Avoid being blindsided by Federal Rule Civil Practice 30(a)(2)(B)By Jack A. StrellisMay 2005Most lawyers are well aware that all depositions taken pursuant to Federal Rules are evidentiary in nature, yet many allow the opposing party to take the federal depositions of their client's treating or tendered medical professionals, economists, engineers and etc., as if the deposition is being taken for discovery purposes only.
Effectively using Rule 36 in summary judgment motionsBy Travis J. KettermanDecember 2005This article explores using Rule 36 Requests for Admissions as both a sword and shield in the crucial juncture of summary judgment motions.
The Illinois accountant privilege in federal courtBy Janice M. PowellMay 2005In actions based upon federal laws brought in federal court, the accountant's privilege set forth in the Illinois statute has no force and effect. But what happens if a complaint contains both state and federal law claims?
Seventh Circuit Pattern Civil Jury Instructions now available onlineBy Nawshaba SiddiqueeDecember 2005The Seventh Circuit Judicial Council has recently approved publication of the pattern civil jury instructions drafted by the Committee on Federal Civil Jury Instructions for the Seventh Circuit.
Ten tips on taking a depositionBy James F. HoldermanMay 2005Although depositions typically come to a judge's attention only when rulings are needed or the deposition transcript is presented at trial, here are some practical thoughts I have developed from my years of practicing law and presiding on the bench that I believe all lawyers should consider in taking depositions.
U.S. Magistrate Donald G. WilkersonBy Jack A. StrellisSeptember 2005This early spring, Donald G. Wilkerson, of Glen Carbon, Illinois, age 53, continued his career as a public servant now serving as the newest federal magistrate judge within the Southern District of Illinois, filling the position formerly held by Magistrate Gerald B. Cohn.