Illinois Pattern Jury instruction 12.05 and Reversible Error
Illinois Pattern Jury Instruction 12.05 relates to the negligence of a third party. There are two paragraphs to the instruction, however courts, at their discretion, may opt to omit the second paragraph if the court determines it does not apply. This omission, however, can be seriously prejudicial to a Defendant’s case and ultimately to the […]
The Practice: How to Create Reusable Forms
Frequently the practice of law uses form documents. It can be tremendously time consuming and ultimately costly to the client, to recreate these similar documents over and over. Don’t re-invent the wheel. Below is an easy way to use Microsoft Word to create fill-in-the-blank type forms that your or your clients can use simply and […]
Denying Subsequent Remedial Measures
Illinois courts have held that evidence of subsequent repairs is not admissible for the purpose of showing prior negligence, but is admissible for the purpose of showing who had control of the premises on which the injury occurred when control is an issue. (Kellems v. Schiele, 297 Ill. App. 388, 17 N.E.2d 604 (1938)). If […]
Social Media Laws: Protecting Your Privacy
Employers in California and Illinois are now prohibited from demanding access to workers’ password-protected social networking accounts thanks to new laws taking effect in 2013. Additionally three more states have jumped on the bandwagon. Arkansas, New Mexico and Utah have all passed legislation to prevent employers from requiring employees to hand over their usernames and […]
From Poor to Rich
Missouri v. McNeely: New DUI Standards
The Supreme Court, in Missouri v. McNeely, ruled that blood tests in DUI investigations require warrants. The court held specifically that, in drunk-driving investigations, the natural dissipation of alcohol in the bloodstream does not constitute an exigency in every case sufficient to justify conducting a blood test without a warrant. You can read the entire […]
Starting a Company? 8 Free Online Courses
For anyone looking to start a business or just sharpen their skills. Inc.com has a helpful list of 8 free online business courses designed for entrepreneurs. Check it out: Starting a Company? 8 Free Online Courses You Can't Miss | Inc.com.
What to do if You’re in an Auto Accident
Auto accidents happen hundreds of times per day. When you get in an accident, there are a few things you need to do to ensure that you are making the best of a bad situation. I deal with many of these issues throughout my practice. Here are some helpful tips from State Farm in the […]
How to Incorporate Your New Business
Many of us dream of starting our own business. This entrepreneurial spirit is what drives America, but before you take the leap, make sure you know how to properly incorporate. First, decide what type of business you want. If you are the only owner of the business, you are a “sole proprietor”. There is no government filing […]
Microsoft Being Probed For Bribery By U.S. Investigators
Interesting read.