by NWSidebar
Caucasian young adult woman standing in courtroom raising right hand while swearing oath during legal proceedings with judge and attorneys observing in background

My Journey Through WSBA’s Trial Advocacy Program

A few years ago, I was burning out in my legal career. Picking myself up from burnout meant that there was nowhere to go but up. My recovery led me to realign and repurpose—a last ditch Hail Mary to stop me from leaving a profession that I had dreamt of since I was 7 years old. That pivot resulted in the creation of my law firm “LawMera”—a name that’s as bold as its mission. (Pronounced “la mera,” a play on Spanish words meaning the “the top boss lady, the […]

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by NWSidebar
Group of diverse lawyers and one Disabled Man in a work meeting

Handling Investigations in High-Risk Workplace Situations 

Employers face ongoing challenges in handling discrimination and harassment investigations. Key issues include managing retaliation concerns from witnesses, addressing the presence of represented parties, and ensuring effective communication with impacted employees. Properly conducted investigations are essential to sustain a compliant workplace and prevent costly claims and lawsuits.

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by NWSidebar
Diverse group of lawyers

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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by NWSidebar

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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by NWSidebar
A lawyer use combination of AI technology.

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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