The Illinois Supreme Court handed down four unanimous opinions on Thursday, March 22. The court considered the manner, scope, and extent of voir dire in People v. Encalado, concluding that the trial court did not abuse its discretion in denying the defendant’s proposed voir dire question. Relying on statutory construction principles and legislative intent, the court upheld a first degree murder conviction in People v. Manning. In People ex rel. Berlin v. Bakalis, the court directed the circuit court to vacate the defendant's one-year term of mandatory supervised release and impose the mandatory four-year term required under the Unified Code of Corrections. Lastly, the court affirmed the lower courts' ruling that State Farm's insured could recover underinsured motorist coverage in Thounsavath v. State Farm Mutual Automobile Co.

People v. Manning

By Kerry J. Bryson, Office of the State Appellate Defender

Arthur Manning was charged with first degree murder arising out of the stabbing death of a “highly intoxicated and ultimately an unwelcome visitor at a residence occupied by defendant” and others. At trial, there was evidence of a fight between the decedent and several of the residents including Manning, who had been armed with a knife. The jury was instructed on self defense and second degree murder at Manning’s request.

Join the ISBA's Young Lawyers Division on Saturday, April 7, for yoga and brunch at the Chicago Regional Office.

Studies show that practicing lawyers commonly struggle with depression, anxiety, and stress. Carving out downtime to decompress from work-related stress is one way to combat these issues. Physical activity is one of the most effective ways to recover from the demands of a stressful job. This upcoming event is the perfect opportunity to set aside a couple hours to focus on yourself, participate in a relaxing and stress-free yoga class, and enjoy the company of other young lawyers over mimosas and brunch. 

Bringing your own yoga mat is encouraged, but not required. All skill levels are welcome.

Online registration is now open. Tickets are $20 and include the cost of yoga and brunch.

Implementing the right technology can transform a law practice. And there's a good chance it isn't the shiny new tech object everyone is talking about.

"Often times with solo and smaller firms, and larger firms too, there is a feeling that a particular technology is required at your firm - where there's pressure or recommendations from consultants or colleagues that you should absolutely have a particular type of technology," says Jennifer Ramovs, director of practice management at Affinity Consulting. "And often we make decisions based on that pressure."

Don’t miss this annual discussion in Hoffman Estates on April 13, 2018 that explores issues that are specific to DUI and traffic court cases, as well as new case law. State’s attorneys, public defenders, and attorneys with all levels of practice experience who attend this seminar will gain a better understanding of: how to choose the best jury for your case; issues affecting commercial driver’s license holders; how arrests and convictions impact non-citizens; how to prepare your DUI case (including discovery, subpoena, and expert witnesses) and what to expect at trial; the current case law updates and trends that may affect your client; how technology can help you save time and money in your traffic law practice; medical cannabis and its effects on DUI cases; the ethical issues traffic law attorneys may face; and much more!

The program is presented by the ISBA Traffic Laws and Courts Section. It qualifies for 5.75 hours MCLE credit, including 2.50 hours Professional Responsibility MCLE credit (subject to approval).

Click here for more information and to register.

A signature project of ISBA President Hon. Russell W. Hartigan (ret.) is to address a situation where a lawyer becomes disabled or is otherwise no longer able to provide legal services to his or her clients. Oftentimes, but particularly with respect to solo practices, no one is prepared or competent to step in and protect client interests or the disabled lawyers’ business interests.  

Asked and Answered

By John W. Olmstead, MBA, Ph.D, CMC

Q. I am a partner in a three-partner, six-attorney firm in Chicago. We have had discussions with another law firm in the city regarding us acquiring their practice. The owner is 70-years-old and wants to retire and exit his practice. My partners and I have looked over the numbers and believe this would be an excellent opportunity for us to expand our client base. The practice handles the same type of work that we do. We are unsure what our next step should be. Do you have any suggestions?

The Illinois Supreme Court announced the filing of lawyer disciplinary orders on March 16, 2018. Sanctions were imposed because the lawyers engaged in professional misconduct by violating state ethics law.

Uniform Commercial Code compliance may seem simple, but it can be tricky if you don’t know what to watch out for. This online program on April 11, 2018 illustrates just how easy it is to fall into one of the many traps of the UCC, while providing best practice tips for maintaining compliance.