2025 Joint Midyear Meeting PhotosFebruary 2026The Illinois State Bar Association and the Illinois Judges Association proudly co-hosted the 2025 Joint Midyear Meeting on December 11–12 at the JW Marriott Chicago, bringing members of the legal community together for two days of connection and collaboration.
Become an Illinois Bar Foundation ChampionBy Jessica R. DurkinFebruary 2026At least twice a year at ISBA Annual and Midyear Meetings, we are pitched by colleagues and the Illinois Bar Foundation to become a “Champion.” But what is a Champion really, and what’s in it for us?
Dogs Rule(s)!: “Dangerous” and “Vicious Dog” Determinations and Their ConsequencesBy Hon. Joel ChupackFebruary 2026Dogs Rule(s)!: “Dangerous” and “Vicious Dog” Determinations and Their Consequences: As this article is being written at the beginning of a new year, I will make my wish known. I hope to never have another case where an owner puts in jeopardy the life of their dog.
How the Housing Crisis Impacts Our Animal Shelters: Innovative Ordinances and Laws To Keep Pets With Their PeopleBy Ledy VanKavageFebruary 2026The housing crisis impacts both people and pets. Housing is one of the top reasons why dogs and cats are relinquished to animal shelters. Loved pets ending up in shelters is not only emotionally wrenching for the owners and the animal-shelter workers but also a waste of tax dollars. Sheltering pets is expensive. It is much cheaper to keep them with their families.
