Kyle W. Engelke, and Vanessa D. Wishart have been named partners at Stafford Rosenbaum LLP, effective January 1, 2020. All three attorneys are based in the firm’s Madison office. Attorney Collins O’Hara joined Stafford Rosenbaum LLP in 2013 with a focus on family law and Guardian ad Litem work. Her experience
- [Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Welcomes Atty. Rick Manthe](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-llp-welcomes-atty-rick-manthe/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is excited to announce that Attorney Rick Manthe has joined the firm as a senior associate attorney. Atty. Manthe has several years of experience in municipal law, employment law, criminal law, and school law, across its many operations. Atty. Manthe’s prior experience includes serving as the Assistant Public Defender for Brown County,
- [SuperLawyers recognizes Ten Stafford Rosenbaum attorneys in 2019](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/superlawyers-recognizes-ten-stafford-rosenbaum-attorneys-in-2019/) - Thomson Reuters publishes a list every year of each state’s top attorneys in a variety of practice areas. All potential candidates are submitted via third-party nomination and must endure a rigorous vetting process. In the end, only about 5% of all nominees are chosen for the distinction of inclusion in that year’s list of SuperLawyers.
- [Attorney James I. Statz Admitted to the Illinois Bar](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-james-i-statz-admitted-to-the-illinois-bar/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP partner James I. Statz was admitted to the Illinois State Bar Association last week. He was sworn in on October 8, 2019 by the Honorable Anne Burke, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Illinois at the Supreme Court in Chicago. This admission enables Attorney Statz to practice in Illinois, in addition
- [Picnic in the Park Event a Huge Success](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/picnic-in-the-park-event-a-huge-success/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP congratulates the Madison Parks Foundation for a stunning evening at this year’s Picnic in the Park! In celebration of its 140th anniversary, Stafford Rosenbaum LLP was a proud sponsor of the Picnic in the Park held this past weekend at Vilas Park. As many people may not know, Madison’s public parks were
- [American College of Environmental Lawyers Announces 2019 New Fellows: Paul G. Kent Named](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/american-college-of-environmental-lawyers-announces-2019-new-fellows-paul-g-kent-named/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP partner, Paul G. Kent, has been newly named a Fellow of the American College of Environmental Lawyers (“ACOEL”). Attorney Kent is among twenty-five attorneys nationwide to be named Fellows in 2019, and he is the only Wisconsin-based attorney to be added for the year. According to the ACOEL website, Fellows are dedicated
- [James Egle: 2019 Leader in the Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/james-egle-2019-leader-in-the-law/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP partner and board member, James Egle, has been recognized as a 2019 Leader in the Law by the Wisconsin Law Journal. The annual recognition goes to attorneys who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, expertise, and community involvement while maintaining a full career highlighted by achievement and pro bono service. Recipients of this distinguished
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Announces New Partner, Eileen M. Kelley](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-announces-new-partner-eileen-m-kelley/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP has named Eileen M. Kelley to partner. Eileen practices in the firm’s Madison office. A significant portion of Eileen’s current practice involves real estate transactions including advising developers and municipalities on purchase and development agreements. She advises landlords and tenants in lease negotiation and enforcement matters. Eileen also represents clients in general
- [Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Goes Red for Women!](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-llp-goes-red-for-women/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP attorneys and staff celebrated National Wear Red Day on February 1st to support Go Red for Women, an initiative by the American Heart Association. Every February, the American Heart Association focuses on the awareness and prevention of cardiovascular disease and stroke in women. Donned in red, and even their favorite Badger apparel,
- [Johanna Allex Re-Elected to Stafford Rosenbaum Board of Directors](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/johanna-allex-re-elected-to-stafford-rosenbaum-board-of-directors/) - The law firm of Stafford Rosenbaum LLP recently announced that Johanna Allex has been re-elected to the firm's Board of Directors. Ms. Allex is a partner in the firm’s Madison office. “Johanna oversaw much of the firm’s business development and marketing goals during her first term.” said Christopher Hughes, the firm’s managing partner. “I have
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Celebrates 140 Years of Service](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-celebrates-140-years-of-service/) - Stafford Rosenbaum is a vibrant, 55 attorney, full service law firm with offices in Madison and Milwaukee. Effective client communication remains at the heart of the firm’s practice. According to Managing Partner Christopher Hughes, “Stafford Rosenbaum operates in a team environment where longterm success is valued, so we emphasize succession and ascension planning to help
- [Stafford Rosenbaum’s Larry Konopacki Featured in Isthmus Cover Story](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaums-larry-konopacki-featured-in-isthmus-cover-story/) - Last month, Stafford Rosenbaum partner, Larry Konopacki, was featured in the cover story of Isthmus focused on hemp farming in Wisconsin and its economic possibilities. Attorney Konopacki, who had a hand in designing the state’s hemp law, is an expert on hemp in Wisconsin. Prior to joining Stafford Rosenbaum in 2018, Atty. Konopacki co-founded the Wisconsin Hemp Alliance
- [Stafford Rosenbaum’s Jeffrey A. Mandell Named American Bar Foundation Fellow](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaums-jeffrey-a-mandell-named-american-bar-foundation-fellow/) - Jeffrey A. Mandell, a partner in Stafford Rosenbaum LLP’s Madison office, has been named a Fellow of the American Bar Foundation, a distinction reserved for only the top 1% of all American attorneys. The Fellows are legal professionals chosen for their exemplary dedication to the welfare of their communities and to the highest principles of
- [Stafford Rosenbaum’s Kyle W. Engelke Named American Bar Foundation Fellow](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaums-kyle-w-engelke-named-american-bar-foundation-fellow/) - Kyle W. Engelke, a Senior Associate with Stafford Rosenbaum LLP, has been named an American Bar Foundation (ABF) Fellow, a distinction reserved for the top 1% of U.S. attorneys. The Fellows are well-established legal professionals with exemplary careers and dedication to their communities. The American Bar Foundation (ABF) serves the legal profession, the public, and
- [Stafford Rosenbaum’s Jeffrey A. Mandell to Speak at State Bar “Year in Review” Event](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaums-jeffrey-a-mandell-to-speak-at-state-bar-year-in-review-event/) - Come hear Attorney Jeffrey A. Mandell from Stafford Rosenbaum LLP discuss the important Tetra Tech decision as he serves on the panel for “Sea Change in Administrative Agency Review: A Discussion on the Wisconsin Supreme Court’s Tetra Tech Decision” at the State Bar’s “Year In Review” on April 24, 2019. Jeff’s presentation will be based
- [Attorney Daphne Webb to Receive Leonard L. Loeb Award from the State Bar of Wisconsin](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-daphne-webb-to-receive-leonard-l-loeb-award-from-the-state-bar-of-wisconsin/) - Daphne Webb, a Partner at Stafford Rosenbaum LLP in Madison, was recently announced as the recipient of the Senior Lawyers Division Leonard L. Loeb Award from the State Bar of Wisconsin. Ms. Webb will receive the award for “her lifetime of exceptional contributions to his community and to the goal of justice for all Wisconsin
- [Laura Callan Recognized as 2019 Women in the Law by the Wisconsin Law Journal](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/laura-callan-recognized-as-2019-women-in-the-law-by-the-wisconsin-law-journal/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP partner Laura E. Callan has been recognized as a 2019 Woman in the Law by the Wisconsin Law Journal. Along with 22 other praiseworthy female legal professionals, Attorney Callan will be honored at a luncheon event in Milwaukee on June 20, 2019. The Wisconsin Law Journal’s Women in the Law event and
- [Stafford Rosenbaum’s Meg Vergeront Elected to Labor and Employment Law Section Board of State Bar](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaums-meg-vergeront-elected-to-labor-and-employment-law-section-board-of-state-bar/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP partner Meg Vergeront has been elected to be a member of the State Bar of Wisconsin’s Labor and Employment Law Section Board as a management-side member. The Board functions to keep Bar members up-to-date on recent developments in labor and employment law and to provide them with opportunities to exchange information and
- [Ted Waskowski and Kyle W. Engelke to Present at the 2019 Municipal Attorneys Institute](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/ted-waskowski-and-kyle-w-engelke-to-present-at-the-2019-municipal-attorneys-institute/) - Ted Waskowski, Partner, and Kyle W. Engelke, Senior Associate, at Stafford Rosenbaum LLP will present at the 2019 Municipal Attorneys Institute in June. Their presentation will be titled The 60-Year Holy(tz) War: A Report from the Front in the Latest Wisconsin Supreme Court Battle Over Wisconsin’s Governmental Immunity Standard. Attorneys Waskowski and Engelke are both litigators in
- [Olivia Pietrantoni and Johanna Allex: Thomson Reuters’ Practical Law Authors](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/olivia-pietrantoni-and-johanna-allex-thomson-reuters-practical-law-authors/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP attorneys Olivia M. Pietrantoni, an associate in the firm’s Madison office, and Johanna J. Allex, a partner in Madison, authored the Wisconsin Probate Q&A and Ancillary Probate Practice Note publications for Thomson Reuters. Stafford Rosenbaum LLP has an extensive Trust and Estates practice with offices in both Madison and Milwaukee. The firm’s
- [Attorney Wishart Re-Elected to Environmental Law Section Board of State Bar](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-wishart-re-elected-to-environmental-law-section-board-of-state-bar/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Senior Associate, Vanessa D. Wishart, has been re-elected to serve as a Director of the State Bar of Wisconsin’s Environmental Law Section Board. The section promotes understanding and collaboration for all types of attorneys handling issues that impact the environment. Following her completion of her masters in Environment and Resources and her
- [Lori Dorn Appointed to Chair State Bar Law Office Management Assistance Program Committee](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/lori-dorn-appointed-to-chair-state-bar-law-office-management-assistance-program-committee/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP’s Director of Administration Lori Kanneberg Dorn, CLM has been appointed by State Bar of Wisconsin Chair-elect Jill Kastner to serve as the Chair of the State Bar’s Law Office Management Assistance Program (“LOMAP”) Advisory Committee. LOMAP provides information and support to attorneys related to law office management issues, including business planning, human
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Celebrates 140 Years by Helping Recreate 4th Annual Upcoming Picnic in the Park](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-celebrates-140-years-by-helping-recreate-4th-annual-upcoming-picnic-in-the-park/) - Join us for the Fourth Annual Picnic in the Park – Saturday, October 19, 2019 at Vilas Park overlooking the beautiful Lake Wingra! In celebration of its 140th anniversary, Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is a proud sponsor of the Madison Parks Foundation and the upcoming Picnic in the Park. Stafford and the Madison Parks Foundation both
- [Attorney Drew Cochrane Selected to In Business Magazine's 2011 Class of 40 Under 40](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-drew-cochrane-madison-40-under-40/) - Attorney Drew Cochrane has been named one of In Business Magazine’s 40 Under 40 in the Madison area. Drew’s practice focuses primarily on commercial litigation, labor and employment law. In his work, Drew has appeared before numerous state and federal courts and administrative agencies throughout Wisconsin, including the Wisconsin Supreme Court.
- [Attorney Bruce Huibregtse Named to the 2011 BTI Client Service All-Star Team](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/madison-attorney-huibregtse-2011-bti-client-service-all-star/) - Bruce Huibregtse, managing partner at Stafford Rosenbaum LLP, has been named a 2011 BTI Client Service All-Star. Huibregtse has litigated claims in state and federal courts for over 30 years, handling a broad range of complex civil litigation matters including, tort, product liability, insurance, business disputes, environmental matters and OSHA claims. He was also selected
- [New Office in Milwaukee](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/new-milwaukee-office/) - To accommodate its growing practice in the Milwaukee area, Stafford Rosenbaum's Milwaukeeoffice has relocated to the High Pointe Office Center at1200 North MayfairRoad.
- [Four New Attorneys Join Stafford Rosenbaum's Milwaukee Office](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/four-new-attorneys-join-milwaukee-office/) - Francis R. Croak, Margaret T. Lund, Michael J. Lund, and Denasha A. Scott, all formerly of Cook & Franke S.C., have joined the Milwaukee office of Stafford Rosenbaum. "Our Milwaukee office recently relocated into a larger space at 1200 North Mayfair Road in anticipation of this type of expansion of attorneys and legal practices. Our
- [Chambers USA 2011 Recognizes Two Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/chambers-butler-kent/) - Brian Butler and Paul Kent have been selected for inclusion in Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers for Business for 2011. Butler was included as a recommended litigator. He has represented business clients in litigation for over 40 years. Butler has conducted numerous jury trials, court trials, preliminary injunction hearings, arbitrations, and appeals in state and
- [New Attorney Joins Stafford Rosenbaum](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/new-attorney-madison/) - Jordan Corning has recently joined the firm as an associate in its Madison office. Corning's practice focuses on business law, employment and labor law, litigation, and municipal law. He received his J.D., cum laude, from the University of Wisconsin Law School in 2011. Corning is a member of the State Bar of Wisconsin, American Bar
- [Twenty Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys Named in Best Lawyers in America 2012 Directory](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/twenty-stafford-rosenbaum-attorneys-named-in-best-lawyers-in-america-2012-d/) - Twenty attorneys from Stafford Rosenbaum were selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America® 2012 (copyright 2011 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, S.C.). The Stafford Rosenbaum attorneys selected and their practices areas, as noted by Best Lawyers, are: Connie Anderson - Land Use & Zoning Law Janice N.Bensky -Family Law, Trusts
- [Attorney Marney Hoefer Joins Stafford Rosenbaum's Madison Office](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/new-attorney-joins-stafford-rosenbaum/) - MADISON, WI (October 17, 2011) – Stafford Rosenbaum LLP, with offices in Madison and Milwaukee, announced that Marney Hoefer has joined the firm as Senior Associate. Hoefer’s practice focuses on environmental law and governmental affairs. She received her J.D., cum laude, from University of Wisconsin Law School in 2000, where she was a managing editor
- [Seventeen Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys Recognized by Super Lawyers](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/seventeen-stafford-rosenbaum-attorneys-recognized-by-super-lawyers/) - Seventeen attorneys with the law firm Stafford Rosenbaum LLP have been selected for inclusion to the Wisconsin Super Lawyers and Wisconsin Rising Stars lists. Wisconsin Super Lawyers Janice N. Bensky Estate Planning & Probate Brian E. Butler Alternate Dispute Resolution Francis R. Croak Business Litigation Bruce D. Huibregtse Civil Litigation Defense Paul G. Kent Environmental
- [Attorney Larry Clancy Joins Stafford Rosenbaum LLP’s Milwaukee Office](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-larry-clancy-joins-stafford-rosenbaum-llps-milwaukee-office/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP, with offices in Madison and Milwaukee, announced that Larry Clancy, formerly of Cook & Franke S.C., has joined the firm in its Milwaukee office. Clancy practices in the areas of business law, banking and finance, general corporate, real estate and bankruptcy. He received his law degree from University of Wisconsin Law School.
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Attorney Brian Butler Named Among Top Lawyers in Wisconsin](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-attorney-brian-butler-named-among-top-lawyers-in-wiscons/) - Brian Butler, an attorney with Stafford Rosenbaum LLP, has been named a Top 50 Wisconsin Super Lawyer. He was also named the Lawyer of the Year 2012 in Litigation – Antitrust – Madison by Best Lawyers. Butler, who has tried numerous major cases to jury verdict or court decision, has represented clients in business litigation
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Attorney Paul Kent Named Among Top Lawyers in Wisconsin](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-attorney-paul-kent-named-among-top-lawyers-in-wisconsin/) - Paul Kent, an attorney with Stafford Rosenbaum LLP, has been named a Super Lawyer for Environmental Law and was also named a Top 50 Wisconsin Super Lawyer and a Top 25 Madison Super Lawyer based on the total overall results within those areas. He was also named Lawyer of the Year 2012 in Litigation –
- [Stafford Rosenbaum’s Daphne Webb Named to Three Lists of Impressive Attorneys](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaums-daphne-webb-named-to-three-lists-of-impressive-attorney/) - Daphne Webb, an attorney with Stafford Rosenbaum LLP, has again been named the Best Lawyers Lawyer of the Year for Family Law Mediation in Madison and a Top 25 Women Wisconsin Super Lawyer. In addition, National Trial Lawyers named her as a Top 100 Wisconsin Trial Lawyer. Ms. Webb appears on the front cover of
- [Attorney Tony Menting Named Senior Partner at Stafford Rosenbaum](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-tony-menting-named-senior-partner-at-stafford-rosenbaum/) - Anthony J. Menting has been named Senior Partner at Stafford Rosenbaum LLP. Commenting on the promotion, Managing Partner Bruce Huibregtse said, “Tony joined Stafford Rosenbaum in April 2010 and has been an excellent addition to the Family Law practice team. We look forward to a long and successful relationship.” Menting earned his law degree from
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Attorney Brian Butler Named a Leader in the Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-attorney-brian-butler-named-a-leader-in-the-law/) - Brian Butler, an attorney with Stafford Rosenbaum LLP, has been named a Leader in the Law by the Wisconsin Law Journal. The attorneys and judges selected were chosen based on a variety of criteria, including outstanding leadership, vision and legal expertise in Wisconsin’s legal community. Butler, who has tried numerous major cases to jury verdict
- [Elisabeth Shea named Dane County Bar Association President-Elect](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/elisabeth-shea-named-dane-county-bar-association-president-elect/) - Stafford Rosenbaum is pleased to announced that Elisabeth Shea, an attorney in the law firm’s Madison office, has been elected to serve as president-elect of the Dane County Bar Association. Ms. Shea will be the sixth attorney from Stafford Rosenbaum to serve as DCBA President. She will serve as president-elect from June 2012 to May
- [Attorney Laura Skilton Verhoff Named To State Bar of Wisconsin Board of Governors](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-laura-skilton-verhoff-named-to-state-bar-of-wisconsin-board-of-gov/) - Laura Skilton Verhoff, an attorney at Stafford Rosenbaum, has been elected to the State Bar of Wisconsin Board of Governors. The Board of Governors manages and directs the affairs and activities of the State Bar of Wisconsin. Laura will be on the Board for two years beginning July 1, 2012. Skilton Verhoff is a partner
- [Attorney Marney Hoefer Elected to Board of Directors of the State Bar Environmental Law Section](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-marney-hoefer-elected-to-board-of-directors-of-the-state-bar-envir/) - Stafford Rosenbaum is pleased to announced that Marney Hoefer, an attorney in the law firm’s Madison office, has been elected to the Board of Directors of the Environmental Law Section of the State Bar of Wisconsin. Ms. Hoefer will serve a three-year term beginning July 1, 2012. Hoefer’s practice focuses on environmental regulatory matters, governmental
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Attorney Janice Bensky to Be Honored by Wisconsin Law Journal](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-attorney-janice-bensky-to-be-honored-by-wisconsin-law-jo/) - Janice Bensky, an attorney with Stafford Rosenbaum LLP, is among twenty-five women to be honored by the Wisconsin Law Journal on June 21 as 2012 Women in the Law. Attorneys and judges selected were chosen based on a variety of criteria, including achievement of excellence in their respective fields, influence on other women to pursue
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys Brian Butler and Paul Kent Selected for Inclusion in Chambers USA 2012](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-attorneys-brian-butler-and-paul-kent-selected-for-inclus/) - Brian Butler and Paul Kent, attorneys with Stafford Rosenbaum LLP, have been included in Chambers USA 2012: America's Leading Lawyers for Business. The law firm itself was selected separately as one of nine Wisconsin law firms named in the category of Litigation: General Commercial. Brian Butler was included as a recommended litigator. He has represented
- [Third Client Video Testimonial](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/third-client-video-testimonial/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is pleased to present our third client video testimonial, featuring L.F. George owner Charlie Folkman. You can view the video on the Testimonials page of our website or in the rotating videos on our website's home page. The first two client video testimonials are also available. Those videos feature New Glarus Brewing
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Recognized on Annual "Best Companies to Work For" List](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-recognized-on-annual-best-companies-to-work-for-list/) - In the November 2012 issue of InBusiness magazine, Stafford Rosenbaum has been recognized in the top "Gold" category on the magazine's first annual "Best Companies to Work For" list. Companies on the list were evaluated with regard to the benefits they offer employees.
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Receives Gold Award from United Way](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-receives-gold-award-from-united-way/) - SR has received a Gold Award from the United Way of Dane County. The award is presented to organizations with employee gifts averaging between $150 and $249 per employee.
- [Attorney Kelly M. Dodd Joins Stafford Rosenbaum LLP](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-kelly-m-dodd-joins-stafford-rosenbaum-llp/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is pleased to announce that Attorney Kelly M. Dodd has joined the firm as a partner. Dodd practices family law in the firm’s Milwaukee office. She uses traditional as well as non-traditional and creative solutions for couples and families dealing with separation, divorce, child custody, visitation, property division, pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements,
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Attorney Bruce D. Huibregtse Named a Leader in the Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-attorney-bruce-d-huibregtse-named-a-leader-in-the-law/) - Bruce D. Huibregtse, an attorney with Stafford Rosenbaum LLP, has been named a Leader in the Law by the Wisconsin Law Journal. The attorneys and judges selected were chosen based on a variety of criteria, including outstanding leadership, vision and legal expertise in Wisconsin’s legal community. Huibregtse has been a leader in the legal community,
- [Attorney Kelly Dodd Featured in Wisconsin Law Journal Article](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-kelly-dodd-featured-in-wisconsin-law-journal-article/) - Kelly Dodd, a partner with Stafford Rosenbaum, was the feature of a recent article and Q&A in the Wisconsin Law Journal. You can see the full article here with a subscription to the Wisconsin Law Journal.
- [Attorney Amy Collins Joins Stafford Rosenbaum Law Firm](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-amy-collins-joins-stafford-rosenbaum-law-firm/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is pleased to announce that Attorney Amy T. Collins has joined the firm as an associate. Collins practices family law and estate planning in the firm’s Madison office. Collins is a December 2012 graduate of University of Wisconsin Law School and has a Bachelor’s of Music Education from Oklahoma City University. During
- [Attorney Paul Kent Co-Authors Wisconsin Lawyer Article on Wetland Reform Act](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-paul-kent-co-authors-wisconsin-lawyer-article-on-wetland-reform-ac/) - Stafford Rosenbaum attorney Paul Kent co-authored an article in the February 2013 edition of Wisconsin Lawyer magazine. The article, "Wisconsin's Wetland Reform Act," is now linked from the SR website. You can read this article and others by SR lawyers on the Articles & Publications page of this site.
- [Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Adds a Third Blog to Its Website](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-llp-adds-a-third-blog-to-its-website/) - The Stafford Rosenbaum Environmental Law Blog is now available. The blog provides information on new and proposed laws affecting environmental law concerns in Wisconsin. Weekly previews are also posted to keep readers informed on administrative agency hearings and meetings on issues relating to environmental law. Attorney Marney Hoefer will author the bulk of the blog
- [Attorney Christopher B. Hughes Elected Managing Partner and Chair of the Board of Directors](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-christopher-b-hughes-elected-managing-partner-and-board-chair/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP recently announced that Christopher B. Hughes has been elected chair of the firm's Board of Directors and Managing Partner of the law firm. For more than 18 years, Mr. Hughes has represented businesses, municipalities and individuals relating to real estate, business, land use, municipal, and contractual matters. Mr. Hughes graduated cum laude
- [Attorney Erika L. Bierma Joins Stafford Rosenbaum Law Firm](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-erika-l-bierma-joins-stafford-rosenbaum-law-firm/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is pleased to announce that Attorney Erika L. Bierma has joined the firm as a senior associate. Bierma practices criminal and civil litigation and appeals in the firm’s Madison office. She was previously an attorney in the Federal Public Defenders office.
- [Attorney Kyle W. Engelke Joins Stafford Rosenbaum Law Firm](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-kyle-w-engelke-joins-stafford-rosenbaum-law-firm/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is pleased to announce that Attorney Kyle W. Engelke has joined the firm as an associate. Engelke practices litigation, business law, and municipal law in Stafford's Madison office.
- [Attorney Jared M. Potter Recipient of 2013 Wisconsin Law Journal Up and Coming Lawyer Award](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-jared-potter-recipient-of-2013-wisconsin-law-journal-up-and-coming/) - Stafford Rosenbaum is proud to announce that Attorney Jared M. Potter has been named by the Wisconsin Law Journal as a 2013 Up and Coming Lawyer. Judging criteria was based on the following: attorneys that are on the fast track to making a significant impact on the legal profession, attorneys that represent determination in legal
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys named to 2014 Best Lawyers in America](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-attorneys-named-to-2014-best-lawyers-in-ameri/) - Stafford Rosenbaum is proud to announce that twenty-one of its attorneys have been named as 2014 Best Lawyers in America. This year’s awards cover attorneys in 134 practice areas, all 50 states and the District of Columbia, and inclusion in this year’s publication is based on more than 4.9 million detailed evaluations of lawyers by
- [Attorneys Huibregtse and Neider inducted into the Wisconsin Law Foundation's Class of 2013](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorneys-huibregtse-and-neider-inducted-into-the-wisconsin-law-foundations/) - Attorneys Barbara A. Neider and Bruce D. Huibregtse, partners at Stafford Rosenbaum, were inducted into the Wisconsin Law Foundation’s (WLF) Class of 2013. Founded in 1951, WLF is the charitable arm of the State Bar of Wisconsin and promotes public understanding of the law, improvement of the administration of justice and other law-related public service
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Attorney, Paul Kent, Authors "Wisconsin Water Law in the 21st Century"](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/sr-attorney-paul-kent-authors-wisconsin-water-law-in-the-21st-century/) - Wisconsin Water Law in the 21st Century is a practical and comprehensive guide to water rights and regulations in Wisconsin. It is designed to help lawyers and non-lawyers with an interest in water resource issues to understand Wisconsin water law – its history, structure and current provisions. Paul G. Kent, is a senior partner with
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys Selected for 2013 Wisconsin Super Lawyers and Wisconsin Rising Stars](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-attorneys-selected-for-2013-wisconsin-super-lawyers-and/) - Tenof Stafford Rosenbaum's attorneys have been named by Wisconsin Super Lawyers® magazine as among the top attorneys in Wisconsin for 2013. Additionally, four Stafford Rosenbaum attorneys have been selected as 2013 Wisconsin Rising Stars. Up to five percent of the lawyers in the state are named to Super Lawyers, no more than 2.5 percent are
- [Three Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Partners Named “2013 Top-Rated Lawyers in Real Estate Law”](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/three-stafford-rosenbaum-llp-partners-named-2013-top-rated-lawyers-in-real/) - Stafford Rosenbaum is pleased to announce that Connie Anderson, Lawrence Clancy, and Michael Lund have been named “2013 Top-Rated Lawyers in Real Estate Law” by American Lawyer Media and Martindale-Hubbell™. Ms. Anderson's practice includes real estate, local government, land use, and commercial development matters. Ms. Anderson practices extensively in private commercial real estate matters providing
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Associate, Amy Collins, Named to the Order of the Coif](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-associate-amy-collins-named-to-the-order-of-the-coif/) - Stafford Rosenbaum is proud to announce that Attorney Amy Collins has been named to the Order of the Coif. The Order of the Coif is an honorary group selected from those graduating law students with the highest grade points. It is limited to no more than ten percent of the class. More information about the
- [Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Adds a Fourth Blog to its Website](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-llp-adds-a-fourth-blog-to-its-website/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is proud to announce the release of Attorney Susan Allen’s weekly legal blog, “The Wisconsin Municipal LawMemo.” This will be the fourth topical legalblog the firm publishes; other blog topicsinclude: environmental law, employment andlaborlaw,and franchise and distributionlaw.Ms. Allen, an associate in the firm’s Milwaukee office, will examine the previous week’s municipal law
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Recognized as one of Wisconsin's Leading Litigation Firms](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-recognized-as-one-of-wisconsins-leading-litigation-firms/) - Chambers & Partners, an internationally renowned research and ranking firm, has identified Stafford Rosenbaum as one of Wisconsin’s preeminent litigation firms in the Chambers 2014 law firm guide. Only eight law firms in Wisconsin were so recognized, and of the eight, Stafford Rosenbaum is the only Madison based law firm. Stafford Rosenbaum's litigators advise clients
- [U.S. News - Best Lawyers Ranks Stafford Rosenbaum as a 2014 "Best Law Firm"](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/u-s-news-best-lawyers-ranks-stafford-rosenbaum-as-a-2014-best-law-firm/) - U.S. News – Best Lawyers® ranks Stafford Rosenbaum Tier 1 in twenty-one practice areas within Wisconsin in the recently released 2014 “Best Law Firms” listings. The 2014 rankings are based on the highest number of participating firms and highest number of client ballots on record. Receiving a tier designation reflects the high level of respect
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Named to "Best Companies to Work For"](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-llp-names-to-best-companies-to-work-for/) - InBusiness Magazine announced that Stafford Rosenbaum LLP has been named to the Gold level in its “Best Companies to Work For”. Of the 35 businesses recognized on this list, only three were awarded this highest category. InBusiness looked to employee benefits, specifically measuring the commitment to individual and family coverage and spouse and domestic partner
- [Gerald Mowris Joins Stafford Rosenbaum LLP](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/gerald-mowris-joins-stafford-rosenbaum-llp/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is pleased to announce the addition of Gerald Mowris to the firm’s Madison office. Mowris is a partner in the firm’s Litigation Practice. He is also a member of the firm’s Family Law group. “I am very excited to be joining the Stafford team,” said Mowris, “I have personally seen the Stafford
- [Attorney Daphne Webb Featured in Article on Assembly Bill 540](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-daphne-webb-featured-in-article-on-assembly-bill-540/) - In an interview with WKOW, Stafford Rosenbaum attorney, Daphne Webb, was asked to comment on Assembly Bill 540, which seeks to establish a presumption in the law that equal placement with each parent is in the best interest of a child after a divorce. Click here to read the accompanying article. "It’s not really in
- [James Egle Elected to Stafford Rosenbaum's Board of Directors](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/james-egle-elected-to-stafford-rosenbaum-llps-board-of-directors/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP recently announced that James B. Egle been elected to the Board of Directors of the law firm. Mr. Egle’s practice is primarily focused on contract negotiations, dealership and franchise law, business law, and estate planning and probate. Jim represents business clients in a broad range of industries, including manufacturing, utilities, health care,
- [Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Announces New Partner and Senior Partner](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-llp-announces-new-partner-and-senior-partner/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP has named Marney I. Hoefer to partner and Amie B. Trupke to senior partner positions. Both attorneys practice in the firm’s Madison office. Ms. Hoefer’s practice focuses on environmental regulatory matters, governmental relations and energy with a particular emphasis on air and water issues. Prior to joining Stafford Rosenbaum, she was a
- [Attorney Michelle Affatati joins Stafford Rosenbaum LLP](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-michelle-affatati-joins-stafford-rosenbaum-llp/) - Madison, WI (January 8, 2014) – Stafford Rosenbaum LLP recently announced that Michelle Affatati has joined the firm as an associate. Ms. Affatati’s practice is primarily focused on business law, estate planning, and litigation support. Prior to joining Stafford, she was an attorney at Michelle Behnke & Associates. Ms. Affatati’s experience also includes working in
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Invites Businesses to Sponsor LAW’s Fundraiser for the DAIS Legal Program](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-invites-businesses-to-sponsor-laws-fundraiser-for-the-da/) - Madison, WI (January 20, 2014) – Stafford Rosenbaum LLP proudly supports the Legal Association of Women’s (LAW) annual fundraiser for the Domestic Abuse Intervention Services (DAIS) legal program. LAW invites Dane County businesses to donatean item or abasket for the silent auction. DAIS offers seven comprehensive crisis intervention and prevention programs including the DAIS Legal
- [Stafford Attorney Testifies on Phosphorus Bill](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-attorney-testifies-on-phosphorus-bill/) - Inan opinion piece from February 11, 2014 entitled, "Phosphorus regulation bill would help state address runoff pollution," the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel lends its editorial support for 2013 Senate Bill 547, which is currently in front of the Legislature. Proponents of the bill seek to give communities and water treatment facilities more time and flexibility in
- [Two Stafford Attorneys Co-Recipients of the LRIS Hotline Attorney of the Year Award](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/two-stafford-attorneys-co-recipients-of-the-lris-hotline-attorney-of-the-ye/) - Stafford Rosenbaum attorneys, Bruce Huibregtse and Jordan Corning, have been selected as co-recipients of the State Bar of Wisconsin Lawyer Referral and Information Service 2014 Hotline Attorney of the Year award. Mr. Huibregtse and Mr. Corning are being recognized for their longstanding dedication and service to the Lawyer Hotline program. The Lawyer Referral and Information
- [Upcoming Milwaukee Office Open House Networking Event](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/upcoming-milwaukee-office-open-house-networking-event/) - Stafford Rosenbaum and Wangard Partners will be hosting a Wauwatosa Chamber of Commerce After Hours Networking event on Thursday, April 3. This will be an open house event with food and drinks by Saz's Catering. You do not need to be a Wauwatosa Chamber member to attend. Details: Thursday, April 3, 2014 5:00-7:00 p.m. Stafford
- [Settlement Reached for Lower Fox River and Green Bay Site Cleanup and Restoration](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/settlement-reached-for-lower-fox-river-and-green-bay-site-cleanup-and-resto/) - Madison, WI— Six parties including the City of Appleton, CBC Coating, Inc., Menasha Corporation, the Neenah-Menasha Sewerage Commission, U.S. Paper Mills Corp., and WTM I Company announced that there has been a $54 million settlement of certain claims related to the Lower Fox River and Green Bay Site. The United States and the State of
- [Court Rules the Village of Lake Delton is not Liable for 2008 House Damages Caused by Flooding](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/court-rules-the-village-of-lake-delton-is-not-liable-for-2008-house-damages/) - The Village of Lake Delton is not liable for damages to five houses and nine lots caused by massive flooding in June 2008, the Wisconsin Court of Appeals ruled Thursday. The properties were part of a subdivision along the 267-acre manmade lake. The homes were destroyed or swept away when the flooding caused a blowout
- [Stafford Partner, Daphne Webb will receive the Wisconsin Law Journal’s 2014 Women in the Law Award](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-partner-daphne-webb-will-receive-the-wisconsin-law-journals-2014-w/) - Stafford Rosenbaum is pleased to announce that partner Daphne Webb will receive the Wisconsin Law Journal’s 2014 Women in the Law Award on June 12, 2014 at Milwaukee’s Pfister Hotel. Webb is among 27 exceptional female attorneys in the state to receive this honor. Ms. Webb is Past President of the Wisconsin Chapter, and is
- [Stafford Partner, Paul Kent Awarded Hon. Charles Dunn Certificate of Commendation](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-partner-paul-kent-awarded-hon-charles-dunn-certificate-of-commend/) - The Wisconsin State Bar Communications Committee has awarded Stafford partner, Paul Kent a certificate of commendation for the article, "Wisconsin's Wetland Reform Act," Wisconsin Lawyer, Vol. 86, No. 1, February 2013. Mr. Kent co-authored the article with Attorney Jordan K. Lamb of Dewitt Ross & Stevens. Each year the Communications Committee, which serves as the
- [Stafford Attorneys to Present at WI Chapter of the Association for Corporate Counsel's Conference](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-attorneys-to-present-at-wi-chapter-of-the-association-for-corporat/) - Denasha Scott and James Egle of Stafford Rosenbaum will be presenting “Wisconsin Case Law in a Nutshell: 10 Decisions Every Business Lawyer Should Know” at the Wisconsin Chapter of the Association for Corporate Counsel’s Annual Conference on May 16th in Elkhart Lake. Ms. Scott and Mr. Egle will be joined by co-presenter Lou Ann Koval,
- [Stafford Partner, Laura Skilton Verhoff Re-Elected to the State Bar Board of Governors](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-partner-laura-skilton-verhoff-re-elected-to-the-state-bar-board-of/) - Stafford partner, Laura Skilton Verhoff was re-elected to serve a two-year term as District 9 representative on the State Bar Board of Governors. The Board of Governors manages and directs the affairs and activities of the State Bar of Wisconsin. The boardincludes: the association's five officers, the immediate past president (all of whom are ex
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Clients Among Companies Honored by the WMC](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-clients-among-companies-honored-by-the-wmc/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is pleased to announce that the firm’s clients New Glarus Brewing Company and Madison Gas and Electric were among the recipients of the 2014 Wisconsin Business Friend of the Environment Awards. The Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce’s Business Friend of the Environment Awards highlight what Wisconsin companies are doing in the areas of
- [Stafford Family Law Attorney, Kelly Dodd Interviewed by WITI, Fox 6 Milwaukee](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-family-law-attorney-kelly-dodd-interviewed-by-witi-fox-6-milwaukee/) - WITI, FOX 6 Milwaukee interviewed Kelly Dodd, a partner at Stafford Rosenbaum for her legal take on the recent same-sex marriage decision handed down by Judge Crabb of the United States District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin and whether these same-sex marriage licenses could be voided. Ms. Dodd stated, “Based on my understanding
- [Daphne Webb Among this Year's Women in the Law Recipients](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/daphne-webb-among-this-years-women-in-the-law-recipients/) - Daphne Webb, a senior partner at Stafford Rosenbaum, was among this year’s Wisconsin Law Journal’s Women in the Law recipients. Twenty-seven outstanding female members of the state’s legal community were honored at the event, which was attended by more than 375 people at Milwaukee’s Pfister Hotel. Daphne, in private practice since 1973, is one of
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Welcomes New Attorney Holly Wilson](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-welcomes-new-attorney-holly-wilson/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP recently welcomed Attorney Holly Wilson as an associate. Holly is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin Law School where she was Managing Editor of the Wisconsin Law Review. While in law school, Holly was an active participant in the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, and she was a recipient of
- [Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Welcomes Seven Established Attorneys and Paralegals](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-llp-welcomes-seven-established-attorneys-and-paralegals/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is pleased to announce the addition of seven well-established attorneys and paralegals to the firm’s Madison office. Effective July 1, 2014, Tom Solheim, Dave Billing, Jim Statz and Laura Callan will be joining the firm as partners, Eileen Kelley will be joining as an associate, and Susan Tuohy and Cynthia Draeger will
- [Stafford Partner, Bryan Kleinmaier Elected to Board of the Public Utilities Section of the State Bar](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-partner-bryan-kleinmaier-elected-to-board-of-the-public-utilities/) - Stafford Rosenbaum partner Bryan Kleinmaier was recently elected to the Board of Directors of the Public Utilities Section of the State Bar of Wisconsin. His terms will begin on July 1, 2014 and end on June 30, 2017. The Public Utilities Section of the State Bar of Wisconsin is made up of attorneys who work
- [An Overview of the New Wisconsin Trust Code](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/an-overview-of-the-new-wisconsin-trust-code/) - The New Wisconsin Trust Code (WTC) will take effect date of July 1, 2014. The new WTC offers greater flexibility in managing trusts, makes it easier to modify or terminate trusts, reduces the need for court involvement and may provide new opportunities in estate planning. Many of the provisions of the WTC confirm the authority
- [Susan Allen Named as a Leading Litigation Lawyer in 2014](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/susan-allen-named-as-a-leading-litigation-lawyer-in-2014/) - Susan Allen was recently named by Milwaukee Magazine as a Leading Litigation Lawyer in 2014. Milwaukee Magazine’s list used AVVO ratings to determine their Leading Lawyers list and published the top 5-10% of AVVO rated attorney. Susan's practice focuses on litigation, including products liability defense, general commercial litigation and vehicle warranty litigation. Susan also practices
- [Stafford Rosenbaum's Meg Vergeront Elected to State Bar's Labor and Employment Board](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaums-meg-vergeront-elected-to-state-bars-labor-and-employmen/) - Stafford Rosenbaum partner Meg Vergeront was recently elected Secretary/Treasurer of the State Bar's Labor and Employment Law Section Board. The Labor and Employment Section includes experienced and novice attorneys that regularly (or sometimes) practice in the arena of traditional labor and employment law. It includes all manner of workplace legal issues. The Section offers monthly
- [Stafford's Director of Administration Appointed to State Bar Committee](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/staffords-director-of-administration-appointed-to-state-bar-committee/) - Michelle Andler has been appointed to the Wisconsin State Bar's Insurance and Member Benefits Committee for a one-year term. The Insurance and Member Benefits Committee is responsible for exploring possible insurance and member benefits for State Bar Members, making decisions on endorsing products, and contract review with agencies, companies and underwriters. The committee provides a
- [Stafford Rosenbaum’s Kyle Engelke Elected to the Madison Parks Foundation’s Board of Directors](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaums-kyle-engelke-elected-to-the-madison-parks-foundations-b/) - Kyle Engelke, an attorney with Stafford Rosenbaum, was recently elected to the Madison Parks Foundation’s Board of Directors. The Madison Parks Foundation is dedicated to future generations of citizens through efforts to preserve and expand our gift of parks and open space in Madison. The Madison Parks Foundation is celebrating its 120th anniversary. Mr. Engelke’s
- [Stafford Partner, Gerald Mowris Reappointed to State Bar's Legislative Oversight Committee](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-partner-gerald-mowris-reappointed-to-state-bars-legislative-oversi/) - Gerald Mowris has been reappointed to the Wisconsin State Bar's Legislative Oversight Committee for a two-year term. The Legislative Oversight Committee oversees the State Bar's Government Relations program, including its conflict resolution process for section lobbying. The State Bar President appointseight State Bar members(plus a liaison from the Board of Governors) to the Legislative Oversight
- ["The Best Lawyers in America" Recognizes 22 Attorneys from Stafford Rosenbaum in its 2015 Edition](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/the-best-lawyers-in-america-recognizes-22-attorneys-from-stafford-rosenbaum/) - The Best Lawyers in America© recognized 22 attorneys from Stafford Rosenbaum LLP in its 2015 edition. Regarded as a top reference guide to the legal profession, The Best Lawyers in America© has been published biennially since 1983. From the firm’s Madison office, recipients as listed by Best Lawyers include: Constance L. Anderson: Land Use and
- [Four Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys have been Selected for "Best Lawyers 2015 Lawyer of the Year"](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-attorneys-have-been-selected-for-best-lawyers-2015-lawye/) - Four Stafford Rosenbaum attorneys have been selected for Best Lawyers 2015 Lawyer of the Year. Only a single lawyer in each practice area and designated metropolitan area is honored as the “Lawyer of the Year,” making this accolade particularly significant. Lawyers being honored as “Lawyer of the Year” are selected based on particularly impressive voting
- [Publication: “Undue Stimulus” and the Requirements for an Arm’s-Length Sale](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/what-constitutes-an-undue-stimulus-and-what-really-are-the-requirements-for/) - Given recent economic times, questions have arisen as to what constitutes an “undue stimulus” and what really are the requirements for an arm’s-length sale. To try to answer these questions it is helpful to start with the statute. Under Wisconsin Statute section 70.32(1), to be used to value property, a sale - whether it is
- [Stafford Rosenbaum's Trusts and Estates Blog Launches](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaums-trusts-and-estates-blog-launches/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is proud to announce the launch of the firm’s topical blog, “The Well Planned Estate: A Look at Wills, Trusts and Probate.” This will be the fifth legalblog the firm publishes; other blog topicsinclude: municipal law, environmental law, employment andlaborlaw,franchise and distributionlaw.“The Well Planned Estate’s” first post looks at estate planning for
- [Publication: Government Accountability Board Issues Guidance on Reinstatement of Voter ID](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/publication-government-accountability-board-issues-guidance-on-reinstatemen/) - On September 12th the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals issued a stay of Judge Lynn Adelman’s April 28th permanent injunction of the implementation of 2011 Wisconsin Act 23 (the “Act”), the so-called Voter ID law. In light of the Court’s action, the Government Accountability Board (“GAB”) has advised that Wisconsin elections officials will be required
- [Attorney Tiffany Highstrom Joins Stafford Rosenbaum](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-tiffany-highstrom-joins-stafford-rosenbaum/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is pleased to announce that Attorney Tiffany L. Highstrom has joined the firm’s Madison office as Senior Associate. Highstrom works to find practical solutions for couples and families dealing with separation, divorce, child custody, visitation, property division, pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements, and everything else related to family law. Highstrom also serves as
- [Why Same-Sex Couples Should Consider a Pre-Nuptial Agreement](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/why-same-sex-couples-should-consider-a-pre-nuptial-agreement/) - Last week, the U.S. Supreme Court denied petitions to review same-sex marriage decisions from Federal Circuit Courts around the country. This allows the current rulings in each Federal Circuit Court to remain in effect, including the 7th Circuit decision in Walker v. Wolf, which held that Wisconsin’s same-sex marriage ban was unconstitutional. As a result,
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Day in the City of Milwaukee](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-day-in-the-city-of-milwaukee/) - In honor of Stafford Rosenbaum’s 135th anniversary, Mayor Barrett of Milwaukee issued an official Proclamation naming Thursday, October 16, 2014 to be Stafford Rosenbaum Day throughout the City of Milwaukee. Christopher Hughes the firm’s managing partner stated, “We are honored to receive this noteworthy recognition. It is a testament to the longevity and success of
- [Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Ranked in 2015 “Best Law Firms”](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-llp-ranked-in-2015-best-law-firms/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP has received a Tier 1 ranking in the 2015 Edition of U.S. News - Best Lawyers® "Best Law Firms." Tier 1 rankings are determined through a firm's overall evaluation, which is derived from a combination of clients' impressive feedback, the high regard that lawyers in other firms have for the firm, in
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Receives Three United Way of Dane County Awards](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-receives-three-united-way-of-dane-county-awards/) - Stafford Rosenbaum recently received three United Way Partners for Change awards. Among Madison law firms, Stafford Rosenbaum was awarded: Highest Increase in Dollars Raised; Highest Percent in Participation; and Highest Percentage Increase in Participation. Prominent firms are involved in nearly every successful fundraising effort in this county. As the preeminent philanthropic organization in the county,
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Day in the City of Madison](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-day-in-the-city-of-madison/) - In honor of Stafford Rosenbaum’s 135th anniversary, Mayor Soglin of Madison issued a Mayoral Proclamation naming Thursday, November 13, 2014 to be Stafford Rosenbaum Day throughout the City of Madison. Christopher Hughes the firm’s managing partner stated, “Stafford Rosenbaum is honored to receive this noteworthy recognition from the City. It is a testament to the
- [2015 Wisconsin Super Lawyers and Rising Stars Lists include Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/2015-wisconsin-super-lawyers-and-rising-stars-lists-include-stafford-rosenb/) - Ten attorneys from Stafford Rosenbaum LLP have been selected to the 2015 Wisconsin Super Lawyers list. No more than five percent of the lawyers in Wisconsin are selected by Super Lawyers. Stafford Rosenbaum attorneys included on the 2015 Wisconsin Super Lawyers list are: Brian Butler Francis Croak Bruce Huibregtse Paul Kent Tony Menting Gerald Mowris
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Awarded with the Community Growth Award](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-awarded-with-the-community-growth-award/) - At the 2014 United Way Campaign Celebration, Stafford Rosenbaum was awarded with the Community Growth Award for organizations with 26-99 employees. Chris Hughes the firm's managing partner and a member of the United Way of Dane County’s Partners for Change Attorneys Steering Committee stated, “The firm is proud to support the United Way of Dane
- [Stafford Rosenbaum's Liz Stephens selected for Milwaukee County's Government Affairs Efforts](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaums-liz-stephens-selected-for-milwaukee-countys-government/) - The law firm of Stafford Rosenbaum is pleased to announce that Milwaukee County Board Chairwoman Marina Dimitrijevic has selected Liz Stephens to oversee the Board’s state and local legislative advocacy efforts. Ms. Stephens will do so as a member of Stafford’s Government Relations practice where she will be responsible for advancing the Board’s legislative and
- [Attorney Wilson Featured in Wisconsin Law Journal](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-wilson-featured-in-wisconsin-law-journal/) - The Wisconsin Law Journal recently featured Stafford Rosenbaum associate attorney Holly Wilson in the article, “Municipal practice keeps third-generation lawyer on her toes.” Holly practices municipal law in the firm’s Madison office. She is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin Law School where she was Managing Editor of the Wisconsin Law Review. With offices
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Announces New Partner, Susan Allen](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-announces-new-partner-susan-allen/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP has named Susan K. Allen to partner.Susan practices in the firm’s Milwaukee office. Susan's practice focuses on litigation, including products liability defense, general commercial litigation and vehicle warranty litigation. Susan also practices in the area of municipal law. She has served as a municipal prosecutor in Milwaukee and Madison area municipalities and
- [Settlement Reached in Novartis Wholesale Drug Pricing Dispute](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/settlement-reached-in-novartis-wholesale-drug-pricing-dispute/) - Madison, WI -- Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation reached a deal on Tuesday with the Wisconsin Department of Justice over the state’s claims that the drugmaker had artificially inflated the cost of its brand name prescription drugs, causing Wisconsin’s Medicaid program to reimburse pharmacies that dispensed the drugs to Medicaid recipients more than it should have. Originally,
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Welcomes Nine Established Attorneys From Lee, Kilkelly, Paulson & Younger, S.C.](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-welcomes-nine-established-attorneys-from-lee-kilkelly-pa/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is pleased to announce the addition of nine well-established attorneys to the firm’s Madison office. Effective March 1, 2015, Robert G. Lee, H. Robert Kilkelly, Loren R. Paulson, Jeffrey W. Younger, Thomas H. Brush, Paul W. Schwarzenbart, Scott A. Seid, Robert O. Grulke and Jeffrey R. Schneider will be joining the firm.
- [Denasha A. Scott Elected to Stafford Rosenbaum's Board of Directors](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/denasha-a-scott-been-elected-to-stafford-rosenbaumboard-of-directors/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP recently announced that Denasha A. Scott has been elected to the Board of Directors. Ms. Scott serves as counsel to individuals and families regarding appropriate estate planning arrangements to carry out their goals and objectives, to businesses and professional practices on a wide variety of ongoing business needs, and to nonprofit organizations
- [Christopher Hughes Re-elected Managing Partner and Chair of the Firm's Board of Directors](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/christopher-hughes-re-elected-managing-partner-and-chair-of-the-firms-board/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP recently announced that Christopher B. Hughes has been re-elected chair of the firm's Board of Directors and Managing Partner of the law firm. For more than twenty years, Mr. Hughes has represented businesses, municipalities and individuals relating to real estate, business, land use, municipal and contractual matters. Mr. Hughes graduated cum laude
- [Stafford Attorneys to Present at WI Chapter of the Association for Corporate Counsel’s Conference](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-attorneys-to-present-at-wi-chapter-of-the-association-for-cor/) - Susan Allen and Jeff Younger of Stafford Rosenbaum will be presenting on litigation holds in the age of e-discovery at the upcomingWisconsin Chapter of the Association for Corporate Counsel’s Annual Conference on April 30th in Elkhart Lake. Ms. Allen and Mr. Younger will be joined by co-presenter Michael Baird, General Counsel at Uline Inc. Susan
- [Attorney Johanna J. Allex Joins Stafford Rosenbaum](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-johanna-j-allex-joins-stafford-rosenbaum/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is pleased to announce the addition of Johanna J. Allex to the firm’s Madison office. Allex is joining the firm as a partner and is a member of the firm’s Trusts and Estates group. “I am excited to be joining the Stafford team,” said Allex, “I have personally seen the Stafford attorneys
- [The WI Supreme Court's Runzheimer Decision and its Effect on Employee Covenants Not to Compete](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/the-wi-supreme-courts-runzheimer-decision-and-its-effect-on-employee-covena/) - Last week the Wisconsin Supreme Court released an important new decision concerning employee covenants not to compete, also referred to as non-compete agreements or covenants. Employee covenants not to compete are often used by businesses to prevent employees who have developed relationships with customers, received special training or other supportive resources from an employer, from
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Names Two New Practice Area Team Leaders](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-names-two-new-practice-area-team-leaders/) - The law firm of Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is pleased to announce that Matthew P. Dregne has been named chair of the firm’s Government Law Practice Group, and Bryan Kleinmaier has been named co-chair of the Energy Law Practice Group. Dregne succeeds Richard C. Yde in this position. Yde served as the leader of the Government
- [Denasha Scott Included in this Year's Women in the Law Recipients](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/denasha-scott-included-in-this-years-women-in-the-law-recipients/) - Denasha Scott, a partner at Stafford Rosenbaum, was among this year’s Wisconsin Law Journal’s Women in the Law recipients. The Wisconsin Law Journal honored outstanding achievement by the top women in the practice of law who by achieving success, have also paved the way for success for other women in the legal profession.Thirty outstanding female
- [Kyle Engelke Elected to Madison Parks Foundation's Executive Committee](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/kyle-engelke-elected-to-madison-parks-foundations-executive-committee/) - Stafford's Kyle Engelke has been elected to the Executive Committee of the Madison Parks Foundationwhere he will serveas Secretary. The Madison Parks Foundation is dedicated to preserving and expanding the city's parks and open spaces. "It's a particularly exciting time for the Madison Parks Foundation. Not only does the MPF have a vibrant and impactful
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Welcomes Attorney Jeffrey A. Mandell](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-welcomes-attorney-jeffrey-a-mandell/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is pleased to announce the addition of Jeffrey A. Mandell to the firm’s Madison office. Mandell is a litigator with extensive trial and appellate experience in federal and state courts. For several years, he has served as counsel for a defendant in a complex federal RICO case that presents novel legal, remedial,
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Welcomes Attorney Vanessa Wishart](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-welcomes-attorney-vanessa-wishart/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP welcomes Attorney Vanessa Wishart to the firm’s Madison office where her practice focuses on environmental law. Prior to joining Stafford Rosenbaum, Vanessa was a judicial law clerk at the Wisconsin Court of Appeals. Vanessa graduated cum laude from the University of Wisconsin Law School where she was a member of law review.
- [Listing Contracts: Sellers Beware](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/listing-contracts-sellers-beware/) - Under Wisconsin’s standard listing contract forms, a seller may owe a commission to a broker even if the sale of the property does not close. However, a well-drafted contract can change that, should a seller so desire. Listing contracts. Many sellers believe a broker’s commission is earned only upon the closing of the sale of
- [Attorney Allen Named by M Magazine as Leading Lawyer in 2015](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-allen-named-by-milwaukee-magazine-as-leading-lawyer-in-2015/) - Susan Allen was recently named by M Magazine as a Leading Litigation Lawyer in 2015. Milwaukee Magazine’s list used AVVO ratings to determine their Leading Lawyers list and published the top 5-10% of AVVO rated attorney. Susan's practice focuses on litigation, including products liability defense, lemon law, breach of warranty, stray voltage and insurance litigation.
- [“The Best Lawyers in America” Recognizes 22 Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys in its 2016 Edition](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/the-best-lawyers-in-america-recognizes-22-stafford-rosenbaum-attorneys-in-i/) - The Best Lawyers in America© recognized 22 attorneys from Stafford Rosenbaum LLP in its 2016 edition. Regarded as a top reference guide to the legal profession, The Best Lawyers in America© has been published biennially since 1983. From the firm’s Madison office, recipients as listed by Best Lawyers include: Janice N. Bensky: Family Law, Trusts
- [Three Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys Selected for "Best Lawyers 2016 - Lawyer of the Year"](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/three-stafford-rosenbaum-attorneys-selected-for-best-lawyers-2016-lawyer-of/) - Three Stafford Rosenbaum attorneys have been selected for "Best Lawyers 2016 Lawyer of the Year." Only a single lawyer in each practice area and designated metropolitan area is honored as the “Lawyer of the Year,” making this accolade particularly significant. Lawyers being honored as “Lawyer of the Year” are selected based on particularly impressive voting
- [City of Ashland Prevails in Superfund Case](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/city-of-ashland-found-to-have-no-liability-in-superfund-case/) - Following a two week trial in April and May of this year, Judge Barbara Crabb of the federal court for the Western District of Wisconsin has ruled that the City of Ashland does not have to contribute to the cost of remediating the contamination at the Superfund site in Ashland. As a result of the
- [Amy Collins Included in this Year's Up and Coming Lawyers Honorees](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/amy-collins-included-in-this-years-up-and-coming-lawyers-honorees/) - Amy Collins, a senior associate at Stafford Rosenbaum, was among this year’s Wisconsin Law Journal’s Up and Coming Lawyer recipients. The Wisconsin Law Journal’s Up and Coming Lawyer honorees have been practicing eight years or less. Thirty outstanding members of the state’s legal community were honored at the event held at The Garage at the
- [Scott Seid Elected to the Dane Buy Local Foundation](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/scott-seid-elected-to-the-dane-buy-local-foundation/) - Stafford Rosenbaum's Scott Seid was recently elected to the Dane Buy Local Foundation’s Board of Directors. It is the mission of the Dane Buy Local Foundation to help the public understand the importance of buying locally, to expand support of challenged populations in the area by offering special supportfor minority business that result in stronger
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys Receive Honors from the City of Ashland](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-attorneys-receive-honors-from-the-city-of-ashland/) - On October 8, the City of Ashland presented Stafford Rosenbaum attorneys Ted Waskowski and Richard Yde with a key to the City and a Certificate of Appreciation for Stafford Rosenbaum’s “extraordinary effort representing the best interest of the City of Ashland” defending the City in a federal lawsuit by Northern States Power Company, an Xcel
- [Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Ranked in 2016 “Best Law Firms”](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-llp-ranked-in-2016-best-law-firms/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP has received a Tier 1 ranking in the 2016 Edition of U.S. News - Best Lawyers® "Best Law Firms."Tier 1 rankings are determined through a firm's overall evaluation, which is derived from a combination of clients' impressive feedback, the high regard that lawyers in other firms have for the firm, in addition
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys Selected for 2015 Wisconsin Super Lawyers and Rising Stars Lists](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-attorneys-selected-for-2016-wisconsin-super-lawyers-and/) - Ten attorneys from Stafford Rosenbaum LLP have been selected to the 2015 Wisconsin Super Lawyers list. No more than five percent of the lawyers in Wisconsin are selected by Super Lawyers. Stafford Rosenbaum attorneys included on the 2015 Wisconsin Super Lawyers list are: Brian Butler Francis Croak Bruce Huibregtse Paul Kent Anthony Menting Gerald Mowris
- [FAA Drone Regulations: Just in Time for the Holidays](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/faa-drone-regulations-just-in-time-for-the-holidays/) - The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recently announced a web-based aircraft registration process for owners of small unmanned aircraft (UAS) or drones weighing more than 0.55 pounds and less than 55 pounds including payloads such as on-board cameras. The web-based registration system will be available starting December 21, 2015 at www.faa.gov/uas/registration. Now,
- [Thomas Solheim Elected to the Madison Regional Economic Partnership's Board of Directors](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/thomas-solheim-elected-to-the-madison-regional-economic-partnerships-board/) - Stafford Rosenbaum's Thomas Solheim was recently elected to the Madison Regional Economic Partnership’s Board of Directors. TheMadison Region Economic Partnership (MadREP) works in the spirit of collaboration to ensure resources are available to the people and organizations that do business in the Madison region, helping the area continue the tradition of delivering first-rate products and
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Names New Business Law Team Leader](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-names-new-business-law-team-leader/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is pleased to announce that James I. Statz has been named the firm’s Business Law Team Leader. Previously, the group was led by Denasha A. Scott, who is a member of the firm’s Board of Directors. Jim Statz’s practice includes extensive experience handling highly complex real estate transactions, which routinely involve negotiations
- [D.C. Circuit Refuses to Stay Implementation of EPA Clean Power Plan; Legal Challenges to Proceed](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/d-c-circuit-refuses-to-stay-implementation-of-epa-clean-power-plan-legal-c/) - Last week, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit denied requests from more than two dozen states (including Wisconsin) and several energy industry interests to halt implementation of the EPA’s Clean Power Plan while their legal challenges to the regulatory regime are adjudicated. Through the Clean Power Plan, EPA seeks to reduce carbon
- [U.S. Supreme Court Affirms FERC Authority Over Demand Response](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/u-s-supreme-court-affirms-ferc-authority-over-demand-response/) - Under the Federal Power Act, the federal government (through the Federal Electricity Regulatory Commission, or FERC) regulates the interstate wholesale market in electricity, while state utility commissions regulate intrastate retail markets in electricity. This division of regulatory authority is cleaner in theory than in practice, because, as the U.S. Supreme Court recognized in a highly
- [Stafford's Johanna Allex Named Chair of the WisPACT, Inc. Board of Directors](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/staffords-johanna-allex-recently-named-chair-of-the-wispact-inc-board-of-d/) - Stafford Rosenbaum's Johanna Allex was recently named Chair of the WisPACT, Inc. Board of Directors. WisPACT was created in 2003 as a nonprofit organization to create and manage pooled and community Special Needs Trusts for the benefit of individuals with disabilities. It originated from a collaborative effort among ARC Wisconsin, NAMI Wisconsin, Inc., the Wisconsin
- [Stafford's Laura Skilton Verhoff Named to The Fellows of the American Bar Foundation](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/staffords-laura-skilton-verhoff-named-to-the-fellows-of-the-american-bar-fo/) - Stafford Rosenbaum’s Laura Skilton Verhoff, a partner in the firm’s Madison office, has been named to The Fellows of the American Bar Foundation. TheAmerican Bar Foundation’smission is to serve the legal profession, the public, and the academy through empirical research, publications, and programs that advance justice and the understanding of law and its impact on
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Welcomes Attorney Katherine Harrell](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-welcomes-attorney-katherine-harrell/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP welcomes Attorney Katherine Harrell to the firm’s Madison office as a Senior Associate where her practice focuses on family law and estate planning. Katherine’s areas of concentration include divorce litigation, cooperative divorce and legal separation, child custody and placement, paternity, child support, and estate planning, including the drafting of prenuptial or marital
- [Stafford's Bryan Kleinmaier Named to Executive Leadership Team of Madison Go Red For Women](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/staffords-bryan-kleinmaier-named-to-executive-leadership-team-of-madison-go/) - Stafford Rosenbaum’s Bryan Kleinmaier, a partner in the firm’s Madison office, has recently been named to Executive Leadership Team of Madison Go Red For Women. Go Red For Women is the American Heart Association’s national movement to end heart disease and stroke in women. Go Red For Women advocates for more research and swifter action
- [Stafford's "Appellate Practice" Blog Launches](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/staffords-appellate-practice-blog-launches/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is proud to announce the launch of the firm’s newest topical blog, “Appellate Practice.” This will be the sixth legalblog the firm publishes; other blog topicsinclude: municipal law, employment andlaborlaw,franchise and distributionlaw, government relations, and estate planning.The Appellate Practice Blog will cast a wide net, covering developments in both state and federal
- [Laura Skilton Verhoff Re-elected to Stafford Rosenbaum's Board of Directors](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/laura-skilton-verhoff-re-elected-to-stafford-rosenbaums-board-of-directors/) - The law firm of Stafford Rosenbaum LLP recently announced that Laura Skilton Verhoff has been re-elected to firm's Board of Directors. “Laura’s re-election to firm’s Board of Directors will continue to benefit Stafford,” said Christopher Hughes, the firm’s managing partner, “as she brings a keen awareness of our clients’ needs and valuable leadership skills to
- [Johanna J. Allex Elected to Stafford Rosenbaum's Board of Directors](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/johanna-j-allex-elected-to-stafford-rosenbaums-board-of-directors/) - Johanna J. Allex has been elected to the law firm of Stafford Rosenbaum’s Board of Directors. "Johanna will be a great asset to the firm’s Board of Directors," said Christopher Hughes, the firm’s managing partner, “and with Johanna’s understanding of clients’ needs and business acumen, we are confident she will effectively help lead Stafford Rosenbaum
- [Stafford's Paul Kent Among the 2016 Leaders in the Law Recipients](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/staffords-paul-kent-among-the-2016-leaders-in-the-law-recipients/) - Paul Kent, a partner at Stafford Rosenbaum, was among this year’s Wisconsin Law Journal’s Leaders in the Law recipients. The Wisconsin Law Journal honored top members of the state's legal community with its 14th annual Leaders in the Law awards. Judging was based on outstanding leadership; vision and career achievements; legal expertise; pro bono work;
- [Chris Hughes Elected to State Bar Board of Governors](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/chris-hughes-elected-to-state-bar-board-of-governors/) - Christopher Hughes, Stafford Rosenbaum’s managing partner, has been elected to serve a two-year term as a District 9 representative on the State Bar Board of Governors. The Board of Governors manages and directs the affairs and activities of the State Bar of Wisconsin. The boardincludes: the association's five officers, the immediate past president (all of
- [Stafford Attorneys Co-Author Chapters in the 2016 Wisconsin State Bar Annual Survey of Wisconsin Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-attorneys-co-author-chapters-in-the-2016-wisconsin-state-bar-annua/) - Each year Stafford Rosenbaum LLP attorneys prepare surveys of Wisconsin municipal law and trade regulation which are published by the State Bar in its Annual Survey of Wisconsin Law, Municipal Law and Trade Regulation Chapters. The Municipal Law Chapter was co-authored by Stafford’s Christopher Hughes, Bryan Kleinmaier, and Holly Wilson. Stafford’s Susan Allen and Jeff
- [2015-16 Legislative Session Updates to Wisconsin Water Law Book by Paul Kent](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/2015-16-legislative-session-updates-to-wisconsin-water-law-book-by-paul-ken/) - Paul Kent, a partner in the Madison office of Stafford Rosenbaum LLP, is author of Wisconsin Water Law in the 21st Century. The last two legislative sessions have resulted in substantial changes to shoreland zoning, chapter 30, and other provisions. These legislative updates from the2015-16 session can be found at www.wisconsinwaterlaw.com. Wisconsin Water Law in
- [Stafford's Vanessa Wishart Elected to State Bar's Environmental Law Section Board](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/staffords-vanessa-wishart-elected-to-state-bars-environmental-law-section-b/) - Vanessa Wishart has been elected to the Board of the Wisconsin State Bar’s Environmental Law Section. This section promotes communication and cooperation among private, public interest, in-house, and government attorneys on issues that affect the environment and related law. Vanessa will hold the New Lawyer Director seat. Her term commences on July 1, 2016 and
- [Stafford's Barb Neider Co-Authors Article, “Not Authorized! Employees and Computer Fraud"](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/staffords-barb-neider-co-authors-article-not-authorized-employees-and-compu/) - Stafford’s Barb Neider co-authored the recently published article, “Not Authorized! Employees and Computer Fraud” with Joseph Diedrich. This article appears in the June issue of the Wisconsin Lawyer magazine, the official monthly publication of the State Bar of Wisconsin. In their article, Neider and Diedrich look at how computers have revolutionized the work world but
- [Johanna Allex Among this Year's "Women in the Law" Honorees](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/johanna-allex-among-this-years-women-in-the-law-honorees/) - Johanna Allex, a partner at Stafford Rosenbaum, was among the 2016 Wisconsin Law Journal’s Women in the Law recipients. The Wisconsin Law Journal honored outstanding achievement by the top women in the practice of law who by achieving success, have also paved the way for success for other women in the legal profession.Twenty-six outstanding female
- [Stafford's Meg Vergeront Named Chair of the State Bar's Labor and Employment Law Section](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/staffords-meg-vergeront-named-chair-of-the-state-bars-labor-and-employment/) - Meg Vergeront has been named Chair of the Wisconsin State Bar’s Labor and Employment Law Section. Her term as Chair runs through June 2017. The Labor and Employment Law Section includes new and experienced attorneys who practice labor and employment law. The section keeps members up-to-date on recent developments in the law. The section also
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Welcomes Attorney John S. Greene](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-welcomes-attorney-john-s-greene/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP welcomes Attorney John Greene to the firm’s Madison office where his practice focuses on environmental law. John Greene’s practice focuses on environmental law. Prior to joining Stafford, John served as an Assistant Attorney General in the Wisconsin Department of Justice for twenty-six years, half of which he spent practicing in the Environmental
- [“The Best Lawyers in America” Recognizes 23 Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys in its 2017 Edition](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/the-best-lawyers-in-america-recognizes-23-stafford-rosenbaum-attorneys-in-i/) - The Best Lawyers in America© recognized 23 attorneys from Stafford Rosenbaum LLP in its 2017 edition. Regarded as a top reference guide to the legal profession, The Best Lawyers in America© has been published biennially since 1983. From the firm’s Madison office, recipients as listed by Best Lawyers include: Janice N. Bensky: Family Law, Trusts
- [Six Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys Have Been Selected for "Best Lawyers 2017 Lawyer of the Year"](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/six-stafford-rosenbaum-attorneys-have-been-selected-for-best-lawyers-2017-l/) - Six Stafford Rosenbaum attorneys have been selected for "Best Lawyers 2017 Lawyer of the Year." Only a single lawyer in each practice area and designated metropolitan area is honored as the “Lawyer of the Year,” making this accolade particularly significant. Lawyers being honored as “Lawyer of the Year” are selected based on particularly impressive voting
- [Stafford's Erika Bierma Named to Board of the Recovery Foundation](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/staffords-erika-bierma-named-to-board-of-the-recovery-foundation/) - Stafford Rosenbaum's Erika Bierma was recently named to the Recovery Foundation’s Board of Directors. TheRecovery Foundation works to help fund alcohol and other drug outpatient treatment services to motivated individuals in recovery. The Recovery Foundation is additionally focused on raising community awareness on the viability and sustainability of long term recovery from substance use disorders.
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Names Susan Allen the Leader of the Litigation Team](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-names-susan-allen-the-leader-of-the-litigation-team/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is pleased to announce that Susan K. Allen has been named the firm’s Litigation Team Leader. Previously, the group was led by Ted Waskowski, who is a senior partner at the firm. Susan's practice focuses on trial and appellate litigation, including products liability defense, lemon law, breach of warranty, stray voltage and
- [Wisconsin State Bar Publishes Stafford’s Jeff Mandell essay, “Relish New Ideas”](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/wisconsin-state-bar-publishes-staffords-jeff-mandell-essay-relish-new-ideas/) - Stafford’s Jeff Mandell authored the recently published essay, “Relish New Ideas”. This essay appears as the “Final Thought” column in November’s “Legal Innovation” issue of Wisconsin Lawyer, the State Bar of Wisconsin’s official magazine. In this piece, Jeff discusses the importance of new ideas and surveys three legal ideas that have captured his interest recently.
- [Wisconsin Lawyer Publishes Stafford’s Paul Kent essay,“On the Waterfront: New Shoreland Zoning Laws"](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/http-www-wisbar-org-newspublications/) - Stafford’s Paul Kent authored the recently published an essay titled, “On the Waterfront: New Shoreland Zoning Laws.” This essay appears as the cover story in January’s issue of Wisconsin Lawyer, the State Bar of Wisconsin’s official magazine. In this piece, Paul discusses recent legislative developments that have changed some of the rules with shoreland zoning
- [Two Open Attorney Positions at Stafford Rosenbaum LLP’s Milwaukee Office](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/two-open-attorney-positions-at-stafford-rosenbaum-llps-milwaukee-office/) - We are expanding our Milwaukee office and are seeking a Litigation Attorney and a Business and Estate Planning Attorney. Ideal Litigation Attorney candidates will have five or more years of experience handling a wide range of general litigation matters and trial experience with strong analytical and excellent communication skills. Ideal Business and Estate Planning Attorney
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Welcomes Attorney Richard Latta](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-welcomes-attorney-richard-latta/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP welcomes Attorney Richard Latta to the firm’s Madison office where his practice focuses on business law. Rich’s previous experience includes being a partner in large Midwestern-based and international law firms. Prior to law school, Rich practiced accounting with Arthur Young & Company. Rich is a certified public accountant (inactive). He is admitted
- [Susan Allen Receives 2017 "Women in the Law" Award](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/susan-allen-receives-2017-women-in-the-law-award/) - Susan Allen, a Partner at Stafford Rosenbaum, has been chosen as a recipient of the 2017 Women in the Law Award. This prestigious honor is bestowed upon 29 attorneys, and celebrated at a dinner event put on by the Wisconsin Law Journal. The award honors outstanding achievement by the top women in the practice of
- [Paul Kent Represents Waukesha in Water Diversion Case](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/paul-kent-represents-waukesha-in-water-diversion-case/) - Paul Kent, Partner at Stafford Rosenbaum, helped successfully represent Waukesha after the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative, representing mayors of Great Lakes cities in the United States and Canada, filed an administrative appeal challenging a water diversion approval decision made earlier last year. On Thursday, April 20th, representatives of the eight Great Lakes
- [“The Best Lawyers in America” Recognizes 20 Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys for 2018 Edition](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/the-best-lawyers-in-america-recognizes-20-stafford-rosenbaum-attorneys-for/) - The Best Lawyers in America© recognized 20 attorneys from Stafford Rosenbaum LLP in its 2018 edition. The publication is regarded as a top reference guide to the legal profession. Due to their exhaustive peer-review survey, and because lawyers are not required or allowed to pay a fee to be listed, inclusion in Best Lawyers is
- [Stafford Rosenbaum to Sponsor Madison Parks Foundation Event](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-to-sponsor-madison-parks-foundation-event/) - Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is a proud sponsor of the Madison Parks Foundation and the upcoming Picnic in the Park. Please watch this interview to learn more about the renewal of an annual tradition that helped jumpstart the private creation of Madison’s public parks. NBC15’s John Stofflet interviews Stafford attorney Kyle Engelke who serves as the
- [Erika Bierma Appointed by the Governor to the Governor's Juvenile Justice Commission](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/erika-bierma-appointed-by-the-governor-to-the-governors-juvenile-justice-co/) - Attorney Erika Bierma has been appointed by the Governor to the Governor’s Juvenile Justice Commission (GJJC). Partner in the Criminal Law practice team, Tom Brush, described the importance of this appointment saying “This is quite an honor and is based on her reputation, commitment, and experience in this area. As you know, the current difficulties
- [Tiffany Highstrom to Receive Women in the Law Award](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/tiffany-highstrom-to-receive-women-in-the-law-award/) - Tiffany Highstrom, a Partner at Stafford Rosenbaum, has been chosen as a recipient of the 2018 Women in the Law Award. This prestigious honor is bestowed upon 29 attorneys, and celebrated at a dinner event put on by the Wisconsin Law Journal on June 21, 2018 at Discovery World in Milwaukee. The award honors outstanding
- [Laura Skilton Verhoff Elected to the State Bar of Wisconsin's Board of Governors](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/laura-skilton-verhoff-elected-to-the-state-bar-of-wisconsin-board-of-govern/) - Laura Skilton Verhoff, Partner at Stafford Rosenbaum, has beenelected to the State Bar of Wisconsin’s Board of Governors. The Board of Governors manages and directs the affairs and activities of the State Bar of Wisconsin. The board includes: the association's five officers, the immediate past president (all of whom are ex officio members-at-large of the
- [Attorney Brian E. Butler is Recognized for 50 Years in Legal Profession and Announces New Endeavor](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/attorney-brian-e-butler-is-recognized-for-50-years-in-legal-profession-and/) - Attorney Brian E. Butler is Recognized for 50 Yearsin Legal Profession and Announces New Endeavor Madison, WI (July, 2018) – Stafford Rosenbaum LLP celebrates Attorney Brian E. Butler for his dedication to the firm and the outstanding service he provided to clients during his 50-year legal career. Brian’s commitment to excellence and passion for the
- [“The Best Lawyers in America” Recognizes 23 Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys for 2019 Edition](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/the-best-lawyers-in-america-recognizes-23-stafford-rosenbaum-attorneys-for/) - The Best Lawyers in America© recognized 23 attorneys from Stafford Rosenbaum LLP in its 2019 edition, including four "Lawyer of the Year" recipients. The publication is regarded as a top reference guide to the legal profession. Due to their exhaustive peer-review survey, and because lawyers are not required or allowed to pay a fee to
- [Atty. Wishart to be honored as “Up and Coming” Lawyer](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/atty-wishart-to-be-honored-as-up-and-coming-lawyer/) - Vanessa Wishart, an associate at Stafford Rosenbaum, was among this year’s Wisconsin Law Journal’s Up and Coming Lawyerrecipients. The Wisconsin Law Journal’s Up and Coming Lawyer honorees have been practicing eight years or less, but have demonstrated fast-track, career-long levels of achievement. Thirty members of the state’s legal community will be honored at the event
- [Stafford Rosenbaum Helps Re-Create Annual Tradition with Upcoming Picnic in the Park](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaum-helps-re-create-annual-tradition-with-upcoming-picnic-in/) - Join us for the Third Annual Picnic in the Park – Saturday, October 13, 2018 at Olbrich Park overlooking the beautiful Lake Monona! Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is a proud sponsor of the Madison Parks Foundation and the upcoming Picnic in the Park. Stafford and the Madison Parks Foundation both trace their roots to the same
- [Eleven Stafford Rosenbaum attorneys recognized by SuperLawyers 2018](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/twelve-stafford-rosenbaum-attorneys-recognized-by-superlawyers-2018/) - Every year, Thomson Reuters publishes a list of each state’s top attorneys in a variety of practice areas. After a third-party nomination and a rigorous vetting process, about 5% of all nominated attorneys earn the distinction of inclusion in the year’s list of SuperLawyers. Stafford Rosenbaum LLP is proud of the eleven of our associates
- [Stafford Rosenbaum’s Andrew Skoug, Legal Field “Unsung Hero” to be Honored](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/stafford-rosenbaums-andrew-skoug-legal-field-unsung-hero-to-be-honored/) - Stafford Rosenbaum paralegal Andrew Skoug will be honored December 5th as an “Unsung Hero” of the legal field by the Wisconsin Law Journal. This annual recognition will go to 28 legal professionals that provide unwavering support to Wisconsin attorneys in 2018. The event will be December 5, 2018 at 11:00AM at the Grain Exchange in
- [Scott Seid elected to Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Board of Directors](https://www.staffordlaw.com/news/scott-seid-elected-to-stafford-rosenbaum-llp-board-of-directors/) - Following a special election by the partners at Stafford Rosenbaum LLP, attorney Scott A. Seid has been elected to serve on the firm’s board of directors. Mr. Seid will join the five-member board and will oversee human resource functions. He will oversee the firm’s recruitment, internal evaluations, and career development for each associate attorney, law

## Our People

- [Attorney James Woywod](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/attorney-james-woywod/)
- [Attorney Alexander Ferrone](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/attorney-alexander-ferrone/)
- [Attorney Jane Landretti](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/jane-landretti/)
- [Attorney Meghan McMahon](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/attorney-meghan-mcmahon/)
- [Attorney Kieran O'Day](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/attorney-kieran-oday/)
- [Kimberly Vanderwerff](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/kimberly-vanderwerff/)
- [Lori Kannenberg Dorn, CLM](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/lori-kannenberg-dorn/)
- [Alex Becker](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/alex-m-becker/)
- [Attorney Bryan Kleinmaier](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/bryan-kleinmaier/)
- [Attorney Tiffany Highstrom](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/tiffany-l-highstrom/)
- [Attorney Kelly Gorman](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/attorney-kelly-gorman/)
- [Attorney Brian Sajdak](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/attorney-brian-sajdak/)
- [Attorney Larry Konopacki](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/larry-konopacki/)
- [Attorney Marianna Nichols](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/attorney-marianna-nichols/)
- [Attorney Mason Higgins](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/mason-higgins/)
- [Attorney Erin Rome](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/attorney-erin-rome/)
- [Attorney Klara Henry](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/attorney-klara-henry/)
- [Attorney Vanessa Wishart](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/vanessa-d-wishart/)
- [Attorney Denasha Scott](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/denasha-scott/)
- [Attorney Rick Manthe](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/rick-a-manthe/)
- [Attorney Ian Lane](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/attorney-ian-lane/)
- [Attorney Eileen Kelley](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/eileen-m-kelley/)
- [Attorney Christopher Hughes](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/christopher-hughes/)
- [Attorney Matthew Fisher](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/matthew-v-fisher/)
- [Attorney Laura Callan](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/laura-e-callan/)
- [Attorney Noah Dregne](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/attorney-noah-dregne/)
- [Attorney Robert Kilkelly](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/h-robert-kilkelly/)
- [Michelle M. Affatati](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/michelle-m-affatati/)
- [Attorney Terrence Thom](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/terrence-thom/)
- [Attorney Nikki Yang](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/attorney-nikki-yang/)
- [Attorney Cathleen Dettmann](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/attorney-cathleen-dettmann/)
- [Attorney Jill Martin](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/jill-r-martin/)
- [Attorney Olivier Reiher](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/olivier-h-reiher/)
- [Rori Mattson](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/rori-mattson/)
- [Bruce Huibregtse](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/bruce-huibregtse/)
- [Attorney David Hollander](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/david-hollander/)
- [Attorney Jessica Mederson](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/jessica-c-mederson/)
- [Attorney Katherine Tompson](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/katherine-m-tompson/)
- [Attorney Isaac Brodkey](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/isaac-brodkey/)
- [Attorney Daniel Kaminsky](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/attorney-dan-kaminsky/)
- [Attorney Ginger Pinkerton](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/attorney-ginger-pinkerton/)
- [Attorney Erin Deeley](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/erin-deeley/) - Attorney Erin Deeley
- [Attorney Kyle Engelke](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/kyle-engelke/)
- [Attorney Kevin Palmersheim](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/attorney-kevin-palmersheim/)
- [Attorney Katherine Harrell](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/katherine-harrell/)
- [Attorney Clementine Uwabera](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/clementine-uwabera/)
- [Attorney Carly Swinick](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/carly-gerads/)
- [Barbara Neider](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/barbara-neider/)
- [David Billing](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/david-b-billing/)
- [Thomas Solheim](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/thomas-p-solheim/)
- [Attorney Sophie Lepien](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/attorney-sophie-lepien/)
- [Attorney Scott Smith](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/scott-j-smith/)
- [Attorney James Severson](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/james-c-severson/)
- [Attorney Matthew Dregne](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/matthew-dregne/)
- [Attorney David Davis](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/david-m-davis/)
- [Attorney Amy Collins O'Hara](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/amy-collins/)
- [Attorney Pamela Ploor](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/pamela-m-ploor/)
- [Attorney Jared Potter](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/jared-potter/)
- [Attorney Johanna Allex](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/johanna-j-allex/)
- [Attorney James Statz](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/james-i-statz/)
- [Attorney Zoe Pawlisch](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/attorney-zoe-pawlisch/)
- [Attorney Seep Paliwal](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/seep-paliwal/)
- [Attorney Loren Paulson](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/loren-r-paulson/)
- [Attorney Anthony Menting](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/anthony-menting/)
- [Attorney Benjamin Alexander](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/attorney-benjamin-alexander/)
- [Attorney Stephen Goettsche](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/attorney-stephen-goettsche/)
- [Andrew Skoug](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/andrew-skoug/)
- [Kelly Wachniak](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/kelly-m-wachniak/)
- [Sammi Schaaf](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/sammi-n-schaaf/)
- [Kristy M. Strezlec](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/kristy-m-strezlec/)
- [Attorney Iana Vladimirova](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/iana-a-vladimirova/)
- [Attorney James Egle](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/james-egle/)
- [Attorney Paul Kent](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/paul-kent/)
- [Attorney Scott Seid](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/scott-a-seid/)
- [Thomas Brush](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/tom-brush/)
- [Attorney Ted Waskowski](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/ted-waskowski/)
- [Attorney Jeffrey Younger](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/jeffrey-w-younger/)
- [Attorney Michael Lund](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/michael-lund/)
- [Attorney Richard Latta](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/richard-latta/)
- [Attorney Margaret Lund](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/margaret-lund/)
- [Richard Yde](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/richard-yde/)
- [Daphne Webb](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/daphne-webb/)
- [Paul W. Schwarzenbart](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/paul-w-schwarzenbart/)
- [Robert O. Grulke](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/robert-o-grulke/)
- [Janice Bensky](https://www.staffordlaw.com/our-people/janice-bensky/)

## Practice Areas

- [Election and Political Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/practice-areas/election-and-political-law/) - The team at Stafford Rosenbaum has been at the center of many of Wisconsin’s most significant election and political law disputes in recent memory. Stafford Rosenbaum’s Election and Political Law Team has represented political parties, candidates, nonprofit organizations, research institutions, private businesses, local government bodies, and elected officials from all three branches of government. Stafford
- [Intellectual Property, Entertainment, & Technology Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/practice-areas/intellectual-property-and-entertainment-law/) - Intellectual Property Law Stafford Rosenbaum's intellectual property law attorneys assist businesses and individuals with the protection of the intangible and IP assets that are at the core of the modern marketplace. Trademarks and domain names are important for building a brand, while copyrights and trade secrets protect valuable innovations and the creative endeavors of businesses
- [Litigation](https://www.staffordlaw.com/practice-areas/litigation/) - Forever Focused, Always Prepared Stafford Rosenbaum’s Litigation attorneys are known for their innovative litigation strategies, developed over the years by focusing on the kind of trial preparation that really counts: investigation and discovery designed to get to the heart of even the most complex cases. Our Litigation team regularly tries cases and handles appeals in
- [Government Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/practice-areas/government-law/) - Proven Experience Stafford Rosenbaum’s Government Law team has extensive experience solving the legal problems facing both governmental entities and the private organizations that deal with them. Several of our team members each have over 25 years of experience, and our attorneys have written the chapter on municipal law for the State Bar’s Annual Survey of
- [Construction Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/practice-areas/construction-law/) - Construction law attorneys at Stafford Rosenbaum LLP understand the complexities of working in the built environment and what it takes to serve their clients effectively, which is why our business and construction clients call on us when they need a timely, trusted, and team-oriented approach to their projects. Reliable, Prompt, Skilled From negotiating contracts to
- [Employment and Labor Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/practice-areas/employment-and-labor-law/) - The number of federal, state, and local laws that employers must grapple with on a daily basis is staggering, but you don’t have to go it alone. Employers of all types and sizes turn to Stafford Rosenbaum’s Employment and Labor Law attorneys for clear and practical advice. We have significant experience across a broad range
- [Public Utility and Energy Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/practice-areas/public-utility-and-energy-law/) - A Century of Experience For nearly a century, public utility leaders have been turning to Stafford Rosenbaum for assistance in achieving their goals for development and growth. Our experienced Public Utility and Energy Law team has developed practical strategies for and provided assistance with the following types of cases: Real estate purchase transactions Land use
- [Dealership, Distribution and Franchise Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/practice-areas/dealership-and-franchise-law/) - Stafford Rosenbaum attorneys have several decades of experience in dealership, distribution and franchise law. One of our partners was, in fact, instrumental in crafting the Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law, and others are co-authors of the definitive treatise on the subject, The Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law, published by the State Bar of Wisconsin. The chapter on
- [Real Estate Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/practice-areas/real-estate-law/) - Experience, Knowledge, and Expertise Stafford Rosenbaum’s Real Estate Law attorneys combine an extensive knowledge of today’s real estate market with a high level of proficiency in secured transactions and bankruptcy to provide effective counsel to commercial and residential real estate clients. That’s why leaders in business, government, the community, and the legal profession turn to
- [Alternative Dispute Resolution](https://www.staffordlaw.com/practice-areas/alternative-dispute-resolution/) - Litigation can be costly in terms of time, emotion and money. In many circumstances, disputes can be resolved outside of court using alternative dispute resolution (ADR) proceedings, of which there are three main types: Arbitration involves the selection of one or more neutral third parties who make a binding decision after both involved parties present
- [Trusts and Estates](https://www.staffordlaw.com/practice-areas/trusts-and-estates/) - When individuals and businesses plan for their future, they need to be able to count on skilled legal counsel for guidance. Our Trusts and Estates attorneys have in-depth knowledge of relevant probate laws, including the Wisconsin Marital Property Law, and state and federal estate and income tax laws. And we not only understand it, we
- [Appellate Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/practice-areas/appellate-law/) - Experience Stafford Rosenbaum’s Appellate Team offers the breadth and depth of experience to provide outstanding appeals and consulting services for your case. Stafford Rosenbaum’s appellate attorneys have experience in all phases of appellate litigation. The Firm is one of only three firms to have won at least two-thirds of its cases before the Wisconsin Supreme
- [Business Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/practice-areas/business-law/) - Stafford Rosenbaum’s Business Law attorneys act as valuable advisors to a diverse range of clients, including small start-up ventures, closely held firms, and large, publicly traded corporations, including: Manufacturers Financial institutions Distributors and sales representatives Health care providers Real estate investors Management companies Consultants Restaurants and other retailers Non-profit organizations Trade associations Condominium associations Assistance,
- [Foundations and Nonprofits](https://www.staffordlaw.com/practice-areas/foundations-and-nonprofits/) - Stafford Rosenbaum attorneys have a long history of supporting and working with charitable foundations and nonprofit organizations. In addition to legal expertise, through their community activity our lawyers have substantial experience serving as officers and directors of nonprofits and foundations which has enhanced their ability to represent these organizations. Our firm recognizes that nonprofit, tax-exempt
- [Family Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/practice-areas/family-law/) - Steady, Sensitive, and Experienced Family law can be surprisingly complex, and divorce can be an emotional time. Sensitive to the stresses our clients encounter in these situations, Stafford Rosenbaum’s Family Law team offers a steady and experienced hand to help resolve pre-marital, child custody, divorce, and post-divorce issues. Divorce Having honed their negotiating skills over
- [Insurance Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/practice-areas/insurance-law/) - For more than half a century, Stafford Rosenbaum’s Insurance Law attorneys have provided insurance defense and coverage advice, including pre-litigation coverage analysis, to insurance companies and their insureds. Whatever our role, our experience allows us to make realistic assessments of likely outcomes and, if litigation is necessary, to provide well-prepared, focused, and zealous representation. Perspective
- [Bankruptcy and Creditors' Rights](https://www.staffordlaw.com/practice-areas/bankruptcy-and-creditors-rights/) - Stafford Rosenbaum’s Bankruptcy and Creditors’ Rights attorneys specialize in addressing options, providing guidance, and salvaging the most out of the bankruptcy process, representing the interests of secured and unsecured creditors alike, such as banks, insurance companies, businesses, municipalities, and Creditors’ Committees. Our work in this area includes: Pre-filing representation of creditors, including negotiations with debtors
- [Environment and Land Use Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/practice-areas/environment-and-land-use-law/) - Environment and land use laws have significant financial and long-range implications for municipalities, businesses, and property owners. Given this reality, sophisticated legal representation is essential. When you need skilled attorneys with the necessary experience to respond effectively to environmental issues, you can turn to Stafford Rosenbaum. A Wealth of Experience Our Environmental Law attorneys have
- [Government Relations](https://www.staffordlaw.com/practice-areas/government-relations/) - Proven Experience Stafford Rosenbaum’s Government Relations practice is made up of experienced attorneys and lobbyists with a deep understanding of the public policymaking process and a practical awareness of the law. With extensive backgrounds in both the public and private sectors, our team helps our clients navigate the complex intersections between private interests and public
- [Antitrust and Trade Regulation](https://www.staffordlaw.com/practice-areas/antitrust-and-trade-regulation/) - Stafford Rosenbaum’s Antitrust and Trade Regulation attorneys possess an in-depth understanding of federal antitrust laws and Wisconsin’s stringent consumer protection laws, including: The Sherman and Clayton Acts and their Wisconsin counterparts The Robinson-Patman Act (a federal price discrimination statute) Wisconsin unfair trade practices laws Wisconsin false advertisement laws One of our attorneys was actively involved

## Articles

- [Attorney Pahoua Thao Published by American Bar Association on 'Recent Developments in Cybersecurity and Data Privacy'](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/attorney-pahoua-thao-law-journal-cybersecurity-data-privacy/) - Tort Trial & Insurance Practice Law Journal publishes Attorney Pahoua Thao's cybersecurity and data privacy article Stafford Rosenbaum Attorney Pahoua Thao recently co-authored an article for the American Bar Association's Tort Trial & Insurance Practice Law Journal. "Recent Developments in Cybersecurity and Data Privacy" was published in the Summer 2024 issue of the Journal. ©2024. Published
- [Attorney Douglas M. Poland Featured in 2023 Wisconsin Super Lawyers Magazine](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/attorney-douglas-poland-wisconsin-super-lawyers-magazine/) - Attorney Doug Poland Featured in Super Lawyers Magazine for Election and Political Law Work "Moving Wisconsin Forward: When Democracy Came under Attack, Doug Poland Heard the Call" was originally published in 2023 Wisconsin Super Lawyers Magazine. When Doug Poland grew up in Whitefish Bay in the ’70s and ’80s, politics wasn’t a big topic of
- [Attorney Katherine Harrell Authors Article for Wisconsin Journal of Family Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/attorney-katherine-harrell-authors-article-for-wisconsin-journal-of-family-law/) - Attorney Katie Harrell: "Why Mediation/Arbitration is Better than Litigation in Family Matters" Over the past 15 years, "a relatively new method of resolving family law cases began to gain popularity in the Dane County area. Attorneys began engaging in mediation/arbitration (med/arb) to finalize divorces, rather than taking cases to trial. The movement in Dane County
- [Attorneys Mandell, Brodkey & Egle Author Franchise Law Journal Article on Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/attorneys-mandell-brodkey-egle-franchise-law-journal-article-wisconsin-fair-dealership-law/) - Attorneys Mandell, Brodkey & Egle author ABA Franchise Law Journal article on Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law Attorneys Jeff Mandell, Isaac Brodkey, and Jim Egle recently authored an article for the American Bar Association's Franchise Law Journal. "Talking Past Each Other: Divergent Approaches to the Community-of-Interest Standard in Wisconsin’s State and Federal Courts" was published in
- [Attorneys James Egle & Isaac Brodkey Author Franchise Law Journal Article on Good Cause under the Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/attorneys-egle-brodkey-franchise-law-journal-article-good-cause-wisconsin-fair-dealership-law/) - Attorneys Egle & Brodkey author American Bar Association Franchise Law Journal article on Good Cause under the WFDL Stafford Rosenbaum Attorneys James B. Egle and Isaac S. Brodkey recently authored an article with Attorney Jeffrey A. Mandell for the American Bar Association's Franchise Law Journal. "Understanding the Grantor’s Burden: Good Cause Under the Wisconsin Fair
- [Ahead of Primary Election, Wisconsin Court Rejects State Legislature’s Effort to Block Absentee Voter Protections](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/wisconsin-court-rejects-state-legislatures-effort-to-block-absentee-voter-protections/) - This public statement was originally published by The League of Women Voters on February 8, 2024: On February 8, 2024, The League of Women Voters of Wisconsin, Law Forward, Fair Elections Center and Stafford Rosenbaum LLP issued the following statement after the Wisconsin Court of Appeals rejected the Wisconsin state legislature’s motion to block legal
- [Attorney Jeffrey Mandell Co-Authors Lead Article in Marquette Law Review](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/attorney-jeff-mandell-authors-marquette-law-review-article/) - Stafford Rosenbaum Attorney Jeff Mandell Co-Authors Article for Marquette Law Review "Counting to Four: The History and Future of Wisconsin's Fractured Supreme Court" was authored by Attorneys Jeffrey A. Mandell and Daniel J. Schneider and was originally published in Marquette University Law Review, Volume 107, Issue 1 (2023). Over the past decade, the Wisconsin Supreme Court
- [Three Steps Engineers Should Follow to Reduce the Risk of Climate-Change-Related Litigation](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/what-engineers-should-do-to-reduce-the-risk-of-climate-change-litigation/) - "Three Steps Engineers Should Follow to Reduce the Risk of Climate-Change-Related Litigation," authored by Attorney Jessica Mederson and Climate Reality Leader Monika Serrano, was originally published in Structure magazine's June 2023 issue. Flooding, heat waves, rising sea levels, and the associated news about these effects of climate change are enough to make anyone feel hopeless
- [Perspectives: Incorporating Resilience in Building Design Helps Mitigate Threat of Climate Change](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/resilience-in-building-design-helps-mitigate-threat-of-climate-change/) - "Perspectives: Incorporating Resilience in Building Design Helps Mitigate Threat of Climate Change," authored by Attorney Jessica Mederson and Climate Reality Leader Monika Serrano, was originally published in Business Insurance magazine in September 2022. While climate change may still be a disputed topic in the political realm, insurers have been aware of the risks posed by
- [Supreme Court Decisions Disable Employers In Wisconsin](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/supreme-court-decisions-disable-employers-in-wisconsin/) - This article discusses that in two decisions, the Wisconsin Supreme Court broadly interpreted an employer's duty to accommodate an employee's disability under the Wisconsin Fair Employment Act.
- [A Third Way To Protect WPDA Members: A New Powersports Dealer Statute](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/a-third-way-to-protect-wpda-members-a-new-powersports-dealer-statute/) - Wisconsin has two statutes of general application that might protect the interests of powersports dealers. This article highlights the current regulatory scheme and mentions the possibility of a third: a special statute designed just for powersports dealers.
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court Splits Three Ways Over Variances](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/wisconsin-supreme-court-splits-three-ways-over-variances/) - This article addresses the effects of the split decision in the Wisconsin Supreme Court case State v. Outagamie Board of Adjustment. Recommendations are given for how to apply the "no reasonable use" test. Please contact Bob or Dick if you would like a copy of this article.
- [Who Pays for Mutual Aid?](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/who-pays-for-mutual-aid/) - This articles discusses how the mutual aid statute needs clarification and that county risk managers should carefully review worker's compensation policies to be sure that they cover reimbursement where the county provides mutual aid. Please contact Bob if you would like a copy of this article.
- [The Complex Law of Takings: Three New U.S. Supreme Court Decisions](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/the-complex-law-of-takings-three-new-u-s-supreme-court-decisions/) - The United States Supreme Court issued three important decisions about takings claims: claims for just compensation when government "takes" private property for public use. They are significant for Wisconsin counties because they clarify what constitutes a taking, the procedure for pursuing federal and state takings claims, and the authority of local governments to take private
- [Should You Designate a Highway as an All-Terrain Vehicle Route?](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/should-you-designate-a-highway-as-an-all-terrain-vehicle-route/) - The Wisconsin Statutes allow a county, city, village, or town to designate a highway within their respective jurisdictions as an all-terrain vehicle route. This article discusses the impact of a municipality's decision to designate a highway as an all-terrain vehicle route could have on recreational immunity as well as liability for highway defects.
- [Understanding the Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/understanding-the-wisconsin-fair-dealership-law/) - At a time of economic upheaval, reworking distribution systems may seem like a prudent idea. However, care must be taken to determine whether the Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law applies to the parties and to the proposed change. If the WFDL does apply, then the change must be essential, reasonable, and nondiscriminatory.
- [The Right to Cure a Contract Breach](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/the-right-to-cure-a-contract-breach/) - Under Wisconsin law, many contracts and statutes give parties an opportunity to cure mistakes before the other party can exercise some remedial action. The language of the governing contract or statute may define the extent of a cure and the actions that must be taken to effect it.
- [Wisconsin's Wetland Reform Act](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/wisconsins-wetland-reform-act/) - Recent changes to Wisconsin law streamline the process of coordinating land development with protection of wetlands.
- [Contract Law: Duty To Reveal Changes](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/contract-law-duty-to-reveal-changes/) - In the Wisconsin Court of Appeals case Hennig v. Ahearn, the court held that a party to a contract may assume a duty to "point out" changes in an agreement by its course of conduct during negotiations. This duty goes beyond simply providing a copy to the other party for its examination and may give
- [Federal Court of Appeals Affirms County Victory in Suit Over Snowmobile Trail](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/federal-court-of-appeals-affirms-county-victory-in-suit-over-snowmobile-trail/) - This articles discusses an important case for Wisconsin counties and the tourism industry in Northern Wisconsin. The federal Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit ruled that part of a popular snowmobile trail in Bayfield County is owned by the county. Private landowners adjacent to the trail had sought to prevent snowmobiles and other members
- [Motor Vehicle Lessees Are Not Entitled to the Protections of the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/motor-vehicle-lessees-are-not-entitled-to-the-protections-of-the-magnuson-moss-warranty-act/) - This article discusses the implications of the Court of Appeals of New York decision in DiCintio v. DaimlerChrysler, 768 N.E.2d 1121 (N.Y. 2002), that lessees of motor vehicles are not entitled to the protections of the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act. Based on this decision, auto dealers (and manufacturers) who are sued by motor vehicle lessees on
- [Employee Handbooks in the Municipal Workplace](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/employee-handbooks-in-the-municipal-workplace/) - This article explores the pros and cons of employee handbooks in the public sector, special considerations municipal employer face in creating and enforcing handbooks, and some key topics to include when the decision is made to adopt a handbook. Please contact Meg if you would like a copy of this article.
- [Court Ruling Impacts How Employers Accommodate Disabled Workers](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/court-ruling-impacts-how-employers-accommodate-disabled-workers/) - This article addresses the ramifications of a court ruling that provides disabled workers in Wisconsin with much greater protection than they would have under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The case dealt with the reasonable accommodations requirement that Wisconsin companies must consider when reviewing return-to-work options for severely disabled workers. Please contact Drew if you
- [Find the Right Attorney for Your Business](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/find-the-right-attorney-for-your-business/) - This article describes the importance of selecting a business attorney who will act as an extension of the business.
- [Property Tax Claims: A Guide for the Perplexed](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/property-tax-claims-a-guide-for-the-perplexed/) - This article describes how property tax claims are different from all other claims against municipalities. Municipal clerks, assessors, attorneys, and governing bodies all need to be alert to the special procedures for handling them. Please contact Bob if you would like a copy of this article.
- [Court of Appeals Decides Who Pays for Mutual Aid](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/court-of-appeals-decides-who-pays-for-mutual-aid/) - This article discussed a Wisconsin Court of Appeals decision that resolved a significant issue about who pays for mutual aid.
- [Are You Ready For August 23?](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/are-you-ready-for-august-23/) - This article describes why new overtime and minimum wage laws should motivate employers to review employee classifications and salaries.
- [Does Your Workplace Have An Employee Handbook?](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/does-your-workplace-have-an-employee-handbook/) - Employers who think employee handbooks are useful only for certain types of businesses or are useful only for big companies may not realize the numerous benefits gained from having an up-to-date handbook in place.
- [Disability Law in Wisconsin Workplaces](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/disability-law-in-wisconsin-workplaces/) - Wisconsin Supreme Court decisions in two cases clarify that an employee's inability to adequately undertake his or her job-related will not be sufficient for justifications under the WFEA for denying a requested accommodation.
- [Determining 'Community of Interest' Under the WFDL](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/determining-community-of-interest-under-the-wfdl/) - In Central Corp. v. Research Products, the Wisconsin Supreme Court promoted a multifaceted approach to determining "community of interest" under the Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law. The approach will guide dealership disputes to trial, where the trier of fact must look at the total circumstances to find it the various facets of community of interest exist.
- [More Businesses Will Be Protected](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/more-businesses-will-be-protected/) - This article describes the practical effects of a Wisconsin Supreme Court case dealing with the question of who is protected under the Wisconsin Fair Dealership Law (WFDL) with regard to vendor-vendee relationships. The 2004 decision reaffirms the intial 1987 holding, which means that courts should no longer interpret the 1987 decision narrowly.
- [Reviewing Foreign Tax Status Can Result in Large Savings](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/reviewing-foreign-tax-status-can-result-in-large-savings/) - Within the United States, public pension funds enjoy exemptions from state and federal income taxes. On the funds’ overseas investments, however, exemptions from foreign income taxes do not automatically apply. In working with the State of Wisconsin Investment Board, we found that attention to a public fund’s foreign tax status can result in considerable tax
- [How to Write an Employee Handbook](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/how-to-write-an-employee-handbook/) - This article provided general guidance on writing an employee handbook.
- [Budget Bill Exempts Benevolent Retirement Homes, Benevolent Low-Income Housing and Other Property](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/budget-bill-exempts-benevolent-retirement-homes-benevolent-low-income-housing-and-other-property/) - This article summarized changes make to property tax exemptions by 2009 Wisconsin Act 28.
- [Court Holds Hospital’s Outpatient Clinic Taxable](https://www.staffordlaw.com/articles/court-holds-hospitals-outpatient-clinic-taxable/) - This article discusses the Court of Appeals decison that an outpatient clinic was used as a “doctor’s office” and therefore excluded from the statute exempting nonprofit hospitals.

## SR Legal Updates

- [IRS Form 990, 990-EZ, and 990-N Filing Deadlines for Fiscal Year 12/31](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/irs-form-990-990ez-and-990n-filing-deadlines/) - The deadline for filing IRS Form 990, 990-EZ, and 990-N for fiscal year 12/31 organizations that are either tax-exempt or have an application for tax-exempt recognition pending with the IRS is midnight on May 16, 2022. If you have questions for a member of the Foundations and Nonprofits team, please call us at (608)256.0226.
- [SECURE Act Proposed Regulations](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/secure-act-proposed-regulations/) - On February 14, 2022, the Treasury Department issued proposed regulations to provisions under the SECURE Act pertaining to retirement benefits and individual retirement accounts. The proposed regulations provide new rules that, if adopted, would have significant implications for certain retirement and estate plans. These new rules would impact the amounts and timing of minimum and
- [New Screening Tools and Compliance Obligations for Wisconsin Law Enforcement Agencies](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/new-screening-tools-and-compliance-obligations-for-wisconsin-law-enforcement-agencies/) - Wisconsin law enforcement agencies have new tools to screen applicants for officer jobs as of November 7, 2021, which is the effective date of 2021 Wisconsin Act 82. A covered agency is any governmental unit of the State of Wisconsin or a political subdivision of the state that employs one or more law enforcement officers,
- [Stafford Rosenbaum's Election and Political Law Attorneys File Lawsuit to Protect "Democracy in the Park" Events](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/stafford-rosenbaum-attorneys-file-lawsuit-to-protect-democracy-in-the-park-events/) - September 30, in the late afternoon, a group of eligible voters in Madison filed a lawsuit in Dane County Circuit Court seeking a declaration from the court that the return of absentee ballots to the City of Madison Clerk’s Office at “Democracy in the Park” events is and will be consistent with Wisconsin election law.
- [Stafford Rosenbaum’s Election and Political Law Team Obtains Ruling Protecting Voting in Wisconsin](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/stafford-rosenbaums-election-and-political-law-team-obtains-ruling-protecting-voting-in-wisconsin/) - On September 21, 2020, Judge William Conley of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin issued an opinion and preliminary injunctions in four consolidated cases that will protect the rights of registered Wisconsin voters to cast their votes in the November 3, 2020 general election. Stafford Rosenbaum LLP Attorneys Jeff Mandell and
- [Genetic Information Non-Discrimination Act Becomes Effective November 21, 2009](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/genetic-information-non-discrimination-act1/) - The federal Genetic Information Non-Discrimination Act (GINA) was enacted in 2008 to prevent discrimination in the workplace on the basis of genetic information. However, the effective date of the law was delayed. The workplace discrimination provisions will be effective November 21, 2009. The key provisions of the law that employers need to know as the
- [COVID-19 Client Alert: U.S. DOJ Urges Public to Report COVID-19 Fraud](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/covid-19-client-alert-u-s-doj-urges-public-to-report-covid-19-fraud/) - On March 20, 2020, Attorney General William P. Barr urged the public to report suspected fraud schemes related to COVID-19 (the Coronavirus) by calling the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) hotline (1-866-720-5721) or by e-mailing the NCDF at disaster@leo.gov. Last week, Attorney General Barr directed all U.S. Attorneys to prioritize the investigation and prosecution
- [COVID-19 Client Alert: FDIC and Treasury Department Warn of Increase in Fraudulent Activity](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/covid-19-client-alert-fdic-and-treasury-department-warn-of-increase-in-fraudulent-activity/) - On March 18, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) warned that amidst the anxiety surrounding COVID-19, there has been increased fraudulent activity by imposters pretending to be FDIC representatives in order to access personal account information. The scams involve a range of communication means including emails, phone calls, letters, text messages, faxes, and social media.
- [Changes Likely to Wisconsin Child Placement and Support Laws](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/changes-likely-to-wisconsin-child-placement-and-support-laws/) - In 2018, Stafford Partner, Tiffany Highstrom, was appointed to the Wisconsin Legislative Council’s Study Committee on Child Placement and Support. The Committee includes legislators and citizens with special knowledge on a given subject. Committees are often tasked with drafting legislation, which they then present to the Council. If a majority of the Council approves the
- [NLRB Further Defines Concerted Activity](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/nlrb-further-defines-concerted-activity/) - The National Labor Relations Act protects employees—even those in non-union workplaces—engaged in protected concerted activity for the purposes of mutual aid and protection. But what does “concerted” activity mean? A recent National Labor Relations Board decision, Alstate Maintenance, 367 NLRB No. 68, helps define the contours of the term. In Alstate, the employer provided skycap services at an airport.
- [Supreme Court to Decide if Prohibition on Sex Discrimination covers Sexual Orientation/Identity](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/supreme-court-to-decide-if-prohibition-on-sex-discrimination-covers-sexual-orientation-identity/) - The U.S. Supreme Court has announced that it will hear three cases addressing whether discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and transgendered status constitutes discrimination “because of sex” and therefore prohibited under Title VII. The Court agreed to hear two of the cases together to resolve a split in the U.S. Circuit Courts as
- [Supreme Court Finds Unexpected Difference between Corporations and Limited Liability Companies](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/supreme-court-finds-unexpected-difference-between-corporations-and-limited-liability-companies/) - In Marx v. Morris, 2019 WI 34, the Wisconsin Supreme Court interpreted the Wisconsin LLC Act in an unexpected way. Specifically, Marx held that LLC members may bring suit in their capacity as members, instead of on behalf of the LLC, against other members, even when the harm alleged is primarily to the LLC. This deviates from corporate
- [Right to Appeal an Order on a Motion to Compel Arbitration: Wisconsin Supreme Court Makes It Final](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/right-to-appeal-an-order-on-a-motion-to-compel-arbitration-wisconsin-supreme-court-makes-it-final/) - Buried in many modern contracts (from standard construction industry contracts to employment agreements, and from consumer contracts to mortgages and leases) are agreements to arbitrate any existing or future disputes. These arbitration provisions may appear innocuous, but, when a subsequent dispute develops between the contracting parties and one party prefers to be in court, a
- [Public Records Requests: Form Matters](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/public-records-requests-form-matters/) - Wisconsin’s Public Records Law requires officials to provide “the greatest possible information” in response to public records requests. Wis. Stat. § 19.31. In Lueders v. Krug, the Wisconsin Court of Appeals, District II, clarified that this mandate requires officials to provide electronic copies of materials if electronic copies are requested. In June 2016, Bill Lueders emailed
- [Court of Appeals, District II, Upholds Town’s Denial of CUP for Cell Tower](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/court-of-appeals-district-ii-upholds-towns-denial-of-cup-for-cell-tower/) - In Eco-Site LLC et. al. v. Town of Cedarburg, 2019 WI App 42, the Wisconsin Court of Appeals, District II affirmed the Town of Cedarburg’s authority to deny Eco-Site LLC’s conditional use permit application to build a cell tower. After a full discussion of the information and issues, the Town Board denied Eco-Site’s application on
- [Wisconsin Supreme Court Procedural Orders Limit Circuit Court Authority To Issue Injunctions](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/wisconsin-supreme-court-procedural-orders-limit-circuit-court-authority-to-issue-injunctions/) - The Wisconsin Constitution grants circuit courts the power to “issue all writs necessary in aid of [their] jurisdiction.” Wis. Const. art. VII, § 8. And the Legislature has expressly authorized circuit courts to issue injunctions. Wis. Stat. §§ 813.01, 813.02. Yet, in two unsigned and unpublished procedural orders issued this past spring, the Supreme Court
- [Are You Ready? Reminder: New White-Collar Exemption Rule is Effective January 1, 2020.](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/are-you-ready-reminder-new-white-collar-exemption-rule-is-effective-january-1-2020/) - Under the Federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) “white collar” exemption, employees are exempt and not entitled to overtime if: (1) a “duties” test establishing that the employees are executive, administrative or professional employees as defined by federal rules is met; (2) employees are paid on a salary or fee basis; and (3) employees are
- [Court Must Adjudicate the Merits before Transferring Properties to Trust Over Owner’s Objection](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/court-must-adjudicate-the-merits-before-transferring-properties-to-trust-over-owners-objection/) - In City of Milwaukee v. Choudry, 2018AP1693 (Dec. 27, 2019), the Wisconsin Court of Appeals reversed a circuit court order transferring the defendant’s properties into a trust. The appellate court held that, because the trial court never made a final judgment on the merits of the case, it lacked authority to impose a remedy. Starting in
- [The SECURE Act](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/the-secure-act/) - The SECURE (Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement) Act which was signed into law in late December makes wide ranging changes effecting IRAs, 401(k)s and other qualified retirement plans and retirement plan beneficiaries. The provisions in the Act may require changes to existing estate plans and will necessarily shape future plans. Some of the
- [Federal Legislative Update](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/federal-legislative-update/) - Washington is moving fast on a couple of high-profile employment-related laws that will significantly expand employer liability. The Ledbetter Fair Pay Act The Ledbetter Fair Pay Act was the first bill signed into law by President Obama on January 29, 2009. The Act eliminated previously existing time limits for filing many employment discrimination charges, and
- [American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 Imposes New COBRA Burdens on Employers](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/new-cobra-obligations/) - Subsidy, Tax Credit and Reimbursement Under the Act, eligible individuals who elect continuation coverage under COBRA need only pay 35% of the cost of the COBRA premium, with the employer initially picking up the remaining 65%. In most cases not involving a multi-employer group health plan, the eligible individual pays the reduced premium to the
- [The New COBRA Subsidy Law – Action Steps](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/new-cobra-subsidy/) - In our last Short Report, we outlined some of the key points of the new COBRA subsidy provisions in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. In this Short Report, we outline some of the steps employers should take to prepare for and implement those provisions. Brief Review The Act provides for a 65%
- [How Municipalities May Apply For Federal Economic Stimulus Funding](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/apply-for-federal-economic-stimulus-funding/) - A portion of the funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 will go towards job creation and infrastructure projects that are “shovel-ready,” in other words, projects that are already in progress and ready to start construction in the next few months. Municipalities interested in tapping into Wisconsin’s share of these funds can
- [Department of Labor Issues Model COBRA Notices](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/model-cobra-notices/) - Today the US Department of Labor issued revised COBRA notices which are intended to help employers comply with the new COBRA provisions of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The notices can be found at https://www.dol.gov/ebsa/COBRAmodelnotice.html. The key deadlines regarding the notices were detailed in our earlier Short Reports, American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of
- [Wisconsin Increases Financial Exposure to Employers for Employment Discrimination Claims](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/employment-discrimination-claims/) - Under a new law, Wisconsin judges will be able to force Wisconsin employers to pay compensatory and punitive damages to employees who win discrimination claims before the Equal Rights Division. Prior to this law, employees could only obtain "make whole relief," which is generally limited to back pay, front pay, and attorneys' fees. The new
- [Wisconsin's FMLA – Employees Are Now Entitled to Family Leave to Care for Domestic Partners](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/wfmla-domestic-partners/) - Employees are now entitled to take up to two (2) weeks of unpaid leave per year under the Wisconsin Family and Medical Leave Act (WFMLA) to care for domestic partners with serious health conditions. The entitlement was added to the WFMLA by the budget bill, which was signed by Governor Doyle on June 29, 2009
- [FMLA Coverage Expanded for Family Members of Military Service Personnel](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/fmla-coverage-expanded/) - Employers may need to revise their Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) policies to reflect an expansion in coverage to family members of military service personnel. In 2008, the National Defense Authorization Act granted FMLA protections to family members of military service personnel. The recently signed 2010 National Defense Authorization Act expands this coverage. Expanded Exigency
- [Municipalities May Prolong the Use of Positive Environmental Remediation Tax Increment](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/environmental-remediation-tax/) - Under a new law, a municipality may donate positive tax increment from an existing environmental remediation tax incremental district (ERTID) to another ERTID created by the same municipality, even after all eligible costs from the donor ERTID have been recovered. The environmental remediation tax incremental financing program set forth in section 66.1106 of the Wisconsin
- [COBRA Subsidy Extended](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/cobra-subsidy-extended/) - On December 19, 2009, President Obama signed legislation extending the COBRA subsidy rights created earlier this year by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act ("ARRA"). The key COBRA subsidy provisions of the new legislation, including important dates for providing notice, are provided below. Expanded Eligibility Period Employees covered by a health care plan who are
- [COBRA Subsidy Eligibility Extended](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/cobra-eligibility-extended/) - On March 2, 2010, President Obama signed the Temporary Extension Act of 2010 (the “Act”). The Act extends the COBRA subsidy eligibility period to include individuals who are involuntarily terminated on or before March 31, 2010. The Act also, among other things, makes the following changes to the COBRA subsidy law first established in 2008
- [2009 Wisconsin Act 173 Creates Consistency and Clarity](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/2009-wi-act-173/) - The recently enacted 2009 Wisconsin Act 173 modifies numerous statutes related to compensation of elected officials, the bidding procedure for public works contracts and restrictions on contracts for police services. The Act also creates flexibility in village notice of publication requirements and reduces municipal liability for mob damage. Establishment and Modification of Compensation for Elected
- [COBRA Premium Subsidy Period Extended to May 31, 2010](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/cobra-premium-subsidy-period-extended/) - President Obama signed the Continuing Extension Act of 2010 (H.R. 2851) that extends the 15-month COBRA premium subsidy program. Under this extension, an individual may qualify for the subsidy if he or she experiences a COBRA qualifying event, which is the involuntary termination of a covered employee's employment, at any time from September 1, 2008
- [Help for Distressed Tax Incremental Districts](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/tax-incremental-districts/) - Legislation was signed into law on May 12, 2010 that allows a municipality to designate a tax incremental district as a distressed or severely distressed district by resolution, thereby extending its receipt of positive increment over a longer lifetime. Under the new law, a district designated as distressed may remain in existence and receive positive
- [Changes to TID Administrative Procedures](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/tid-administrative-procedure-changes/) - A new law signed March 12, 2010 changes several administrative procedures that apply to tax incremental districts (TIDs), including how the 12 percent test is calculated. Under the new law, to determine whether a TID’s taxable property plus the value increment of all existing TIDs in a city or village does not exceed 12 percent
- [Low Speed Vehicles on Highways](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/low-speed-vehicles-on-highways/) - A bill signed into law on March 12, 2010 amends the law governing operation of Low-Speed Vehicles (previously "Neighborhood Electric Vehicles") on certain highways, and gives municipalities some authority over this issue. The new law redefines Neighborhood Electric Vehicles as Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs), conforming to the federal motor vehicle safety standards' terminology and definition. It
- [Updating Handbooks to Include Break Time for Nursing Mothers](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/updating-handbooks/) - Most employers are aware that federal law now requires them to provide a reasonable amount of unpaid break time to a nursing mother to express milk. Many, however, have yet to amend their handbooks to include a policy reflecting the federal law. This simple step should be done to ensure that employees are on notice
- [Wisconsin Fair Employment Act Expanded To Provide Additional Protection To Employees](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/wisconsin-fair-employment-act-expanded/) - Recently enacted legislation provides additional protection to employees under the Wisconsin Fair Employment Act. The new law prohibits discrimination against an employee who declines to attend an employer-sponsored meeting or participate in any communication with an employer if the primary purpose of the meeting or communication is to convey opinions about religious or political matters.
- [Notices Required by the Health Care Reform Act](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/health-care-reform-act/) - Under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA), group health plans or issuers of insurance coverage (typically, insurers) must provide certain notices to health plan participants, and in some cases, to all employees. For most plans—those that are calendar year plans—these obligations must be met on or before January 1, 2011. Employer Obligations What
- [Health Care Reform Act Notices Update—Insurers and Timing](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/ppaca-notices/) - Our last Short Report addressing notices that group health plans are required to provide under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) prompted the following questions from a couple of our readers: What should they do if they learn that their insurer intends to provide some or all of the required notices—do they have
- [Subdivision Platting Requirements Changed](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/subdivision-platting/) - The Wisconsin Legislature recently made a number of changes to the subdivision platting requirements contained in Chapter 236 of the Wisconsin Statutes, including limiting a municipality’s authority to deviate from time limits and other requirements contained in the statutes. See 2009 Wisconsin Act 376. Specifically, Act 376 amended section 236.45(2)(ac) to provide that a local
- [Tax Law Update](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/tax-law-update/) - The Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010 (2010 Act), signed into law on December 17, 2010, has changed the law relating to estate and gift taxes. Over the past ten years, due to an earlier change in the tax law, the estate tax exemption was substantially increased and the tax
- [The Budget Repair Bill](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/budget-repair-bill/) - Following yesterday’s dramatic developments in the State Senate, the Legislature appears poised to pass Special Session SB 11/AB 11, commonly referred to as the Budget Repair Bill. As you are all undoubtedly aware, the legislation dramatically impacts public sector labor relations in Wisconsin. While it is impossible to respond to all of the issues raised
- [The Budget and Budget Repair Bills](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/bills/) - Act 10, commonly referred to as the Budget Repair Bill, finally became effective on June 29, 2011. Combined with certain provisions of Act 32, the state Budget Bill, it is truly a new day for public sector labor relations in Wisconsin. While it is impossible to address all of the issues raised by the legislation
- [Exempt from Overtime? Think Twice.](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/exempt-from-overtime-think-twice/) - Salaried employees don’t get paid overtime, right? Not necessarily. Paying employees on a salary basis is not sufficient to provide a legal exemption from having to pay overtime. This Short Report provides a general overview of the main categories of overtime exemptions under state and federal law and an explanation of the consequences of misclassifying
- [Understanding the Impact of the WRS Changes](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/understanding-the-impact-of-the-wrs-changes/) - While it’s been only a couple of months since the Budget Repair Bill and the State Budget became law, there is already an important arbitration decision on police contributions to the Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) and some changes to the WRS employee categories. This short report addresses these issues and ends with a short word
- [New DNR Permits for Application of Pesticides To or Near Waterways](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/new-dnr-permits-for-application-of-pesticides-to-or-near-waterways/) - On October 31, 2011 the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) issued general permits covering the application of pesticides to or near waters of the State under the Clean Water Act. REASON FOR NEW REQUIREMENTS In the past, this application of pesticides near or in water had been exempt from the Clean Water Act regulation. These
- [WERC Guidance on Budget Bill's Health Insurance “Plan Design” Collective Bargaining Restrictions](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/werc-guidance-on-budget-bills-health-insurance-plan-design-collective-barga/) - In a closely watched case, a divided Wisconsin Employment Relations Commission (WERC) held that a police association’s attempt to bargain over a health insurance plan’s deductibles was prohibited under language included in the new Budget Bill. The newly-created Wis. Stat. § 111.70(4)(mc)6 prohibits bargaining over “the design and selection of health care coverage plans” and
- [Changes May Be Necessary to Local Zoning Rules Regarding Wireless Facilities](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/changes-may-be-necessary-to-local-zoning-rules-regarding-wireless-facilitie/) - As part of the Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2011, recently passed by Congress and signed into law by President Obama, municipalities are required to approve certain applications for modification of “an existing wireless tower or base station.” In part, the law supersedes Section 332(c)(7) of the Telecommunications Act, which previously
- [Parts of Collective Bargaining Legislation Struck Down](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/parts-of-collective-bargaining-legislation-struck-down/) - On Friday, March 30, 2012, the United States District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin struck down two key provisions of Wisconsin’s new public sector collective bargaining law. Importantly, however, the Court left in place all of the bargaining restrictions, thus severely limiting what a Union can ask to bargain over. [FN1] First, the
- [Act 10 Update](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/act-10-update/) - On Friday, September 14, the long running saga surrounding Acts 10 and 32 took another turn as a Dane County Circuit Court judge ruled that many provisions of the acts are unconstitutional and, therefore, “null and void.” Acts 10 and 32 treat represented and non-represented employees differently in many respects. For example, wage increases for
- [Federal Court of Appeals Upholds Act 10](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/federal-court-of-appeals-upholds-act-10/) - On Friday, January 18, the federal 7th Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the constitutionality of Act 10 in its entirety. The decision overturns a decision issued in March of 2012 by the United States District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin. The lower court had struck down Act 10’s annual union recertification election requirement
- [Got Brownfields? The State has grants to help.](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/got-brownfields-the-state-has-grants-to-help/) - Let’s say you have property in an area that is the new up and coming development area in your municipality. The property has been used for a number of years for industrial purposes. It would make a lot of sense and increase the value of the property to develop the property to a higher better
- [Changes to Municipal Authority to Restrict Bow Hunting](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/changes-to-municipal-authority-to-restrict-bow-hunting/) - CHANGES TO MUNICIPAL AUTHORITY TO RESTRICT BOW HUNTING 2013 Wisconsin Act 71 alters municipal authority to regulate bow hunting as outlined in section 29.038, Wis. Stats. The Act does not modify the portion of the current statute that allows municipalities to prohibit hunting, fishing or trapping on property owned by the municipality. However, the Act
- [The WI Legislative Session Ended on April 1 with a Number of Bills that will Impact Municipalities](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/the-wi-legislative-session-ended-on-april-1-with-a-number-of-bills-that-wil/) - The 2013-2014 legislative session ended on April 1, 2014. At the end of the session there were a number of bills that will have impacts on municipalities. Of note are the changes to the Tax Incremental Districts, elections laws, special assessment/ levy limits and plat approval. Below is a brief summary of these changes. For
- [Limitations on Security Requirements as Condition of Plat Approval Enacted](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/limitations-on-security-requirements-as-condition-of-plat-approval-enacted/) - On April 16, 2014 Governor Scott Walker signed into law 2013 Wisconsin Act 280 (“the Act”). The Act has a statewide impact on the terms an approving authority may impose on a developer as a condition of its approval of preliminary and final plats. The Act applies prospectively to all preliminary and final plats submitted
- [A Decade After Adoption of Federal DPPA, Treatment of Personal Information Remains Unclear](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/a-decade-after-adoption-of-federal-dppa-treatment-of-personal-information-r/) - Ten years after the adoption of the federal Drivers Privacy Protection Act (“DPPA”) treatment of personal information remains unclear Despite the passage of a decade and a trio of court rulings, a local government’s obligation to disclose certain records containing “personal information” in compliance with the federal Drivers Privacy Protection Act (“DPPA”) and Wisconsin’s public
- [Government Accountability Board Issues Guidance on Reinstatement of Voter ID](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/government-accountability-board-issues-guidance-reinstatement-of-voter-id/) - On September 12th the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals issued a stay of Judge Lynn Adelman’s April 28th permanent injunction of the implementation of 2011 Wisconsin Act 23 (the “Act”), the so-called Voter ID law. In light of the Court’s action, the Government Accountability Board (“GAB”) has advised that Wisconsin elections officials will be required
- [Listing Contracts: Sellers Beware](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/listing-contracts-sellers-beware/) - Under Wisconsin’s standard listing contract forms, a seller may owe a commission to a broker even if the sale of the property does not close. However, a well-drafted contract can change that, should a seller so desire. Listing contracts. Many sellers believe a broker’s commission is earned only upon the closing of the sale of
- [Wisconsin Issues Emergency Rule Implementing Wayfair Requiring Internet Sellers to Collect Sales Tax](https://www.staffordlaw.com/legal-updates/wisconsin-issues-emergency-rule-implementing-wayfair-requiring-internet-sel/) - On September 6, 2018, the Wisconsin Department of Revenue (“WDOR”) issued Emergency Rule 1819 requiring out-of-state internet sellers to collect and remit Wisconsin sales taxes if the seller’s sales or number of transactions exceed the substantial nexus thresholds upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court in its June 21, 2018 decision in South Dakota v. Wayfair,

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- [Federal Indian and Tribal Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/category/federal-indian-and-tribal-law/)
- [Construction Law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/category/construction-law/)

## Tags

- [local government](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/local-government/)
- [Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/wisconsin-department-of-natural-resources/)
- [high capacity wells](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/high-capacity-wells/)
- [appeals](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/appeals/)
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- [class action](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/class-action/)
- [Wisconsin Court of Appeals](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/wisconsin-court-of-appeals/)
- [employment law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/employment-law/)
- [trusts and estates](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/trusts-and-estates/)
- [children](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/children/)
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- [divorce](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/divorce/)
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- [ordinance](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/ordinance/)
- [estate planning](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/estate-planning/)
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- [Wisconsin Supreme Court](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/wisconsin-supreme-court/)
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- [litigation](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/litigation/)
- [Court of Appeals](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/court-of-appeals/)
- [appellate law Court of Appeals](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/appellate-law-court-of-appeals/)
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- [government law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/government-law/)
- [coronavirus relief fund](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/coronavirus-relief-fund/)
- [municipal liquidity facility](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/municipal-liquidity-facility/)
- [federal aid](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/federal-aid/)
- [subcontractors](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/subcontractors/)
- [contractors](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/contractors/)
- [construction](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/construction/)
- [damage claims](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/damage-claims/)
- [contractor](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/contractor/)
- [subcontractor](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/subcontractor/)
- [environmental law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/environmental-law/)
- [supreme court](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/supreme-court/)
- [groundwater](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/groundwater/)
- [runoff](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/runoff/)
- [navigable water](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/navigable-water/)
- [environmental protection agency](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/environmental-protection-agency/)
- [department of transportation DOT](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/department-of-transportation-dot/)
- [condemnation](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/condemnation/)
- [police power](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/police-power/)
- [property ownership](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/property-ownership/)
- [wellwater](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/wellwater/)
- [well water](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/well-water/)
- [clean water](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/clean-water/)
- [DNR](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/dnr/)
- [beer](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/beer/)
- [Bud Light](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/bud-light/)
- [Miller Lite](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/miller-lite/)
- [Coors Light](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/coors-light/)
- [corn syrup](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/corn-syrup/)
- [Anheuser-Busch](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/anheuser-busch/)
- [Lanham Act](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/lanham-act/)
- [MillerCoors](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/millercoors/)
- [Miller Coors](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/miller-coors/)
- [Molson Coors](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/molson-coors/)
- [commercial](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/commercial/)
- [TV commercial](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/tv-commercial/)
- [ad](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/ad/)
- [advertisement](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/advertisement/)
- [pier construction](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/pier-construction/)
- [permits](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/permits/)
- [construction permitting](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/construction-permitting/)
- [lakes](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/lakes/)
- [lake tomahawk](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/lake-tomahawk/)
- [wisconsin lakes](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/wisconsin-lakes/)
- [property owner](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/property-owner/)
- [Routes to Recovery](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/routes-to-recovery/)
- [government grant](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/government-grant/)
- [WI municipalities](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/wi-municipalities/)
- [Governor Evers](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/governor-evers/)
- [relief aid](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/relief-aid/)
- [LGBTQ+](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/lgbtq/)
- [Title VII](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/title-vii/)
- [Title 7](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/title-7/)
- [Civil Rights](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/civil-rights/)
- [gay rights](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/gay-rights/)
- [lesbian rights](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/lesbian-rights/)
- [transgender rights](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/transgender-rights/)
- [car insurance](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/car-insurance/)
- [state farm](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/state-farm/)
- [wisconsin appellate court](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/wisconsin-appellate-court/)
- [appellate practice](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/appellate-practice/)
- [insurance policy](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/insurance-policy/)
- [block 10 properties](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/block-10-properties/)
- [appellate law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/appellate-law/)
- [POA](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/poa/)
- [power of attorney](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/power-of-attorney/)
- [college](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/college/)
- [pandemic](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/pandemic/)
- [school](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/school/)
- [healthcare](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/healthcare/)
- [finance](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/finance/)
- [parents](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/parents/)
- [students](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/students/)
- [adults](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/adults/)
- [Town of Hudson Wisconsin](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/town-of-hudson-wisconsin/)
- [adverse possession](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/adverse-possession/)
- [real property](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/real-property/)
- [platted streets](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/platted-streets/)
- [encroachment](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/encroachment/)
- [municipal](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/municipal/)
- [appellate](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/appellate/)
- [snow](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/snow/)
- [ice](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/ice/)
- [slip and fall](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/slip-and-fall/)
- [City of Monroe Wisconsin](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/city-of-monroe-wisconsin/)
- [elections](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/elections/)
- [presidential election](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/presidential-election/)
- [wisconsin elections commission](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/wisconsin-elections-commission/)
- [wisconsin presidential election](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/wisconsin-presidential-election/)
- [election results challenge](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/election-results-challenge/)
- [trump](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/trump/)
- [president trump](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/president-trump/)
- [tony evers](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/tony-evers/)
- [political law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/political-law/)
- [stalking horse](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/stalking-horse/)
- [politics](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/politics/)
- [splitting the vote](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/splitting-the-vote/)
- [voters' rights](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/voters-rights/)
- [estates](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/estates/)
- [taxes](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/taxes/)
- [estate tax](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/estate-tax/)
- [monetary gifts](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/monetary-gifts/)
- [election and political law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/election-and-political-law/)
- [election law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/election-law/)
- [insurance](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/insurance/)
- [personal injury](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/personal-injury/)
- [motor vehicle](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/motor-vehicle/)
- [supreme court of wisconsin](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/supreme-court-of-wisconsin/)
- [redistricting](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/redistricting/)
- [gerrymandering](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/gerrymandering/)
- [rulemaking](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/rulemaking/)
- [election](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/election/)
- [political](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/political/)
- [law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/law/)
- [boathouse](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/boathouse/)
- [construction law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/construction-law/)
- [area variance](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/area-variance/)
- [use variance](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/use-variance/)
- [underinsured motorist](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/underinsured-motorist/)
- [underinsured](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/underinsured/)
- [car accident](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/car-accident/)
- [automobile accident](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/automobile-accident/)
- [accident](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/accident/)
- [accidental death](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/accidental-death/)
- [infant death](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/infant-death/)
- [homeowners insurance](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/homeowners-insurance/)
- [criminal](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/criminal/)
- [civil](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/civil/)
- [reckless homicide](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/reckless-homicide/)
- [fair elections](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/fair-elections/)
- [Wisconsin elections](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/wisconsin-elections/)
- [Stafford Rosenbaum](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/stafford-rosenbaum/)
- [franchise law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/franchise-law/)
- [food delivery app](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/food-delivery-app/)
- [food delivery service](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/food-delivery-service/)
- [Grubhub](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/grubhub/)
- [DoorDash](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/doordash/)
- [Uber Eats](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/uber-eats/)
- [EatStreet](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/eatstreet/)
- [dealership](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/dealership/)
- [alcohol](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/alcohol/)
- [spirits](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/spirits/)
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- [trade](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/trade/)
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- [treasury department](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/treasury-department/)
- [executive order](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/executive-order/)
- [federal regulation](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/federal-regulation/)
- [legislation](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/legislation/)
- [class action settlement](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/class-action-settlement/)
- [class action suit](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/class-action-suit/)
- [class action fairness](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/class-action-fairness/)
- [illinois law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/illinois-law/)
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- [city development](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/city-development/)
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- [university](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/university/)
- [mandatory fees](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/mandatory-fees/)
- [refund](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/refund/)
- [illinois state university](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/illinois-state-university/)
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- [mediation](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/mediation/)
- [best interest](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/best-interest/)
- [separation](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/separation/)
- [de novo](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/de-novo/)
- [family law](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/family-law/)
- [business income loss](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/business-income-loss/)
- [business interruption loss](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/business-interruption-loss/)
- [covid](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/covid/)
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- [Society Insurance](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/society-insurance/)
- [deployment](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/deployment/)
- [child custody](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/child-custody/)
- [child placement](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/child-placement/)
- [deployed visitation](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/deployed-visitation/)
- [Prejudgment Interest](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/prejudgment-interest/)
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- [appeal](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/appeal/)
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- [trial court](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/trial-court/)
- [Global Resiliency Building Guidelines](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/global-resiliency-building-guidelines/)
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- [engineer](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/engineer/)
- [architect](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/architect/)
- [building codes](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/building-codes/)
- [preclusion](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/preclusion/)
- [preclusion principles](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/preclusion-principles/)
- [defense](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/defense/)
- [risk utility](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/risk-utility/)
- [consumer contemplation](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/consumer-contemplation/)
- [unreasonable danger](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/unreasonable-danger/)
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- [torts](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/torts/)
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- [appellate court](https://www.staffordlaw.com/tag/appellate-court/)
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