CBA Record September-October 2024

September/October 2024 CBA

The Chicago Bar Association The Chicago Bar Foundation 2024 Pro Bono Week Pro Bono in Motion

CELEBRATING

YEARS

2005 – 2024 OF PRO BONO WEEK

CBA RECORD CONTENTS

September/October 2024 • Volume 38, Number 5

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Editor’s Briefcase Pro Bono in Motion: 20th Annual CBA-CBF Pro Bono Week By Justice Michael B. Hyman

PRO BONO WEEK 2024

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President’s Page Make Pro Bono Service Part of Your Legacy By John C. Sciaccotta

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Pro Bono Week: 20 Years Later By Margaret Benson

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Pro Bono Opportunities in the Federal Courts By Brian Budzicz Protecting Survivors of Domestic Violence: Critical Roles of Lawyers and Courts By Margaret Duval

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CBA News

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18 Chicago Bar

Foundation Report

20 The Pulse

38 LPMT Bits & Bytes

The Bar Is High: Is Generative AI Ready for the Law? By Anne Ellis and Stephen Marseille

YOUNG LAWYERS SECTION ISSUE

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Practical Tips to Integrate Pro Bono Service Throughout Your Legal Career By Kenneth Matuszewski, YLS Chair

40 Practical Ethics

Navigating the Ethical Landscape of Generative AI: Insights from ABA Formal Ethics Opinion 512 By Trisha Rich

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YLS Committee Spotlight: Serving Our Service Members: Wills for Heroes By Sharmon Paris

42 Summary Judgments The Best Lies by David Ellis

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The Path to Pro Bono: A Guide for New Lawyers By Constance Du Get in Motion with the Young Lawyers Section By Jake Berger

Reviewed by Daniel A. Cotter

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The CBA Record (ISSN 0892-1822) is published six times annually (January/February, March/April, May/June, July/ August, September/October, November/December) for $10 per year by The Chicago Bar Association, 321 S. Plymouth Court, Chicago, Illinois 60604-3997, 312/554-2000, Subscriptions for non-members are $25 per year. Periodicals postage paid at Chicago, Illinois. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to CBA Record , c/o Membership, Chicago Bar Association, 321 South Plymouth Court, Chicago, Illinois 60604. Copyright 2024 by The Chicago Bar Association. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. The opinions and positions stated in signed material are those of the authors and not by the fact of publication necessarily those of the Association or its members. All manuscripts are carefully considered by the Editorial Board. All letters to the editors are subject to editing. Publication of advertisements is not to be deemed an endorsement of any product or service advertised unless otherwise stated.

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CBA RECORD

EDITOR’S BRIEFCASE BY JUSTICE MICHAEL B. HYMAN, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Pro Bono in Motion: 20th Annual CBA-CBF Pro Bono Week C all me the Pro Bono Week whisperer. As CBA president in 2005, I proposed that the Association and Bar Foundation annually extol the virtues of pro bono service during the third week of October. I created the first theme, too, “Pro Bono Week: Hope and Justice in Action.” I have hatched the week’s theme ever since. In my President’s Page column in October 2005, I quoted from “Apolitical Intellec tuals,” a poem by Guatemalan revolutionary Otto Rene Castillo: “Que hististeis cuando los pobres sufrian? (What did you do when the poor suffered?), adding, “No lawyer, ever, should be unable to respond when asked, ‘What did you do when the poor suffered?’” My co-chair for the initial celebration, the incredible Margaret C. Benson, then and now Executive Director of the Chicago Volunteer Legal Services Foundation, helped to get Pro Bono Week established along with extraordinary CBF Executive Director Bob Glaves and CBF Associate Director Dina Merrell and their talented staff. Indeed, for two decades, Glaves and the CBF staff have taken the lead in planning, organizing, and coordinating the event, ensuring each year outdoes the last. In 2008, the theme was “Do Right!” I noted in these pages, “Nothing, I repeat, nothing, is as gratifying as doing right by representing the less fortunate.” The following year, communities across the country joined the CBA-CBF by repli cating Pro Bono Week, after the American Bar Association introduced a national pro bono celebration inspired partly by our success. About the theme in 2012, “Pro Bono: A Gift, Not a Chore,” I wrote, “the poor and near poor become more or less outcasts, marginalized by the system and likely to fall through the cracks.” I viewed pro bono “not as a matter of choice but as a matter of necessity. Not a chore but a gift, by lawyers to strangers in distress. Not a burden but a source of pride. Not a sacrifice but a sanctification of justice and fairness.” October 2014 marked the 10th anniversary. The theme, “Lifting Lives, Strengthen ing Access,” drew inspiration from CBA President Dan Cotter’s participation in power lifting competitions to raise money for Lawyers Lend-a-Hand for Youth. I explained that pro bono “can strengthen lives by lifting the legal burdens of the poor and, in the process, make the justice system more accessible.” “Caring, One Person at a Time” for 2016 Pro Bono Week, emphasized that one-on-one involvement with pro bono was transformative. “There is a dynamic that takes place in which you feel worthwhile and needed, and the pro bono client feels heard and not alone. You both gain some understanding and appreciation of the other and [their] world.” The 2017 theme, “For the Sake of the Community,” was that “the benefits of pro bono representation go well beyond the attorney and the client; they can be felt in the everyday of our community.” Five years later, in 2022, “Empowering People, Empower ing Communities” called forth “the expansive reach of pro bono work and its ability to influence, equip, advance, and liberate, in a word, ‘empower,’ people and communities.” This year’s theme honors Pro Bono Week as a catalyst for fostering a culture of ser vice and compassion within the legal profession. “Pro Bono in Motion” recognizes more than past achievements; it inspires continued momentum and commitment to justice, arousing the spirit of pro bono work, which offers a partial answer to the question, “What did you do when the poor suffered?”

EDITORIAL BOARD EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Justice Michael B. Hyman Illinois Appellate Court

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Anne Ellis Council of State Governments Justice Center SUMMARY JUDGMENTS EDITOR Daniel A. Cotter

Dickinson Wright PLLC YLS JOURNAL EDITORS

Joanna Kopczyk Attorney at Law Nikki Marcotte Kirkland & Ellis LLP

Carolyn Amadon Samuel, Son & Co. Daniel J. Berkowitz Cruser, Mitchell, Novitz, Sanchez, Gaston & Zimet LLP Jacob B. Berger Tabet DiVito & Rothstein LLC Amy Cook Amy Cook Law LLC Nina Fain Janet Sugerman Schirn Family Trust Anthony F. Fata Kirby McInerney LLP Clifford Gately Quarles & Brady Meredith A. Geller Northwestern Pritzker School of Law Judge Jasmine Villaflor Hernandez Circuit Court of Cook County Kaitlin King Hart David Carson LLP Theodore Kontopoulos Internal Revenue Service John Levin Kathryn C. Liss DePaul University College of Law Bonnie McGrath Law Office of Bonnie McGrath Clare McMahon Reed, Centracchio & Associates, LLC Pamela Sakowicz Menaker Clifford Law Offices Kathleen Dillon Narko Northwestern Pritzker School of Law Alexander Passo Latimer LeVay Fyock LLC Adam J. Sheppard Sheppard Law Firm, PC Richard Lee Stavins Robbins DiMonte, Ltd. Rosemary Simota Thompson Judge E. Kenneth Wright, Jr. Circuit Court of Cook County THE CHICAGO BAR ASSOCIATION Sharon Nolan Director of Marketing

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PRESIDENT’S PAGE BY JOHN C. SCIACCOTTA Make Pro Bono Service Part of Your Legacy

The Chicago Bar Association www.chicagobar.org

President John C. Sciaccotta

First Vice President Kathryn C. Liss

Domestic violence is a very personal issue for me . During my experience with WINGS, I have observed firsthand how WINGS assists mothers and children who have been dislocated, mistreated, and abused due to domestic violence. Moth ers and their children often must flee their residences due to dangers of domestic vio lence. Orders of protection and other legal means are used to prevent the perpetrators from continuing their dangerous behav iors. But much more needs to be done in this area. We as lawyers have a unique opportunity to make a difference and to help women and children when their lives are in turmoil. To raise awareness, the CBA and WINGS, along with the ISBA, WBAI, DCBA, DAWL, and Flash, are co-hosting and co-sponsoring the 2024 Domestic Violence Summit (with CLE credit) at the Union League Club of Chicago on October 29, 2024. The keynote speaker will be Denise Brown (the late Nicole Brown Simpson’s sister). This all-day sym posium will highlight the issues involved in domestic violence; suggest changes and reforms (including possible new leg islation); identify the signs of domestic violence; and include real-life discussions with people who have suffered through its nightmare. This event will be open to the entire Chicagoland community. We hope that you and your friends and colleagues will attend. The CBA and CBF recently hosted the annual Pro Bono & Public Service Awards luncheon. This is always one of my favor ite events, because it highlights the out standing lawyer contributions relating to pro bono services. As CBA President, I

Second Vice President Judge Nichole C. Patton

Treasurer Jonathan B. Amarilio

Secretary Trisha Rich

Immediate Past President Ray J. Koenig III

Executive Director Beth McMeen

BOARD OF MANAGERS Daniel J. Berkowitz Tracy Brammeier Maggie Mendenhall Casey Erin Clifford Nishá N. Dotson John C. Ellis Josie M. Gough Brian Haussmann Judge Kenya A. Jenkins-Wright Michael Kozlowski Francine D. Lynch Justice Margaret Stanton McBride Kenneth A. Matuszewski Peter McNamara John Mitchell Sari Montgomery

F or the annual pro bono issue of the CBA Record , I would like to discuss the importance of pro bono legal services and to highlight how you can pro vide great benefits to others, and experi ence personal and professional fulfillment for yourself, by engaging in pro bono endeavors. I also wish to share informa tion about the WINGS organization and the vital services it provides to combat the horrors of domestic violence. Pro bono service is the greatest gift any of us can provide to less fortunate indi viduals and organizations that are in real need of legal assistance. I have been fortu nate to serve on the Board of Directors for many years and as the pro bono general counsel of WINGS, the largest domestic violence service provider in Illinois (www. wingsprogram.com). WINGS’ mission is to provide housing, integrated services, education, and advocacy to end the hor rors of domestic violence.

Eirene N. Salvi Brendon Stark Justice Rena Marie Van Tine Judge Andrea R. Wood

6 September/October 2024

served on the nominating committee this year. It was an enlight ening experience. The incredible time and investment by these lawyers is overwhelmingly impressive. Their passion, desire, and dedication, and some of the case details they shared, were awe-inspiring. This work is what makes our profession so very special and should give us all great pride. Each award recipient has indeed established their own legacies relating to pro bono service. Over the years, I have been involved in many pro bono mat ters. I would like to share one matter in particular because it has always been so meaningful to me and to our pro bono client. Back in 1989 when I was a very young lawyer, my late mentor, Richard W. (Dick) Culver, asked me to assist him in the defense of a fellow lawyer who had been charged with battery. The lawyer was protecting his young son from an older teenager who was physically beating him. The lawyer had some health issues at the time and could not afford a lawyer. We decided to defend this

lawyer on a pro bono basis. It was a real eye-opener for me. This lawyer’s law license and legal career were in jeopardy should he be convicted. We worked tirelessly, and eventually there was a bench trial – my very first trial. Dick taught me a valuable lesson in that when a fellow lawyer is in need, we must answer the call. We (Dick) tried the case (Dick allowed me to conduct the direct examination of a witness or two) before the judge, and the court rendered a not guilty decision. To this day, it still stands as among the most rewarding legal work that I have ever provided. A fellow lawyer had prevailed. I can still feel the lawyer’s elation when he hugged and thanked us after the decision. He said that we had “saved his life.” I will never forget it. Assisting someone or some organization in need has always been very fulfilling to me personally and has helped many people along the way. In finding and leaving your own legacy, I hope that you will make providing pro bono legal services part of your legal career.

Save the date! Join CBA President John Sciaccotta for CBA CLE Abroad from April 28-30, 2025, in Palermo, Sicily with an extension trip to Taormina from May 1-3. Group travel is being coordinated by Cara and pricing and a travel agenda can be found at www.chicagobar.org/Sicily2025. SAVE THE DATE!

Local Solutions. Global Reach.

CBA RECORD 7

CBA NEWS

The Second Annual Salute to Veterans in the Legal Profession By Judge Jasmine V. Hernandez

the Illinois Army National Guard, still serving; Navy – Commander Elisabeth Pennix, Court of Criminal Appeals, Appel late Judge, still serving; Air Force – Attor ney Joseph Cook, Major, Judge Advocate General, still serving; law student Ange lise Melendez, Staff Sergeant., Veteran; and Coast Guard – Attorney David Weiss, Chief Boatswain, Veteran . Under scoring everyone’s comments was the call to serve, whether it is their country or their state. Wilson shared that his service in the Marine Corps instilled in him values like honor, courage, and commitment – bed rocks of his career – and that they led him to his legal career. He used GI Bill benefits to support his legal education. Wilson commented that while battlefields and courtrooms may seem worlds apart, both “demand a strategic mind, a resilient spirit, and an unwavering dedication to the mission at hand.” Similar to Wilson, Judge Henry shared that her time in the military taught her discipline, determi nation, and patience – qualities that she exercises in her courtroom. Cook and Ali recognized those who support service members and focused on what unites rather than divides us. Cook reminded the audience about the impor tance of family, whether family by blood or family born by shared experiences. On the home front, loved ones bear the scars of service when they celebrate milestones and everyday experiences without their mothers, fathers, siblings, and children. A sense of family also exists among ser vice members; Ali commented, “It’s not just who we serve but who we get to

Cornell Wilson of the U.S. Marine Corps addressed attendees.

L eaders in the Chicago legal field gathered recently for the second annual Salute to Veterans in the Legal Profession. Held at Soldier Field, this year’s event included a special D-Day recognition and memorial ceremony. The U.S. Navy Color Guard Great Lakes pre sented the colors, and John Vincent sang the national anthem. Illinois Supreme Court Justice Scott Neville and Chief Judge of the Circuit Court of Cook County Timothy C. Evans welcomed attendees. Justice Neville emphasized the

importance of remembering and recog nizing these veterans’ unique skills and aptitudes deployed in serving our country. Chief Judge Evans gave a special thank you to military members for their service in the military and to the legal profession. Guests heard from presenters on behalf of each branch of service: Marines – Attorney Cornell Wilson, Major, still serving; U.S. Army and Illinois National Guard – Attorney Mir Ali, Captain, Vet eran; Judge Sheree Henry, Veteran ; law student Scout Savage, Staff Sergeant with

One and Done: 6-Hour Professional Responsibility Overview Includes Mental Health/Substance Abuse and Diversity/Inclusion On Demand at Learn.ChicagoBar.org

8 September/October 2024

serve with.” Likewise, Ali spoke about the camaraderie and trust forged among service members, noting that their shared experiences created unique familial ties. Melendez, a current law student, juxtaposed her military and law school experience. She shared that she still expe riences some culture shock pivoting from active military duty to being a full-time law student. For example, her current employer apologized for placing her in an office without a window and that her

work laptop was not ready yet on her first day. Melendez laughed as she recounted the experience, noting that only a few weeks prior she was sharing a desk with a colleague and constantly searching for writing utensils. Illinois Supreme Court Justice Rena Van Tine closed the presentation by lead ing a special candle-lighting ceremony to honor fallen comrades. Spearheaded by the Decalogue Society and led by Judge Megan Goldish and Joel Bruckman,

then-first vice president of the Decalogue Society, this unique event was co-spon sored by over 40 bar associations, includ ing the CBA.

Judge Jasmine Hernan dez is an associate judge in the First Municipal District of the Circuit Court of Cook County and a member of the

CBA Record Editorial Board.

The Chicago Bar Association presents

LAW AT THE LIBRARY KNOW YOUR RIGHTS!

2024-2025 Schedule

3rd Wednesday of the Month via Zoom

Zoom links available on library websites and at www.chicagobar.org.

September 18, 2024 Protests, Police Stops, and Navigating the Justice System October 16, 2024 Disability Law: Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security

March 19, 2025 Buying or Selling Your Home

April 16, 2025 Entrepreneurship for the Creative Arts: Legal and Business Issues for Artists

May 21, 2025 LGBTQIA+ and the Law

November 20, 2024 Changes in the Tax Law: Know Before Your File

June 18, 2025 Wills Trusts and Estate Planning

January 15, 2025 Property Taxes

February 19, 2025 Consumer Law: Dealing with Debt

Interested in serving as the speaker for any of the above sessions? Send an email with your resume/LinkedIn profile to CBA Public Affairs Director Ann Glynn at aglynn@chicagobar.org.

CBA RECORD 9

Based on survey data, the committee concluded that remote court appear ances have had a positive effect on the court system and that flexibility should be considered when determining whether a court appearance should be in-person, remote, or hybrid. Survey respondents felt the reason for the appearance is the most crucial factor affecting whether a court appearance should be remote or in-person. Attorneys preferred in-person trials, oral arguments, and hearings on dis positive motions. In contrast, the over whelming finding was that appearances for status, case management, or sched uling orders should be done remotely. Although attorneys recognized a need for hybrid appearances, they were not the preferred method for any specific court appearance. Additionally, attorneys with more practice experience liked in-person appearances more than attorneys with less than 10 years of experience. The in-person experience was valuable in improving camaraderie; building rela tionships with judges, opposing counsel, and staff; promoting settlements and resolutions; and providing an essential training experience for newer associates. Attorneys of all years of practice who pre ferred remote court appearances appreci ated the efficiency and cost savings for clients as well as the ability of clients, pro se or otherwise, to attend remote hearings more conveniently. Although most attorneys indicated a need for judges in the same division to have a uniform approach to remote court appearances, they also acknowledged that judges should be given discretion in oper ating their courtrooms. Based on these findings, the committee recommended that uniformity regarding remote court appearances exist across each court divi sion. Each division could implement a standing order to allow remote court appearances. Under the standing order, each judge would have discretion as to which days of the week to conduct remote and in-person court appearances. The committee also found that remote court proceedings are a valuable resource

Exploring Hybrid vs. In-Person Best Practices in the Courtroom and the Workplace

By Ann Glynn, CBA Public Affairs Director

T he Covid-19 pandemic forced court systems and workplaces worldwide to shift to virtual opera tions swiftly. Perhaps not surprisingly, remote work and court appearances con tinue post-pandemic. 2023-24 CBA Pres ident Ray J. Koenig III, Clark Hill PLC, and the CBA Board of Managers estab lished two ad hoc committees to address issues facing the legal industry regarding the value of hybrid vs. in-person engage ment in workplaces and court hearings. The committees’ findings are summarized below. Post-Pandemic Court Practices The Post-Pandemic Court Practices Committee, co-chaired by CBA Board

of Managers Member Nishá N. Dotson, Law Office of the Cook County Public Defender, and 2024-25 CBA President John C. Sciaccotta, Aronberg Goldgehn, explored best practices for remote, in person, and hybrid court appearances in Cook County. In Spring 2024, the Committee gath ered over 400 survey responses from practicing attorneys and judges across the county. These responses informed the Committee’s proposed recommendations to the Circuit Court of Cook County regarding the best procedures and proto cols for remote, in-person, or hybrid court proceedings. The goal was to identify the benefits and challenges of all options in both civil and criminal practice areas.

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for litigants, judges, and attorneys, and that use of a virtual platform has a purpose in the administration of and access to justice. A uniform approach to remote court appearances in each division could achieve the following advantages: (1) create increased accessibility and efficiency, (2) reduce costs associated with in-person appearances, and (3) boost attorney productivity when dealing with multiple scheduled court appearances. This approach requires careful consideration of technological readi ness, procedural fairness, and safeguarding of legal rights. Balanc ing these factors will achieve the full potential of remote court appearances while upholding the integrity of the judicial process. In addition, clear guidelines, robust technological support, and ongoing evaluation and adaptation will ensure that remote court appearances assist in achieving the highest standards of access to justice. The committee found that embracing remote court appear ances represents a progressive step toward a more accessible, efficient, and equitable legal system. By responsibly harnessing the potential of technology, courts can better serve the needs of society while protecting fundamental rights and principles. As technology continues to advance, the methods by which judges, attorneys, and parties appear in court undoubtedly will continue to evolve. Post-Pandemic Return to Offices The Post-Pandemic Return to Office Committee, co-chaired by Danielle E. Austriaco, Johson & Bell, and Matthew P. Walsh, Hinshaw & Culbertson, worked to develop the best return-to work policies. This collaborative effort involved the viewpoints of attorneys—including associates, partners, and shareholders— across private firms, public service, and other legal sectors. The committee developed policies based on over 500 survey responses.

Survey results indicated that no “one-size-fits-all” policy applies. However, respondents shared several factors to be prioritized in implementing an office policy: (1) the goals of the workplace, (2) the importance of flexibility, and (3) the value of in-person interactions. The committee’s findings suggested that the hybrid model is here to stay and that two or three days per week in the office satisfies most preferences. However, a workplace’s primary goal should be heavily weighted in implementing a policy. If productivity is the top pri ority, the employee should determine where they are most produc tive instead of the employer. If teamwork or camaraderie is the goal, a structured and enforced in-office policy may be desired. Flexibility is another important factor in determining remote work policies. An employee’s autonomy should conform to their needs. The demand for flexibility in a post-pandemic world is high. Some firms offer the opportunity for remote or hybrid work to offset lower compensation, likening it to a benefit. Firms need to consider employee autonomy in their overall approach to compensation and benefits; firms that meet employees’ desire for flexibility often gain a competitive advantage in recruitment and retention. While flexibility is essential, face-to-face interactions remain valuable. Employees must understand the benefits of learn ing, teaching, and collaborating in the office. Policies should not micromanage but build a positive workplace environment, encourage collaboration, boost productivity, support smooth operations, and accommodate employee preferences. Every workplace has its own goals. Balancing flexibility and face-to-face interaction, best meets them.

For the full reports and findings, go to www.chicagobar.org/reports.

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CBA RECORD 11

Leonard Jay Schrager: A Life Committed to Justice and Service By Editor-in-Chief Justice Michael B. Hyman, CBA President 2005-06

T he life of former CBA (1998-1999) and CBF (2000-2001) President Leonard Jay Schrager, who passed away in July at age 89, reminds us that one person, committed to justice and to serving others, can influence the lives of countless people, stirring within them a resolve to make a difference, a belief in their own potential, and an appreciation for goodness. Through out his long career in law, academia, and public service, Schrager was esteemed for his work and loved for his personal qualities. A humble man, he never lost sight of his humanity and brought it to everything he did, thereby elevating all in his large orbit. One of Schrager’s most notable achievements was establishing the CBA and CBF Pro Bono & Public Service Awards luncheon.

In 2002, the CBA and CBF, along with his former colleagues at Reed Smith LLP, inaugurated the Leonard Jay Schrager Award of Excellence. This award recognizes attorneys employed by law schools who, like Dean Schrager, profoundly contributed to improving access to justice. The announcement of his death prompted an exchange of email tributes by CBA past presidents celebrating his impact and legacy, several of which appear on this page. May the blessed memories of his virtues and greatness guide all those Leonard Schrager touched to uphold the values he cherished.

TRIBUTES TO LEONARD SCHRAGER FROM PAST CBA PRESIDENTS

“Len was a dear friend for over 60 years. We were law school classmates. He was always a voice of reason, not only as a scholar, but just as a down-to-earth, caring person.” — Joseph Stone, CBA President 1986-1987

“What a wonderful, sharp, thoughtful lawyer and a dear human being.” — Laurel G. Bellows, CBA President 1991-1992 “Len had great judgment and common sense, along with a keen mind.” — Roy E. Hofer, CBA President 1988-1989

“Leonard was my professor in law school, and I have great respect and affection for him.” — Justice Joy V. Cunningham, CBA President 2004-2005 “Len was such a giant in the legal community, and this is a big loss to all of us. He will be sorely missed.” — Aurora Austriaco, CBA President 2012-2013

“We lost another legend (and a personal mentor).” — Steven Elrod, CBA President 2018-2019 “Len was such a kind man. This is very sad news.” — Terri Mascherin, CBA President 2010-2011

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and analyzed existing systems and policies for unintended and historic bias. The YLS also earned a Comprehensive award, recognizing its broad range of pro gramming throughout the 2023–2024 bar year. Notably, the YLS received an Award of Achievement for Most Outstanding Single Project for exceptional service to its members. In the 2024-2025 bar year, the YLS will continue its commitment to creating and implementing programming that assists its members in becoming well rounded attorneys in the community. The ABA YLD has recognized several YLS programs in years past, including the Law Student Mentoring program, the CBA Law & Debate Club, the Work ing Women’s Legal Summit, the Lawyers Lend a Hand to Youth program, the CBA @theBar Podcast, the Law Committee’s Time’s Up on Workplace Harassment program, a four-week course on repre senting Spanish-speaking clients, and the YLS Racial Justice Commission’s public presentation “Preparing for Protest.” The YLS, founded in 1971, encourages young lawyers to work together on proj ects for their community and profession. It provides excellent opportunities for professional growth, community service, and networking to its about 7,000 mem bers, who include attorneys in their first 10 years of practice and law students. The YLS offers 28 committees, including sub stantive practice areas and public service offerings; implements member and public service projects; and hosts numerous sem inars and networking events. For further information, contact the Young Lawyers Section at 312‐554‐2070 or yls@chicagobar.org.

YLS Honored at the ABA’s Young Lawyers Division Meeting By Ann Glynn, CBA Public Affairs Director YLS Chair Kenneth A. Matuszewski connected with other Illinois YLD Delegates at the ABA meeting. From left: Taylor Tyler, Kassandra Morfin, Mathew Kerbis, Kari Gibson, and Kenneth A. Matuszewski.

T he CBA’s Young Lawyers Section received four awards from the American Bar Association at its annual meeting in Chicago. The ABA’s Young Lawyers Division presents annual Awards of Achievement to recognize local, state, and national YLD affiliates across the country for their contributions to the public and the betterment of the legal profession. The YLS earned 2024 awards in categories for Service to the Bar, Diversity, and Comprehensive. In the Service to the Bar category, the YLS was recognized for its intra professional networking event hosted in

October 2023. The event, sponsored by the YLS and the Illinois CPA Society and one of the year’s largest social programs, offered young lawyers and accountants an opportunity to network and make con nections. The YLS plans to host the event again in the 2024-2025 bar year. In the Diversity category, the YLS was recognized for a CLE program entitled “How to Recruit and Retain a Diverse Workforce,” which was held during 2024 YLS Diversity Week. The CLE, co-sponsored by the Cook County Bar Association, focused on implementing multidimensional recruitment practices

ARDC REGISTRATION UPDATE The Illinois ARDC will be sending the 2025 annual registration notice and all subsequent notices via email. Notices will not be mailed via the U.S. Postal Service. All Illinois attorneys are encouraged to sign in to the ARDC registration portal to ensure the ARDC has both a business and home email address. To sign in, go to www.iardc.org and click “Lawyer Registration” and then “Lawyer Account.”

CBA RECORD 13

The weekend included celebratory and award dinners, a reception by incoming ABA President Bill Bay from St. Louis, as well as various caucuses and meetings. Work also focused on preparations for the meeting of the ABA House of Del egates, the Association’s policy-making body, which meets at ABA annual and midyear meetings. The House, in exis tence since 1936, consists of 589 mem bers. I serve as one of the 72 local bar association delegates, having served since 2015 for the CBA. Past CBA President Daniel Kotin is the other CBA delegate (the number of bar association delegates is based on our bar size). Among the highlights of the first day of the House’s activities was a naturalization ceremony administered by Chief Judge Virginia Kendall from the U.S. District Court of Northern Illinois for nearly two dozen new citizens. Numerous resolutions were considered, including one urging the adoption of the “Statement of Principles to Preserve, Protect, and Defend the Con stitution, the Rule of Law, and American Democracy.” President Smith gave a pow erful statement on why the House should pass the same. Other resolutions passed, including one that would prohibit questions for bar applicants mandating disclosure or docu mentation of the applicant’s history as a victim of domestic violence, dating vio lence, sexual assault, sexual harassment, or stalking. In addition, a resolution was passed in support of efforts to get Con gress to implement the Equal Rights Amendment. Winston & Strawn partner Linda Coberly spoke to the House in sup port of passage of the resolution. Smith also gave her final remarks as president of the ABA. Highlights of her presidential year included a democracy summit, AI task force, the creation of the ABA’s first strategic plan, and a focus on the rule of law and democracy.

American Bar Association Meeting Returns to Chicago By Daniel Cotter

Every few years, thousands of lawyers descend on downtown Chicago, not to rock Lollapalooza, but to rock the ABA Annual Meeting. This year, attendees were greeted at registration with CBA Presi dent John Sciaccotta’s face on the cover of the CBA Record , with the special spread about things to do in Chicago during the meeting (see the July/August 2024 issue at www.chicagobar.org if you missed it). Outgoing ABA President Mary Smith oversaw a flurry of activity leading up to the meeting kickoff on July 31. As a long time CBA member, Smith has served on the CBA Board of Managers and is a recipient of the CBA/CBF Justice John Paul Stevens Award. A host committee helped plan what Smith promised would be the “best annual meeting ever!” She may have delivered. The opening networking recep tion, with hundreds of attorneys and local and state judges in attendance, was fol lowed up with numerous CLE programs around the city, with many CBA mem bers presenting. The Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Professionalism received the Judge William D. Missouri Award for leadership in promoting civil

ity, courtesy, and professionalism. Execu tive Director Erika Harold accepted the award on the Commission’s behalf. A key focus of the meeting was Smith’s Democracy Summit. It began with a lun cheon conversation with Ken Frazier of the American Law Institute and Carly Fiorina, former CEO of Hewlett-Pack ard, discussing threats to democracy and the role of lawyers. The luncheon also rec ognized Chicagoan Bill Kresse as an inau gural member of the Unsung Heroes of Democracy. Equip for Equality was also recognized. The Summit included an overview of the ABA Democracy Task Force and its work, followed by sessions on various topics, including democracy’s challenges and successes. Attendees received CLE through vari ous sections, forums, committees, and other ABA bodies. Among them were sessions sponsored by the National Con ference of Bar Presidents, which included keynotes from former Judge Paul Grimm on attacks on the judiciary and from Min ister of Justice to Poland Adam Bodnar on what happened in Poland with democracy and threats around the world.

Daniel A. Cotter is a member of Dickinson Wright, the 2024-25 President of the National Counsel of Bar Presidents, and a CBA Record Editorial Board member.

Learn more about the ABA annual meeting at www.americanbar.org.

14 September/October 2024

New Practice Area Committees Seek Members CBA Family Office Committee By Anthony Fata

T he CBA is pleased to announce the creation of a new law commit tee: the Family Office Committee, designed to support attorneys who coun sel family offices. “Family offices” may take many forms. At a high level, a family office is a private business entity whose employees manage the assets of a family with significant wealth. Or it may be a group of such entities. The assets man aged by a family office can include a wide range of, or a combination of, stocks, bonds, derivatives, real estate, private placements, other private entities, and other types of assets. Practitioners who provide legal counsel to family offices operate in a highly inter disciplinary environment. Among other

topics, the committee intends to explore corporate formation, business transac tions, investment management, corporate governance, taxation, risk management, and philanthropic endeavors. It will also address estate planning, succession plan ning, inter-generational issues, and sib ling issues. Although many of these topics arise in other contexts, the Family Office Com mittee will tackle them from the unique perspective of family office legal prac titioners. The committee will be highly collaborative, with plans for an advisory council to assist with programming and outreach to thought leaders and leading practitioners. Meetings, seminars, and other forums for members and guests will

discuss topics, trends, and current events impacting this complex practice area. Co-chairs for the 2024-25 bar year are immediate past CBA President Ray J. Koenig III, Clark Hill, Jenni fer F. Kuzminksi, Aronberg Goldgehn, Anthony R. Licata, Taft Law, and Nicho las Tyszka, Handler Law. The Family Office Committee plans to meet on the fourth Wednesday of the month.

Anthony F. Fata is a partner at Kirby McInerney LLP and a CBA Record Editorial Board member.

CBA Cannabis Law and Regulations Committee By Jake Berger

T he relatively new CBA Cannabis Law and Regulations Committee was formed to address legal and regulatory issues facing the burgeoning legal cannabis industry both in Illinois and nationally. Among the issues the com mittee focuses on are protecting cannabis companies’ intellectual property and trade secrets; business formation and structure; regulatory compliance and licensing; financing; selling or merging a cannabis business; how federal and state criminal law may impact a cannabis business; and criminal and regulatory legal reform.

Many of these issues were discussed in a recent seminar entitled “The ABC’s of Cannabis Law Practice.” The seminar, which is available at learn.chicagobar.org for CLE credit, is an excellent primer for people who desire to start a cannabis busi ness in Illinois or for lawyers who may advise them. Upcoming meetings and seminars will discuss a range of legal issues in the emerging cannabis space. The committee is chaired by former Chicago City Council Alderman Latasha R. Thomas, Senior Counsel at Clark Hill and the Managing Director of Clark Hill

Public Strategies. Thomas has extensive experience advising clients on transac tional and corporate law issues, includ ing public finance, real estate, complex mergers and acquisitions, and regulatory issues/government relations. Te committee will meet as called during the bar year .

Jake Berger is a partner at Tabet DiVito & Rothstein and a CBA Record Editorial Board member.

To join either committee, sign up at chicagobar.org or email Meredith Loehr, CBA Committee Coordinator, at mloehr@chicagobar.org.

CBA RECORD 15

Thank You CBA Committee Chairs!

Administrative Law John Matuszak , Naval Service Training Command Jon Karl Stromsta , Illinois Department of Employment Security Adoption Law Rachael Toft , Law Offices of Rachael Toft Alliance for Women Meghan M. O’Donnell , LexisNexis Alexandra R. Perraud , Davis Friedman LLP Alternative Dispute Resolution John Levitske , HKA Global, LLC Animal Law Tracy McGonigle , McKenna Law PC Anti-Human Trafficking Naderh H. Elrabadi , Elrabadi Law Robert W. Fioretti , Disparti Law Group Antitrust Law Kevin Goldstein , Winston & Strawn LLP Aviation Law Jackson B. Barnett , Barnett Law Offices Ryan M. Nolan , Nolan Law Group Bankruptcy and Reorganization Jason Shimotake , The Shimotake Law Firm, LLC Bankruptcy and Reorganization Subcommittee Receivership Legislation Allen J. Guon , Cozen O’Connor Bench & Bar Judge Lisa A. Marino , Cook County Circuit Court David Scriven-Young , O’Hagan Meyer Biometric Information and Privacy Law Mark W. Guest , Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith LLC Mary Ann Smigielski , Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith LLP Business Divorce and Complex Ownership Disputes Jerry Holisky , Aronberg Goldgehn John C. Sciaccotta , Aronberg Goldgehn Business Transactions David A. Johnson , Aronberg Goldgehn

CBA Chorus Sean M. Hoffman Allyn J. Wilcox CBA Record Editorial Board Justice Michael B. Hyman , Illinois Appellate Court Anne E. Ellis , 2E Services LLC Child Law Helene M. Snyder Civics John C. Sciaccotta , Aronberg Goldgehn Civil Practice Judge Nicole L. Castillo , Circuit Court of Cook County Megan S. Webster , Mayer Brown LLP Class Action Matthew J. Goldstein , Wallace Miller Commercial Finance and Transactions Max Novak , McGuireWoods LLP Commercial Litigation Joshua Burday , Neal, Gerber & Eisenberg Garreth A. DeVoe , Harris Winick Harris LLP David J. Scriven-Young , O’Hagan Meyer Commercial Real Property Law Penelope P. Campbell , Croke Fairchild Duarte & Beres Larry N. Woodard , K&L Gates Commercial Real Property Subcommittees: AIA Contract Margery Newman , Downey & Lenkov LLC Construction Law and Mechanics Lien Chris J. Chasin , Duane Morris LLP Edward Keating , Duane Morris LLP Consumer Credit Sarah M. Albert , CTM Legal Group Lawrence A. Stein , Stein Law Firm LLC Consumer Law Mia K. Segal Continuing Legal Education Gail S. Eisenberg , Loftus & Eisenberg, Ltd. Malcolm “Skip” Harsch , American Bar Association Criminal Law Francis B. Baumgart , Francis Baumgart & Associates Thomas Eric Ost , Attorney at Law

Cyber Law and Data Privacy Matthew E. Loar , F5, Inc. DICE (Diversity, Inclusion, Culture, Equity and Engagement) DaToya J. Burtin-Cox , Oak Park Township Judge Tracie R. Porter , Circuit Court of Cook County Domestic Relations Colleen M. Breems , Beermann LLP Lindsay Saylors , Kollias, P.C. Domestic Relations Subcommittee Legislation Kevin P. Curran , Life Span Elder & Disability Law Hayley P. Damian , Joseph W Pieper, Attorney At Law, LLC Ross D. Secler , Odelson, Murphey, Frazier, & McGrath, Ltd Election Law Ross D. Secler , Odelson, Murphey, Frazier, & McGrath, Ltd Energy, Telecommunications and Water LeDeidre Turner , ComEd Monique Patton Woody , ComEd Environmental Law Daniel W. Bourgault , Klein, Thorpe and Jenkins, Ltd. Andrew Nishioka , Nijman Franzetti, LLP Family Office Ray J. Koenig , Clark Hill PLC JenniferF. Kuzminski , Aronberg Goldgehn Anthony R. Licata , Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP T. Nicholas Tyszka , Handler Law, LLP Federal Civil Practice Martin R. Martos , Fox Rothschild LLP Federal Taxation Maureen L. Hawkins , OfferTax Federal Taxation Subcommittee: Exempt Organizations Erica L. Spangler Raz , Spangler Raz Law & Consulting Jacob L. Zerkle , Polsinelli PC Finance Jonathan B. Amarilio , Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP Financial and Emerging Technologies Tien Glaub , City of Chicago, Department of Administrative Hearings

Cannabis Law and Regulations Latasha R. Thomas , Clark Hill

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Financial Institutions Paulina Garga-Chmiel , Dykema Gossett Food and Beverage Law Kevin O’Brien Gerow , Christopoulos Law Group LLC Futures and Derivatives Law Sarah V. Riddell, Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP Conor D. Weber , CME Group Gaming Law Cory J. Aronovitz , The Casino Law Group Health Law Micaela Enger , McGuire Woods LLP Immigration and Nationality Law John W. Heiderscheidt , HLG, LLC In-Court Lawyer Referral Steven R. Decker , Law Offices of Steven R. Decker Insurance Law Daniel A, Cotter , Dickinson Wright Bradley H. Dlatt , Perkins Coie LLP Intellectual Property Law Manon L. Burns , Amin Talati Wasserman International and Foreign Law Kevin A. Thompson , Levin Ginsburg Lisa M. Zambito , Mars, Inc. Judicial Evaluation Michelle L. Carey , Servpro Labor and Employment Law Mary Ann Smigielski , Lewis Brisbois Khara Coleman , Cook County Sheriff’s Office Law Practice Management & Technology Jay McAllister , Paragon Tech Kevin A. Thompson , Levin Ginsburg Lawyer Referral Service Regina P. Etherton , Regina P. Etherton & Associates, LLC Legal Aid Aisha C. Edwards , Cabrini Green Legal Aid Legislative Noah J. Graf LGBTQA+ Justin I. Sia , Chicago Public Schools Bisgaard & Smith LLP Law and Literature Robert F. Brunn

Local Government Daniel W. Bourgault , Klein, Thorpe and Jenkins, Ltd. Media & Entertainment Law Rolando Curington , Curington Law, LLC Christopher Diaguila , McCarthy Duffy LLP Jonathan S. Safron , Amundsen Davis Membership Kathryn C. Liss , Depaul University College of Law Mental Health and Disability Law John W. Whitcomb , Monahan Law Group Modern Law Practice Amanda Carey , The Carey Center for Justice Amy E. Cook , Amy Cook Law LLC Shunte S. Goss , Legal Remedy, LLC Municipal and Law Judge James M. McGing (ret.), Miller McGing Law Judge Thomas A. Morrissey , Circuit Court of Cook County Past Presidents David C. Hilliard , Pattishall McAuliffe Newbury Hilliard & Geraldson Probate Practice Mallory A. Moreno , Chuhak & Tecson, P.C. Probate Practice Subcommittee: Rules and Forms Jesse A. Footlik , Peck Ritchey LLC Professional Fees Stephanie L. Stewart , Robinson Stewart Montgomery & Doppke Professional Responsibility Jeremy N. Boeder , Tribler Orpett & Meyer Jefferey O. Katz , The Katz Law Firm, P.C. Public Affairs Robert D. Kreisman , Kreisman Law Offices Real Estate Taxation Dora M. Cornelio , Schmidt Salzman & Moran Ltd. Real Estate Taxation Subcommittees: Assessment & Appeals Michael R. O’Malley , Kovitz, Shifrin, Nesbit Tax Sale Tax Deed Terry J. Carter , Carter Legal Group PC

Regulatory & Compliance Judith S. Sherwin , Aronberg Goldgehn Residential Real Property Law Robert D. Floss , Floss Law, LLC Justin Strane , Front Door Legal LLC Residential Real Property Subcommittees: Condominium Omar K. Malik , Kovitz Shifrin Nesbit Landlord and Tenant Michael J. Zink , Starr Bejgiert Zink & Rowells Social Security Law Andrew A, Barone , The Law Office of Andrew A. Barone, LLC Solo/Small Firm Practitioners Mathew Kerbis , Subscription Attorney LLC Charles Krugel , Charles A. Krugel and Associates Sports Law Benjamin M. Shrader , Publicis Re-sources State and Local Tax Michael Gamboa , Indirect Tax Services Symphony Orchestra Katherine A, Marshall , Northern Trust Kenneth A. Matuszewski , Attorney at Law Tort Litigation Jack A. Gould , Swanson Martin & Bell LLP Elizabeth A. Kaveny , Kaveny + Kroll LLC Trade/Professional Associations Law Edward R. McMurray , Levin Ginsburg Trial Practice James V. Campbell , MRHFM Trust Law Theresa Marks , CIBC Private Wealth Advisors Inc. Unauthorized Practice & Multidisciplinary Practice Myrrha B. Guzman , ARDC Scott Kozlov , Cook County Clerk’s Office Well-Being & Mindfulness Gina Crumble , Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office Karen Munoz , Dolan Law Offices

Workers’ Compensation Brien J. DiNella , Ankin Law

Join today at www.chicagobar.org/committees. Descriptions, meeting dates and topics, and chair contact information available at www.chicagobar.org. Questions? Email mloeher@chicagobar.org.

Information current as of August 16, 2024.

CBA RECORD 17

Chicago Bar Foundation Report

Left to right: CBA President John C. Sciaccotta, Aronberg Goldgehn; Lisa Palumbo, Legal Aid Chicago; Mike Lehrman, Baker McKenzie LLP; Corina Oprea, Mondelez International, Inc.; John “Jay” Reidy, AT&T; Natiera Robinson, Ascend Justice; William J. Barrett, Barack Ferrazzano Kirschbaum & Nagelberg LLP; Jenna Stupar, Kirkland & Ellis LLP; CBF Board President Sang-yul Lee, K&L Gates; and Kate Mitchell, Loyola University of Chicago School of Law. Celebrating Our Community’s Pro Bono and Public Service Heroes By Emme Veenbaas, CBF Senior Manager of Communications & Events

M ore than 450 people came together at the Hilton Chi cago in July to honor seven heroes in our legal commu nity at the CBA and CBF 26 th Annual Pro Bono and Public Service Awards Luncheon. The event again underscored that no matter where we are in the legal profession, we have a unique ability to make our community a better place by improv ing access to justice for people who are most in need. Here’s more on this year’s inspiring award recipients: Kimball R. Anderson and Karen Gatsis Anderson Public Interest Fellowship Natiera Robinson’s commitment to public interest work began while she was in high school. Her personal experiences fueled her passion for making a difference in the lives of people who lack access to proper resources. At Ascend Justice, Robinson works as a staff attorney in the Incarcerated Survivors Program, where she provides family law services for people who are incarcerated and are survivors of gen der-based violence. She also works to connect them with crucial

resources, such as DCFS caseworkers and mental health coun selors. Her dedication extends to supporting families affected by maternal incarceration, earning her the nickname “The Grandma Whisperer” for her ability to build trust with grandmothers navi gating complex legal and welfare systems. Robinson’s commitment to both Ascend Justice and to nur turing future leaders embodies the spirit of the Anderson Fellow ship. The fellowship’s $25,000 award will help lessen the burden of Robinson’s student debt and will enable her to continue her advocacy for criminalized survivors and their families at Ascend Justice. Justice Thomas L. Kilbride Public Service Award Judge Janet S. Baer has shown an exemplary commitment to improving access to justice and to making the courts more equitable for parties — a commitment that began long before her judicial appointment. As a distinguished judge of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court since 2012, Judge Baer is renowned for her expertise and fairness in the

18 September/October 2024