Attorney Nerino Petro explores portable power options for attorneys, while comparing the battery life of the most popular mobile devices on the market today.

Q. As we zero in on the 800th Anniversary of Magna Carta, were there professional ethics standards for lawyers at that time?

Join us in Chicago on June 25, 2015 for the trial practice tools you need to evaluate the financial issues in a matrimonial case while learning from seasoned litigators as they prepare themselves (and you) for an upcoming mock financial trial! From case assessment through closing argument, this seminar gives you the information you need to analyze, organize, and present persuasive facts that are essential for reaching a favorable ruling during a financial trial. Armed with a hypothetical case fact pattern and supporting business valuation report (which will be provided to registrants prior to the program), attendees will leave with a greater understanding of: how to assess a client’s position regarding maintenance, child support, business valuation, and possible dissipation claims; how to use discovery and other tools to flush out relevant facts and admissions; how to present a storyline favorable to the client; the ethical issues that arise when a client fails to disclose relevant data; how to conduct direct and cross-examination of business valuation experts; how witness choice and the structure of testimony impact a financial trial; the factors courts consider in determining child support, maintenance, and property distribution – as well as the essential evidence needed to present such cases; the key elements of a persuasive oral and written closing argument; the court’s expectations from family practitioners during a financial trial; and much, much more.

The seminar is presented by the ISBA Family Law Section and qualifies for 7.50 hours MCLE credit, including 7.50 hours Professional Responsibility MCLE credit (subject to approval).

The Illinois Bar Foundation hosted the first annual golf outing honoring Tom Leahy, past President of the ISBA and a longtime supporter of the charitable work of the Foundation, on June 8 at Harborside International Golf Course. The event benefits the Illinois Bar Foundation and the Post-Graduate Legal Fellowship at Loyola Law School. View photos from the event at http://iln.isba.org/gallery/900/ibf-friends-of-tom-golf-outing

Q.  In the past I represented a client on a number of different matters. I never sent a formal letter ending the attorney-client relationship. Am I still the client’s attorney?