Every litigator should understand the basic principles of appellate practice. Join us on Oct. 18 in Chicago or via live webcast for a full-day seminar that focuses on the key points in the appellate process, where making the right decisions can mean the difference between winning and losing an appeal. The seminar is presented by justices of the Illinois Supreme Court and the Illinois Appellate Court, along with leading Illinois appellate practitioners.

Join us online Oct. 11 to learn how to develop the theory of your case, the Illinois Supreme Court Rules that pertain to depositions, and how to prepare your next witness with this informative online seminar that’s designed for litigators with basic practice experience. Topics include appreciating your witness’ story and the rules that apply, knowing the mechanics of a deposition, and maxims for witness preparation. 

Asked and Answered  By John W. Olmstead, MBA, Ph.D, CMC Q. I am the owner of a six-attorney firm in the western suburbs of Chicago. There are five full-time associate attorneys working with the firm. Two have been with the firm for more than 15 years, two over 10 years, and one for seven years. All are being paid salaries in excess of $100,000 per year and none are even close to generating $300,000 or more in working attorney fee collections per year. Their billable hours are dismal as well. While I have an expectation of 1,200 annual billable hours, none are meeting that expectation. My income is suffering as a result. In addition to salaries, they sometimes receive a discretionary bonus. I am at my wit’s end. What are your thoughts?

Hosting a business dinner is a great way to make a good impression and build rapport with clients. Thinking through the details in advance will go a long way toward a good evening and a good impression of the host – you. In September’s Illinois Bar Journal, Karen Erger, vice president at Lockton Companies, breaks down do’s and don’ts of hosting a business dinner.