When law firms all over the U.S. began teleworking due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many did not have methods in place to share confidential information electronically. Many law firms continue to worry about storing client information in the cloud. We know that lawyers may ethically use the cloud and that technology will continue to advance. Therefore, says Victor M. Zamora in his January Illinois Bar Journal article, “Cloud Cover,” it is time for lawyers to get familiar with and learn how cloud computing works and understand the benefits and risks before choosing a cloud computing service to store data. Zamora relies on the Illinois State Bar Association’s Professional Conduct Advisory Opinion No. 16-06, which states that lawyers may use cloud-based services provided that “the lawyer takes reasonable measures to ensure that the client information remains confidential and is protected from breaches,” and other best practices for guidance on starting out in the cloud.

The Illinois State Bar Association (ISBA) vehemently condemns the assault on the Rule of Law that the nation watched unfold at the U.S. Capitol yesterday afternoon. The peaceful transfer of power to incoming presidential administrations and the processes that facilitate that transfer are a fundamental foundation of our democracy and have been faithfully observed and respected since the inception of the nation. The storming of the U.S. Capitol by rioters seeking to use violence to disrupt the certification of the presidential election was not only a repugnant act, but criminal activity that should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. The ISBA calls on all elected officials across our great country to swiftly and forcefully join in the condemnation of these actions that threaten American values.

Join us from the comfort of your home or office from noon until 1 p.m. on Wednesday, January 20 for an in-depth look at the Illinois adoption process. Child law attorneys, family law counsel, general practitioners, and new lawyers with basic practice experience who attend this online seminar will better understand: the statutes governing adoption law in Illinois; the different types of Illinois adoption options; the adoption law nuances to be aware of; and much more.

The Illinois Supreme Court and Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts (AOIC) today announced the hiring of Lisa Colpoys as the Supervising Senior Program Manager for Illinois Court Help. Illinois Court Help is a new program within the AOIC’s Access to Justice Division. The program is being developed to address new challenges courts are facing in providing meaningful services and assistance to court patrons, lawyers, and the public in light of the pandemic. Navigational assistance and legal information, in large part, were previously offered in person and on a walk-in basis. However, this mode of delivery is no longer as feasible or safe due to necessary measures to reduce the number of persons inside courthouses. Offering remote assistance helps ensure the court system is fair, efficient and accessible to all.

Nearly half of ISBA’s membership suspended operations during the COVID-19 pandemic and nearly as many experienced a decrease in client matters. When asked whether the pandemic has increased their levels of stress, roughly six out of every ten members said yes. When asked whether members perceive more stress in their colleagues and employees as a result of COVID-19, more than 80 percent said they did.

The existence of bullies in the workplace is all too real and comes complete with legal implications for employers. But solutions do exist, and you need to know how to help your clients when they come to you for advice.

The Cook County Board of Commissioners is seeking applicants for the Cook County Public Defender position.

The term of office for the current Cook County Public Defender expires on March 31, 2021.

Congratulations to ISBA President Dennis Orsey, who received the SIU School of Law Distinguished Alumni Award!

A full list of alumni award winners is available online.

The Illinois Supreme Court today issued a new order in eviction cases. The order is a follow-up to the order the Court issued in May setting forth the requirements for any landlord seeking to evict a tenant from a dwelling unit covered by the CARES Act.