Pleading and proving claims for a duty of additional care by a common carrier because of a passenger’s alcohol intoxication is challenging and difficult. Therefore, writes Gerald T. Donoghue in his August Illinois Bar Journal article, “Intoxicated Passengers and Common Carriers,” it is important for plaintiff attorneys to carefully screen intoxicated-passenger cases before seeking to litigate.

Trusts, of course, are frequently utilized as asset-protection mechanisms. Still, writes Ira N. Helfgot in his August Illinois Bar Journal article, “From Illinois to Delaware,” many creditors are unfamiliar with how to proceed with collecting from trusts, particularly from Delaware trusts. Helfgot offers a primer for creditors attempting to collect their judgments against Illinois and Delaware trusts and explains what attorneys need to know about the differences between Delaware and Illinois trust instruments. 

In May 2020, the Illinois Supreme Court endorsed videoconferencing technology in civil trials. In his July Illinois Bar Journal article, “The Wi-Fi Witness,” Michael Adler recalls how he implemented this new technology in a 2021 medical malpractice case. Adler found that it is more cost effective, makes witness scheduling and trial preparation easier, and is more effective than prerecorded evidence depositions. Whether COVID-19 is still around or long gone, Adler writes, live remote witnesses via videoconferencing is a great tool for any Illinois trial attorney.

Prior to initiating civil litigation, lawyers often attempt to resolve matters by sending a prelitigation demand—often through a demand letter—instead of immediately filing a lawsuit. Prelawsuit demands can be a cost-efficient way to avoid litigation by demanding relief or putting the opposing side on notice of potential litigation. However, what happens when a client has a civil claim and a potential criminal claim or professional discipline complaint that can be brought against an opposing party or their counsel?