Although modern technology has evolved by leaps and bounds, the use of technology in the legal community has moved a bit more slowly because attorneys are hesitant to take risks on the unknown. This full-day seminar in Chicago or via live webcast on Friday, October 28, 2016 shows you how technology can boost efficiency and professionalism in your practice and gives you the confidence you need to use it. As an attendee, you will learn: how to use Office 365 in your practice; new ways to energize yourself and handle the stresses of technology and the demands of your practice; how technology can help you manage deadlines and get compensated for your time; which technology tips you can and should begin incorporating into your practice; new techniques for establishing great communication with clients, jurors, and judges; how to monitor and protect your online reputation; the ethical issues that can arise when using technology in your practice; how to share documents electronically; and much more!

Early in 2016 the Illinois Supreme Court entered order M.R. 18368, which set the timeline for mandatory e-filing statewide. By July 1, 2017, e-filing of civil cases will be mandatory for the Illinois Supreme and Appellate Courts. Beginning January 1, 2018, e-filing of civil cases will be mandatory in all Illinois circuit courts. In anticipation of these deadlines, the Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts (AOIC) hired Texas-based Tyler Technologies to roll out a centralized, statewide e-filing system. Tyler's Odyssey File & Serve platform is currently used in 19 states. According to AOIC Director Michael Tardy, the unified e-filing system will increase efficiency and streamline the litigation process for lawyers and pro se litigants. Tardy says the decision to use Tyler was based in part on the company's success providing statewide e-filing for Indiana (a state half the size of Illinois) and Texas (a state twice the size). He also says that SB 3162, signed into law on August 19, 2016 and now PA 99-0859, imposes court automation fees which will be used to get e-filing "up and running." Given that the court has set a hard deadline for compliance with its order, Tardy says that the court system will continue to find ways to make statewide e-filing a reality. Find out more about mandatory e-filing, including why clerks of the Illinois Appellate Court are worried about the looming deadline, in the October Illinois Bar Journal.

Lead in Water, Who's Problem is It? Tuesday, October 25, 2016, Noon to 1:00 p.m. ISBA Chicago Office (map and directions) 20 S. Clark, Suite 900 Chicago, IL 60603 312-726-8775 The ISBA Environmental Law Section Council is pleased to invite you to join us to hear Justin DeWitt and Kathryn Pamenter speak at our October 25, 2016, Professional Development Luncheon on the challenges we face regarding lead in water. This panel presentation will include an in-depth look at Senate Bill 550, which requires schools to test for lead in drinking and cooking water sources.

Celebrate Pro Bono Week October 24-28 with various programs and events across the state. By Michael G. Bergmann Coordinated by the American Bar Association’s Standing Committee on Pro Bono and Public Service, Pro Bono Week is intended to inspire even greater pro bono participation by lawyers throughout the nation. This initiative provides an opportunity for legal organizations across the country to collaboratively commemorate the vitally important contributions of America’s lawyers and to recruit and train the many additional volunteers required to meet the growing demand. The Standing Committee on Pro Bono and Public Service undertook this initiative to provide a format for showcasing the incredible difference that pro bono lawyers make to our nation, to our system of justice, to our communities and, most of all, to the clients they serve. For more information, visit www.celebrateprobono.org.