If you’re not an ISBA author, you’re missing a great opportunity.
- Earn MCLE credit
According to Rule 795(d)(7) of the Supreme Court of Illinois' Minimum Continuing Legal Education Rules, authors who write qualifying “law-related articles in responsible legal journals or other legal sources” can get MCLE credit. And now there’s no fee to file with the MCLE Board.
- Build your resume
Each year, thousands of new lawyers enter the workforce. And with jobs diminishing, firms can afford to demand the best and brightest. Publishing is critical to standing out in the crowd. So whether you’re looking for a job or want to prove your indispensability, getting published is essential.
- See your name in print
Admit it—there’s just something thrilling about having your name published. And when thousands of your peers see it, isn’t that even better?
- Market your firm
Advertising can be expensive, but with your byline you can give your firm exposure and boost its reputation among other lawyers— for free! - Become a part of caselaw
For the first time ever, the Illinois Supreme Court cited an ISBA newsletter in one of its decisions. Attorney Matthew Kirsh’s article, “When is a Declaratory Judgment Not a Declaratory Judgment” in the January 2007 issue of Family Law, now bears the official citation of 50 Illinois State Bar Association Family Law Newsletter 4-6 (January 2007). - Use what you already know
Chances are you’ve written a brief or summary of a current case. Why not publish it and help other attorneys benefit from the work you’ve done?
- Raise your profile
The more you do, the more opportunities arise. Authors are commonly viewed as leaders on their subject and therefore are invited to speak at CLE programs.
What we publish
Illinois Bar Journal
Our award-winning magazine, Illinois Bar Journal, is mailed monthly to members. Members also have access to archives of issues going back to 1998 online. Email Pete Sherman at psherman@isba.org to learn more, or read the Manuscript Guidesheet.
Section Newsletters
More than 40 section newsletters titles are emailed at least four times a year to members of each section and are available both in HTML and PDF formats. Find out about writing for an ISBA newsletter or Email Celeste Niemann at cniemann@isba.org to learn more.
Need help finding a topic?
Here’s just a sampling of the types of articles you could provide:
- Case updates/analysis
- New/proposed legislation
- News and trends in your area of practice
- Book reviews