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Minneapolis and Unity: The Meaning Behind the WSBA Statement

Whomever you are, you likely have an opinion—a strong opinion—about the killings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. WSBA President Francis Adewale and Executive Director Terra Nevitt issue a call for reunification around what binds all legal professionals and our communities: confidence in the rule of law. In the brief interview that follows Adewale and Nevitt explain why they wrote their statement, what they hope to accomplish alongside other Washington legal professionals, and what all legal professionals can do.

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Alaska and Oregon Speak to ‘Actual Innocence’ Requirement for Malpractice Claims

The “actual innocence” requirement in legal malpractice claims against criminal defense attorneys necessitates plaintiffs to prove they did not commit the crime linked to alleged negligence. Jurisdictions like Washington, Alaska, and Oregon have their variations, complicating malpractice lawsuits. Recent cases reveal nuances that could shape future interpretations and applications of this requirement.

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New Advisory Opinion on Use of Nonpracticing Lawyer’s Name after Purchase of Practice

A recent Advisory Opinion clarifies that a purchasing lawyer cannot use the selling lawyer’s name in their firm name after buying a law practice. This prohibition, rooted in professional conduct rules, aims to prevent misleading communications about lawyers’ affiliations, ensuring transparency and protecting clients’ understanding. Ethical compliance is emphasized.

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Navigating the Ethical Use of AI in Law Practice

Artificial intelligence is reshaping the legal field, prompting the need for lawyers to address ethical considerations outlined in Advisory Opinion 202505. Key duties include competence, diligence, confidentiality, communication, candor, supervision, and reasonable billing. As AI evolves, lawyers must remain informed and prioritize client interests while ensuring ethical responsibility.

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LawTok and Law Rocks Featured in New Issue of Bar News

Lawyers are creatively utilizing TikTok, specifically through the #LawTok hashtag, to share legal insights and connect with audiences, transforming legal education by providing accessible information. Additionally, the Washington State Bar News features Law Rocks Seattle, a musical event for legal professionals, showcasing their talents while supporting charitable causes.

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Court of Appeals Finds Receiver Controls Corporation’s Attorney-Client Privilege

The Washington Court of Appeals recently ruled on attorney-client privilege in receivership cases, affirming that a receiver can control a corporation’s privilege. In the Matter of Elcon Corporation, the court held the receiver can compel the production of privileged emails from Elcon, consistent with RCW 7.60.060(1)(c) and bankruptcy precedent.

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The Top 10 NWSidebar Posts of 2025

The year 2025 has been marked by dramatic events and societal shifts, including environmental disasters and emerging technologies. NWSidebar highlighted key legal topics such as ethics in reporting client data, the implications of AI in law, and issues surrounding hiring in public defense. These discussions reflect the evolving landscape of legal practice amidst broader societal changes.

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Federal Court Discusses Standard of Care for LPO Malpractice Claims

A federal district court in Seattle examined malpractice claims against Limited Practice Officers (LPOs) under Washington law. In Sadr v. Oney, the court ruled that while the LPO used approved forms, it was not subject to attorney standards of care, differentiating it from past cases. This decision contributes to limited jurisprudence on LPO malpractice.