News & Announcements

 Lawyer Well-Being Coaching and Resources
(8/29/2024)
 
   Lawyer health and wellness programming and resources, including our new well-being coaching sessions.

Lawyer Health & Wellness

The CBA offers a variety of programs and resources to support lawyer health and wellness. CBA members are welcome to join the Well-being and Mindfulness committee to attend regular meetings focused on lawyer health and wellness topics. Email committees@chicagobar.org to join a CBA committee. 

Member Well-Being and Professional Development Coaching Sessions

The CBA is pleased to offer free, 20-minute Well-Being and Professional Development Coaching sessions with our featured well-being coach, Jonathan Beitner, JD, CPC. During the session, members can choose from the following topics to cover with Jonathan: Burnout, Setting Boundaries, Stress Management, Work/Life Balance, Building Resilience, Time Management, Fostering More Positivity/Optimism, Practicing Mindfulness, and Effective Goal Setting. The sessions will take place via Zoom. To attend you must have Zoom Desktop Client (https://zoom.us/support/download) on your PC or Mac).

Upcoming Events

September Well-Being and Professional Development Coaching Sessions
September 16, 2024, 20-minute sessions from 9:40am - 3:30pm
Click here to register


___________________________________________________

Setting Boundaries 101: Drawing the Line for a More Balanced Life
October 8, 2024, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Click here to register

Setting boundaries is a critical element of any leader’s skillset and an important strategy for avoiding burnout. Yet far too many lawyers, law students, and legal professionals let their drive to succeed and tendency for people-pleasing prevent them from reaching their highest potential. In this interactive workshop, you’ll learn how boundaries can help you avoid burnout and boost your productivity. You will also walk away with a toolkit of strategies for setting and enforcing boundaries that will enhance your relationships, mitigate overwhelm, and turbocharge your performance. (1.00 IL Mental Health / Substance Abuse PR-MCLE Credit, pending approval) 

Health & Wellness Resources

Lawyers Assistance Program

The mission of the Lawyers Assistance Program (LAP) is to assist lawyers, judges, and law students with substance abuse, addiction and mental health issues. For more information go to https://illinoislap.org.


Jonathan Beitner
, JD, CPC
Featured CBA Well-Being Coach

Jonathan Beitner is the Founder of Beitner Coaching & Consulting.  Jonathan is a frequent speaker and author on topics related to the intersection of professional development and well-being.  He helps individuals identify and achieve their goals, and works with firms, law schools, and Fortune 500 companies to help their lawyers, students, and staff be more productive, happier, and healthier through individual coaching and evidence-based group programming.

As a co-creator of the American Bar Association’s Well-Being Pledge, a lead organizer for the inaugural Well-Being Week in Law, and one of the drafters of the Mental Health and Substance Use CLE requirement in Illinois, Jonathan has experience creating and implementing industry-wide initiatives to help lawyers thrive.  He also serves as the Featured Well-Being Coach for the Chicago Bar Association.

Jonathan previously practiced as a commercial litigator at an Am Law 100 firm and clerked for federal judges on the Sixth Circuit and Eastern District of Michigan after graduating from the University of Michigan Law School.
 
Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn.

 CBA 2025-2025 Officers and Board of Managers Announced
(3/22/2024)
 
   CBA Nominating Committee has submitted the 2024-25 slate of CBA Officers and Board of Managers.

2024-2025 Slate of Officers and Board of Managers


Notice from the Nominating Committee

Pursuant to Section 8.4(a)(3) of Article VIII of the Bylaws of the Association, the Nominating Committee has selected the following nominees for each office in the Association and for each place to be filled on the Board of Managers at the Annual Meeting.

Second Vice President: Hon. Nichole C. Patton
Secretary: Trisha Rich
Treasurer: Jonathan B. Amarilio

For Members of the Board of Managers Terms of Two Years:
Nishá N. Dotson
John C. Ellis
Kenya A. Jenkins-Wright
Michael Kozlowski
Francine D. Lynch
Sari W. Montgomery
Hon. Rena Marie Van Tine
Hon. Andrea R. Wood


Under the Bylaws of the Association, the Second Vice President of the Association automatically succeeds to the Office of First Vice President. This year Kathryn Carso Liss, having served during the past year as Second Vice President, automatically succeeds to the office of First Vice President. In addition, the First Vice President of the Association automatically succeeds to the Office of President. This year, John C. Sciaccotta, having served during the past year as First Vice President, automatically becomes the President. Also, the person who served as YLS Chair two years prior automatically becomes a member of the Board of Managers. This year, Daniel J. Berkowitz, having served as YLS Chair two years prior becomes a member of the Board of Managers.

Submitted by:
Trisha Rich
Secretary
March 22, 2024

Article VIII, Section 8.4(b) Nominations by Members:
Candidates for Elected Member or for any office with respect to which the Nominating Committee has nominated candidates may be nominated by means of a written petition, signed by at least 350 members entitled to vote in accordance with Section 1.3 of the bylaws, and filed with the Secretary no later than April 30 of each year.
 

 Volunteers Wanted for IL Driver's License Expo
(8/8/2023)
 
   Volunteers needed to help IL residents reinstate their driver's licenses on September 16 at Malcolm X College. Free training available.
IL Drivers License Expo Call for Volunteers

Attorney Volunteers Needed for Driver's License Expo

The Pilsen Neighbors Community Council, Law Office of the Cook County Public Defender, Illinois Secretary of State, The Chicago Bar Association (CBA), and other partners are hosting a Driver's License Reinstatement Expo on Saturday, September 16, 2023 at Malcolm X College.

Volunteer attorneys are needed to provide free onsite counseling to individuals looking to reinstate their driver’s license. Attorneys will interpret SOS Driving Abstracts, verify information, and provide instruction on clearing suspensions. There are three 2-hour shifts available: 8:30-11:30 a.m. (Shift 1); 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. (Shift 2); and 1:30-3:30 p.m. (Shift 3). The CBA will provide a voucher good for a 3-hour CLE seminar to all attorney volunteers.

Free Training Available:
The Cook County Public Defender’s office will provide free training on interpreting abstracts via Zoom on August 16 or August 30, 2023, from 3:00-5:00 p.m. 2 IL MCLE credit will be provided for attendance at the training.

To sign-up for training, a volunteer shift or for more information please email Danita Ivory at danita.ivory@cookcountyil.gov.

 CBA Closed on July 3 and 4
(6/29/2023)
 
   CBA offices will be closed on Monday, July 3 and Tuesday, July 4, 2023. Normal business hours resume on Wednesday.
CBA Offices will be closed on July 3 and 4, 2023 in honor of the 4th of July.

 

 Symphony Orchestra Conductor Search
(5/26/2023)
 
   CBA Symphony Orchestra is conducting an a search for new conductor.

CBA Symphony Orchestra Conductor Search


The Chicago Bar Association Symphony Orchestra Music Director Job Opening—May 2023

The Chicago Bar Association Symphony Orchestra (CBASO), a community orchestra made up almost entirely of members of Chicago’s legal community, seeks a new Music Director of exceptional musicianship, vision, creativity and flexibility to lead it into its fifth decade. Founded in 1986 and conducted since its inception by music director David (Volosin) Katz, with Marek Rachelski serving as Resident Conductor since 2017, the CBASO is sponsored by The Chicago Bar Association, which also sponsors the 60-member CBA Chorus (Stephen Blackwelder, director) and the Barristers Big Band (led by John Vishneski III, Esq.).

The CBASO rehearses Wednesday evenings September to May at the CBA headquarters in the Chicago Loop or in a courtroom at the Richard J. Daley Center. It performs four orchestra or chorus/orchestra concerts and one chamber ensemble concert each year, making its primary performance home at St. James Episcopal Cathedral, Chicago. The orchestra is also called upon to perform at occasional CBA-sponsored events, including a triennial performance in national celebration of Law Day.

The CBASO is a non-auditioned, self-governing ensemble. Repertoire is drawn from the great orchestral and orchestral/choral tradition, extending from the Baroque through to the modern day. Concerts have ranged from Trial by Jury, (the first performances of Gilbert & Sullivan’s courthouse operetta ever presented in a working courtroom with a cast and orchestra made up entirely of legal professionals) to Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9, as well as major orchestral and choral-orchestral works by Bach, Beethoven, Brahms, Britten, Bruckner, Copland, Dvorak, Handel, Haydn, Mahler, Mendelssohn, Mozart, Orff, Poulenc, Respighi, Rossini, Shostakovich, Tchaikovsky, and scores of others.

The CBASO under Maestro Katz, joined by the CBA Chorus and guest choirs, presented Orff's Carmina Burana to a capacity audience at Orchestra Hall, Chicago, home of the Chicago Symphony, in celebration of the CBASO's 25th season. The ensemble returned to Symphony Center for Something Wonderful!, an all-Rodgers & Hammerstein concert in spring 2015, and made a third appearance at Symphony Center/Orchestra Hall in a program called Ode to Joy in June 2019. Other notable performances have included a celebration of the Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial, featuring guest author Doris Kearns Goodwin, and a performance honoring retiring U.S. Supreme Court Associate Justice John Paul Stevens.

Four finalists (in addition to Mr. Rachelski) and up to two alternates will be chosen from applications received. Two finalist concerts will be presented during the 2023-24 season, with each finalist rehearsing with the orchestra alternating weeks and then conducting one half of the concert. The orchestra will make its decision in spring 2024. The winning candidate will be introduced to the public at concerts celebrating the 150th anniversary of The Chicago Bar Association in late spring or early fall 2024.

Interested persons should submit the following information no later than 12 noon CDT, Wednesday, July 5, 2023, to this email address: cbasosearch@gmail.com. Absolutely no telephone calls, and no mailed applications will be accepted; all materials must be submitted online in a single email. All applications will be acknowledged upon receipt. Candidates are encouraged to apply early. Questions? Please email cbasosearch@gmail.com.

1. Resume—outlining education and experience. Preference will be given to those candidates who have experience conducting community/non-professional orchestras and those who also have choral conducting experience.

2. References—provide the names, relationships, telephone numbers and emails of up to five individuals who can speak to your experience and qualifications.

3. Repertoire—provide a list of orchestral and choral/orchestral repertoire conducted, clearly marking those pieces performed, those only rehearsed.

4. Video links #1—the conductor in performance. Please submit up to 30 minutes of the conductor in performance. Full works, or full movements of works (from any period) are welcome. No excerpts, please. Be sure to identify the ensemble, the repertoire and the date of the performance. Video recorded from the ensemble’s perspective (facing the conductor) is preferred. Video links on YouTube, Vimeo, or other recognized online storage retrieval systems are preferred. Do NOT submit links that require video to be downloaded to be viewed. Please supply passwords if required to access materials.

5. Video links #2—the conductor in rehearsal. Please submit up to 30 minutes of the conductor in rehearsal. The rehearsal footage need not be of the works conducted in the performance video. Be sure to identify the ensemble, the repertoire and the date of the rehearsal. Video recorded from the ensemble’s perspective (facing the conductor) is preferred. Video links on YouTube, Vimeo, or other recognized online storage retrieval systems are preferred. Do NOT submit links that require video to be downloaded to be viewed. Please supply passwords if required to access materials.

6. Introductory VideoPlease submit a short video (1 to 3 minutes maximum) introducing yourself to the search committee. This video may be supplied as a downloadable file. There are no other specific requirements for the introduction video. Be sure the introduction video is clearly labeled with your name.

Useful online information:

The CBASO & CBA Chorus on the CBA’s Website (including links to selected performances)

Other Online Performances

The CBASO & CBA Chorus Blog

The CBASO & CBA Chorus on Facebook

Questions? Email the Conductor Search Committee at: cbasosearch@gmail.com.

The Chicago Bar Association does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, gender, age, spiritual or personal belief, disability, sexual preference or gender identification


 Members Save with SimpleLaw
(4/12/2023)
 
   CBA members get 3 months free and a 10% per-user lifetime discount.

Members Save with SimpleLaw

 

SimpleLaw Logo

Introducing the next generation SimpleLaw. One platform to manage your firm from lead intake through to matter resolution. Customizable to your firm, your process, and your individual client needs. Workflows, reporting, document automation, billing cycle, and more, all for $39 per user per month. No tiered pricing here. Built with data security in mind. Put an end to the frustrations of the daily grind. It’s time to think different. Think Simple. CBA members get 3 months free and a 10% per-user lifetime discount. Learn more at www.simplelaw.com/chicago-bar.

 CBA 2023-2024 Officers and Board of Managers Announced
(4/10/2023)
 
   CBA Nominating Committee has submitted the 2023-24 slate of CBA Officers and Board of Managers.

2023-2024 Slate of Officers and Board of Managers


Notice from the Nominating Committee

Pursuant to Section 8.4(a)(3) of Article VIII of the Bylaws of the Association, the Nominating Committee has selected the following nominees for each office in the Association and for each place to be filled on the Board of Managers at the Annual Meeting.

Second Vice President: Kathryn Carso Liss
Secretary: Trisha Rich
Treasurer: Nina Fain

For Members of the Board of Managers Terms of Two Years:
Margaret Mendenhall Casey
Josie Gough
Brian Haussmann
Hon. Margaret Stanton McBride
Peter McNamara
John Mitchell
Eirene Salvi
Brendon Stark


Under the Bylaws of the Association, the Second Vice President of the Association automatically succeeds to the Office of First Vice President. This year John C. Sciaccotta, having served during the past year as Second Vice President, automatically succeeds to the office of First Vice President. In addition, the First Vice President of the Association automatically succeeds to the Office of President. This year, Ray J. Koenig III, having served during the past year as First Vice President, automatically becomes the President. Also, the person who served as YLS Chair two years prior automatically becomes a member of the Board of Managers. This year, Tracy Brammeier, having served as YLS Chair two years prior becomes a member of the Board of Managers.

Submitted by:
Kathryn Carso Liss
Secretary
April 10, 2023

Article VIII, Section 8.4(b) Nominations by Members:
Candidates for Elected Member or for any office with respect to which the Nominating Committee has nominated candidates may be nominated by means of a written petition, signed by at least 350 members entitled to vote in accordance with Section 1.3 of the bylaws, and filed with the Secretary no later than April 30 of each year.
 

 Renew Your CBA Membership through May 2024
(5/18/2023)
 
   Be a part of of our historic 150th year! Renew now and get 2 free CLE coupons.


It’s Membership Renewal Time!  Renew by May 31 and Receive 2 Free CBA Seminar Coupons for the West LegalEdcenter!


This year marks the beginning of an extraordinary time for the CBA. In May, we will kick off a yearlong celebration of the CBA’s 150th Anniversary. We have a fabulous year planned with many special events to celebrate our historic anniversary. 

We will also continue to provide members with timely programming, professional development and business growth opportunities, law practice management and technology resources, lawyer well-being and personal career counseling, and more. Your membership includes access to over 30 hours of free CLE and opportunities to connect with legal experts, colleagues, judges, and business leaders. Committees and seminars will continue to be offered in virtual, hybrid and in-person formats on our e-learning platform, Learn.ChicagoBar.org. And our unlimited CLE-Advantage Plan continues to be a bargain at only $160 per plan year.

Renew online at www.chicagobar.org/renew, mail your dues payment or call 312-554-2020. 

Dues installment plan, financial hardship dues and retired dues available. Email billing@chicagobar.org with questions. 

We appreciate your past support and look forward to your continued membership!
 
 

 YLS Slate of Officers and Directors 2023
(3/30/2023)
 
   The Young Lawyers Section is pleased to present its 2023-2024 slate of officers and directors.

Young Lawyers Section Leadership Slate 2023-2024


Pursuant to Section 5.4 of Article V of the By-Laws of the Young Lawyers Section, the Nominating Committee of the Young Lawyers Section submits the following slate of candidates for election to the offices indicated. The term of office for each position to be filled shall be one year from the 2023 Annual Meeting of the Young Lawyers Section to the 2024 Annual Meeting, except the Co-Editors in Chief of the YLS Journal, Co-Editors in Chief of the Section’s Online Publication, and the Directors shall have two-year terms. If you have questions, please contact Emily Anderson, YLS Director, at eanderson@chicagobar.org or 312-554-2070.

Click here to view the 2023-2024 Slate of Candidates .
 

 CBA Notice of Election for 2023-2024 Bar Year
(1/30/2023)
 
   The CBA Nominating Committee hereby invites nominations for candidates for Officer and Board of Manager positions.
Notice from CBA Nominating Committee
January 27, 2023

The Nominating Committee (the “Committee”) for the 2023 Election, selected pursuant to Article VIII, Section 8.3 of the Bylaws as adopted June 3, 1977 and amended February 4, 2022, hereby invites nominations for candidates for Officer and Board of Manager positions for consideration by the Committee. 

Officer and Board candidates must complete a candidate questionnaire. Candidates for Officer positions must submit the questionnaire by 5:00 p.m. on February 21, 2023. Candidates for the Board of Managers must submit the questionnaire by 5:00 pm on February 28, 2023. To receive a questionnaire, please call or email Beth McMeen (312-554-2051, bmcmeen@chicagobar.org) or Michele Spodarek (312-554-2124, mspodarek@chicagobar.org).

The Committee will hold an Open Meeting on March 9, 2023 beginning at 4:30 p.m., to receive nominations from members of the Association as to candidates for Officer and Board of Managers positions.  If you plan to appear or have someone nominate you, please call or email Beth McMeen (312-554-2051, bmcmeen@chicagobar.org) or Michele Spodarek (312-554-2124, mspodarek@chicagobar.org by March 2, 2023. 

Officer and Board candidates will be invited to schedule a brief appearance before the Nominating Committee on March 30, 2023 beginning at 4:30 p.m.
The following offices will be filled:
SECOND VICE PRESIDENT
SECRETARY
TREASURER


and eight members of the Board of Managers for two-year terms to fill the vacancies caused by the expiration of the terms of the following Board Members:  Michael Alkaraki, Octavio Duran, Robert W. Fioretti, Malcolm “Skip" Harsch, Risa R. Lanier, Patricia McCarthy, Hon. James M. McGing, and Sandra Yamate.

Under the Bylaws, Article VIII, Section 8.4(c), the Second Vice President shall without election or contest automatically succeed to the Office of First Vice President and the First Vice President shall without election or contest automatically succeed to the Office of President.

2023 NOMINATING COMMITTEE
Hon. Maryam Ahmad, Chair
Edward J. Austin
Daniel Berkowitz
Michelle L. Carey
J. Timothy Eaton
Gail S. Eisenberg
Noah J. Graf
Erika Harold
Andre Hunter, Jr.
Eileen Letts
Hon. Clare E. McWilliams
Juan Morado, Jr.
Kathleen Dillon Narko
Gavin S. Phelps
Donata Stroink-Skillrud
Hon. E. Kenneth Wright, Jr.
Michael J. Zink

 

 New Member Benefit: SoFi
(11/9/2022)
 
   Student Loan Refinancing and Financial Wellness with New Member Benefit Provider SoFi
New Member Benefit!

SoFi

Refinance Your Student Loans with New Member Benefit Provider SoFi
Through the CBA’s partnership with SoFi, members can take advantage of an exclusive .25% rate discount if they refinance their student loans at www.sofi.com/chicagobar or call 833-277-7634. No fees, serious savings, and flexible terms and rates all accessible through this simple benefits dashboard. Don’t have student loans? SoFi offers other products to help you reach your financial goals including mortgages, personal loans, and private student loans. 
 


 New Member Benefit: Amata
(11/8/2022)
 
   Flexible office solutions and networking. Members get 15% off first purchase with Amata.


New Member Benefit! Amata

Offices for lawyers working hybrid and firms needing flexible office options. Amata supports law firms with office space, paralegal support, clerks, phone and reception services. Members receive 15% off their first purchase. Visit us at Amata to learn more.

 Elect Qualified Judges in Nov 8 General Election
(10/13/2022)
 
   View the CBA Judicial Evaluation Committee findings for the November 8, 2022 General Election.
Chicago Bar Association Releases Judicial Evaluation Findings for November 8 General Election
CBA “Judge Smart Pocket Guide” Available for Voters in English, Spanish and Polish 


Wednesday, October 12, 2022 - The Chicago Bar Association released evaluation results for sitting judges running for retention or to fill vacancies on the Appellate and Circuit Court in Cook County. The CBA strongly encourages voters to utilize the findings to cast informed votes for judicial candidates who will be on the ballot in the November 8, 2022, general election. 

The Judicial Evaluation findings are available on the CBA’s website at www.chicagobar.org/chicagobar/votejudges. The CBA’s “Judge Smart Pocket Guide” is available in English, Spanish and Polish and can be downloaded from the site for voters to take directly into the voting booth. 

“The guide is the result of thousands of hours of work by our committee members. Cook County voters have used the committee’s evaluations to decide how they wish to vote in judicial elections and taken the Voter’s Guide to their polling places for generations,” said Brian Boyle, Chair of the CBA’s Judicial Evaluation Committee.

The non-partisan evaluations are a comprehensive, peer-to-peer review process conducted as a long-standing public service by the CBA’s Judicial Evaluation Committee. Candidates who submit a questionnaire and participate in the screening process are evaluated on their integrity, legal knowledge, legal ability, professional experience, judicial temperament, diligence, and punctuality. 

“The independence of the judiciary is crucial to safeguarding our democracy and protecting the rights of all our citizens. With this in mind, the CBA employs a non-partisan judicial evaluation process that ensures we can provide voters with judicial ratings void of political influence,” said CBA President Timothy Tomasik. 

In the coming November 8, 2022, general election, the CBA recommends retaining 62 of 64 Cook County judges on the November ballot. Two judges Daniel James Pierce and Ann Finley Collins, declined to participate in the evaluation process. Judge Pierce retired September 30, 2022.

About the Judicial Evaluation Committee
The Judicial Evaluation Committee (JEC) is the semi-autonomous committee of The Chicago Bar Association that conducts evaluations of candidates for judicial offices and sitting judges seeking retention within Cook County. As a service to the public, the CBA reports the findings of the JEC for all elections. The evaluations are designed to inform the public and the courts of the qualifications, independence, and integrity of judicial candidates. 
 

 New Member Benefit Provider: Credit Union 1
(11/9/2022)
 
   CBA members get an exclusive $500 bonus when signing up for Free Checking with qualifying direct deposit through Credit Union 1.


The CBA welcomes new member benefit provider Credit Union 1!
Credit Union 1 offers priority service, personalized solutions, and exclusive benefits to help you reach your financial goals and achieve success—however you define it. Explore our Private Banking Program, mortgage and auto loans at highly competitive rates, and flexible savings and checking options—including a limited-time $500 bonus for CBA Members who sign up for Free Checking with qualifying direct deposit. Plus, you can bank anytime, anywhere with access to CU1’s highly rated mobile app, 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs and 5,000 shared-branch locations nationwide. Get started at www.creditunion1.org/cba.

 Bar Show Auditions
(8/15/2022)
 
   Find your inner creative and join the 2022 Bar Show cast. Auditions are September 6.
Please contact Jay Schleppenbach with any questions and to place your name on the audition list. 




 CBA Record Magazine: July August 2022 Issue
(7/27/2022)
 
   Inside the Issue: Meet CBA President Timothy Tomasik, Ponzi Schemes, Legal Ethics, No Knock Warrants and more.
CBA Record Magazine: July/August 2022 Edition Now Available Online

The new issue of the CBA Record Magazine is now available. Get to know CBA President Timothy Tomasik, understand Ponzi Schemes, and take a look back at the changes in legal ethics. Plus, if you've ever wondered why we pay real estate taxes a year after they have been assessed Illinois, you can get your answer here (and blame it on the Great Depression). Read the full issue here.



Inside the Issue:

Stepping Out with CBA President Timothy S. Tomasik 
By Trisha Rich 

Ponzi Schemes and Tips to Avoid Them 
By Anthony F. Fata

Legal Ethics: A Retrospective 
By John Levin

Explaining Real Estate Tax Timing in Illinois: A One-Time Solution Continues 88 Years Later 
By Richard Lee Stavins

Building Bridges: It Takes All of Us to Ensure the Continued  Value of Membership 
By Daniel Berkowitz

Young Lawyers Section Annual Meeting 
By Ann Glynn, CBA Public Affairs Director

No-Knock Warrants: Past, Present, and Future 
By Sarah Chowdhury, Nicholas Flores, and Kenneth Matuszewski

“Out-Gunned, Out-Manned, Out-Numbered, Out-Planned”: IRS Seeks  to Make an All-Out Stand 
By Genevieve Redd








 Now Hiring: Member Services and Events Coordinator
(7/20/2022)
 
   We are now hiring a full-time Member Services and Events Coordinator.
Now Hiring: Member Services and Events Coordinator

Are you detail-oriented and love working with people? We are now accepting applications for a Member Services and Events Coordinator. Assist with planning and coordination of CBA events including the Annual Meeting, Award Receptions and Luncheons, and other special events such as the CBA Golf Outing. Plus assist with other member-focused programming and general customer service duties. Email your cover letter and resume to HR@chicagobar.org.

Click here for the job description.

 New Member Benefit: Clio
(11/9/2022)
 
   CBA members now receive a 10% discount on Clio.
Clio

Clio’s industry-leading, cloud-based legal practice management  and client intake + legal CRM software streamlines law firm operations, improves productivity, and enables legal professionals  to increase their revenues from one central location. With powerful tools for client intake, case management, document management, time tracking, invoicing, and online payments, Clio simplifies firm management so you can spend more time doing what you do best—practicing law.  Approved by more than 66 bar associations and legal societies,  

Clio provides industry-leading security, 24/5 customer support,  and 200+ integrations with legal professionals’ favorite apps and platforms, including Fastcase, Dropbox, Quickbooks, and Google  Apps.

Chicago Bar Association members are eligible to receive a 10%  discount on Clio products. Sign up today at www.clio.com.

 CBA Releases Judicial Evaluation Findings for June 28 Primary Election
(6/2/2022)
 
   Elect qualified judges, take our Judicial Voters Guide to the polls on June 28.


Chicago Bar Association Releases Judicial Findings for June 28 Primary Election

Wednesday, June 1, 2022 - The Chicago Bar Association today released evaluation results for candidates seeking to become a Judge in Cook County, including those seeking a seat on the Illinois Appellate Court, and the Circuit Court.  The CBA strongly encourages voters to utilize the findings to cast informed votes for judicial candidates who will be on the ballot in the June 28, 2022 primary election. 

The Judicial Evaluation findings are available on the CBA’s website at www.chicagobar.org/chicagobar/votejudges. The CBA’s comprehensive “Judge Smart Guide” is available on the site for voters to review and download.  Links to a condensed “Judge Smart Pocket Guide” are also available to enable citizens to take the evaluation information directly into the voting booth. 

“A Judge has the power to impact people’s lives and it’s imperative for voters to be informed on the qualifications of the judges when they head into the voting booth,” said Brian Boyle, Chair of the CBA’s Judicial Evaluation Committee. “The CBA’s ‘Judge

Smart Guide’ provides an important tool to help Cook County voters cast smart and informed votes for judicial candidates.” 

The non-partisan evaluations are a comprehensive, peer-to-peer review process conducted as a long-standing public service by the CBA’s Judicial Evaluation Committee.  Candidates who submit a questionnaire and participate in the screening process are evaluated on the basis of seven criteria:  integrity, legal knowledge, legal ability, professional experience, judicial temperament, diligence and punctuality. 

Candidates must also participate in a personal interview before members of the evaluation committee.  They must receive a 60 percent favorable vote of the hearing panel members to receive a “Qualified” finding and an 80 percent favorable vote to receive a “Highly Qualified” finding.  Candidates who receive less than a 60 percent favorable vote receive a “Not Recommended” finding, as do candidates who decline to participate in the evaluation process. 
In the coming June 28, 2022 primary election, there are candidates seeking positions on the Illinois Appellate Court, and the Cook County Circuit Court. 

Appellate Court:
Six candidates are running to fill two open seats on the Illinois Appellate Court.  Of the six, four were rated “Highly Qualified” and two were rated “Qualified.” 

Circuit Court of Cook County:
In addition to the Appellate Court race, there are a total of 69 candidates running for Judge in the Cook County Circuit Court.  Of the 69 circuit court candidates running, a total of 62 were screened by the CBA’s Judicial Evaluation Committee.  Of those 62, the JEC rated four as “Highly Qualified,” 49 as “Qualified” and nine as “Not Recommended.”   

Seven additional candidates declined to participate in the JEC screening process and were found automatically “Not Recommended” pursuant to JEC governing bylaws.   

 Lawyers in the Classroom Video
(5/4/2022)
 
   Lawyers in Classroom Program is pleased to announce it's new video series. Discover why Chicagoland lawyers love volunteering and supporting LIC!

Lawyers in the Classroom Video Series


Discover why lawyers volunteer with and support the Edward J. Lewis II Lawyers In the Classroom program through its new interview series. You can view the entire series on YouTube.

May 2022: Daniel Winters, LIC Volunteer Attorney




April 2022: Josh Boggioni, Hinkhouse Williams Walsh LLP





March 2022: Johanna Tran, United States Government 

 


February 2022: Lindsay Jenkins, Cooley






Click here to watch more  LIC Interview Series segments with our LIC volunteer attorneys and teacher partners, or for watch for new episodes on our Social media channels: 

  



 CBA 2022 Officers and Board of Managers
(4/13/2022)
 
   The CBA is pleased to announce its slate of Officers and Board of Managers members for the 2022-23 Bar Year.
2022-23 Slate of Officers and Board of Managers Nominees

The Nominating Committee, chaired by Past President Jesse Ruiz, has selected the nominees for each office in the Association and for each place to be filled on the Board of Managers at the Annual Meeting. View the Slate here.

 Membership Dues Renewal Through May 2023
(4/1/2022)
 
   Renew your CBA Membership by May 31 and Get Free CLE Coupons!
Renew Your CBA Membership Today!

Click to Renew Here

April 2022

More so now than ever, participation in the CBA is critical to staying connected with colleagues, learning the latest developments in your practice area, and understanding the changes in the courts and the legal community impacting you and your clients. The CBA will continue to provide exceptional, timely CLE programs and new resources dedicated to professional development, lawyer well-being, personal career counseling, business development and marketing, improved IT, legal innovations, and mediation and arbitration skills. 

While it certainly has been another extraordinary year for all of us, the CBA looks forward to another great year with virtual, hybrid and in-person programs, special events and activities. With your help, the CBA has been a leader in meeting the ever-changing needs of our members during these unprecedented times and I am proud of the work we have accomplished together. We are committed to making sure the CBA continues to be the bar association you want, need, and deserve.
 
On behalf of the CBA Board of Managers, thank you for your continuing support of the CBA. You will receive your renewal statement in the mail the first week of April or you can renew online. We also invite you to support our Sustaining Member Program and 150th Anniversary Fund.

We hope you will renew your membership and look forward to seeing you in person at the CBA very soon.

E. Lynn Grayson

 
E. Lynn Grayson
CBA President 2021-2022

P.S. Renew by May 31 and receive free CLE coupons! Current members that renew by May 31 will receive two (2) WestLegalEd Center coupons for a free online seminar sponsored by the CBA. See details here.

Have any questions regarding your membership dues renewal? Email our Billing Department.



 Legal Services Corporation: Notice of 2023 Grants
(3/11/2022)
 
   Notice of LSC grant funds to provide civil legal services to eligible clients during calendar year 2023.
LEGAL SERVICES CORPORATION
Notice of Grant Funds Available for Calendar Year 2023
 
The Legal Services Corporation (LSC) announces the availability of grant funds to provide civil legal services to eligible clients during calendar year 2023. In accordance with LSC’s multiyear funding policy, grants are available for only specified service areas.  The list of service areas (and their descriptions) where grant opportunities are open are available at https://www.lsc.gov/grants/basic-field-grant/lsc-service-areas/2023-service-areas-subject-competition. The Request for Proposals (RFP), which includes instructions for preparing the grant proposal, will be published at https://www.lsc.gov/grants-grantee-resources/our-grant-programs/basic-field-grant on or around April 11, 2022. Applicants must file a Pre-Application and the grant application through GrantEase: LSC’s grants management system.  

Please visit https://www.lsc.gov/grants/basic-field-grant for filing dates, applicant eligibility, submission requirements, and updates regarding the LSC grants process.  Please email inquiries pertaining to the LSC grants process to LSCGrants@lsc.gov.

 Open Position: Judicial Evaluation Committee Administrator
(2/24/2022)
 
   The CBA seeks to hire a Judicial Evaluation Committee Administrator. See details here.
Job Opening at The Chicago Bar Association:

Judicial Evaluation Committee Administrator
Posted February 2022

Apply on LinkedIn Jobs or email hr@chicagobar.org.

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s Degree
EXPERIENCE: Employment history must show sufficient experience and/or education, knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties required

SKILLS:
-  Excellent communication, organizational, and customer service skills
-  Proven ability to treat confidential information with appropriate discretion
-  Professional demeanor and good people skills
-  Proven ability to proactively organize and prioritize work and meet critical deadlines
-  A strong proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Microsoft Access

POSITION SUMMARY:
The Judicial Evaluation Committee (JEC) Administrator coordinates and administers all activities related to the Judicial Evaluation Committee, the JEC Appellate Review Committee and related committees. The JEC Administrator is responsible for maintaining all committee records, including confidential judicial questionnaires and forms, committee resolutions and guidelines, and committee rosters. The JEC Administrator is responsible for communicating with judges, judicial candidates, and committee members at all phases of the judicial evaluation process including in the distribution and collection of confidential questionnaires, the assignment of investigators and completion of the investigation, the coordination of judicial evaluation hearings, and the notification of the evaluation findings to candidates.

Primary Responsibilities for Judicial Evaluation Committee: 
- Maintain confidentiality of all candidate files
- Submit list of candidates to be evaluated to the committee, Board of Managers, legal publications, and newspapers
- Maintain Committee Records, including questionnaires and forms completed by judges and judicial candidates, committee resolutions, committee guidelines, and committee rosters
- Create new candidate files and maintain existing candidate files, including paper files and electronic files
- Communicate with judicial candidates to provide them with current questionnaire, forms, and due dates
- Update Microsoft Access database with each group of judicial candidates or judges being evaluated.
- Contact and assign candidate investigations to teams of investigators, track the progress of investigations, and maintain the confidentiality of investigation reports
- Supply completed investigation reports to Executive Committee members for review before scheduling hearings
- Notify hearing members of upcoming hearing schedule
- Schedule candidate hearings using Zoom
- Assign members to hearing rooms
- Create password protected candidate files including ballots to send to the hearing panel
- Track return of completed ballots
- Send ballots to hearing chair for chair to provide write-up on the finding
- Send chair’s written finding to Executive Director to include in letter to candidate
- Contact candidate to provide letter stating the result of the evaluation
- Update candidates file with report, ballot, and letter
- Work with Public Affairs Director to communicate findings with media, Chicago legal community and the general public
- Schedule Executive Committee meetings as necessary and provide pertinent documents to the members
- Committee business is conducted both in-person and virtually with occasional meetings occurring after 5:00 pm
Primary Responsibilities for the Appellate Review Committee:
- Maintain committee records including committee resolutions and committee roster
- Provide Appellate Resolution to candidates found not recommended
- Contact committee chair to randomly select names for the order to call members
- Create file for the members of the Appellate Review Panel
- Send protected files to Appellate Review Panel
- Committee business is conducted both in-person and virtually
- Schedule and invite members to committee meetings
- Track the vote taken by the Appellate Review Committee
- Contact candidate with the result of the Appellate Review Committee

Other Responsibilities
- Assist with other CBA special projects as required
 

 2022 Notice of CBA Election
(2/22/2022)
 
   Information on how to nominate candidate(s) for Officer and Board of Manager positions for 2022-23 bar year.
Notice from the CBA Nominating Committee

The Nominating Committee (the “Committee”) for the 2022 Election, selected pursuant to Article VIII, Section 8.3 of the Bylaws as adopted June 3, 1977 and amended February 4, 2022, hereby invites nominations for candidates for Officer and Board of Manager positions for consideration by the Committee. 

Officer and Board candidates must complete a candidate questionnaire. Candidates for Officer positions must submit the questionnaire by 5:00 p.m. on February 22, 2022. Candidates for the Board of Managers must submit the questionnaire by 5:00 pm on February 28, 2022. To receive a questionnaire, please call or email Beth McMeen (312-554-2051, bmcmeen@chicagobar.org) or Angie Cruz (312-554-2132, acruz@chicagobar.org).

The Committee will hold an Open Meeting on March 10, 2022, beginning at 4:00 p.m., to receive nominations from members of the Association as to candidates for Officer and Board of Managers positions. 

If you plan to appear or have someone nominate you, please call or email Beth McMeen (312-554-2051, bmcmeen@chicagobar.org) or Angie Cruz (312-554-2132, acruz@chicagobar.org) by March 9, 2022. Officer and Board candidates will be invited to schedule a brief appearance before the Nominating Committee on March 24, 2022, at 4:00 p.m.

The following offices will be filled:
SECOND VICE PRESIDENT
SECRETARY
TREASURER


and eight members of the Board of Managers for two-year terms to fill the vacancies caused by the expiration of the terms of the following Board Members: Hon. Charles S. Beach, Alexis Crawford Douglas, Hon. Claire E. McWilliams, Juan Morado, Brandon E. Peck, Ashley Rafael, Antonio M. Romanucci, and Hon. Maria Valdez.

Under the Bylaws, Article VIII, Section 8.4(c), the Second Vice President shall without election or contest automatically succeed to the Office of First Vice President and the First Vice President shall without election or contest automatically succeed to the Office of President.

2022 NOMINATING COMMITTEE
Jesse Ruiz, Chair
Tracy Brammeier
Margaret Mendenhall Casey 
Daniel A. Cotter 
Marena Rosa Diaz
Anne Ellis
Hon. Robert F. Harris
Paul M.G. Helms
Hon. Michael B. Hyman
Kathryn A. Kelly
Theodore S. Kontopoulos
Hon. Mary C. Marubio
Donna More
James J. Morrissey
Jennifer Nijman
Greta Weathersby
Adam Zebelian

 CBA Offices Closed for Presidents Day 2022
(2/18/2022)
 
   Our offices will be closed on Monday, February 21, 22022.

 ABA TECHSHOW 2022
(1/21/2022)
 
   CBA members can save on 2022 ABA TECHSHOW registration.
TechShow2022

Bringing Lawyers & Technology Together

ABA TECHSHOW has over 35 years of experience bringing lawyers and technology together. Legal work today is dependent on technology to manage day to day activities, to practice more competently, and to service clients more effectively. ABA TECHSHOW teaches you how technology can work for you. Through the expansive EXPO Hall, CLEs, presentations, and workshops, you will be able to get your questions answered and learn from the top legal professionals and tech innovators, all under one roof. Regardless of your expertise level, there’s something for you at ABA TECHSHOW.

As a member of The Chicago Bar Association, we want you to know that you can register for ABA TECHSHOW 2022 at a special reduced rate. This discount only applies to registrants that qualify for the Standard registration and will save you $100. You can register online and include this unique discount code EP2209 at checkout to receive the discount.

Celebrate over 35 years of legal technology and innovation. Network with legal technology experts from around the globe, March 2 – 5, 2022, at the Hyatt Regency Chicago. Don’t forget to visit www.techshow.com for current information on ABA TECHSHOW 2022, the best place for bringing lawyers and technology together. 

 Proposed CBA Bylaw Amendments
(1/12/2022)
 
   Summary of proposed CBA bylaw amendments.
***********************************
To see a complete set of the CBA Bylaws, with the wording of the proposed changesclick here.
***********************************

MEMORANDUM


To:  Membership of the Chicago Bar Association

From:  CBA President E. Lynn Grayson, CBA Executive Director Beth McMeen

Date:   January 12, 2022

Re:  Chicago Bar Association Summary of Proposed Bylaw Amendments

The Board of Managers formed a special committee chaired by Jonathan Amarilio, Taft Stettinius & Hollister, and Matt Passen, Passen & Powell, to review the Bylaws of the Chicago Bar Association.  Also serving on the committee were CBA Members Ryan Baker, Latham & Watkins, Kenya Jenkins-Wright, Illinois Guardianship and Advocacy Commission, Kathryn Liss, Executive Director of the Schiller DuCanto & Fleck Family Law Center and Assistant Dean & Director of Law Career Services at DePaul College of Law, Trisha Rich, Holland & Knight, and Adam Zebelian, Schiller DuCanto & Fleck.

The last time amendments were made to the Bylaws was in 2013.  It was felt that it was time to review the Bylaws with a particular focus on:
Best practices for not-for-profit organizations
Current practices and practical needs of the Association
Removal of all gender-specific pronouns in favor of a more inclusive they/them/their

As a result of a comprehensive review, the proposed amendments as summarized reflect the changes reviewed and approved by the Board of Managers at its January 11, 2022 meeting subject to the final approval of the voting members of the Association pursuant to Article 10 of the Bylaws.

The resolution adopted by the Board of Managers is reflected in the changes that are summarized. Those changes include: 
Correction of grammatical errors
Replacement of gender-specific pronouns with they/them/their
Removal of requirement that standard mail be used to notify members of membership meetings or other Association business 
Allowing the Board of Managers, Board Committees and Standing Committees to meet in-person or remotely

Other changes are:

Section 1.5 regarding misconduct of members in their relations to the Association. The section now specifically mentions Rule 8.4 of the Illinois Rules of Professional Conduct and allows the Board to determine the procedures for considering the appropriate response to member misconduct.

Sections 2.2 and 2.3 regarding Business Meetings and Non-Business Meetings have been replaced with a revised Section 2.2. The revised section reflects current practices of the Association and provides that, other than the Annual Meeting, full membership meetings may be called by the President, by the Board or by written request of at least five percent of members. 

Section 3.1 now provides that the person who served as YLS Chair two years prior automatically joins the Board of Managers. In the past, this person has been voted on the Board of Managers by the nominating committee as a matter of tradition. With the automatic appointment, another position becomes available on the Board of Managers.

Section 3.4 Meetings. Requires that the Board meet at least ten times each bar year, which is consistent with current practice.

Section 3.5 Quorum and Matter of Acting.  Any change in the amount of dues or assessments that exceeds 10% of the then current relevant dues or assessments requires the affirmative vote of no fewer than 13 members of the Board of Managers.  Also permits the Board to act by unanimous written consent without the need for a meeting in certain matters, including dues increases, filing amicus curiae briefs, expulsion or discipline of members, and filling a vacancy on the Board. 

Section 4.5 allows the Association to keep a record of minutes of Board of Manger meetings electronically rather than in hard copy.

Section 6.1 Senior Lawyers Section was updated so that membership is for anyone admitted to the bar for more than 30 years.

Article 8 The officer and board member nomination process has been updated to include specific dates for required notices, submission of questionnaires, posting of the nominating committee slate, etc. These dates include:
- 1/31 Deadline for notice of election to be sent to members 
- 1/31 Deadline for formation/selection of nominating committee 
- 2/20 Deadline for officer candidates to submit questionnaires
- 2/21 Deadline for Executive Director to send initial officer candidate list to candidates
- 2/28 Deadline for amending officer questionnaires
- 2/28 Deadline for submission of questionnaires of board candidates 
- 4/10 Deadline for Nominating Committee’s slate
- 4/15 Deadline for Notice of Nominating Committee’s selections to be sent to members
- 4/30 Deadline for Election Committee formation

Article 8 has also been amended to require electronic ballots be used in contested elections. Additionally, the process for a special election, if necessary, will be determined by the Board of Managers.

Article 10 Allows the bylaws to be amended by vote of the membership by electronic ballot. Amendments will be effective by receiving within two business days the affirmative vote of at least half of those members casting votes. 

************

To see a complete set of the CBA Bylaws, with the wording of the proposed changes, click here.

The Board of Managers recommends an affirmative vote in favor of the adoption of they Bylaws as restated and urges you to vote by February 4, 2022.

CBA members will receive an email dated January 14, 2022 with instructions on how to cast their vote.

Should you have any questions or didn't receive your email or hardcopy notice, please contact Beth McMeen at 312-554-2051 or bmcmeen@chicagobar.org.
 

 CBA Convenes Strategic Planning Committee
(1/3/2022)
 
   Strategic Planning Committee seeks member input.
Chicago Bar Association Convenes Strategic Planning Committee 

The CBA plays an important role in maintaining the integrity of the law profession, as well as improving the effectiveness of justice in communities near and far. As the CBA approaches their 150th anniversary in 2024, the Strategic Planning Committee has been convened to thoughtfully consider the future of CBA. 

“In forming this Committee, we hope to challenge all members to make the CBA the bar association they want, need, and deserve,” said CBA President E. Lynn Grayson. “As we plan for the next 150 years, we must adapt offerings to support and advance legal careers as well as serve as a change agent for racial justice, the rule of law, access to justice, and improving the communities where we live and work.”

Andrew W. Vail, Partner at Jenner & Block, chairs the CBA’s Strategic Planning Committee. “We have a tremendous Committee committed to serving the CBA membership, the courts, and the broader Chicagoland community by bolstering post-COVID legal practices; promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives; and raising awareness of socioeconomic issues facing individuals and communities today.” 

The Committee is comprised of lawyers and judges from a diverse cross section of the legal, business public service and not for profit community who are committed to a justice system that is more reflective of the Chicago metropolitan area’s diversity. Members of the Committee are:

Michael Alkaraki, Partner at Leahy Hoste Alkaraki
Hon. Charles S. Beach II, Associate Judge of the Pretrial Division of the Circuit Court of Cook County
Daniel Berkowitz, Assistant Attorney General at Illinois Attorney General's Office
Hon. Alison C. Conlon, Circuit Judge for the Illinois Circuit Court of Cook County
Daniel A. Cotter, Attorney at Howard & Howard Attorneys PLLC**
Hon. Joy Cunningham, Justice of the Illinois First District Appellate Court*
Octavio Duran, Principal Attorney at Duran Law Offices**
Steven Fus, Attorney at Steve Fus Law and Interim Director of Cabrini Green Legal Aid
Maurice Grant, Principal Attorney at Grant Law LLC
Hon. LaShonda A. Hunt, Bankruptcy Judge for the US District Court for the Northern District of Illinois
Daniel M. Kotin, Shareholder at Tomasik Kotin Kasserman*
Patty McCarthy, Regional Sales Manager at Lexis Nexis
Martin Montes, Board of Director, Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois
Kernisha Padilla, Conflicts Attorney at Blank Rome LLP
Matthew A. Passen, Partner at Passen & Powell**
Kenya A. Jenkins-Wright, General Counsel of the Illinois Guardianship & Advocacy Commission
Adam Zebelian, Associate at Schiller, DuCanto & Fleck, LLP

The Committee is honored to be served by three Special Advisors: 
Stephen M. Elrod, Partner at Elrod Friedman LLP*
Hon. Rebecca R. Pallmeyer, Chief Judge of the US District Court for the Northern District of Illinois
Terri L. Mascherin, Partner at Jenner & Block LLP*

*denotes past President of the CBA
**denotes past or current Chair of the CBA Young Lawyers Section

The Committee looks forward to receiving input on its strategic planning, which can be provided to Andrew Vail at strategicplan@chicagobar.org.


 New Member Benefit: Levitate
(12/30/2021)
 
   Members get a 10% lifetime discount on Levitate's Keep-In-Touch platform to communicate with clients and prospects.
New Member Benefit: Levitate



Levitate’s Keep-In-Touch platform helps you build and maintain genuine client relationships at scale, resulting in more word-of-mouth referrals to the quality clients you want. Levitate features personal email integration, texting support, meeting booking, custom-written email content, and dedicated account management. Levitate is proud to partner with the CBA to offer members a 10% Lifetime Discount on your Levitate subscription. Learn more and book a demo at https://www.levitate.ai/cba


 New Member Benefit: Free Family Caregiving Resources
(12/29/2021)
 
   Answers and resources to your family caregiving questions at no charge through the Dari Digital Assitant.
Free Family Caregiving Benefit to Support You, Your Parents, Grandparents, and Others

Exclusively for you as a CBA member:
Get access to the Dari Digital Assistant completely free of cost, plus expert coaching sessions for only $69 (58% savings!) with discount code CBA.



Spending time with your grandparents, parents or other aging or special needs loved ones this holiday season? Are you noticing behaviors or health issues that weren't there before? Have questions? Your new offering through CBA has your answers - at no cost to you.

Say hi to Dari! Dari is a Digital Assistant that delivers expertise and advice in the palm of your hand, no matter the situation. 

Nervous about traveling with an aging loved one this holiday? 
Looking for inspiration for some much needed 'me time'?
Struggling to manage your family dynamics? 
Noticing behaviors that might be signs of dementia? 


Dari can help with all of these and so much more! Sign up for a free Dari account to get answers and helpful resources. And if Dari’s educational resources, no matter how valuable, aren’t enough, you can upgrade to Dari Dedicated to work one on one with an expert who understands the challenges of juggling work and other family responsibilities. 

Take the first step and start your journey with Dari at info.homethrive.com/CBAbenefit



 CBA Chorus and Symphony Orchestra to Return: Holiday CD Available
(12/8/2021)
 
   CBA Symphony Orchestra & Chorus are rebooting this January. Find out how you can get involved. A Christmas Carol CD now available for purchase.
CBA Chorus and Symphony Orchestra to Return
The CBA's Chorus and Symphony Orchestra have scheduled their first rehearsals since the pandemic began for Wednesday, January 12, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. Openings in many sections for new members. Email for details and to get involved: Sean Hoffman (Chorus) and Emily Fishman (Symphony Orchestra).
 
Symphony Orchestra's Christmas Carol CD
The CBA Symphony Orchestra's recording of Charles Dicken's "A Christmas Carol" is now on sale for $10. Have a copy mailed directly to your home by contacting John Vishneski at JVishneski@ReedSmith.com.

 January 2022 Drivers License Reinstatement Expo
(12/8/2021)
 
   Attorney volunteers needed to help reinstate driver's licenses at January 29 expo. Training provided.
Attorney Volunteers Needed for Driver's License Expo
All Client Counseling Sessions via Zoom!

Do you have experience representing clients in traffic matters?
Do you want to help individuals reinstate their driver’s license?
WE NEED YOUR HELP!

The Law Office of the Cook County Public Defender is partnering with Pilsen Neighbors Community Council, CBA, Secretary of State, and other partners in hosting a Driver's License Reinstatement Expo on Saturday, January 29, 2022 at Malcolm X College.

Volunteer attorneys are needed to provide free counseling to individuals looking to reinstate their driver’s license. Attorneys will interpret SOS Driving Abstracts, verify information, and provide instruction on clearing suspensions. All counseling will occur via Zoom!

Computer terminals at Malcolm X will be available for attorney volunteers to conduct the Zoom counseling sessions. Attorneys will be located in a room separate from participants. Computer terminals at Malcolm X College are spaced apart to observe all CDC, State and Local social distancing guidelines. Masks will be required of all participants regardless of vaccination status. The CBA will provide a voucher of up to 3 hours which can be used for one of its Continuing Legal Education (CLE) Programs to all Expo attorney volunteers.

There are three 2.5 hour shifts available:
8:30 a.m.- 11:00 a.m. (Shift 1)
11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. (Shift 2)
1:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. (Shift 3)


The Cook County Public Defender’s Office will provide FREE training on interpreting Abstracts featuring Secretary of State representatives and attorney experts virtually via Zoom on December 15, 2021 from 3:00-5:00 p.m. and January 12, 2022 from 3:00-5:00 p.m. 2 CLE hours will be provided for attendance at the training.

To sign-up for training, a volunteer shift or for more information please contact Danita Ivory at danita.ivory@cookcountyil.gov


Sign up information for the public on the January 29 event can be found at https://www.pilsenneighbors.org/dlre.

Driver's License Reinstatement Expo
 

 Thanksgiving 2021
(11/24/2021)
 
   CBA offices will be closed November 25 and 26, 2021 for the Thanksgiving Day holiday.
Happy Thanksgiving

 Meet 2021-22 CBA President E. Lynn Grayson in New Issue of CBA Record
(7/20/2021)
 
   Check out our Flash Fiction Contest Winner: Zoom and the Bigger Picture by Jonathan Safron.

Introducing New CBA President E. Lynn Grayson

-Read the New Issue of the CBA Record-



The July/August issue of the CBA Record is now available online. Features include:

Meet CBA President Lynn Grayson:  An Ardent Advocate for Improving the World 
By Kathryn C. Liss

Intersectionality: A Framework for Understanding Bias and Ourselves 
By Justice Michael B. Hyman

Reparations: 40 Acres and a Mule … with Interest 
By Patrick Dankwa John

Flash Fiction Contest Winner: Zoom and the Bigger Picture 
By Jonathan Safron

It’s Time for the CBA to Come Together as a Legal Community
By Tracy Brammeier

Beyond Binary Thinking 
By Erin Conlon
 
Restrictive Covenants: Isn’t it Time We Consider Consideration?
By Jacob A. Chodash

 Renew Your CBA Membership
(3/31/2021)
 
   Renew now and get 2 free seminar coupons from the West LegalEdcenter.
Renew Now!It’s Membership Renewal Time!  Renew by May 31 and Receive 2 Free CBA Seminar Coupons via the West LegalEdcenter!

It’s been a tough year no doubt but things are looking up and the CBA remains committed to helping you navigate the changing legal landscape through practice area seminars and committee meetings, court updates, networking and business development programs and personal wellness resources.

All programs are currently virtual allowing access anytime from anywhere. Membership includes over 30 hours of free CLE, 300 on demand seminars, 40 free practice specific committee meetings every month, law practice management tips, speaking and writing opportunities, career/job search assistance for all stages of your career, young lawyer hands on training, mentorships and more. Plus opportunities to support social justice initiatives, legislative and judicial evaluation efforts and legal assistance to those in need. 

Renew online at www.chicagobar.org/renew, mail your dues payment or call 312-554-2020. 

Dues installment plan, financial hardship dues and retired dues available. Email billing@chicagobar.org with questions. 

We appreciate your past support and look forward to your continued membership!

 2021-22 Slate of Board of Managers Officers and Members
(3/31/2021)
 
   The Nominating Committee has selected the nominees for each office in the Association and for each place to be filled on the Board of Managers at the Annual Meeting.
Nominating Notice to Members of The Chicago Bar Association

Pursuant to Section 8.3(a)(3) of Article VIII of the Bylaws of the Association, the Nominating Committee has selected the following nominees for each office in the Association and for each place to be filled on the Board of Managers at the Annual Meeting.

Second Vice President Ray J. Koenig III
Secretary Kathryn Carso Liss
Treasurer John C. Sciaccotta

For Members of the Board of Managers Terms of Two Years

Michael Alkaraki
Octavio Duran
Robert W. Fioretti
Malcolm “Skip” Harsch
Risa Lanier
Patricia McCarthy
Hon. James M. McGing
Sandra Yamate

Under the Bylaws of the Association, the Second Vice President of the Association automatically succeeds to the Office of First Vice President.  This year, Timothy Tomasik, having served during the past year as Second Vice President, automatically succeeds to the office of First Vice President.  In addition, the First Vice President of the Association automatically succeeds to the Office of President.  This year, E. Lynn Grayson, having served during the past year as First Vice President, automatically becomes the President.

Ray J. Koenig III

Secretary
March 30, 2021

Article VIII, Section 8.3(b) Nominations by Members:
Candidates for Elected Member or for any office with respect to which the Nominating Committee has nominated candidates may be nominated by means of a written petition which is signed by 350 members entitled to vote in accordance with Section 1.3 of these Bylaws and which is filed with the Secretary no less than 50 days prior to the date set for the Annual Meeting.  Promptly upon the filing of such a petition, the Secretary shall post for no less than five days a notice of the nomination in a conspicuous place at the offices of the Association.

 March/April CBA Record Celebrates 50 Years of the Young Lawyers Section
(3/31/2021)
 
   The YLS is 50 years young! Enjoy a look back at the Section's beginnings and get plenty of tips on succeeding in the law.

March/April 2021 CBA Record Now Available


The latest issue of the CBA Record magazine is now available online at www.chicagobar.org/chicagobar/Record

March/April CBA Record

Inside the issue:

Back to the Future: 50 Years of the YLS
By Jeffrey Moskowitz

Stronger Together: 50 Years and Counting
By Kaitlin King, Alexander Passo and Jacob B. Berger

Have a Plan! And Other Advice from Former YLS Chair Ruben Chapa
By Kaitlin King

Evictions During and After Covid-19
By Alexander Passo

36 Best Practices for Lawyers Conducting Remote Depositions
By Jacob B. Berger

Using a P.O. Box to Conduct Business: Ethical Considerations for Illinois Attorneys
By Judge E. Kenneth Wright Jr.

Women’s History Month Book Recommendations

 Statement on Murders in Atlanta, Georgia
(3/19/2021)
 
   The Chicago Bar Association is saddened by the recent murders in Atlanta, Georgia.

The Chicago Bar Association is saddened by the recent murders in Atlanta, Georgia.  We condemn the senseless loss of life and grieve with our friends and colleagues in the Asian American and Pacific Islander community.  We ask all CBA members to continue to fight against hate and violence. In a truly civilized society, there is no place for racism, religious discrimination, extreme nationalism, and bigotry.


 New Member Benefit Provider: Caseroads
(3/2/2021)
 
   Members save with practice management software Caseroads.

New Member Benefit Provider: Caseroads


CaseroadsCaseroads.com is the next generation cloud-based, secure, practice management software. Work from anywhere, simplify your work all while saving money. Members receive 20% off our market leading rate. Try Caseroads risk free.

 January/February 2021 CBA Record Now Online
(1/29/2021)
 
   Sexual Harassment in the Legal Community, VESSA Act, financial professionals, condominium deconverters and more.

January/February 2021 CBA Record Now Available


The latest issue of the CBA Record magazine is now available online at www.chicagobar.org/chicagobar/Record



Inside the issue:

Shattering the Silence on Sexual Harassment in Our Legal Community by Kathryn C. Liss

The Illinois Victims' Economic Security and Safety Act (VESSA): What Employment Attorneys Need to Know by Katherine Gaughan-Palombi

Protecting (or Cracking) the Nest Egg: Why Titles and Contracts Matter When Selecting a Financial Professional by Anthony F. Fata and Delaney Slater

A Weapon Against Condominium Deconverters: The Fiduciary Duty of Directors by Richard Lee Stavins

Black History Month: Black Authors, Books and Voices

Recognizing and Respecting the LGBTQ+ Community by Charles Golaszewski

 Volunteer Investigators Need for Judicial Evaluation Committee
(1/20/2021)
 
   The CBA Judicial Evaluation Committee is looking for members to serve in its Investigation Division.

Members Needed for Judicial Evaluation Committee


The CBA Judicial Evaluation Committee is looking for members to serve in its Investigation Division. The Committee evaluates candidates for the bench and sitting judges seeking retention. CBA members with a few years of practice experience are encouraged to apply.

The JEC needs your help. This is one of our busiest years in a long time. You will learn a great deal about the legal profession while assisting in the JEC’s mission to improve the Cook County judiciary.

If you are a current JEC member there is no need to reapply. Applications are available for download at here. Save the document to your personal computer, fill out the necessary fields, print and sign.

Applications should be returned to Therese Kurth via fax 312-554-2054 or tkurth@chicagobar.org on or before February 5, 2021.  Due to the pandemic, New Investigator Training will be held virtually utilizing the Zoom platform.

 CBA Condemns Violence at the U.S. Capitol
(1/8/2021)
 
   A Statement from the CBA

The Chicago Bar Association Condemns Violence at the U.S. Capitol

The Chicago Bar Association, the Young Lawyers Section of the Chicago Bar Association, and the Racial Justice Coalition condemn and denounce Wednesday's assault on our democracy and the violence and disruption that followed in our nation’s capital. We denounce those who have incited and encouraged the assault on the U.S. Capitol, as well as those rioters who carried out the assault.

As members of the legal community, we are committed to the Democratic process, defending the U.S. Constitution, and upholding and protecting the rule of law. The Chicago Bar Association calls on our elected officials to join in the condemnation of these actions and adhere to the Constitution, protect the rule of law, and support a peaceful transfer of power.


 Associate Judge Openings in the Circuit Court of Cook County
(1/7/2021)
 
   10 Associate Judge opening announced. Apply by February 3.
Associate Judge Openings in Circuit Court

Chief Judge Timothy C. Evans has announced notice of ten (10) vacancies in the office of associate judge in the Circuit Court of Cook County. Click here to learn more and apply by February 3.

 Mentors Needed for CBA Lawyer-To-Lawyer Mentoring Program
(12/10/2020)
 
   CBA members with 5+ years experienced needed to serve as mentors to new lawyers. Earn IL PR-MCLE credit.
Mentors Needed for CBA Lawyer-To-Lawyer Mentoring Program

The CBA’s lawyer-to-lawyer mentoring program matches experienced attorneys (practicing 5 or more years) with attorneys within their first 5 years of practice for a year-long mentoring program. The CBA is currently seeking mentors for the program. You must be a CBA member to participate.

The program creates opportunities for experienced lawyers to guide new lawyers in developing the practical skills and judgment needed to practice in a highly competent manner and to instill the ethical and professional values that characterize excellent lawyers. 

Participating mentors receive 6 hours of Illinois professional responsibility MCLE credit upon program completion. Attendance at an orientation session (held February 16, 2021 at 12 p.m. over Zoom video conferencing) and 8 subsequent meetings between the mentoring pair is required to complete the program and receive MCLE credit. Click here to view the complete program guidelines.

Due to concerns about COVID-19, those participating may hold any or all of the required minimum 8 meetings over the one-year term through video conference. This exception to the in-person requirement is in place through at least June 30, 2021, and may be further extended in accordance with guidance from the Illinois Supreme Court. 

Click here to fill out an online application.

If you have any questions, please contact YLS Director Lindsay Wunrow
 

 CBA Launches New Mediation Service
(11/18/2020)
 
   Experienced and trained CBA member mediators to provide efficient, cost-effective services.
The Chicago Bar Association Offers New Mediation Service
Experienced and trained CBA member mediators to provide efficient, cost-effective services

CBA Mediation Service WebsiteNow more than ever, there is an unmet need in the marketplace for efficient, fair, and economical mediation services. The CBA is launching a new Mediation Service staffed by experienced, trained CBA member mediators to meet this need. This service will offer a less expensive, dispute resolution system and provides the opportunity to help settle cases in a timely manner.

“The civil justice system can already be too slow, too costly and too uncertain for many looking to resolve their cases – especially now, during this pandemic. The Mediation offering from the CBA will help those desperately seeking alternative dispute resolutions that are affordable and effective,” said Judge Thomas Mulroy of the Circuit Court of Cook County and past president of The Chicago Bar Association.

Participants, who must be represented by counsel, can expect an excellent chance of resolution while negotiating in a safe place with an experienced mediator. The program is structured to meet the mediation needs of a variety of clients in a variety of cases such as: personal injury, family law, commercial, subrogation, real estate, and others. All mediation services can be conducted virtually.

“This important service will benefit CBA members and their clients by providing an economical and timely way to resolve their disputes through mediation before or after a court filing,” said John C. Sciaccotta, CBA Board Treasurer and member of Aronberg Goldgehn. “Many thanks to Cook County Circuit Court Judge Thomas Mulroy for his extraordinary leadership in chairing the Mediation planning committee and bringing this offering to life.”

A full roster of 20 certified mediators specializing in more than 17 practice areas are available and listed on the CBA Mediation Service website. CBA members who wish to act as mediators can apply on the
website. Applicants must have been in the active practice of law for fifteen years, must be an attorney in good standing and must have taken an intensive mediation training program.

For additional information on the Mediation Service or to apply to become a CBA Mediator, visit www.chicagobarmediation.org.

 New Member Benefit Provider: LEX Reception
(11/13/2020)
 
   CBA members get 50% off their first month of LEX Reception plans
LEX Reception

Introducing New Member Benefit Provider: LEX Reception

LEX Reception is a dedicated legal answering service committed to professionalism, warmth, and 24/7 availability. Our virtual receptionists are your ambassadors, aligning our tone and scripts with your brand. We provide lead qualification, legal intake, appointment scheduling, CRM integration, and much more for law firms and solo attorneys. 

We’ve partnered with CBA to offer members 50% off their first month of LEX Reception plans. Visit our website or give us a call on (800) 800-9995 to discuss how we can help your firm grow.

 New Member Benefit Provider: SimpleLaw
(11/9/2020)
 
   Take control of your practice, time, cases, and clients, from anywhere with SimpleLaw.
SimpleLaw

New CBA Member Benefit Provider: SimpleLaw

Take control of your practice, time, cases, and clients, from anywhere. SimpleLaw is the only case management software that connects you with potential clients, manages cases, and your practice, all in one place. We can't make your legal case easier, but our case management software makes managing it Simple. Chicago Bar Association members get 2 months' free use of SimpleLaw with an annual subscription or 10% off the monthly subscription rate. 

Learn more at www.simplelaw.com/chicago-bar.

 

 New Member Benefit Provider: Carr Workplaces
(11/6/2020)
 
   Private, professional flex-office and meeting room space available by the hour, day, or month to support your business. Members get 10% off plans.


Carr Workplaces provides private, flex-office, and meeting room space - available by the hour, day, or month - to support your business. Located in Chicago's prestigious AON Center, the space is staffed with an exceptional team of professionals who deliver the same level of concierge service you'd expect from a luxury hotel - but in a coworking setting.  Members get 10% off workspace plans. Click here to learn more.

 COVID-19 Updates and Cancellations
(10/30/2020)
 
   Information and cancellations around the Chicago Legal Community
Resources and Links for COVID-19 Updates and Cancellations in the Courts and Chicago's Legal Community

Law Bulletin Media
Law Bulletin Publishing Media has dropped its paywall with regards to COVID-19 coverage and is keeping a full list of closures and cancellations in the Chicago area: https://www.chicagolawbulletin.com/


Circuit Court of Cook County
For information on COVID-19 and court operations, and a list of all General Administrative Orders related to COVID-19
http://www.cookcountycourt.org/


Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County In-Person Appointments Information
Download the PDF 


U.S. District Court, Northern District of Illinois
Amended General Order signed by Chief Judge Rebecca R. Pallmeyer on October 29, 2020.
U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois Seventh Amended General Order 20-0012


Illinois Supreme Court
Effective September 1, 2020, Illinois Supreme Court issues temporary order limiting in-person court appearances through change to fee waivers and summonses to appear .
The Illinois Supreme Court announced today that its September Term will be held in-person in Springfield at the Illinois Supreme Court Building. See details in PDF .
 

DuPage County Courthouse - 18th Judicial Circuit Court
https://www.dupageco.org/courts


Illinois Court COViD-19 Updates
The Illinois Courts are keeping this page updated with the various court orders related to COVID-19 closings / deadlines: http://illinoiscourts.gov/Administrative/covid-19.asp.


COVID-19 Resources from LexisNexis
LexisNexis is offering free access to verified and consolidated news information on Covid-19 via https://www.law360.com/coronavirus and practical guidance via the LexisNexis Practice Advisor Coronavirus Resource Kit at https://www.lexisnexis.com/en-us/products/lexis-practice-advisor/coronavirus-resources.page.


COVID-19 Podcasts from the Legal Talk Network
Legal Talk Network has compiled a list of timely COVID-19 related podcasts addressing both the virus itself and providing guidance on how your business can cope during the pandemic. See the full list at https://legaltalknetwork.com/podcast-category/covid-19/.



Cook County Law Library Announces Remote Access to Research Collection 
The Cook County Law Library will offer remote access to its resources during the court closure due to the COVID-19 situation. Attorneys can contact a reference librarian for assistance in accessing cases, articles, and other research tools by emailing law.lawlibrary@cookcountyil.gov or calling 312.603.5423. 


ABA Launches Comprehensive Pandemic Resource Page
The ABA's Task Force on Legal Needs Arising Out of the 2020 Pandemic recently launched a web page to provide information about resources, changes in benefits and emerging legal issues caused by the coronavirus pandemic.  The task force, which includes representatives from the top legal organizations in the country, including NABE, was created in response to the growing legal needs of ordinary Americans arising from the COVID-19 emergency. The webpage includes resources on technology for remote service delivery, court closings and procedural changes, legal needs, emerging legal issues, public benefits programs and pro bono mobilization. It serves as a clearinghouse for valuable information such as practice tools for remote work, updates on new benefits provided in the CARES Act, protections against evictions and other actions due to job losses, court closings and mobilization of pro bono efforts. Visit the site often for updates.
 

Chicago Dept. of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP)
Effective Thursday, March 19, 2020, all Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) offices will be closed to the public until further notice. This includes the following locations:
BACP Administrative Offices, 121 N. LaSalle St. Room 805
Small Business Center, 121 N. LaSalle St. Room 800
Public Vehicle Licensing Center, 2350 W. Ogden Ave. 1st Floor 
Public Vehicle Inspection Facility, 2430 W. Pershing Ave.

BACP will continue processing business licenses, where applicable, online or over the phone. Please visit www.chicagobusinessdirect.org or call 312-74-GOBIZ. Please allow for extra time as BACP staff are working hard to keep City services going under this disruption. 
 

 Attorney's Court Calendar Ceases Publication
(10/29/2020)
 
   The Association has ceased publication of the Attorney's Court Calendar.
Attorney's Court Calendar Ceases Publication

The Association has decided not to publish the 2021 Attorney's Court Calendar. Production costs coupled with a declining number of pre-orders were contributing factors in our decision to discontinue publication of the Court Calendar. We sincerely thank members who supported the Court Calendar throughout the years!

 Read the September/October 2020 CBA Record: The Pro Bono Issue
(10/9/2020)
 
   Voting in the Age of Covid-19, Expunging Cannabis Arrests, Advancing Health Equity and more.
September/October 2020 CBA Record Now Available: The Pro Bono Issue

The latest issue of the CBA Record magazine is now available online at https://user-35215390377.cld.bz/CBA-Sept-Oct-2020.

Inside the issue:

Ballot Denied: Voting in the Age of Covid-19 by Jennifer Terrell

Repairing Harm, Restoring Lives: Expunging Cannabis Arrests and Convictions in Illinois by Nikki Donnelley, Beth Johnson, and Courtney Kelledes

Advancing Health Equity: Answers are Within Reach by Kate Miller and Sarah Hess

Easing the Path Toward an Involuntary Law Firm Break-Up by John Sciaccotta and Benjamin Haskin



Sept/Oct Issue

 CBA TV Video: New CBA/YLS Racial Justice Coalition
(10/8/2020)
 
   Get a general overview of the goals and activities of the new CBA/YLS Racial Justice Coalition.
New CBA TV! 
Get a general overview of the Young Lawyers Section’s recently formed Racial Justice Coalition that aims to collaborate with leading forces in the Chicagoland legal community to take action against racial injustice through organized service, community engagement and education.


 CBA Mourns Passing of Judge Blanche M. Manning
(9/22/2020)
 
   The CBA mourns the passing of the Honorable Blanche M. Manning, retired judge of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.

CBA Mourns Passing of Judge Blanche M. Manning

The Chicago Bar Association mourns the passing of the Honorable Blanche M. Manning, retired judge of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.  Judge Manning was a courageous barrier breaker.  She faithfully served the People of the State of Illinois as a state court prosecutor and attorney for the U.S. Equal Opportunity Commission.   She continued her service to the People as a Cook County Circuit Court Judge and Illinois Appellate Justice, before President William J. Clinton appointed her to the Federal Bench. 

Judge Manning was a scholar, a justice advocate, and an accomplished musician who played in many jazz bands.  Judge Manning reinvented the term, “renaissance woman.”  She was a mentor and friend to many lawyers and judges, and we will truly miss her exuberant passion for the law and for life. May she eternally rest in peace.

--Maryam Ahmad, CBA President


 CBA Mourns Passing of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg
(9/20/2020)
 
   The CBA mourns the passing of one of our nation’s most erudite legal minds, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, United States Supreme Court Justice. Justice Ginsburg established herself as a fierce champion in the fight for women’s rights and equality.

"Fight for the things that you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you."
-Ruth Bader Ginsburg 


The Chicago Bar Association mourns the passing of one of our nation’s most erudite legal minds, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, United States Supreme Court Justice. Justice Ginsburg established herself as a fierce champion in the fight for women’s rights and equality. 

A hero to many, Justice Ginsburg led by example. She experienced discrimination as a scholastically brilliant student who was pursuing her education while being a wife and a mother. Like so many women, she managed to persevere and excel, even with discrimination, becoming the first female member of Harvard’s Law Review. 

Despite her extraordinary academic achievements, Justice Ginsburg faced employment discrimination based on her gender. She turned that test into a testament of legal prowess, arguing cases on gender inequality, civil rights, and reproductive rights before the U.S. Supreme Court so that other women would not endure the injustices she faced. 

Justice Ginsburg was only the second woman on this nation’s highest court. She became a cultural icon and hero to many; she will be missed. However, the fight for equal rights and equality must go on. Justice Ginsburg would want that. The burden falls to all us here to continue the fight for liberty, justice, and equality for all. 

 New CBA TV Video: The CBA as a Public Resource
(9/17/2020)
 
   CBA President Maryam Ahmad covers new and long-standing public services available through the Association.
New CBA TV Episode Highlights Valuable CBA Public Resources

CBA TV has a new You and the Law episode available on YouTube that provides members and the public with a general overview of the CBA as a public resource. The program focuses on long-standing and new CBA programs and initiatives ranging from legal and social services, to community outreach, education and advocacy. The episode features CBA President Maryam Ahmad, YLS Chair Jeffrey Moskowitz, and CBA TV Host Michael Alkaraki of Leahy Law. Watch the CBA’s YouTube Channel at www.youtube.com/user/chicagobar.



 CBATV Video: Recent Developments in Immigration Law
(8/13/2020)
 
   Overview of new immigration developments, including DACA and new policies.

CBA TV Presents: Recent Developments in Immigration Law


CBA TV presents a general overview of recent developments in immigration law including the USSC’s DACA opinion and the role of past executive orders and future potential executive orders in immigration policies that affect a wide variety of persons in the U.S. with different immigration statuses (video released August 6, 2020).



 July/August CBA Record Magazine Welcomes New President Maryam Ahmad
(7/29/2020)
 
   Keeping Counseling Confidential, Pandemic's Effect on Criminal Law, Ways to Recession Proof Your Law Practice, Summer Reading Suggestions and more.
New Edition of The CBA Record Welcomes President Maryam Ahmad

The latest issue of the CBA Record magazine is now available online at www.chicagobar.org/chicagobar/Record. Features include a look at the legal career of 2020-2021 CBA President Maryam Ahmad, a look back at the association career of retiring CBA Executive Director Terry Murphy, keeping counseling confidential, Zoom use in the courtroom, and five ways to recession proof your legal practice. Also, our Legal Ethics Columnist John Levin examines meeting during the pandemic.



Features include:

CBA President Maryam Ahmad: Making the Law Work for Everyone by Sally Daly

Congratulations to Terry Murphy by Kathryn C. Liss

It's Not Broken, So Don't Try to "Fix" It: Keeping Counseling Confidential by Kathryn L. Ciesla

Courtrooms are Zooming Along During the Pandemic by Clare McMahon, Richard L. Stavins and Judge E. Kenneth Wright, Jr.

The Pandemic's Effect on Criminal Law by Adam Sheppard

Five Ways to Recession-Proof Your Law Practice: During the Pandemic and Beyond by Steven Fretzin

 CBA/CBF Sustainable Practice of Law & Innovation Report and Recommendations for Public Comment
(7/23/2020)
 
   Members are encouraged to offer constructive and concrete feedback on the various proposals on the Task Force web page.

CBA/CBF Sustainable Practice of Law & Innovation Report and Recommendations for Public Comment


The CBA/CBF Task Force on the Sustainable Practice of Law & Innovation is proud to release its report and recommendations for public comment at https://chicagobarfoundation.org/blog/cba-cbf-task-force-releases-report. You can learn more about the Task Force and view the full report at 
https://chicagobarfoundation.org/advocacy/issues/sustainable-practice-innovationas well as sign up for public comment there.

To learn more, view the press release on the project here.

View the July 21 on demand seminar, Regulatory Reform To Better Serve the Profession & Public, here (members free, 1.25 IL PR-MCLE Credit).


 CBA Mourns Passing of Congressman John Lewis
(7/23/2020)
 
   The CBA joins our nation in mourning the loss of Congressman John Lewis.

CBA Mourns Passing of Congressman John Lewis


The CBA joins our nation in mourning the loss of Congressman John Lewis.  We are forever grateful to Congressman Lewis who worked tirelessly and courageously with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Whitney Young, A. Philip Randolph, Fannie Lou Hamer, James L. Farmer, Jr., Gwendolyn Zoharah Simmons, and Roy Wilkins in leading America's Civil Rights movement   Congressman Lewis devoted his life to pursuing a more fair and a more just society.  While his work continues, we are a better nation because of him. In his spirit of "getting into good trouble," the CBA shall continue to advocate for justice everywhere.


 Renew Your CBA Membership Today!
(7/23/2020)
 
   Support your hometown bar association and renew your membership dues for June 1, 2020 to May 31, 2021.
It’s Membership Renewal Time: Please Pay Online

We value your membership and thank you for your support in renewing your membership dues for the coming bar year, June 1, 2020-May 31, 2021. We encourage you to pay your dues online at www.chicagobar.org/renew.

If you prefer to pay with a check, please print your e-statement and mail with your payment to The Chicago Bar Association, 321 S. Plymouth Court, Chicago, Il. 60604. If you did not receive your e-statement or have questions about your renewal, please email billing@chicagobar.org

The CBA offers numerous individual member benefits such as free CLE seminars, practice tips, networking and business development opportunities, career resources and more.  Your membership also helps supports the CBA’s efforts to serve the bench, the bar and the public. 

We appreciate your membership and look forward to your renewal. ( Note:  Dues installment plan and dues hardship rates are available, email billing@chicagobar.org for inquiries.)

 Job Opening: Young Lawyers Section Administrative Director
(7/21/2020)
 
   Minimum 2-5 years of association administration experience-supervisory experience preferred. Apply today!
The Chicago Bar Association is currently seeking a Young Lawyers Section Administrative Director.  If you are detail-oriented, enjoy working with volunteers, and have an interest in the law, this position may be for you!

Interested parties should review the below job description and send their cover letter/resume to HR@chicagobar.org.

Job Description: Young Lawyers Section Administrative Director (PDF)

 Terry Murphy Announces Retirement After Legendary Career at the CBA
(7/15/2020)
 
   After nearly five decades of leadership, Terry Murphy announces retirement.
CBA Executive Director Terry Murphy Announces Retirement After Legendary Career Spanning Nearly 50 Years

Terry MurphyAfter nearly five decades of distinguished leadership at the Chicago Bar Association, Executive Director Terry Murphy announced his resignation today, closing the curtain on a venerable career that has garnered widespread local and national recognition for the CBA for innovative legal programming, service to the community, and a steadfast commitment to diversity and inclusion.  
 
Murphy, the CBA’s longest serving Executive Director, made the announcement today at a special meeting of the Association’s Board of Managers, after initiating retirement and transition discussions with CBA President Jesse Ruiz in early February.     

“That all of these years have passed in what seems to have been a heartbeat is a testament to how much I have enjoyed and loved the privilege of serving the past and present members of our Association,” Murphy stated in an email message sent to CBA members Thursday.  

“The CBA is regarded nationally and internationally as one of the leading metropolitan bar associations in the world and we owe this universal respect and admiration to each of you and to generations of past members whose leadership, vision, intellect, dedication to the law and public service met and successfully addressed challenges confronting the courts and our society. ” 
 
The Board of Managers has named the CBA’s Assistant Executive Director Elizabeth (Beth) McMeen to succeed Murphy as the new Executive Director effective Sept. 1, 2020.  McMeen, a University of Wisconsin law graduate, will be the first woman to the hold the position.

“For almost half a century Terry Murphy has dedicated all his time, talents and skills  building the Chicago Bar Association into the premier metropolitan bar association that it is today,” said CBA President Jesse Ruiz.  “Terry has served every CBA member with professionalism, and genuine care and concern. We thank Terry for all of his years of faithful service to our Association, its members, and our profession, and also thank his wife Karen and his family for sharing so much of him with us.”

Murphy began his career with the CBA in 1971 and has held many positions, including secretary to numerous standing committees, director of the CBA’s Lawyer Referral Service, staff liaison to the Centennial Committee, and Assistant Executive Director.  Following a national search in 1985, he was appointed the CBA’s 5th Executive Director in the association’s 147-year history.    
 
Over the course of his career, Murphy has played key roles in the development and implementation of many of the CBA’s leading programs, including the Lawyer Referral and In-Court Lawyer Referral Programs; as well as Dial-Law and Law at the Library, both collaborative partnerships with the Chicago Public Library offering public access to free legal services and information on a wide range of topics.  

Murphy was also a key contributor, along with CBA past President Thomas A. Demetrio, in establishing the Lawyers Lend-A-Hand to Youth Program which provides tutor and mentoring services to young students from Chicago’s most impoverished communities.   

“Terry Murphy really is the heart of the Chicago Bar Association.  He has always been so competent in the job and he has done it with such finesse and class,” said Circuit Court Presiding Judge E. Kenneth Wright Jr., who served as CBA President in 2008-2009 and noted that Murphy had a very helpful and gracious way of welcoming new CBA presidents each year and steering them smoothly through their tenures.  

“Terry was never out of new ideas and new ways of thinking about things.  And he has always been such a tremendous steward and protector of the CBA and its members.  This was a job that he was made for, and he seemed to love every minute of.  He will be greatly missed,” said Wright.    

Murphy’s commitment to diversity and inclusion in the legal profession has been a cornerstone of his leadership at the CBA.  He was a founding member and Treasurer of the Institute for Inclusion in the Legal Profession, a not-for-profit organization that works to acknowledge, understand, and address the reality of diversity in today’s legal profession and to promote inclusion in legal, judicial, educational and government institutions. 
  
“A lot of people talk about diversity and inclusion but Terry has always put words into action,” said Sandra Yamate, Chief Executive Officer for the Institute for Inclusion.  

“Thanks to Terry, the CBA has had diverse leadership earlier and in greater numbers, something that to this day most other bar associations cannot rival.  In those earliest days, he was the sounding board in designing and helping to fill a much-needed gap in the legal profession’s diversity and inclusion efforts.”  
 
Working with the CBA’s first African American President Chester L. Blair in 1990, Murphy was instrumental in the creation of the Earl Burrus Dickerson Awards.  The awards were established to honor Dickerson, one of the first African American members of the CBA, whose life and professional career were devoted to the law and helping others gain equality and justice.  The Dickerson Awards are presented annually to recognize and honor minority lawyers and judges whose careers emulate the work and commitment of Dickerson.  
 
Murphy also played a key role in the development, fundraising and move from the CBA’s original headquarters at 29 S. LaSalle Street to the current location at 321 S. Plymouth Court.   
 
“Terry Murphy is one of a kind, a visionary, and a legendary bar association leader.  Throughout his tenure as Executive Director, he always had his fingers on the pulse of the legal community, ensuring that the CBA was  providing leadership on legal and community issues as well as cutting edge resources for attorneys to enhance their professional development and grow their network and practices,” said Aurora Austriaco, Shareholder at Valentine, Austriaco & Bueschel PC.  

“Terry has brought the CBA local, national, and even international recognition because of his innovative ideas and collaborative style. As a CBA past president, I have seen Terry do his incredible work but can also attest that he genuinely cares about people, the CBA and its members.  I am so honored and proud to consider him a dear friend and a mentor,” added Austriaco, who served as CBA President in 2012-2013

Murphy was also instrumental in founding the CBA Insurance Agency, a subsidiary of the CBA that offers full insurance services for CBA members and Chicago’s legal community.  He was also a guiding force in the formation of the CBA’s Symphony Orchestra and Chorus and the Barristers Big Band.  

In addition to his work at the CBA, Murphy was elected and served as president of the National Association of Bar Executives in 1989 and he was appointed by Mayor Richard Daley to serve on Chicago's Workforce Board.  He also served on the Ethics Committee for the Elmhurst Art Museum and serves as President of The Chicago Bar Association's Condominium Board of Directors.   
 

 Summer 2020 Volunteer Opportunities
(7/15/2020)
 
   Virtual volunteer opportunities include Driver's License Reinstatement Expo, Legal Prep High School Mentoring Program, Lawyers in the Classroom and more.

Summer 2020 Volunteer Opportunities


It's time to give back! Volunteer to help out with one of the following opportunities this summer:

Volunteers Needed for Driver's License Reinstatement Expo (Free Training & Virtual Participation)

The Cook County Public Defender's Office, in conjunction with the CBA and the Pilsen Neighbors Community Council, is hosting a Driver's License Reinstatement Expo on September 12 at Malcolm X College. Attorney volunteers are needed to provide free virtual counseling to attendees looking to reinstate their driver's license.

Attorneys will interpret SOS Driving Abstracts, verify information, and provide instruction on clearing suspensions. A limited number of attendees will be onsite for the Expo (following social distancing rules) and will receive counseling from volunteers via contactless videoconferencing (attorney volunteers will not be on-site at Malcolm X College). There are three 2-hour shifts available: 8:30-11:30 a.m. (Shift 1); 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. (Shift 2) and 1:30-3:30 p.m. (Shift 3).

The CBA will provide a free CLE coupon (up to 3 hours of CLE) to volunteers who participate on September 12.

The Cook County Public Defender’s office will provide free training on interpreting Abstracts on two dates via Zoom videoconferencing: July 23 from 3:00-5:00 p.m. and August 13 from 3:00-5:00 p.m. 2 CLE hours will be provided for attendance at the training. 

To sign-up for training, a volunteer shift or for more information please contact Danita Ivory at danita.ivory@cookcountyil.gov.

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Legal Prep Mentor Program
Volunteers are needed to engage meaningfully with Chicago youth in partnership with a high school in West Garfield Park. Join the Legal Prep Mentor Program and work one-on-one with a Legal Prep student mentee through a variety of secure virtual platforms on a regular basis during the 2020-2021 school year. Support and guide them on their college and post-secondary paths, help empower personal and professional confidence, and learn a lot about yourself and the power of a young person along the way. Click here to learn more.

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Supreme Court Volunteer Pro Bono Program for Criminal Appeals 
In February 2020, the Illinois Supreme Court instituted a pro bono initiative to significantly reduce the statewide backlog of criminal appeals pending with the Office of the State Appellate Defender (OSAD). The Illinois Supreme Court needs your assistance in making an impact. Volunteers are needed for the Illinois Supreme Court's Volunteer Pro Bono Program for Criminal Appeals. 

Attorneys can volunteer if they meet the following eligibility requirements: admitted to practice law in Illinois or admitted pro hac vice for at least five years, no ARDC disciplinary action, up-to-date malpractice insurance, and have at least two prior appearances as appellate counsel or have clerked for a reviewing court judge. Attorneys who do not meet eligibility requirements can still participate under supervision of an eligible attorney or by completing a 5-week training course. 

Online training videos and additional written materials prepared by OSAD, including the Criminal Law Handbook and the Handbook on Briefs and Oral Arguments, are available to volunteer attorneys. In addition, OSAD launched a comprehensive online five-week training program, "Criminal Appeals in Illinois: An Introduction to Law and Procedure." Future training dates will be posted on the Court's website.

Details about the program, including a program overview, eligibility requirements, and the application can be found on the Court’s website at http://illinoiscourts.gov/SupremeCourt/probono/default.asp.

If attorneys have any questions about the program they can be directed to Kathryn Hensley at khensley@IllinoisCourts.gov. In addition, applications can be submitted to Gabriela Conley at gconley@illinoiscourts.gov. 

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Lawyers in the Classroom
The Chicago Bar Association's Media and Civic Education, Inc. is hosting a remote 2020-2021 Attorney Information & Training Session for the Edward J. Lewis II Lawyers in the Classroom (LIC) program via Google Meet on Thursday, August 6 from 12:00-1:00 p.m. Click here to register.

Both new and returning volunteers will learn how the program will be administered using a new remote platform during the 2020-2021 school year. Chicago Public Schools uses Google Meet for remote learning; therefore, we will be using it as our virtual platform going forward. Following registration, if you do not already have one, please create a google account or sign-up for a Gmail address, as all attorney volunteer registrants will receive a Google Meet link to join the virtual training. 

Questions? Contact LIC Director Tiffani Watson at twatson@chicagobar.org
 

 



 New! Young Lawyers Section Racial Justice Coalition
(7/15/2020)
 
   New Racial Justice Coalition will focus on service, community engagement and education.

CBA’S YOUNG LAWYERS SECTION CONVENES RACIAL JUSTICE COALITION

July 8, 2020

In response to national discussions surrounding racial injustice, inequality, and police brutality, the Young Lawyers Section of the Chicago Bar Association has convened a coalition that will promote social justice by channeling the voices, skills, and support of younger attorneys to work toward the implementation of meaningful change and reform.  

The CBA’s YLS Racial Justice Coalition was formed with the purpose of collaborating with leading forces in the Chicagoland legal community to take action against racial injustice through service programs, educational events, and community engagement, according to Chastidy Burns, the Second Vice-Chair of the CBA’s Young Lawyers Section. The Coalition held its first meeting on June 25th via Zoom, and the initiative already has investment from 25 diverse bar associations and legal advocacy groups. 

"As leaders in bar associations and organizations across the Chicagoland area, we want to use our law degrees, knowledge, and connections to help end racial injustice and to enact lasting change in all of our communities,” said Burns.  “We believe that there is strength in numbers, and we are very excited to have so many motivated and enthusiastic partners joining in our efforts.” 

According to the Coalition’s mission statement, the group will concentrate on the following areas:

Service – Collaboration with other bar associations to facilitate pro bono and community service opportunities that focus on combating racial disparities, addressing the concerns of minority groups, and building a bridge between the legal community and the clients it serves. 

Community Engagement – Building relationships with community organizations and local government leaders to promote social justice and work to impact action and legislation supporting the eradication of systematic racism. 

Education – Encouraging bar association members to collaborate to provide training, seminars, speakers’ series, and workshops focusing on diversity and inclusion. 

The Coalition has already begun planning events, which include a panel discussion about the origins of the Justice in Policing Act of 2020 and its possible implications on law enforcement reform, as well as a discussion with local government leaders about the Civilian Police Accountability Council and a call to action for community members, according to Kenny Matuszewski, the CBA YLS Public Service Manager.

“Education is the cornerstone of change. All efforts to make change are shaped around it, and the resulting structures and systems from this foundation either stand or fall. Through these events, we hope to empower members of our coalition to write to their representatives and express the changes they would like to see in their communities,” said Matuszewski.

“Further, if there’s one thing that this year has taught us, it’s that time is of the essence. Life’s script was flipped overnight, yet people have adapted, organized, and responded to injustice at a rate that would have been previously impossible to imagine. By coming together and working under the Coalition’s three central pillars, we collectively amplify our central message that ‘injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere,’” said Matuszewski.
  
The bar associations and legal advocacy organizations that have joined the coalition include the Appellate Lawyers Association (ALA), Arab American Bar Association of Illinois (AABAR), Asian American Bar Association of Greater Chicago (AABA), Black Women Lawyers’ Association (BWLA), Catholic Lawyers Guild, Chicago Bar Association (CBA), Chicago Bar Association’s Alliance for Women, Chicago Women in IP (ChiWIP), Chinese American Bar Association (CABA), Cook County Bar Association, Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois (HLAI), Illinois Association of Defense Counsel (IDC), Illinois Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission (IL ARDC), Illinois State Bar Association Young Lawyers Division (ISBA-YLD), Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Professionalism, Intellectual Property Law Association of Chicago (IPLAC),  Justinian Society of Lawyers (Justinians), Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago (LAGBAC), National Lawyers Guild (NLG), North Suburban Bar Association (NSBA), Serbian Bar Association, South Asian Bar Association (SABA), UIC John Marshall SBA, Women’s Bar Association of Illinois (WBAI), and the Women’s Criminal Defense Bar Association (WCDBA).  

To learn about joining the coalition or for more information about plans and programs, go to  www.chicagobar.org/chicagobar/RJC
 

 Video: 2020 CBA Annual Meeting
(7/15/2020)
 
   Missed our 147th Annual Meeting? Watch it now!

2020 CBA Annual Meeting

The CBA held its 147th Annual CBA Meeting on Thursday, June 25, 2020. Watch the video on our YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/nZsAjpMZV44.



 2020 Notice of Election for Young Lawyers Section
(7/13/2020)
 
   The Nominating Committee of the Young Lawyers Section announces the 2020 election for Section Officers.
2020 Notice of Election for Young Lawyers Section

The Nominating Committee of the Young Lawyers Section announces the 2020 election for Section Officers. The Election will be governed by Article V-Elections of the YLS By-Laws. 

The offices to be filled are as follows: First Vice-Chair (succeeds automatically to Chair), Second Vice-Chair (succeeds automatically to First Vice-Chair), Secretary/Treasurer, Member Service Manager, Public Service Manager, Co-Editor-in-Chief of the YLS Journal of the CBA Record, two Project officers, and five Directors. All offices are one-year terms, except that Directors and the Co-Editors-in-Chief of the YLS Journal, will serve two-year terms. 

YLS members interested in seeking a position for the 2020-2021 bar year should submit a letter of intention to yls@chicagobar.org no later than February 21, 2020. The letter of intent should include your name, contact information (including phone number), and the position you would like to be considered for. 

Click here to view the YLS Notice of Election.

 JEC Findings for 2019 Associate Judges Retention
(7/13/2020)
 
   View the Judicial Evaluation Committee's findings for 2019 Cook County Circuit Court associate judges seeking retention.
The Chicago Bar Association’s Judicial Evaluation Committee (JEC) invites you to review the results of our evaluations of sitting Circuit Court of Cook County Associate Judges seeking reappointment in September 2019. Go to www.chicagobar.org/chicagobar/2019AJ.

 A Message from CBA Executive Director Regarding Audience-Free Meetings and Seminars
(7/13/2020)
 
   CBA meetings and events are temporarily audience-free. See details here on how you can continue to get your MCLE credit online.
CBA Logo

A Message from CBA Executive Director Terrence M. Murphy:

In the wake of the World Health Organization's March 11 announcement that the Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a global pandemic, The Chicago Bar Association is taking the following precautionary action consistent with the CDC’s recommendations to protect the well-being of our valued members and of our outstanding staff:

1. Effective March 16, committee meetings and continuing legal education seminars will only be offered online. Speakers will be invited to tape their presentations at the Association’s Headquarters or remotely in their office, after which the taped presentation will be available online to CBA members. All committee and CLE seminar presentations at the Association will be audience free and available only at the CBA’s website (click here for current schedule). The online only programming change will remain in place until such time as this health emergency is resolved. 

2. During this time, we will notify members on a weekly basis of the schedule for online committee and CLE programming. Online registration is convenient and, as a reminder, the CBA automatically tracks MCLE credit for members who attend the CBA’s many qualified programs. Thus, members will be able to obtain all of their Illinois MCLE credit requirements. 

3. In addition, committee leaders may decide to schedule conference calls with their committees.

4. Social events planned at the Association are being rescheduled so please check the CBA’s website for updated information about these events. 

Thank you and please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions. 

Sincerely, 
Terry Murphy 
Executive Director 
P: 312-554-2002 

 

 Alliance for Women Award Nominations Due April 2
(7/13/2020)
 
   Submit your nominations recognizing outstanding women attorneys.
The AFW presents the Founder’s and the Alta May Hulett Awards annually to outstanding women lawyers who have significantly contributed to the advancement of women in the legal profession or other areas, and whose careers exemplify the highest level of professional achievement, ethics, and excellence. The winners will be announced in late March and honored in May 2019. For a list of past winners and nomination information go to www.chicagobar.org/chicagobar/AFWAwards.

 Member Notice: CBA Staff Working Remotely Effective March 19
(7/13/2020)
 
   CBA staff working remotely, CBA offices and bookstore closed effective March 19.
Notice to Members: CBA Staff Working Remotely

March 18, 2020

Dear Members:

As a follow-up to my March 13 email and in light of the 60 new Chicago residents who tested positive for the Coronavirus since yesterday, we are suggesting that members and member firms consider remote work options for all legal and support staff until such time as this health emergency is past. CBA's staff will begin working remotely this week and will respond to member inquiries via email. 

The health and well-being of our community is a paramount concern to all of us and following the directives of the CDC and our outstanding Chicago and Illinois Departments of Public Health, we will minimize the number of new infections to our members, support staff and loved ones. 

The CBA will continue to offer outstanding CLE, law practice management, and unique educational programming on the Association's website during this period. New content will be added on a weekly basis along with Association news and programming updates. Please check your email and CBA social media for notice of live Webcast and on demand seminar and committee programming. 

Together we can and will ensure the well-being of our legal community. On behalf of the Officers and Board of Managers, thank you. 

Sincerely,
Terrence M. Murphy
CBA Executive Director

 Statement from The Chicago Bar Association on George Floyd and Racial Injustice
(7/13/2020)
 
   CBA President Jesse Ruiz released the following statement in the wake of the murder of George Floyd and the resulting protests and unrest in Chicago and cities across the nation.
Statement from The Chicago Bar Association on George Floyd and Racial Injustice 
June 2, 2020


‘As a Community of Lawyers, We must Seek to End Injustice and Inequity’

Chicago Bar Association President Jesse Ruiz released the following statement in the wake of the murder of George Floyd and the resulting protests and unrest in Chicago and cities across the nation:

“As an association whose mission and core values support fair-minded and objective administration of justice, the Chicago Bar Association stands with all who seek justice for George Floyd.  We join Mr. Floyd’s family, friends, and the entire nation in mourning his loss.  We must honor his memory--and the memory of the countless victims of police brutality before him--by continuing to demand better of our government and of ourselves.

We feel the pain and outrage of those demonstrating across the country to bring an end to the systemic racism that has been woven into the fabric of our nation for far too long.  In these trying times, let us reflect on the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.: ‘As you press on for justice, be sure to move with dignity and discipline, using only the weapon of love.  Let no man pull you so low as to hate him.  Always avoid violence.’

Now more than ever, we must also recall Dr. King’s assertion that ‘Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.’  As a community of lawyers, we must seek to end the injustice and inequity that has persisted in our nation and draw upon our strength, our spirit, and our diversity to bring unity to our great city and create, for ourselves and for future generations, a more perfect union.”
 

 

 New CBA Bookstore Hours
(7/13/2020)
 
   New CBA Legal Bookstore hours are Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 1:45 p.m. and 2:45-4:30 p.m.
Effective Wednesday, June 19, 2019, the CBA Legal Bookstore will be open Monday-Friday from 9:00 a.m. - 1:45 p.m. and 2:45-4:30 p.m. The store will close daily from 1:45-2:45 p.m. Questions? Call 312-554-2130.

 Chicago Bulls Discount Ticket Offer
(7/13/2020)
 
   Save on upcoming Chicago Bulls games!
Chicago Bar Association Exclusive Discounts with the Chicago Bulls

Enjoy a legendary outing at a Chicago Bulls game with Chicago Bar Association members, family and friends. Share the excitement of Bulls basketball and the NBA’s leading entertainment experience as the team takes on the Warriors, Hawks, Clippers, Bucks, Celtics and Pacers.

Don’t miss out on exclusive savings! Purchase tickets at a discounted price now through the links below. Be a part of Bulls Nation today.

The discounted prices are:

Warriors (12/6)
100 Level (side corner): $106.40 (regularly $280.00)
100 Level (corner): $92.41 (regularly $240.80)
100 Level (baseline): $78.40 (regularly $224.00)
200 Level (corner): $72.80 (regularly $196.00)
200 Level (baseline): $61.60 (regularly $168.00)
200 Level (baseline): $56.00 (regularly $151.20)
300 Level, Rows 1-7 (corner): $33.60 (regularly $89.60)
300 Level, Rows 8-17 (baseline): $25.21 (regularly $67.20)
Hawks (12/11) & Pacers (1/10) 
100 Level (side corner): $81.20 (regularly $162.40)
100 Level (corner): $75.60 (regularly $151.20)
100 Level (baseline): $67.20 (regularly $134.40)
200 Level (corner): $50.40 (regularly $100.80)
200 Level (baseline): $47.60 (regularly $95.20)
300 Level, Rows 1-7 (corner): $33.60 (regularly $67.20)
300 Level, Rows 8-17 (baseline): $22.40 (regularly $44.80)
Clippers (12/14) 
100 Level (side corner): $168.00 (regularly $224.00)
100 Level (corner): $147.00 (regularly $196.00)
100 Level (baseline): $126.00 (regularly $168.00)
200 Level (corner): $134.40 (regularly $179.20)
200 Level (baseline): $121.80 (regularly $162.40)
200 Level (baseline): $109.20 (regularly $145.60)
300 Level, Rows 1-7 (corner): $63.00 (regularly $84.00)
300 Level, Rows 8-17 (baseline): $46.20 (regularly $61.60)
Bucks (12/30) 
100 Level (side corner): $112.00 (regularly $224.00)
100 Level (corner): $98.00 (regularly $196.00)
100 Level (baseline): $84.00 (regularly $168.00)
200 Level (corner): $89.60 (regularly $179.20)
200 Level (baseline): $81.20 (regularly $162.40)
200 Level (baseline): $72.80 (regularly $145.60)
300 Level, Rows 1-7 (corner): $42.00(regularly $84.00)
300 Level, Rows 8-17 (baseline): $30.80 (regularly $61.60)
Celtics (1/4) 
100 Level (side corner): $126.00 (regularly $168.00)
100 Level (corner): $117.60 (regularly $156.80)
100 Level (baseline): $100.80 (regularly $134.40)
200 Level (corner): $84.00 (regularly $112.00)
200 Level (baseline): $75.60 (regularly $100.80)
200 Level (baseline): $71.40 (regularly $95.20)
300 Level, Rows 1-7 (corner): $50.40 (regularly $67.20)
300 Level, Rows 8-17 (baseline): $25.20 (regularly $50.40)
 

Upon purchase, access your tickets digitally through the Bulls online account manager, ClickTix. Please note that mobile tickets are required for entry, and printed or screenshot tickets will not be accepted. Mobile ticketing provides quick and easy entry into the arena, enhanced ticket security and access to tickets on the go. For additional information, please visit our Mobile Ticketing Guide and FAQs herePlease note that flash must be enabled and pop up blockers removed to access the offer. 
 
BULLS VS. WARRIORS
Friday, December 6, 2019 | 7:00 PM
FIND TICKETS 

BULLS VS. HAWKS
Wednesday, December 11, 2019 | 7:00 PM
FIND TICKETS 

BULLS VS. CLIPPERS
Saturday, December 14, 2019 | 7:00 PM
FIND TICKETS 

BULLS VS. BUCKS
Monday, December 30, 2019 | 7:00 PM
FIND TICKETS 

BULLS VS. CELTICS
Saturday, January 4, 2020 | 7:00 PM
FIND TICKETS 

BULLS VS. PACERS
Friday, January 10, 2020 | 7:00 PM
FIND TICKETS

 New Member Benefit: Medchart (10% Lifetime Discount!)
(7/13/2020)
 
   Medchart provides advanced electronic medical record retrieval for personal injury, medical malpractice, class action and mass tort attorneys.
Medchart

Medchart provides advanced electronic medical record retrieval for personal injury, medical malpractice, class action and mass tort attorneys. Request clinical records, medical imaging, billing history and more from a database of every provider in the country. We support HIPAA and HITECH authorizations as well as affidavits for certification of retrieved records.

Gain cost certainty with flat-fee pricing, improve business continuity through a cloud-based portal and paperless delivery, increase visibility with real-time itemized tracking, and reduce the shortcomings of traditional retrieval services by leveraging direct medical record connections and advanced electronic authorizations.

No subscriptions. No minimums. No hidden fees. Flexible resources to meet your firm's in-the-moment need.

Chicago Bar Association Members receive a lifetime discount of 10% off Medchart request fees.

Learn more about the Medchart service and book a demo here: https://www.medchart.com/lp/ilb.
 

 UIC John Marshall Library Now Open to Illinois Attorneys
(7/13/2020)
 
   The UIC John Marshall Law School Library is now open to licensed attorneys in Illinois.
UIC John Marshall Law School Library Access Now Available for Licensed Attorneys in Illinois

The UIC John Marshall Law School Library is now open to licensed attorneys in Illinois. To access the library, licensed attorneys must present a current Illinois ARDC card and government-issued photo ID at the security desk located at the main entrance of the law school at 300 S. State Street.  Further details regarding library use, hours, contacts, etc can be found at https://library.jmls.uic.edu/access-policy.php.
 

 Notice to Members: 2020-2021 Slate of Officers and Board of Managers
(7/13/2020)
 
   CBA Announces 2020-2021 Slate of New Officers and Board of Managers
Pursuant to Section 8.3(a)(3) of Article VIII of the By-Laws of the Association, the Nominating Committee has selected the nominees for each office in the Association and for each place to be filled on the Board of Managers at the Annual Meeting. 

View the 2020-2021 Slate

 New Online Pro Bono Opportunities Guide
(7/13/2020)
 
   View over 100 pro bono opportunities by area of law, type of client, or scope of work.
The Chicago Bar Foundation is pleased to announce the launch of a new statewide pro bono website, the Online Pro Bono Opportunity Guide, a joint initiative with a legal tech startup called Paladin. This is the next generation version of the CBF’s long-time print pro bono guide and is a dynamic resource that allows users to sort through over 100 pro bono opportunities by area of law, type of client, or scope of work. The new site will also allow legal aid and pro bono organizations to update and add content in real-time to ensure that this is always the most current and comprehensive listing of pro bono opportunities in Illinois. The CBF and Paladin hope that this resource can help to connect more attorneys and other legal professionals with the diverse range of pro bono opportunities in Chicago and throughout Illinois.

 AAA Membership and Discounts: AAA Chicago Motor Club Illinois
(7/13/2020)
 
   Save up to 20% on AAA membership (already a member, discount is good on your next renewal).
CBA members now can save 20% on AAA memberships and you may be able to qualify for additional discounts on your home and auto policies. This discount is available for Illinois residents only.  For more information, call Debra Wiese 217-398-3621 ext.514, or email at djwiese@aaachicago.com. Or, fax the CBA Member Form to 217-398-0170. Please be sure to mention that you are a member of Chicago Bar Association to receive your discount.

 Mentor a New Lawyer and Earn 6 IL Professional Responsibility MCLE Credit
(7/13/2020)
 
   Experienced attorneys need to mentor new lawyers during 2020 bar year.
Mentor a New Lawyer and Earn 6 Hours IL Professional Responsibility MCLE

The CBA’s lawyer-to-lawyer mentoring program matches experienced attorneys (5 or more years) with attorneys within their first 5 years of practice (must begin the program no later than four (4) years after being admitted to the Illinois bar) for a year-long mentoring program. The CBA is currently seeking mentors for the program. 

The program creates opportunities for experienced lawyers to guide new lawyers in developing the practical skills and judgment needed to practice in a highly competent manner and to instill the ethical and professional values that characterize excellent lawyers. 

Participating mentors receive 6 hours of Illinois professional responsibility MCLE credit upon program completion. Attendance at an orientation session (January 30, 2020 at 12 p.m.) and 8 subsequent in-person meetings between the mentoring pair is required to complete the program and receive MCLE credit. 

The program guidelines and applications are available online at www.chicagobar.org/chicagobar/mentoring.

 Animal Law Committee Sponsoring Shelter Drive
(7/13/2020)
 
   Donate blankets, towels, toys, collars and leashes to help local animal shelter.
CBA Animal Law Committee Sponsoring Shelter Drive

This holiday season the Chicago Bar Association is working to make the lives of Chicago-area shelter animals a little brighter by sponsoring a drive to collect much-needed supplies to help feed and comfort animals confined to shelters.  The CBA’s Animal Law Committee is asking members and the public to remember the plight of shelter animals by donating food, supplies and toys for the benefit of Chicago animal shelters and their furry friends.  

Proceeds from the drive will go directly to Famous Fido, a no-kill advocacy and wellness shelter on Chicago’s north side that is committed to promoting respect for animals in need through education, rescue, sheltering and adoption.  

Tracy McGonigle, Chair of the Animal Law Committee, said donations being sought include unopened pet food and treats and supplies such as blankets, towels, toys, collars and leashes.  “There are so many shelter animals who won’t be waking up in a loving home on Christmas morning.  Any donation, big or small, will provide much needed support,” said McGonigle. 

Donations can be dropped off or messengered to the Chicago Bar Association at 321 S. Plymouth Court in Chicago.  Call 312-554-2000 with questions.
 

 Save on January 2020 Blackhawks Tickets
(7/13/2020)
 
   Save on January dates, including Sunday, Jan. 5 vs. Detroit Red Wings.
Special Offer for CBA Members: Save on Blackhawks Tickets
  
The Chicago Blackhawks are excited to extend a special offer for select dates to our corporate partners. By purchasing through this offer you will receive exclusive savings off single game pricing.

HOW IT WORKS:
1. Visit blackhawks.com/corporateclub 
2. Enter promo code CHICAGOBAR
3. Click on the game you would like to attend
4. Choose your seats and complete your purchase
5. Share your personal ink with colleagues, family and friends

AVAILABLE GAMES:
Sunday, Jan. 5 vs. Detroit Red Wings at 6:30 p.m.
Tuesday, Jan. 7 vs. Calgary Flames at 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, Jan. 9 vs. Nashville Predators at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 11 vs. Anaheim Ducks at 7:30 p.m.

Please be sure to bookmark this page as games and availability will change throughout the season. Availability is limited so act quickly. Questions? Contact 312-455-7090 or tickets@blackhawks.com

 Estate Planning Services for Healthcare Workers
(4/22/2020)
 
   Free virtual wills and estate planning services for healthcare workers.
Chicago Bar Association Teaming with Chicago Law Firms to Offer Free Estate Planning Services for Healthcare Workers

wills@chicagobar.org or www.chicagobar.org/chicagobar/wills

In recognition of the sacrifices being made by essential healthcare workers on the front lines in the battle against COVID-19, the Chicago Bar Association is partnering with several top Chicago law firms to offer free, virtual estate planning services for doctors, nurses and others who are treating coronavirus patients in hospitals and healthcare facilities in the Chicagoland area. 

The new Wills for Healthcare Heroes Program is a spin-off of Wills for Heroes, a national program conducted locally by the CBA’s Young Lawyer Section, with volunteer attorneys running monthly in-person clinics offering free estate planning services for military veterans and first responders. The new program will be an entirely virtual experience, enabling healthcare workers to receive free legal assistance in preparing simple wills and powers of attorney for themselves, their spouses or partners. 

"The Wills for Heroes Program has always been a way for attorneys to give back to those heroes who put their lives on the line to protect all of us like our veterans and police officers,” said Joe Busnengo, who chairs the CBA’s Young Lawyers Section Wills for Heroes Program.  “We are very excited to be expanding this program to help our healthcare heroes, who are shouldering an enormously heavy burden during this pandemic.”
The Program will consist of virtual clinics offered in partnership between the CBA and the law firms or corporate law departments. Chicago law firms that are participating in the program include Jenner & Block, Kirkland & Ellis, Mayer Brown, Schiff Hardin, and Winston & Strawn.  The document automation software company HotDocs is donating the software and licenses that will make it possible to execute the program virtually.
The law firm of Jenner & Block has a longstanding partnership with the CBA, including in the Wills for Heroes program, and the firm is proud to be pitching in to help with legal assistance for healthcare workers, according to Andrew Vail, a litigation partner at the firm who chairs its pro bono program. 

“This crisis demonstrates how healthcare providers put the rest of the community first,” said Vail.  “This is one small way that our law firm, together with the CBA and the legal community, can come together to help provide peace of mind for these heroes, along with the other heroes on the front lines as well as  their families.”
To be eligible for assistance, the individual must be a licensed healthcare provider in the State of Illinois who is working as a doctor (M.D. or D.O.) nurse (RNs, LPNs, PAs, CNAs, or technicians), respiratory therapist, pharmacist, resident, intern, or medical student. After an initial intake process is conducted by telephone, the healthcare worker will be connected with a volunteer attorney for an appointment, in which the attorney will walk the person through the execution of the estate planning documents.  The attorney will then assist the signing and notarizing of the documents utilizing audio-visual technology such as Zoom, Skype or Facetime. 
The law firm of Winston & Strawn has provided volunteer attorneys and been a long-time supporter of the Wills for Heroes Program, according to Maria Kutnick, Pro Bono Counsel at the firm. 

“If we can provide these heroes with one less worry during a time of such uncertainty, we are eager to be of assistance,” said Kutnick.  “Winston & Strawn is grateful to partner with the CBA and Wills for Heroes on this important initiative at a time in which our healthcare workers are putting their lives on the line in order to save the lives of others.”  

Healthcare workers who are interested in taking advantage of the service can call the Chicago Bar Association at 312-554-2130 or connect by email at wills@chicagobar.org.  Additional information is available at www.chicagobar.org/chicagobar/wills.

The Chicago Bar Association’s Young Lawyers Section has been involved with the Wills for Heroes program for first responders and military veterans for more than 10 years and its volunteers have drafted more than 5,000 free simple estate plans for Chicago’s Heroes during that time.  
 

 Join the CBA Quarantine Run Club!
(4/14/2020)
 
   Run, jog, or walk virtually with your CBA colleagues during social distancing.
Join the CBA Quarantine Run Club!

Now is as good a time as ever to pick up an outdoor hobby that you can do in complete isolation! Get out of your home, lace up, and track your runs, jogs, powerwalks, brisk trots, crab walks, or slow moseys around the empty streets alongside your friends and colleagues at the CBA. It's free to join, and the best part is there's no competition, because even putting on shoes once a day is a win at this point. Join by clicking on this link and follow the prompt to join either via Facebook or Google: https://www.strava.com/clubs/CBAYLS.

Running Shoes

 Legislative Update: April 6, 2020
(4/6/2020)
 
   Recent non-sponsored legislation introduced in the State Senate and House by sitting legislators that are of interest to CBA committees including Tort, Labor and Employment, Legal Aid and more.
CBA Legislative News: April 6, 2020

In the last edition of the CBA Record, we reported on 4 bills (Sponsored Legislation) that were drafted by CBA substantive law committees, reviewed by the Legislative Committee, and approved by the Board of Managers for the 101th General Assembly.  In the time since that reporting, the Legislative Committee has reviewed dozens of Non-Sponsored bills presented by various substantive law committees. Non-sponsored legislation are those bills introduced in the State Senate and House by sitting legislators and deemed to be of special interest to the CBA’s constituency and the legal profession in general. Read below for a summary of a few of the bills that have come before the Legislation Committee this session.  For a full text copy of the bills, go to the Illinois General Assembly website: www.ilga.gov or contact Juli Vyverberg, the Legislative Liaison at the CBA at (312) 554-2062. 

HB4051 (Wehrli) would amend the Transportation Network Providers Act (“TNPA”) by providing that notwithstanding any laws to the contrary, a transportation network company and a driver may establish by contract that the driver is an independent contractor and not an employee.  Currently, a rideshare company can be held liable under principles of agency for a drivers’ tortious conduct.  The amendment would protect rideshare companies from liability while leaving injured passengers remediless.  The First District is currently considering the constitutionality of Section 25(e) of the TNPA under the Special Legislation provision found in Article IV, Section 8(d) of the Illinois constitution (JANE DOE, Plaintiff-Appellant, v. LYFT, INC., ANGELO MCCOY; and STERLING INFOSYSTEMS, INC. d/b/a STERLING TALENT SOLUTIONS, Defendants-Appellees. On Appeal from the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois County Department, Law Division, Case No. 17 L 11355, Hon. Patricia O’Brien Sheahan, Judge Presiding). The amendment also attempts to work around the heightened common law duty of owed by common carriers to passengers.  The Tort Litigation Committee voted 44-5 to oppose this bill with high priority. The Legislative Committee voted 10-0-2 to support this opposition and the Board of Managers voted 17-0-1 to support the Legislative Committee’s position.

HB3866 (Ford) This bill would limit the time to collect a debt arising from a violation of a municipal ordinance to 7 years after the date of the alleged violation. The consensus of the Consumer Credit Committee members was in support of the bill to provide a much needed bright-line statute of limitations for municipal debt collection.  It should be noted that under current law, there is no statute of limitations for this type of municipal debt collection.  Additionally, the Legislative Committee indicated that it supported the proposed bill in its current form, but that it would also support a bill that proposed a lesser Statute of Limitations, e.g. 5 years.  The Legislative Committee voted 11-0-1 to support the bill and the Board of Managers voted 17-0-1 to support it as well. 

HB4171 (West) This bill eliminates the Cook County pilot program fee waiver for expungements and sealing of arrest records that was only applicable in counties of 3,000,000 or more inhabitants and is set to expire on January 1, 2021, and replaces it with a permanent, state-wide waiver.  The bill provides that no fee shall be required if the records sought to be expunged or sealed were arrests resulting in release without charging or arrests or charges not initiated by arrest resulting in acquittal, dismissal, or conviction when the conviction was reversed or vacated, except for the expungement or sealing of certain records of minor traffic violations. The Legal Aid Committee voted to support this bill and the Legislative Committee voted 6-0-0 to support that position.

HB4295 (Guzzardi) Under the Privilege for Restorative Justice, nothing said or done in this preparation for in follow up can be referred to, used, or admitted in any civil, criminal, juvenile, or administrative proceeding unless the privilege is waived, during the proceeding or in writing, by the party or parties protected by the privilege. The bill also provides that the legitimacy of a restorative justice practice, if challenged in any civil, juvenile, criminal, or administrative proceeding, shall be determined by a judge.  The privilege will not apply when disclosure is (1) necessary to prevent death, great bodily harm, or the commission of a crime; or (2) necessary to comply with another law. Nor will it apply if a court, tribunal, or administrative body requires a report on a restorative justice practice, but such report shall be limited to the fact that a practice has taken place, an opinion regarding the success of the practice, and whether further restorative justice practices are expected.  The Legal Aid Committee voted to support this bill and the Legislative Committee voted 6-0-0 to support.

HB4125 changes the oath taken by grand jurors to be: “Do each of you swear (or affirm) that you will diligently inquire into all matters presented to you; that you will return no indictment through malice or ill will, or fail to return one due to fear or reward; and that in all our decisions you will present the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, according to the best of your skill and understanding.”  These changes do not appear to be substantive, but are a plain language alternative.  The Legal Aid Committee voted to support these changes with High priority. The Legislative Committee voted 5-0-1 to support that position.

HB4911 (Ramirez) This bill amends the Eviction Article of the Code of Civil Procedure to provide that a complaint for an eviction action shall include specified information (nature of tenancy, type of notice given, basis of eviction, etc.). The bill further provides that upon entry of an eviction order, the court shall make specified findings. On sealing, the bill provides the court file shall be sealed: (1) in a foreclosure-related eviction action; (2) in a not-for-cause eviction; (3) if the parties to the eviction action so agree; and (4) in any action not resulting in an eviction order entered in favor of the plaintiff and that any tenant or occupant named as a defendant in an eviction action may file a motion or petition to seal the court file. The bill also details the manner in which court files shall be sealed, specifically that the clerk of the circuit court shall automatically seal all eviction court files no later than 3 years after the plaintiff's initial filing with the court. The bill excludes from sealing evictions in which: (1) the tenancy is commercial, or (2) the property that the plaintiff seeks possession of is a condominium unit and no tenants or occupants are named as defendants. However, the bill allows the court to order that the court file in an eviction action be sealed if the interests of justice outweigh the interests of the public, taking specified factors in account. The bill requires that if a person knows or has reasonable cause to know that information is derived from a sealed court file, they may not disseminate the information. Nor shall a consumer reporting agency disclose, or use in a consumer report, information regarding an eviction action in which there is no final disposition entered or the court file is sealed. Any violation would constitute an unlawful practice under the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act. Finally, the bill provides for damages in the amount of $2,000 for each violation, or twice the actual and consequential damages sustained, whichever is greater, and the costs of the action.  The Legal Aid Committee voted to support this bill and the Legislative Committee voted 3-2-1 to support that position.

HB4293/SB3295 (Guzzardi, Villivalam) This bill amends the Illinois Wage Payment and Collection Act to increase statutory damages from 2% to 5% of any wage underpayment violation.  In the last legislative session, Gov. Pritzker signed into law an increase in the statutory penalty for failure to pay the state minimum wage from 2% to 5%.  The idea behind this bill is to establish parity between the penalty for non-payment of wages and the penalty for under payment of wages.  The Labor and Employment Committee voted to support this bill and the Legislative Committee voted 6-0-0 to support it as well.

HB3430 (Steans) This bill seeks to codify existing Illinois precedent and thereby remedy the discrepancy between state and federal approaches to the Illinois law.  It amends the Illinois Freedom to Work Act to require employers to provide adequate consideration for non-compete agreements in order for those agreements to be enforceable (if employment is less than 2 years or is low-wage).  Despite rulings by Illinois courts to deem non-compete agreements unenforceable unless supported by adequate consideration, federal courts have yet to adopt that rule.  This amendment requires that an employee receive time to review their restrictive covenants to ensure they understand their obligation, state reasonableness standards and permit prevailing employees to recover attorney’s fees. The Labor and Employment Committee voted to support this bill and the Legislative Committee voted 6-0-0 to support their position.

SB3427 (Crowe) This legislation amends two longstanding section of the Mechanics Liens Act and Illinois case law dealing with the enforceability of a subcontractor’s mechanics lien.  It requires a subcontractor to provide written notice of this lien upon the completion of the work under the contractors contract with the owner (previously within 90 days of substantial completion of its own work) and file suite or record its lien within 4 months after the completion of the work under the contractor’s contract with the owner (previously within 4 months of substantial completion of the work).  The Real Property Law, Mechanics Liens and Construction subcommittee voted to oppose this bill and the Legislative Committee voted 6-0-0 to support that opposition.
 

 Read the March/April 2020 CBA Record Online
(3/31/2020)
 
   Securing the future of the legal profession, maintaining physical health and wellness, facing failure and more.
March/April 2020 CBA Record Now Available

The latest issue of the CBA Record magazine is now available online at www.chicagobar.org/chicagobar/Record

Inside the issue:

The Sustainability Problem: Securing the Future of the Legal Profession by Laura Wagner

Maintain Health, Maintain Balance: Concrete Tips for Maintaining Physical Health as an Attorney by Carl Wharam, PT, DPT

No More Fear, No More Fright: How an Attorney Can use Their Might When Facing Failure by Kenny Matuszewski

Some Thoughts on "Thoughts on Prosecutorial Power" by Richard A. Devine



March/April 2020 CBA Record

 Read the January/February 2020 CBA Record Online
(1/30/2020)
 
   Confronting Implicit Bias in Communities, Questioning the Constitutional Value of Hate Speech and more!
January/February 2020 CBA Record Now Available

The latest issue of the CBA Record magazine is now available online at www.chicagobar.org/chicagobar/Record

Inside the issue:

Confronting Implicit Bias in Communities by Nina J. Fain and Sarah E. Redfield

Questioning the Constitutional Value of Hate Speech by Justice Michael B. Hyman

Motion Practice in Illinois Reviewing Courts: Beyond Seeking Time Extensions by J. Timothy Eaton

Personal Injury and Nursing Home Actions: Reconciling Split Decisions on a Decendent's Legal Disability by Bill Cook

How to Identify a Company's Financial Distress by Using Cash Flow Statements by Michael D. Pakter, CPA



CBA Record Magazine January/February 2020

 CBA 2020 Nominating Notice
(1/30/2020)
 
   Information on 2020-2021 CBA Officers and Board of Managers nomination process.
NOTICE FROM NOMINATING COMMITTEE

The Nominating Committee for the 2020 Election, selected pursuant to Article VIII, Section 8.3(a) of the Bylaws as adopted June 3, 1977 and amended June 27, 2013, hereby invites nominations for consideration by the Committee through 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 11, 2020.  The Committee will hold an Open Meeting at the home of the Association on Wednesday, March 11, beginning at 4:00 p.m., to receive suggestions from members of the Association as to nominees for officers and new members of the Board of Managers.  If you plan to appear or have someone nominate you, please call Terry Murphy at 312-554-2002 or Angie Cruz at 312-554-2132 in advance of the March 11 Open Meeting.  Officer and Board candidates will be asked to complete a questionnaire and will be invited to schedule a brief appearance before the Nominating Committee on Wednesday, March 18, 2020 at 4:00 p.m.   

The following offices will be filled: SECOND VICE PRESIDENT
SECRETARY
TREASURER

and eight members of the Board of Managers for two-year terms to fill the vacancies caused by the expiration of the terms of the following Board Members: Sharon L. Eiseman, Nina Fain, Hon. LaShonda A. Hunt, Hon. Diane Joan Larsen, Hon. Lori E. Lightfoot, Kathryn C. Liss, Federico M. Rodriguez and Adam J. Sheppard.

Under the Bylaws, Article VIII, Section 8.3(c), the Second Vice President shall without election or contest automatically succeed to the Office of First Vice President and the First Vice President shall without election or contest automatically succeed to the Office of President.

The Committee invites your participation in this important process.  You may nominate yourself or any other member or members orally at the March 11 Open Meeting or by notifying the Nominating Committee at the Office of the Association, through 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 11, 2020.

2020 NOMINATING COMMITTEE
Hon. Thomas R. Mulroy, Chair
Anita M. Alvarez
Fitzgerald “Jerry” Bramwell
Hon. Tommy Brewer
Chastidy A. Burns
William F. Conlon
Daniel A. Cotter
Octavio Duran
Anthony F. Fata
G. A. Finch 
Daniel W. Kaminski 
Larry S. Kowalczyk 
Tracy A. McGonigle 
Jack T. Sanker 
Hon. Patricia S. Spratt 
Justin C. Steffen 
Lindsay L. Wunrow 
 

 CBA TV Video: Animal Care and Control
(1/27/2020)
 
   City of Chicago’s Department of Animal Care and Control is covered in the latest CBA TV Video.
Video: Animal Care & Control

CBA TV's latest video provides a general overview of the City of Chicago’s Department of Animal Care and Control and its mission to promote public safety while ensuring the humane care of animals through sheltering, pet placement, education, animal law enforcement and partnerships with community organizations. Watch now on the CBA's YouTube channel.


 Change in CBA and UIC/JMLS Library Agreement
(1/7/2020)
 
   Termination of CBA Library Use Agreement with UIC/JMLS Library.
Due to very limited member use of The UIC/John Marshall Law School Library, the Association has terminated its Library Use Agreement with UIC/JMLS.  Going forward CBA members who had an active JMLS Library Card will no longer be permitted access to JMLS’ Law Library and will need to use the Law Library at the Daley Center.

If you have questions regarding this change, please contact Terry Murphy, CBA Executive Director, at tmurphy@chicagobar.org.

 Volunteers Needed for Citywide Mock Trial Competition
(12/2/2019)
 
   Volunteer to assist with CCLRE's Mock Trial Competition for CPS High School Students.
Chicago Coalition for Law-Related Education (CCLRE) Citywide Mock Trial Competition

The Chicago Coalition for Law-Related Education (CCLRE) is seeking members to volunteer as lawyer coaches and lawyer evaluators for the Citywide Mock Trial Competition. Competition preparation begins in January 2020. Lawyer coaches work in a CPS high school to prepare the students for trial and lawyer evaluators work side-by-side with Circuit Court judges on the nights of competition to score the teams (evenings in March). 

The Competition is sponsored by the Circuit Court of Cook County, Office of Chief Judge Timothy C. Evans, in partnership with Sidley Austin LLP, The Chicago Bar Association, and the Chicago Board of Education.

To volunteer, fill out the appropriate form below and/or contact Marta Almodovar, Supervisor, CCLRE Mock Trial Competition, Office of the Chief Judge, Circuit Court of Cook County, at 312-603-1927 or marta.almodovar@cookcountyil.gov.

Lawyer Coach Form (Word)

Lawyer Evaluator Form (Word)

 Read the September/October 2019 CBA Record Online
(10/10/2019)
 
   Access to Counsel and Protecting the U.S. Immigration System, Illinois' New Cannabis Regulation and more.
New Edition of The CBA Record Focuses on Pro Bono Week: Connecting with Communities

The latest issue of the CBA Record magazine is now available online at www.chicagobar.org/chicagobar/Record

Inside the issue:

Connecting with Communities by Katherine W. Shank

Access to Counsel and Protecting the U.S. Immigration System by Ellen Miller

The Need for Pro Bono Attorneys in the Courtroom: A Judicial Perspective by Judge Nichole C. Patton and Judge Beatriz Santiago

Remembering Justice John Paul Stevens

What You Need to Know About Illinois' New Cannabis Regulation 
by Tony Traina


CBA Record Magazine September/October 2019

 Law at the Library Schedule Announced (Free!)
(9/17/2019)
 
   Free series kicks off on October 2 with "How to Find a Lawyer if You Can't Afford One."

The Chicago Bar Association and The Chicago Public Library
2019-2020 Law at the Library Series


All programs are free and open to the public and registration is not required.  For more information call 312-747-4300 or go to www.chipublib.org.

The following programs will be held at the Harold Washington Library Center, 400 S. State Street, Chicago, 7th Floor, Chicago Authors Room.  

Wednesday, October 2 - 12:15 p.m.
“How To Find A Lawyer if You Can’t Afford One”

Wednesday, February  5 - 12:15 p.m.
“Starting A Small Business”

Wednesday, April 1 - 12:15 p.m.
“Buying And Selling A Home”

Wednesday, June 3 - 12:15 p.m. 
“Estate Planning”

The following programs will be held in conjunction with Evanston Public Library at Family Focus Evanston, 2010 Dewey Avenue, Evanston. 

Tuesday, October 15 - 6-7:30 p.m.
"How to Find a Lawyer if You Can't Afford One"

 Volunteer as a Judicial Evaluation Investigator
(9/10/2019)
 
   Apply by October 11 to join the JEC Committee and help with judicial investigations.

Members Needed for Judicial Evaluation Committee

The CBA’s Judicial Evaluation Committee serves the legal profession and the public by investigating and providing substantive recommendations regarding judicial candidates and sitting judges seeking retention. It is among the most valuable and essential work performed by the CBA.

The CBA Judicial Evaluation Committee is looking for members to serve in its Investigation Division. CBA members with a few years of practice experience are encouraged to apply.

If you are a current JEC member there is no need to reapply.

Applications are available for download online. Save the document to your personal computer, fill out the necessary fields, print and sign. Applications should be returned to Therese Kurth via fax 312-554-2054 or email to tkurth@chicagobar.org.  Please submit your application on or before October 11, 2019.

You will be contacted by a committee member after October 11, 2019.


 Free Meeting Room Space for Members at Association Headquarters
(8/27/2019)
 
   New member benefit! Reserve free meeting space at the CBA.

Free Meeting Room Space for Members at Association Headquarters

The CBA is pleased to offer free meeting room space at Association Headquarters (321 S. Plymouth Ct., Chicago, IL 60604) as a benefit to our members.  The meeting rooms create the perfect environment to work between meetings or courtroom appearances, or to escape the office for a couple hours. All rooms are equipped with Wi-Fi.  

You can reserve shared meeting room space or a private room: 

Days:       Monday through Friday

Hours:     8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. 
                 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Location: CBA Headquarters, 321 S. Plymouth Court, Chicago, IL 60604

Click here for the reservation link.
 

 Read the July/August CBA Record Online
(8/6/2019)
 
   Profile of CBA President Jesse Ruiz, Denying a Request to Admit Truth of Facts, Illinois' Biometric Information Privacy Act and More
New Edition of The CBA Record Welcomes President Ruiz

The latest issue of the CBA Record magazine is now available online at www.chicagobar.org/chicagobar/Record. Features include a look at the legal career of 2019-2020 CBA President Jesse Ruiz and a report from the Working Women’s Legal Summit. Additional articles include “Denying a Request to Admit Trust of Facts: Top Five Ways to Commit Malpractice,” “The Balanced Lawyer: More than Just Work-Life Balance,” and ” Asking for Permission, Not Forgiveness: Employment Aspects of Illinois’ Biometric Information Privacy Act.” Also, our Legal Ethics Columnist John Levin examines legal reform activities.

July/August CBA Record
 

 New Member Savings with UPS, Improved Flat Rate Pricing
(7/12/2019)
 
   Members save up to 45% on domestic next day shipping with UPS. Re-enroll now.
Flat Rate Discounts on Shipping with UPS

Chicago Bar and UPS took the guesswork out, and put the easy in. Members now have access to new and improved flat rate pricing with savings of 45% on Domestic Next Day/Deferred, 25% on Ground Commercial / Residential and up to 50% on additional services.  In addition, members can take advantage of UPS Smart Pickup® service for free.

Open a new account, or if you are already taking advantage of our UPS savings program, re-enroll and apply the new discounts to your existing account by visiting: www.savewithups.com/cba or call 1-800-MEMBERS (1-800-636-2377), M-F 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., ET. 

Click here for a downloadable PDF that contains sign up information.

*Visit www.savewithups.com/cba for specific services and discounts.
 

 CBA @theBar Blog Now Available on LexBlog
(6/24/2019)
 
   CBA blog now featured on LexBlog. Follow us!
The @CBAattheBar blog is now featured on LexBlog, a worldwide publishing network with a focus on cultivating an empowering environment that highlights the hard work of the bright minds within the legal industry. Congratulations! Our newest posts focus on the cash bail system, judicial evaluation, redacting documents, and more. Sign up to follow the blog and receive notifications of new posts by email athttps://www.lexblog.com/organization/the-chicago-bar-association/. Thank you to the Young Lawyers Section for spearheading the new blog.
 

 CBA Building Architect Stanley Tigerman Dies at 88
(6/10/2019)
 
   CBA Building Architect Stanley Tigerman passed away at age 88 on June 3.


Stanley Tigerman, a giant of Chicago Architecture who designed more than 450 buildings including The Chicago Bar Association Building, died at the age of 88 on Monday, June 3, 2019. Read more in a Chicago Tribune article by Blair Kamin dated June 5, 2019.  

 Renew CBA Membership and Get Free CLE Coupons
(6/3/2019)
 
   Renew your June 1, 2019-May 31, 2020 membership now and get 2 free CLE coupons.
It's Time to Renew Your Membership for the 2019-2020 Bar Year

Extended! Renew by June 30, 2019 and receive two free CLE coupons from the West LegalEdcenter! No dues increase, free monthly seminars and committee meetings (enough to meet your MCLE requirements at no cost-attend your choice of in-person or live Webcast), practical business and legal training, easy ways to connect with local lawyers, judges and other professional groups, free legal news feed, one-on-one career counseling and online job board, hands-on technology training for you and your staff, and more.

CBA membership is affordable and relevant to your practice and professional future. Renew at www.chicagobar.org/renew or call 312-554-2020 (auto dues and hardship reduction also available). 

We appreciate your membership and look forward to serving you in the coming year.

Questions or comments? Email billing@chicagobar.org or call 312-554-2020.

 CBA Record April-May Issue: Appellate Court Practice, Mindfulness and More
(5/31/2019)
 
   Illinois Appellate Court practice, oral arguments in reviewing courts, criminal cases and the press and more.
Spring is here and so is the latest issue of the CBA Record magazine. Articles include a look at Illinois Appellate Court practice, the rise in oral arguments since the amendment of SC Rule 352, how to handle high-profile criminal cases and the press from a defense perspective, and the importance of mindfulness. Read the issue now online at https://user-35215390377.cld.bz/CBA-Record-April-May-2019.


 Video: Mayor Lori Lightfoot Remarks at All Bar Welcome Reception
(5/30/2019)
 
   Watch Mayor Lori Lightfoot's remarks to Chicago's legal community at May 29 All Bar Welcome Reception.
Chicago’s legal community gave a warm welcome to the city’s new Mayor on May 29, 2019, at the All Bar Reception honoring Lori Lightfoot. A standing-room-only crowd heard from Mayor Lightfoot about her priorities to quell the city’s violence and restore integrity to government. A former partner at Mayer  Brown and a member of the CBA’s Board of Managers, she also spoke of her passion for the law and the importance of the legal community’s role in helping to bring change to city government.  “I know that I will be looking to many of you right here in this room to help solve some of our city’s greatest challenges,” Lightfoot told the crowd. Watch the video now.





Thank you to our co-sponsors: American Immigration Lawyers Association of Chicago; Black Women Lawyers Association; Federal Bar Association; Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago; Serbian Bar Association of America; Advocates Society; Appellate Lawyers Association; Arab American Bar Association of Illinois; Asian American Bar Association; Catholic Lawyers Guild of Chicago; Cook  County Bar Association;  Decalogue Society of Lawyers;  Hispanic Lawyers Association of Illinois; Justinian Society of Lawyers; Muslim Bar Association; Puerto Rican Bar Association; South Asian Bar Association of Chicago; and Women’s Bar Association of Illinois.

 1992 Report on Civility in the Profession
(4/4/2019)
 
   Civility recommendations for the bench and bar still hold value today. Read the report.
The erosion of civility within the legal profession has always been important to the both the bench and bar. Over 25 years ago, the Seventh Federal Judicial Circuit's Committee on Civility chaired by the Hon. Marvin E. Aspen (this year's Chicago Bar Association Vanguard Honoree) studied the issue of civility and authored a "Final Report of the Committee on Civility of the Seventh Federal Judicial Circuit."

The findings stated that the majority of attorneys in the circuit reported an erosion of ethics in the circuit. The committee report then went on to offer recommendations the profession could take to reverse the trend as well as offered a code of professional conduct that outlined lawyers' duties to other counsel and the court, as well as the courts' duties to lawyers and judges. We invite you to read the report and examine these issues for yourself. Read the report now .

 Special Member Offer: WBBM Newsradio Advertising
(3/27/2019)
 
   CBA teams with WBBM Newsradio to offer reduced advertising rates for members
Looking to ramp up your firm’s marketing efforts? The Chicago Bar Association and WBBM Newsradio are proud to offer special discounted radio advertising opportunities exclusively for CBA members.  

The offer includes a 15 percent discount off all radio advertising placed between now and May 1.  Customized advertising packages are available that offer on-air commercials on WBBM and 5 other top stations in Chicago, as well as digital marketing opportunities and partnerships with all of Chicago’s top professional sports teams. 

For further information contact Eric Gordon or call 312-297-7724.

For more information:  https://wbbm780.radio.com/articles/members-only-pricing-chicago-bar-association-members
 

 Notice to Members: 2019-2020 Slate of Officers and Board of Managers
(3/22/2019)
 
   Congratulations to 2019-2020 CBA Officers and Board of Managers
Pursuant to Section 8.3(a)(3) of Article VIII of the By-Laws of the Association, the Nominating Committee has selected the nominees for each office in the Association and for each place to be filled on the Board of Managers at the Annual Meeting.

View the Slate

 Feb/March CBA Record: Diversity through Opportunity
(3/21/2019)
 
   Read the issue online now.
The Young Lawyers Section takes the helm of the Feb/March issue of The CBA Record with a focus on "Diversity from Opportunity." Articles include "How Chicago Can Incorporate Lessons from Equitable Development-Building Inclusive, Affordable Communities" and "It Takes a Village of Attorneys-Screening for Relief from Deportation for Juveniles." Read the issue now at https://user-35215390377.cld.bz/CBA-Record-February-March-2019.


 Young Lawyers Section 2019-2020 Slate of Officers and Directors
(3/8/2019)
 
   2019-2020 Young Lawyers Section leadership announced.
Pursuant to Section 5.4 of Article V of the By-Laws of the Young Lawyers Section, the Nominating Committee of the Young Lawyers Section submits its slate of candidates for election to the offices indicated. The term of office for each position to be filled shall be one year from the 2019 Annual Meeting of the Young Lawyers Section to the 2020 Annual Meeting, except the Co-Editors in Chief of the YLS Journal and the Directors shall have two-year terms.

View the slate. If you have questions, contact Jennifer Byrne at 312-554-2031.

 Orchestra Musicians Wanted for Summer Concert
(3/6/2019)
 
   Double-bass, viola, and bassoon players especially needed.
The CBA's Symphony Orchestra is seeking additional musicians this spring for its amazing “Ode To Joy” concert to be performed on June 22, 2019 at Symphony Center. The concert will include the 4th Movement of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9. Double-Bass, Viola, and Bassoon players are especially needed. Contact John Vishneski at (312) 207-2404.

 The Chicago Bar Foundation Investing in Justice Campaign
(3/5/2019)
 
   Give today and help the CBF support 30+ great pro bono and legal aid organizations.
For the 13th year, the CBA is proud to join more than 150 law firms, corporations and other organizations as a leader in the CBF Investing in Justice Campaign, where the entire legal community comes together to ensure that everyone has access to necessary legal help, not just people who can afford it. 100% of individual contributions again directly support the work of more than 30 outstanding pro bono and legal aid organizations and related initiatives, and each year helps tens of thousands of low-income and disadvantaged people get the legal assistance they need. Join together with the thousands of CBA members and other lawyers in our community who are making a difference through the Campaign. chicagobarfoundation.org/campaign

 Leadership Institute: Now Accepting Applications
(1/14/2019)
 
   Lawyers in practice for 3-10 years are encouraged to apply by March 4 to take part in the CBA's 2019 Leadership Institute.
The CBA’s Leadership Institute is a program designed to enhance the leadership skills and foster the professional growth of Chicago attorneys. The program provides emerging leaders within Chicago’s legal community with the practical knowledge and business development strategies necessary to attain and be successful in significant leadership roles. The 2019 Leadership Institute program will feature 4 substantive sessions on topics ranging from foundations of effective leadership to advanced business development skills, as well as additional social events for participants to further network with one another. Each session will have a specific topic and skill, which build upon the topics and skills addressed in prior sessions. Additional details and application are www.chicagobar.org/chicagobar/leadership.

 Members Wanted for Judicial Evaluation Committee
(11/1/2018)
 
   Members with at least two years of legal experienced encouraged to apply to the JEC's Investigative Division.

The CBA’s Judicial Evaluation Committee serves the legal profession and the public by investigating and providing substantive recommendations regarding judicial candidates and sitting judges seeking retention. It is among the most valuable and essential work performed by the CBA.

The CBA Judicial Evaluation Committee is looking for members to serve in its Investigation Division. CBA members with a few years of practice experience are encouraged to apply. If you are a current JEC member there is no need to reapply.

Download an application here. Save the document to your personal computer, fill out the necessary fields, print and sign. Applications should be returned to Therese Kurth via fax 312-554-2054 or email to tkurth@chicagobar.org on or before November 29, 2018.

Applicants will be contacted by a committee member after November 29, 2018.


 Member Benefit: Cognos HR
(10/1/2018)
 
   Members get their first month of HR services (PEO) for free!

CongosHR provides HR services and consulting for small and mid-size business; services include payroll management, employee benefits administration, training/leadership development, HR software (HRIS) and much more. Chicago Bar Association members will receive their first month of HR services (PEO) for free! For more information please visit https://www.cognoshr.com/cba.


 Member Benefit: News Exposure
(10/1/2018)
 
   Broadcast, print or online monitoring to support your clients’ cases.
News Exposure is a full-service media monitoring company. News Exposure monitors broadcast, print, internet and social media and provides metrics that allows clients to see the impact of their media coverage and retrieve content. News Exposure often works with legal professionals to search back in time to obtain media reports and archived digital video clips of coverage from past events that are relevant to current cases. The reports and video clips help legal teams gauge the breadth of coverage, understand the facts reported in the media and uncover previously unknown information. They provide digital clips in high definition and standard definition resolution, archived back to 1984. If it aired, it’s probably in the archive. For more information about your Bar member benefit, email Steve Bainnson or www.newsexposure.com.

 September 2018 CBA Record Issue
(9/27/2018)
 
   Read the September 2018 issue online.
The September 2018 Issue of The CBA Record is now available online. Primer on Punitive Damages in Illinois, CBA Future of the Profession Initiatives, and more.

 Write Across Chicago
(9/12/2018)
 
   Members are invited to participate in Write Across America.
The CBA is pleased to be supporting ‘Write Across Chicago,’ a special project promoting writing during the month of October.  Law firms are encouraged to promote the program in their offices to provide an organized and creative outlet for those who love to write.  Three outstanding Chicago authors explain the value of the program at https://youtu.be/raFPqDwK7jE.

Groups can sign up and find writing help at www.writeacrosschicago.org. Questions – contact Sally Daly at sdaly@chicagobar.org or Steve Zemelman (Director, Illinois Writing Project) at stv.zemelman@comcast.net.

 New Financial Technology Committee
(8/14/2018)
 
   Members invited to join new Financial Technology Committee.
Members are invited to join the newly formed CBA Financial and Emerging Technology Committee. The group will focus on trending technologies such as artificial intelligence, biometrics and blockchain. Learn more and join now.

 Wellness Committee 2018
(7/25/2018)
 
   Members can now join new CBA Wellness Committee.

Wellness Committee Formed: Join Now

Posted on July 29, 2018

The new CBA Wellness Committee will work to provide resources and information by offering programming for attorneys that explores the multiple dimensions of well-being and offers practical ways for lawyers to reduce stress and thrive in their professional and personal lives. Join the committee and learn more.

 Future of the Profession Report
(7/23/2018)
 
   Read the Future of the Profession Committee's June 2018 Report.
During the 2017-2018 bar year, the CBA's Future of the Profession Committee gathered 150 leading Chicago area lawyers, judges, and law professors to discuss, analyze and think critically about the challenges facing the Chicago legal community in the next three to five years.  Read the Committee's report.

 Bar Show Early Bird Pricing 2018
(5/26/2017)
 
   Don't miss the Association's 95-year old tradition, The Bar Show, a musical comedy review. Tickets are on sale now for "Big Little Laws: A Whodunnit" running November 29 to December 2.

Early Bird Pricing for The Bar Show

Posted on July 29, 2018

Don't miss the Association's 95-year old tradition, The Bar Show, a musical comedy revue parodying local and national political, sports, and showbiz figures. Tickets are now onsale for "Big Little Laws: A Whodunnit" running November 29-December 2 at DePaul's Merle Reskin Theatre. Early bird pricing is $40 main floor and $35 mezzanine (purchase by Sept. 28). Group rates also available. Get tickets now at https://cbabarshow.brownpapertickets.com. You can also keep tabs on the latest Bar Show news on Facebook at www.facebook.com/cbabarshow or www.chicagobar.org/barshow.