SIU’s Constitution Day Includes Panel Discussion on Federal vs. State Education Issues

Posted on September 8, 2025 by Marybeth Stanziola

CARBONDALE, Ill. — A discussion on the effect that recent federal mandates involving education and diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives have on state-level efforts highlight Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s observation of Constitution Day on Wednesday, Sept. 17.

“Education and DEI Initiatives: State vs. Federal,” is from noon to 1 p.m. in Morris Library’s John C. Guyon Auditorium. The panel discussion is free and open to the public.

The panelists are:

Powering Up Your POAs

Posted on September 8, 2025 by Marybeth Stanziola

 In his September Illinois Bar Journal article, “Powering Up Your POAs,” attorney Gary R. Gehlbach shows how using the statutory form without significant additions and modifications is fraught in its acceptability by third parties. The problem is not with the comprehensiveness of the form or the statute, Gehlbach states.

The former director of the East St. Louis Public Library pleaded guilty in federal court to five counts of wire fraud related to the misuse of library funds.

From: 
Belleville News-Democrat

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias’ audit singles out Forest Park police for a data breach that he says violated state law.

From: 
Chicago Sun-Times

Two veteran federal officials from Illinois are relaunching an effort to amend the Illinois Constitution and end partisan gerrymandering in state legislative districts.

From: 
Daily Herald

A new, temporary security fence erected around the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois on Friday has drawn attention amid reports that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents are deploying soon to the Chicago area.

From: 
mystateline.com

The Illinois State Board of Education will now be required to partner with first responders to create threat assessment plans for schools across the state.

From: 
News Channel 20

8 Movie-Lawyers Who Would Be Disciplined in Real Life

Posted on September 5, 2025 by Marybeth Stanziola

Movies often depict lawyers behaving badly, acting unprofessionally, or blatantly violating rules of professional conduct – all for the sake of entertainment. But in real life, attorneys need to avoid these gaffes at all costs, learn from their mistake when they do occur, and understand the consequences that may arise in the aftermath. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from Stuart Teicher as he examines both the obvious and subtle ethics violations being committed by lawyers in the movies and on television.

A plan to expand the legal definition of stalking in state statute has become law in Illinois. Sponsors said this law can help victims obtain a stalking no-contact order more easily if the victim feels under emotional distress.

From: 
WAND