Illinois Bar Journal

Illinois Bar Journal | August 2026 Table of Contents

August 2026 • Volume 114 • Number 8

Practice News

12
LawPulse | By Amelia Buragas
16
Illinois Law Update

The Illinois Supreme Court rules on two firearms-related cases; ineffective-assistance-of-counsel claims in postconviction proceedings; exclusion of a breath-test result considered punitive and therefore improper; new administrative rules for health care license suspensions; and more.

See cases, legislation, and administrative agencies.

Articles

20
Legislation | By David Eldridge and Sarah Farwick
Legislative Roundup

The Illinois Bar Journal’s annual summary of new public acts of interest to members of the Illinois State Bar Association.

14
Employment Law | From the Newsletters
A Break in Pay

The Illinois Supreme Court breaks with federal courts on pay for preliminary and postliminary work activities.

30
Bankruptcy Law | By Austin R. Carlson
Consensual Releases

The release and consent of third-party claims in bankruptcy court after Harrington v. Purdue Pharma L.P.

36
Employment  Law | By Sam Hensel
Recording in Progress

Where federal labor law might preempt Illinois’ eavesdropping statute.

Columns

8
President’s Page | By Perry J. Browder
What Is Success?

Defining success as a lawyer too often involves chasing after ever-impressive goals. Consider looking beyond the curriculum vitae. 

42
Pointers From Practice HQ | By Jeffrey R. Schoenberger
Cheap and Worthy to Keep

Inexpensive apps that punch way above their price.

44
Judging Your Writing | By Justice Michael B. Hyman
Newsroom Lessons for Lawyers

With their high standards for accuracy, truth, brevity, and coherence, journalism and legal writing have much in common.

46
Your Life's Work | By Karen Erger
May It Please Your Audience

A presentation primer for boosting your confidence and presence on stage.

48
LAP and Well-Being | By Dr. Diana Uchiyama
Discontent in the Law

How to overcome feelings of helplessness.