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# Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C.
Wisconsin Injury, Estate, and Family Attorneys
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## Posts
- [What Is a Parenting Coordinator in Wisconsin?](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-is-a-parenting-coordinator-in-wisconsin/) - High-conflict family law disputes have a way of grinding everyone down. The parents are exhausted, the children are caught in the middle, and the court docket fills up with cases that don't need a judge's attention. A parenting coordinator can change that dynamic. And when the parenting coordinator is also a family law attorney, you
- [Parent Coordinator vs. Guardian ad Litem: Understanding the Difference in Wisconsin Post-Judgment Family Law Cases](https://www.pbclaw.com/parent-coordinator-vs-guardian-ad-litem-understanding-the-difference-in-wisconsin-post-judgment-family-law-cases/) - When parents continue to struggle after a divorce or custody judgment has been entered, the conflict often shifts from major legal issues to recurring disputes over day-to-day parenting decisions. These cases can consume significant emotional, financial, and judicial resources while exposing children to ongoing conflict. In Wisconsin, two professionals who could be involved in helping
- [What’s the Difference Between a Personal Injury and a Workers’ Compensation Case?](https://www.pbclaw.com/whats-the-difference-between-a-personal-injury-and-a-workers-compensation-case/) - When someone is hurt on the job, the first question we hear is almost always some version of "do I have a workers' comp case or a personal injury claim?" Honest answer: sometimes it's one, sometimes it's the other, and sometimes it's both at the same time. That overlap means some people leaving real money
- [Who Is Responsible After an RV Accident in Wisconsin?](https://www.pbclaw.com/who-is-responsible-after-an-rv-accident-in-wisconsin/) - If you or someone you love was hurt in an accident involving an RV or motorhome in Wisconsin, you have options. At the law firm of Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C., our personal injury lawyers have years of experiene successfully representing people injured due to the negligence of others. Let us help you obtain compensation
- [Announcing Devin C. Shanley Becoming a Partner at PBC Law](https://www.pbclaw.com/announcing-devin-c-shanley-becoming-a-partner-at-pbc-law/) - Some announcements feel like a formality. This one feels like a celebration. We are so pleased to share that Devin C. Shanley has been named a partner at Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C., effective June 1, 2026. For the clients who have trusted Devin with some of the most personal decisions of their lives, and
- [Avram Berk recently recertified as a Certified Civil Trial & Civil Pretrial Practice Specialist by the NBTA](https://www.pbclaw.com/avram-berk-recently-recertified-as-a-certified-civil-trial-civil-pretrial-practice-specialist-by-the-nbta/) - We are proud to share some genuinely meaningful firm news. Attorney Avram "Avi" Berk of Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C., has recently been recertified by the National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA) as both a Certified Civil Trial Specialist and a Certified Civil Pretrial Practice Specialist. That is a dual certification, and it is not
- [Can I Get Compensation for Both My Injuries and My Car’s Damage?](https://www.pbclaw.com/can-i-get-compensation-for-both-my-injuries-and-my-cars-damage/) - After a car accident, many people wonder what kind of financial recovery they can get. In short, you typically can pursue compensation for both your injuries and property damage. But Wisconsin law creates some complexities around how these claims work together. Understanding your rights after a car or truck crash becomes crucial when you're facing
- [Are My Medical Expenses Considered After a Major Car Accident?](https://www.pbclaw.com/are-my-medical-expenses-considered-after-a-major-car-accident/) - After a serious car accident, medical bills start arriving before you've even had time to process what happened. The financial reality hits fast, and understanding how these expenses get calculated can make the difference between proper compensation and financial devastation. When dealing with auto accident claims, the medical expense calculation process involves multiple parties, each
- [Who Gets the Dog? Pets and Divorce in Wisconsin](https://www.pbclaw.com/who-gets-the-dog-pets-and-divorce-in-wisconsin/) - For many families, pets are more than companions—they are part of the family. So, when a relationship ends, one surprisingly emotional question often arises: Who keeps the pet? While people may think of themselves as “pet parents,” the law approaches the issue a bit differently. In Wisconsin, pets are generally considered personal property. This means
- [Do I Have to Go? When Teens Resist the Placement Schedule](https://www.pbclaw.com/do-i-have-to-go-when-teens-resist-the-placement-schedule/) - It often starts with a simple protest: “I don’t want to go.” As children grow into teenagers, it is not uncommon for them to voice opinions about where they want to spend their time. While these feelings are a normal part of adolescence, they can create stress for parents trying to follow a court-ordered placement
- [Can I Move Away with the Kids? What Wisconsin Parents Should Know About Relocation](https://www.pbclaw.com/can-i-move-away-with-the-kids-what-wisconsin-parents-should-know-about-relocation/) - A new job opportunity. A chance to be closer to family. A fresh start after divorce. There are many valid reasons a parent may want to move, but when children are involved, relocating is not always as simple as packing boxes and forwarding your mail. In Wisconsin, if a parent wishes to move a significant
- [Variable Expenses in Wisconsin Family Law: Planning Ahead for Shared Costs](https://www.pbclaw.com/variable-expenses-in-wisconsin-family-law-planning-ahead-for-shared-costs/) - When parents separate or divorce, child support is often top of mind. However, another important financial component that should not be overlooked is variable expenses. Clearly addressing these costs in a family court order can help parents avoid confusion, reduce conflict, and ensure their child’s needs are met. Variable expenses are the reasonable costs associated
- [Understanding Contempt in Wisconsin Family Court](https://www.pbclaw.com/understanding-contempt-in-wisconsin-family-court/) - Court orders issued in family law cases are legally binding. Whether the order addresses placement, child support, maintenance, or another obligation, both parties are expected to follow it. When a person intentionally fails to comply with a court order, the court may find them in contempt. In Wisconsin, contempt generally occurs when someone has the
- [Understanding Child Support in Wisconsin: What Parents Should Know](https://www.pbclaw.com/understanding-child-support-in-wisconsin-what-parents-should-know/) - Child support plays a vital role in helping children maintain stability after their parents separate or divorce. In Wisconsin, child support is calculated using statewide guidelines intended to ensure consistency while focusing on the best interests of the child. Most child support orders are based on the “percentage standard,” which calculates support using the paying
- [What You Should Know About Passing Down Your Family Business in Wisconsin](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-you-should-know-about-passing-down-your-family-business-in-wisconsin/) - You’ve worked your whole life to build a successful business, and your legacy deserves to stay in the family for generations to come. But it will take more than a handshake and a hug to make this happen. You’ll need to make careful estate planning choices to make sure your nearest and dearest continue to
- [Can I Recover Lifetime Benefits After a Catastrophic Accident?](https://www.pbclaw.com/can-i-recover-lifetime-benefits-after-a-catastrophic-accident/) - A catastrophic accident changes everything in an instant. Whether it's a severe spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, or multiple trauma that leaves you permanently disabled, the financial implications extend far beyond your initial medical bills. The question isn't just about covering immediate expenses but securing the resources you'll need for decades of ongoing care,
- [What Does Probate Involve?](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-does-probate-involve/) - Probate frightens many but is just a court process with distinct phases. Understanding these phases of probate allows us to appreciate the process and determine whether probate is the right strategy. Starting This involves finding the will of the person who has died (the “decedent”) and determining who will manage the decedent’s final affairs (the
- [Pa Kent’s Co-Parenting Advice](https://www.pbclaw.com/pa-kents-co-parenting-advice/) - SPOILERS FOR THOSE WHO HAVE NOT SEEN SUPERMAN (2025) In Superman, Clark faces a series of troubles brought upon him by Lex Luthor. In the movie Clark was inspired to heroics due to an incomplete message from his biological parents advising him to help his newly adopted world. Luthor undermines Superman publicly exposing the full
- [Nonprobate Transfers – Your Hidden Estate Plan](https://www.pbclaw.com/nonprobate-transfers-your-hidden-estate-plan/) - One of the most common goals for individuals and couples going through the estate planning process is avoiding probate. This is understandable; probate is a complicated process that can seem cumbersome at times. It is also fairly public for better or worse. Often people want their money to go to their loved ones as quickly
- [Why is Meeting With an Estate Planning Attorney Important?](https://www.pbclaw.com/why-is-meeting-with-an-estate-planning-attorney-important/) - The average person’s understanding of a lawyer’s job is often shaped by movies and television. People like to think of lawyers as aggressive litigators arguing in the courtroom or sharp dressed corporate attorneys negotiating complex multimillion-dollar contracts. Sometimes these stories are accurate and sometimes they’re just fiction, but the truth is that there are countless
- [4 Steps to Take When a Loved One Dies](https://www.pbclaw.com/4-steps-to-take-when-a-loved-one-dies/) - It’s a day we all dread. The day when you are informed that someone you have loved has died. Once the shock dissipates, we are often left with a cold thought: what happens next? Here are four simple steps that you should do to help start managing your loved one’s final affairs: Step 1: Find
- [Amy M. Risseeuw named in Top 25 Women and Top 50 Super Lawyers in Wisconsin](https://www.pbclaw.com/amy-m-risseeuw-named-in-top-25-women-and-top-50-super-lawyers-in-wisconsin/) - Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C., is proud to announce that Amy M. Risseeuw has been named to both the Top 25 Women and Top 50 Super Lawyers in Wisconsin for 2025. This recognition reflects her exceptional dedication to client advocacy and her standing among Wisconsin's most distinguished legal professionals. Risseeuw's inclusion in these prestigious lists
- [Who Gets the Family Dog? Navigating Pet Custody in Wisconsin Divorces](https://www.pbclaw.com/who-gets-the-family-dog-navigating-pet-custody-in-wisconsin-divorces/) - By Stacy J. Schlemmer, Partner & Family Law Attorney, Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. Legally, Wisconsin still treats pets as "personal property." However, modern judges are increasingly open to custom "Pet Parenting Plans" if pet parents can agree. Without an agreement, the court will likely award the pet to one person based on ownership and
- [Silver Divorce in Wisconsin](https://www.pbclaw.com/silver-divorce-in-wisconsin/) - by Stacy J. Schlemmer, Partner & Family Law Attorney, Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. While divorces among Millennials is less than 50 percent and continues to decline, Silver Divorce rates continue to rise in Wisconsin and throughout the United States. Divorcing after age 50 (a "Silver Divorce") isn't about custody battles—it’s about protecting your retirement,
- [Child Support Myths: Why 50/50 Placement Doesn’t Mean $0](https://www.pbclaw.com/child-support-myths-why-50-50-placement-doesnt-mean-0/) - By Stacy J. Schlemmer, Partner & Family Law Attorney, Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. One of the most common misconceptions in Wisconsin family law is that equal shared placement (50/50) automatically cancels out child support. In reality, Wisconsin uses a "Shared-Payer" formula that considers both parents' incomes when parents have shared placement. If there is
- [Social Media & Divorce: The 2026 Survival Guide](https://www.pbclaw.com/social-media-divorce-the-2026-survival-guide/) - By Stacy J. Schlemmer, Partner & Family Law Attorney, Peterson, Berk & Cross, SC In 2026, there is no such thing as a "private" post in a Wisconsin courtroom. Your digital footprint—from Venmo receipts to "deleted" TikToks—is the #1 source of evidence in modern divorce and custody cases. If you wouldn’t want a judge to
- [The importance of placement specifics in orders](https://www.pbclaw.com/the-importance-of-placement-specifics-in-orders/) - When you have a final placement order, it is important to include the day-to-day placement schedule and a holiday placement schedule. The reason to have these specific placement schedules included in your order, is so that if there is ever a dispute between the parents, you have a fall-back to resolve the issue (hopefully) outside
- [The importance of vacation placement language](https://www.pbclaw.com/the-importance-of-vacation-placement-language/) - When you have a final placement order, it is important to include a vacation placement schedule. There are numerous options for language to include under a vacation placement provision. It would be wise to have language in your court order explaining what information parents need to exchange concerning vacations with the children. Common examples of
- [Who Can Be Held Responsible for a Boat Accident in Wisconsin?](https://www.pbclaw.com/who-can-be-held-responsible-for-a-boat-accident-in-wisconsin/) - Wisconsin's lakes and rivers attract boaters year-round, but accidents still happen. When they do, injured people often wonder who is legally responsible. Wisconsin law allows more than one party to be at fault, depending on what caused the boating accident and whether safety rules were broken. The Boat Operator In many boating accidents, the person
- [Peterson, Berk & Cross moves to new location due to growth](https://www.pbclaw.com/peterson-berk-cross-moves-to-new-location-due-to-growth/)
- [What Are the Legal Requirements for Signing a Will in Wisconsin?](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-are-the-legal-requirements-for-signing-a-will-in-wisconsin/) - If you've decided that now is the time to create an estate plan to protect your assets and your family's future, you probably have questions. To get the answers to those questions, turn to an experienced estate planning law firm like Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C., has over 150 years
- [Does Wisconsin Use a No-Fault System for Car Accidents?](https://www.pbclaw.com/does-wisconsin-use-a-no-fault-system-for-car-accidents/) - Despite being, for lack of another word, "common," car accidents can be one of the most distressing things to deal with. Accidents can cause life-altering...
- [What Are the Challenges of Estate Planning for High-Net-Worth Individuals in Wisconsin?](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-are-the-challenges-of-estate-planning-for-high-net-worth-individuals-in-wisconsin/) - Individuals who hold substantial wealth may create an estate plan to manage their assets during their life and direct the distribution of their estate after death. However, they may face unique considerations and complexities when undertaking estate planning in Wisconsin. Here are some of the top challenges that arise in estate planning for high-net-worth people.
- [The Hard Truth: A Criminal Charge Can Affect Your Divorce](https://www.pbclaw.com/the-hard-truth-a-criminal-charge-can-affect-your-divorce/) - Not all criminal charges will affect a divorce case, but many will. Since divorces can get so complicated, a criminal charge can make the situation even more complex. Financial support, child custody, parenting time, and asset division can all be affected by a criminal charge. It depends on things such as… The Nature of the Crime
- [Does Your H-1B Wage Loss Situation Have the Makings of a Class Action?](https://www.pbclaw.com/does-your-h-1b-wage-loss-situation-have-the-makings-of-a-class-action/) - If you are an H-1B worker who has been underpaid or otherwise mistreated by an H-1B employer, you may be able to bring your claims not only on your own behalf, but also on behalf of a class of similarly situated individuals. The attorney-authors of this blog, along with our attorney colleagues at the excellent
- [No Death With Dignity In Wisconsin](https://www.pbclaw.com/no-death-with-dignity-in-wisconsin/) - “Death with dignity” is a popular phrase used to describe situations in which a patient requests a medical practitioner to help him or her die. This is common in patients with a terminal illness or a severely debilitating condition. Wisconsin law does not allow these assisted suicides. However, you can gain some control over how
- [Mother Files Wrongful Death Suit For Son’s Overheated Cell Death](https://www.pbclaw.com/mother-files-wrongful-death-suit-for-sons-overheated-cell-death/) - Unless they are familiar with jails, people likely give little thought to the responsibility of caring for a large group of imprisoned people. While paying for their crimes, prisoners must depend on others to provide basic needs like food, clothing and shelter. Our justice system prohibits cruel and unusual treatment, but one man suffered such
- [Wisconsin Residents With TBIs](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-residents-with-tbis/) - A traumatic brain injury is a serious and potentially deadly condition that can occur due to a variety of circumstances. Wisconsin residents can find themselves facing major rehabilitation, long-term care needs or potential permanent disability. Brain injuries can occur when an object penetrates portions of the brain or when an object has otherwise come into
- [10 Fundamental Estate Planning Documents in Wisconsin](https://www.pbclaw.com/10-fundamental-estate-planning-documents-in-wisconsin/) - Last Will and Testament Perhaps the most commonly known document. A person’s Last Will and Testament is the final direction for all belongings and responsibilities (children, pets, debts, etc.). A will is authenticated and followed by a process known as “Probate.” Probate proceedings are a matter of public record, meaning that a person’s will becomes public record once
- [Link To Article By Richard J. Mouw: Conviction And Civility In American Public Discourse](https://www.pbclaw.com/link-to-article-by-richard-j-mouw-conviction-and-civility-in-american-public-discourse/) - Richard Mouw’s article describes, very well, what is arguably problem #1 in America: negative communication. Without positive communication, no problem can be effectively discussed or addressed. An excerpt:When my book on the subject, Uncommon Decency: Christian Civility in an Uncivil World, appeared in 1992, I was interviewed frequently by journalists on the subject of civility. At
- [Child Carseat Laws in Wisconsin](https://www.pbclaw.com/child-carseat-laws-in-wisconsin/) - When it comes to ensuring children are seated safely in child seats, what does Wisconsin law require? Requirements under Wisconsin law include: -“Babies less than 1 year old, or less than 20 lbs. must be in a rear-facing child seat in the back seat” -“If at least one-year-old and 20 pounds, but less than four
- [Motorcyclist With Previous OWI Arrests Charged A Seventh Time](https://www.pbclaw.com/motorcyclist-with-previous-owi-arrests-charged-a-seventh-time/) - Whenever there is an arrest for operating while intoxicated in Wisconsin, the driver will face the possibility of a conviction and the accompanying penalties. These may include jail, fines and a driver’s license suspension. If the driver has had previous OWI convictions, the challenges they face rise incrementally. Although it is understood that OWI (also
- [Child Tax Credit Changes for 2021 and Possibly Beyond](https://www.pbclaw.com/child-tax-credit-changes-for-2021-and-possibly-beyond/) - How the Child Tax Credit is Divided in Family Court Orders An often overlooked part of divorce and child custody orders is the division of the annual child tax credit. The child tax credit is a credit that the IRS provides for adults to take care of children on their taxes. In most years this
- [Wisconsin Bill Would Make A First Time OWI A Crime](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-bill-would-make-a-first-time-owi-a-crime/) - Wisconsin is the only state in the country where a first-time drunk driving charge is a civil violation and not a criminal offense, but two Wisconsin lawmakers are proposing to change this. In early January, Representative Jim Ott and Senator Alberta Darling introduced a bill to the Wisconsin legislature to make a first time OWI
- [Milwaukee man charged for driving wrong way on I-94](https://www.pbclaw.com/milwaukee-man-charged-for-driving-wrong-way-on-i-94/) - A 30-year-old Milwaukee resident was charged with driving in the wrong direction and causing an auto accident on Interstate 94. According to the complaint, the suspect was driving a car south in the northbound lanes in a portion of the interstate that had been closed to traffic. He collided with the back of an interstate
- [Homicide Dismissed In Crash But Wrongful Death Possibility Remains](https://www.pbclaw.com/homicide-dismissed-in-crash-but-wrongful-death-possibility-remains/) - The dismissal of homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle charges against a 42-year-old Green Bay motorcyclist may not be the final chapter in a story that began in a roadside ditch in Oconto County. The scene could shift next to a civil court if the family of the passenger who was killed chooses to
- [WI Anti-Bullying Bill, Part II: What Could It Mean For Workforces And Employers If Enacted?](https://www.pbclaw.com/wi-anti-bullying-bill-part-ii-what-could-it-mean-for-workforces-and-employers-if-enacted/) - Wisconsin’s anti-bullying bill, if enacted, would prohibit employers’ “abusive conduct” that cause employees “tangible harm.” I wrote a post here that summarizes the bill. This post (Part II) speculates what effects the bill could have, in real-life, if enacted. (If you don’t want my opinion, stop here! : ). What would this bill mean to
- [Wisconsin car, pedestrian and motorcycle accident fatalities up](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-car-pedestrian-and-motorcycle-accident-fatalities-up/) - The number of traffic accidents resulting in fatalities in the state of Wisconsin for this year is slightly higher than last year’s numbers, according to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. A total of 68 people died in the month of July, which is eight more than the average for a five-year period. Thus far, 333
- [Distracted Driving Blamed For Deadly Wisconsin Crash](https://www.pbclaw.com/distracted-driving-blamed-for-deadly-wisconsin-crash/) - Distracted driving is a “deadly epidemic,” according to the U.S. Department of Transportation, which has an entire website devoted to the problem and is in the middle of a national campaign designed to bring attention to the issue, which occurs not just among teens or inexperienced drivers, but can affect anyone. Just ask the father
- [Widower Of Murdered Woman Waited Too Long To Sue Killer](https://www.pbclaw.com/widower-of-murdered-woman-waited-too-long-to-sue-killer/) - On Dec. 19, a Court of Appeals decided that a Wisconsin man waited too long to file a wrongful death suit against his wife’s convicted killer. The statute of limitations specifies that wrongful death lawsuits must be filed within two years of the date when the identity of a murderer has been established within a
- [Playing The Wrong Cards In Severance Negotiations](https://www.pbclaw.com/playing-the-wrong-cards-in-severance-negotiations/) - It is common for employees (including professional and executive employees) to play the wrong cards, so to speak, during severance negotiations. That is, employees negotiating severance agreements often raise issues to their employers that they believe, incorrectly, provide strong leverage or potential legal claims. Don’t get me wrong. Many employees who are fired and/or approached with
- [3 Reasons to Create an Estate Plan](https://www.pbclaw.com/3-reasons-to-create-an-estate-plan/) - No one is required to have an estate plan but everyone needs one. We often hear people say “I’m not worried about what will happen when I die because it will not be my problem.” You may not be around, but we can think of at least three reasons you should work with an attorney
- [Holiday Donation to Children’s of Wisconsin](https://www.pbclaw.com/holiday-donation-to-childrens-of-wisconsin/) - Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. has chosen to donate to Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin in Neenah for our charitable holiday giving this year. Children's Wisconsin in Neenah is dedicated to providing community services to enhance their overall mission to improve the health status of children throughout Wisconsin. They support a variety of resources and programs
- [What If You Developed Cancer As The Result Of Benzene Exposure? By Attorney John Peterson](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-if-you-developed-cancer-as-the-result-of-benzene-exposure-by-attorney-john-peterson/) - A potential client approached us in early 2009 on referral from another trial firm. Our client had worked on the site of a plant that had manufactured gas from coal from the mid eighteenth century until approximately 1960. A known byproduct of manufacturing gas from coal is benzene contamination. The utility which owned the plant
- [Attorney Avi Berk Discusses Overturned Dassey Conviction](https://www.pbclaw.com/attorney-avi-berk-discusses-overturned-dassey-conviction/) - The Netflix series Making a Murderer has generated much interest and discussion on social media and in the press. Recently, a federal magistrate issued a 91-page decision overturning the conviction of Brendan Dassey and finding that Dassey’s confession was illegally obtained in violation of his constitutional rights. Attorney Avi Berk was interviewed about that ruling
- [7 Mistakes Made By Do-It-Yourself Estate Planners Without Even Realizing It](https://www.pbclaw.com/7-mistakes-made-by-do-it-yourself-estate-planners-without-even-realizing-it/) - I love sports talk radio. It’s what I primarily listen to in the car when driving to and from appointments. Commercials on sports talk radio are interesting because they often the do-it-yourselfer on all sorts issues ranging from car parts to nursing home providers. These ads appeal to those who want to try and fix
- [Attorneys Amy M. Risseeuw, Avram D. Berk and John C. Peterson Land on 2020 Super Lawyers List in Addition to an Extensive History of Super Lawyers Recognition](https://www.pbclaw.com/attorneys-amy-m-risseeuw-avram-d-berk-and-john-c-peterson-land-on-2020-super-lawyers-list-in-addition-to-an-extensive-history-of-super-lawyers-recognition/) - Attorneys Amy M. Risseeuw, Avram D. Berk and John C. Peterson have all landed on Super Lawyers 2020 published list, an honor granted to only 5 percent of attorneys in each state annually. In addition to being selected onto the Super Lawyers list this year, each of these lawyers has an extensive history of being
- [Are Wisconsin Drivers Required To Have Insurance In Case Of Crash?](https://www.pbclaw.com/are-wisconsin-drivers-required-to-have-insurance-in-case-of-crash/) - Drivers in many states are legally required to have car insurance. Wisconsin is among those states. The law says that motorists must carry auto insurance, except in limited cases where another form of security like a surety bond or personal funds can be substituted. According to the state Commissioner of Insurance, for policies issued or
- [Safe Winter Driving Tips, Part 1](https://www.pbclaw.com/safe-winter-driving-tips-part-1/) - It is no secret that Wisconsin winters can be very wet and cold. U.S. Climate Data reports that the average high temperature from December to February varies between 20 and 26 degrees Fahrenheit and nine to 14 inches of snow falls per month, making driving conditions in this wet state sometimes very different from its
- [Summer Hazards](https://www.pbclaw.com/summer-hazards/) - As a personal injury lawyer, I help people who have been injured by someone else’s negligence. As summer approaches, I can’t help but recall all of my clients who suffered unforeseen consequences while engaging in outdoor activities. Many times, my clients’ lives are thrown into complete disarray as the result of catastrophic injuries, which occurred
- [Five Signs You Need a Will in Wisconsin](https://www.pbclaw.com/five-signs-you-need-a-will-in-wisconsin/) - Do you need a will in Wisconsin? Learn five key signs it's time to create or update your will and how estate planning can protect your assets and family.
- [Attorney Risseeuw Chairs Big Brothers Big Sisters Casino Night](https://www.pbclaw.com/attorney-risseeuw-chairs-big-brothers-big-sisters-casino-night/) - Attorney Amy Risseeuw is on the board of Big Brothers Big Sisters, and the chair of their 2nd Annual Viva Las Vegas Shining Bright for Youth Casino Night fundraiser. The fundraiser will take place an Friday, November 8, 2013, from 7:00 p.m to 11:00 p.m. at Waverly Beach in Menasha. The casino night offers multiple Vegas style table games, food, drinks, raffles,
- [When Should You Update Your Will In Wisconsin?](https://www.pbclaw.com/when-should-you-update-your-will-in-wisconsin/) - Unlike a photo album that might sit and gather dust on a shelf, your will needs care and attention throughout your life. This important document needs your help to remain accurate and relevant for use at any moment. Outdated documents can have the same serious consequences as incomplete or inaccurate ones. Worse, courts might have
- [Firework Safety Tips](https://www.pbclaw.com/firework-safety-tips/) - The Fourth of July is right around the corner! Are you ready for the firework displays? Whether you are attending a display or putting on your own show, you must remember to practice firework safety protocol. Here are six tips to stay safe this Fourth of July. Do not allow children to play with or
- [Free Britney Movement Shines a Light on Conservatorships and Guardianships](https://www.pbclaw.com/free-britney-movement-shines-a-light-on-conservatorships-and-guardianships/) - Britney Spears and the #FreeBritney movement is in the news again, which means it’s a good time to shine a spotlight on guardianships and conservatorships in the State of Wisconsin. In 2008 a conservatorship action in California was brought for Britney Spears due to concerns over her mental health. It’s important to note that California
- [What Happens When You Inherit an Irrevocable Trust?](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-happens-when-you-inherit-an-irrevocable-trust/) - Inherited an irrevocable trust? Learn about distributions, trustee roles, and potential challenges. Get legal guidance to navigate your inheritance smoothly.
- [Employee Spotlight: Rebecca Eckes](https://www.pbclaw.com/employee-spotlight-rebecca-eckes/) - Rebecca Eckes started working at Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. in 2014 as a receptionist and legal assistant. In 2017, she began working with attorney Stacy Schlemmer in the family law section. Rebecca is a graduate of Northeast Wisconsin Technical College with an associate degree in paralegal studies. As a child she knew she
- [What Are The Most Common ATV Accident Injuries?](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-are-the-most-common-atv-accident-injuries/) - People love living in Wisconsin during the summer because of all the outdoor adventures and activities they can enjoy. Now is peak ATV-riding season with many people escaping to their lake cabins or spending their vacation time exploring one of the many scenic and thrilling Wisconsin ATV trails. However, if you are a responsible rider,
- [What You Should Know if a Loved One Dies Without a Will in Wisconsin](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-you-should-know-if-a-loved-one-dies-without-a-will-in-wisconsin/) - If your loved one dies without a will in Wisconsin, their estate will be distributed through the state’s probate courts according to intestate succession laws. These laws are complex, and understanding who will get what can be challenging. Our firm’s estate planning lawyers serving Wisconsin handle all types of estate planning issues, including wills, trusts,
- [Can You Have Booby Traps on Your Property in Wisconsin?](https://www.pbclaw.com/can-you-have-booby-traps-on-your-property-in-wisconsin/) - Booby traps are not legal under federal law or Wisconsin state law. If a property owner has a booby trap on their premises and it injures someone, they could be held criminally and civilly liable for harming the victim. If you suffered an injury caused by a booby trap, you may be able to hold
- [How to Plan Your Estate if You Own Property in Multiple States](https://www.pbclaw.com/how-to-plan-your-estate-if-you-own-property-in-multiple-states/) - Owning property in multiple states can complicate the estate planning process. The best way to protect your property and save your loved ones time, expense, and stress after your death is by establishing a revocable living trust. This estate planning option will save your beneficiaries from having to go through the probate process in Wisconsin
- [How Many Injuries Occur From Drunk Driving Accidents?](https://www.pbclaw.com/how-many-injuries-occur-from-drunk-driving-accidents/) - Alcohol-related crash injuries in Wisconsin have steadily declined since 1979, but deaths due to drunk-driving accidents have remained relatively stable since 1982, according to statistics. The state saw an all-time high in drunk driving fatalities and injuries in 1979. As laws became stricter and enforcement increased, the overall numbers dropped, but they are still problematic
- [Wisconsin Man Dies When Arguing Parties Take To The Road](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-man-dies-when-arguing-parties-take-to-the-road/) - A 19-year-old Wisconsin man was killed and a teenager was injured when a verbal argument led to a fatal auto crash, according to authorities. Police say the responsible party is in custody, and charges of hit-and-run causing death and homicide by negligent operation have been recommended. They also say alcohol and drugs were factors in
- [Good WFEA Case Decision re Retaliation Based on Good Faith Complaint of Discrimination](https://www.pbclaw.com/good-wfea-case-decision-re-retaliation-based-on-good-faith-complaint-of-discrimination/) - The Wisconsin Court of Appeals issued a decision involving the Wisconsin Fair Employment Act (WFEA) decision, which is good for WI employees alleging retaliatory discharge under WFEA discrimination law.The decision was in favor of an employee-complainant who complained of “discrimination” generally to a manager (without specifically referencing the type/protected class basis) shortly before being fired.
- [Peterson, Berk & Cross Is On LinkedIn](https://www.pbclaw.com/peterson-berk-cross-is-on-linkedin/) - Peterson, Berk & Cross in now on LinkedIn. To follow us, please click the link below: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peterson-berk-&-cross-s-c-/
- [A 3-Step Guide To Dividing The Family Business During Divorce](https://www.pbclaw.com/a-3-step-guide-to-dividing-the-family-business-during-divorce/) - You know your divorce is coming and have started to prepare. As you think about the family home, cars and potential custody payments, do not forget about the impact divorce will have on your family business. If you are not prepared, your divorce could have a devastating effect on the business. There are things you
- [3 Tips For Safe Motorcycle Riding This Summer](https://www.pbclaw.com/3-tips-for-safe-motorcycle-riding-this-summer/) - As you dust off your bike for the upcoming riding season in Wisconsin, it’s important to remember that a little bit of precaution can go a long way. Because no matter how high the safety rating is on your motorcycle, you still face way more exposure than other vehicles on the road. In fact, it’s
- [“Promoting Employee Voice In The American Economy: A Call For Comprehensive Reform” By Kenneth G. Dau-Schmidt](https://www.pbclaw.com/promoting-employee-voice-in-the-american-economy-a-call-for-comprehen-by-kenneth-g-dau-schmidt/) - A Marquette Law Review article that calls for reform in the American corporate landscape, and a shift of fixation from shareholders, management and short term profit, to more long-term focus and more collaboration with workers. Promoting Employee Voice in the American Economy: A Call for Comprehensive Reform Kenneth G. Dau-Schmidt
- [Does a “Living Will” Keep Property from Going into Probate in Wisconsin?](https://www.pbclaw.com/does-a-living-will-keep-property-from-going-into-probate-in-wisconsin-2/) - Does a living will prevent probate in Wisconsin? Learn the difference between a will and a living will, and explore estate planning options to protect assets.
- [How to Plan for Charitable Giving in Your Wisconsin Estate Plan](https://www.pbclaw.com/how-to-plan-for-charitable-giving-in-your-wisconsin-estate-plan/) - You can support causes you care about by adding charitable gifts to your will or trust. Many people use their estate plans to leave money for research, shelters, or local programs. With help from experienced Wisconsin estate planning lawyers, you can build a legacy that reflects your values. Wisconsin law gives you several tools for charitable
- [Estate Plan Needs? We've Got You Covered.](https://www.pbclaw.com/estate-plan-needs-weve-got-you-covered/) - Our clients are our first priority. When you contact us regarding an estate plan, we will listen to your wants, needs, concerns, goals, and anything else. We will use our extensive knowledge, experience, and resources to put together the best plan for your situation. Contact us today at 920-831-0300 to schedule your free initial consultation!
- [5 Types of Infidelity That Can Lead to Divorce](https://www.pbclaw.com/5-types-of-infidelity-that-can-lead-to-divorce/) - Did you know there are different types of infidelity? If you are getting divorced in Wisconsin, the reason for the divorce does not matter to the court. Our clients don't need to give a reason to file for divorce, but we understand that it is sometimes cathartic for them to tell us what led them
- [Celebrate Positive Attitude Month](https://www.pbclaw.com/celebrate-positive-attitude-month/) - Maintaining a positive attitude amid legal hardships such as divorce or personal injury is not always easy. Although, a positive attitude is one of the best things you can carry with you daily. Try it out this month and see how your life will change before your eyes. Learn more here.
- [Alcohol and Divorce](https://www.pbclaw.com/alcohol-and-divorce/) - Divorce is complicated, especially when you are divorcing an alcoholic. From mental anguish to physical distress, divorcing an alcoholic is not an easy process. Click here to learn more about it. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/behavior-problems-behavior-solutions/202006/how-positive-coparenting-produces-mentally-healthy
- [Lunch With a Lawyer- What Is a Trust?](https://www.pbclaw.com/lunch-with-a-lawyer-what-is-a-trust/) - Click here to listen to Lunch with a Lawyer starring Attorney Devin Shanley, explaining what a trust is. He then leads viewers into the question-and-answer session. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5k1u_W6FyYo
- [Our Super Team](https://www.pbclaw.com/our-super-team/) - Handling a life altering personal injury is difficult. There’s a lot to manage – from treating your injury, to lost wages from taking time off work, to all your other obligations - the last thing you want to think about is how to handle a lawsuit. Hire a Wisconsin Super Lawyer to take on this
- [AMY RISSEEUW Becomes ABOTA Member](https://www.pbclaw.com/amy-risseeuw-becomes-abota-member/) - Personal injury lawyer and managing partner of Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C., Amy Risseeuw, has been accepted into the prestigious American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA). ABOTA dedicates itself to the preservation and promotion of the Seventh Amendment, which guarantees the right to civil jury trials. Members in this invitation-only group must have tried a
- [Sign Up for Firm News and Updates!](https://www.pbclaw.com/sign-up-for-firm-news-and-updates/) - Do you want to receive news and updates from our team at PBC Law? Sign up for our free newsletter!
- [Before Filing for Divorce This Holiday Season, You Should Know This Information](https://www.pbclaw.com/before-filing-for-divorce-this-holiday-season-you-should-know-this-information/) - The holiday season is the most common time people file for divorce. Before you make the difficult and emotional decision to move forward with divorce, here are a few things you should consider.
- [Lunch With a Lawyer: Concerns About a Child’s Welfare](https://www.pbclaw.com/lunch-with-a-lawyer-concerns-about-a-childs-welfare/) - Grab lunch and your laptop, and join us for an episode of Lunch with a Lawyer! Attorney Devin Shanley starts this episode by discussing who to contact when one has concerns about child abuse or neglect. He then leads viewers into the question-and-answer session.
- [Reviewing and Revising Your Estate Plan Post-Divorce](https://www.pbclaw.com/reviewing-and-revising-your-estate-plan-post-divorce/) - Divorce can be a complex and emotional process. Once it is finalized, you must take the time to review your estate plan and make any necessary changes to reflect your current family structure and goals. Knowing what needs to be updated and how to do so can help ensure that your assets are distributed according
- [Tips for Speaking With Insurance Companies](https://www.pbclaw.com/tips-for-speaking-with-insurance-companies/) - Insurance companies are smart and they do not want to lose money due to a personal injury claim. You need to be smart when speaking with them. You can watch our video here to learn tips and tricks.
- [The Right Lawyer Can Make All of the Difference](https://www.pbclaw.com/the-right-lawyer-can-make-all-of-the-difference/) - Hiring the right attorney can make or break your case. A good lawyer will clearly explain your legal position, rights, and options, making you feel in the know throughout your case. Hire an aggressive legal advocate committed to helping you secure the best results possible. Learn more here.
- [Crucial Considerations for Child Custody](https://www.pbclaw.com/crucial-considerations-for-child-custody/) - When approaching the issue of child custody and parenting time, it's essential to understand what would make sense for your child and their needs as well as for you, but don't forget to think about what could be beneficial for everyone involved. Before moving forward with a new or revised custody arrangement, you should consider the
- [Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage Can Protect You After a Hit-and-Run](https://www.pbclaw.com/uninsured-underinsured-motorist-coverage-can-protect-you-after-a-hit-and-run/) - In Wisconsin, hit-and-run accidents are unfortunately all too common, and one in eight drivers lacks insurance. That means you could be responsible for tens of thousands of dollars in damages if an uninsured driver hits you. Your auto insurance policy's uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can make all the difference after a hit-and-run or accident involving
- [Key Considerations in Gray Divorce](https://www.pbclaw.com/key-considerations-in-gray-divorce/) - The term “gray divorce” refers to the growing trend of older adults that choose to end their marriage. Gray divorce differs from other divorce scenarios in a few key ways, so it’s important to consider these factors as you navigate your split. How Will Retirement Be Affected By My Divorce? Divorcing after age 50 can
- [The Estate Planning Process in Wisconsin](https://www.pbclaw.com/the-estate-planning-process-in-wisconsin/) - Estate planning is not only for older adults or the very wealthy, as every adult in the United States can benefit from having an effective estate plan. Whether you need a simple or highly complex plan, creating one with the right legal help can protect you, your loved ones, and your property. Never wait to
- [Ways to Avoid Probate](https://www.pbclaw.com/ways-to-avoid-probate/) - Mention the word “probate” or “probate court” and you will likely receive a negative comment in response. But what exactly is probate and why would you want to avoid it? What is Probate? Probate is the legal process of distributing someone’s assets after they die. Probate courts review the individual’s assets and their Last Will
- [Digital Assets Belong in Your Estate Plan](https://www.pbclaw.com/digital-assets-belong-in-your-estate-plan/) - When we think of estate planning and protecting our assets, the assets that first come to mind are a house, real estate, jewelry, family heirlooms, bank accounts, and investments. What is often overlooked are our digital assets: the photos we share online, the material we publish online, our text messages, social media profiles, cryptocurrencies, and
- [Wisconsin Child Custody Laws: What's the Difference Between Physical and Legal Custody?](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-child-custody-laws-whats-the-difference-between-physical-and-legal-custody/) - When it comes to child custody laws in Wisconsin, things can get confusing. One of the most important distinctions is between physical and legal custody. Understanding the differences between these two types of custody can help you make informed decisions about your family's future. In this blog post, we'll break down everything you need to
- [Important Qualities to Look for When Naming a Trustee](https://www.pbclaw.com/important-qualities-to-look-for-when-naming-a-trustee/) - Creating a trust is an effective way to look out for your interests both while you are alive and after you die. But a trust only works as intended if the trustee you choose properly administers it. There are lots of ways to choose a trustee, and you should consult with an estate planning attorney
- [When Should I Make Changes to My Estate Plan?](https://www.pbclaw.com/when-should-i-make-changes-to-my-estate-plan/) - You’re probably already familiar with the importance of an estate plan. It can protect your legacy, help avoid probate at your passing, and prevent family conflict, among many other things. However, what many don’t realize is that estate plans aren’t usually good forever and require periodic review. When you create your estate plan, you’re creating
- [Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. Attorneys Amy Risseeuw and Avram Berk Selected to Super Lawyers 2023](https://www.pbclaw.com/peterson-berk-cross-s-c-attorneys-amy-risseeuw-and-avram-berk-selected-to-super-lawyers-2023/) - Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. is proud to announce that two of its partners, Amy Risseeuw and Avram Berk, have been selected to the 2023 Wisconsin Super Lawyers list. This prestigious recognition is awarded to only 5% of attorneys in the state, and it is a testament to Amy and Avram's exceptional legal skills and
- [What Will Happen to Your Inheritance During Divorce in Wisconsin?](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-will-happen-to-your-inheritance-during-divorce-in-wisconsin/) - Do you have an inheritance and wonder how it may relate to your divorce? Wisconsin law has clear specifications on the laws surrounding inheritance and divorce.
- [What Is a Living Will/Advance Healthcare Directive?](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-is-a-living-will-advance-healthcare-directive/) - Essential estate planning: Draft a living will and advanced healthcare directive to secure your future wishes. Consult with Wisconsin attorneys.
- [Snowmobiling in Wisconsin? What You Need to Know About Snowmobile Accident Injuries](https://www.pbclaw.com/snowmobiling-in-wisconsin-what-you-need-to-know-about-snowmobile-accident-injuries/) - Discover the risks of snowmobiling: Understand common injuries, compensation options, and the importance of legal advice in our latest blog post.
- [How to Choose an Estate Planning Attorney in Wisconsin](https://www.pbclaw.com/how-to-choose-an-estate-planning-attorney-in-wisconsin/) - You have worked hard to build your family, career, and reputation. You’ve always taken charge of what happens and when, and have moved your life in the direction of your dreams. You’re proud of all you’ve accomplished. What happens to everything you’ve created when you pass away? It may be an unpleasant thought, but answering
- [The Difference Between Wills and Estate Planning in Wisconsin](https://www.pbclaw.com/the-difference-between-wills-and-estate-planning-in-wisconsin/) - When many people think about estate planning, the primary thing that comes to their mind is a will. While a will is a crucial aspect of an estate plan, it is important to keep in mind that estate planning in Wisconsin involves far more than drafting a single document. A comprehensive estate plan may include not
- [Feel Empowered During Your Divorce Journey](https://www.pbclaw.com/feel-empowered-during-your-divorce-journey/) - Learn the ins and outs of a Wisconsin divorce, from filing through the final hearing in a DIY intensive 4-hour workshop with experienced Wisconsin Family Law Attorney Stacy J. Schlemmer of Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. Topics to be covered include options for how to file a divorce, the timeline of a divorce, relevant statutes,
- [How Much Does Estate Planning Cost in Wisconsin?](https://www.pbclaw.com/how-much-does-estate-planning-cost-in-wisconsin/) - Wisconsin residents often underestimate the value of estate planning and the significant savings that come with working with a lawyer. While drafting a will or trust yourself might save you money in the short term, you could be setting yourself up for later financial headaches or costly, lengthy legal disputes among your family when you
- [How Do I Avoid Probate in Wisconsin?](https://www.pbclaw.com/how-do-i-avoid-probate-in-wisconsin/) - Avoid probate in Wisconsin with strategies like payable-on-death accounts and joint tenancy. Contact Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. for estate planning help.
- [When Should a Person Begin Estate Planning?](https://www.pbclaw.com/when-should-a-person-begin-estate-planning/) - Start estate planning early to protect assets, ensure your wishes, and guide loved ones. Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. can help you create a comprehensive plan.
- [What Is an Irrevocable Trust?](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-is-an-irrevocable-trust/) - Learn how an irrevocable trust works, its benefits and drawbacks, and why it's important to consult with estate planning attorneys at Peterson, Berk & Cross.
- [What Assets Pass Through Probate in Wisconsin?](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-assets-pass-through-probate-in-wisconsin/) - Find out which assets go through probate in Wisconsin and how to avoid it. Contact Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. for estate planning guidance.
- [Do You Need an Attorney to Settle an Estate in Wisconsin?](https://www.pbclaw.com/do-you-need-an-attorney-to-settle-an-estate-in-wisconsin/) - Settle an estate in Wisconsin with ease. Learn why hiring an attorney is crucial for managing probate. Contact Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. for help.
- [What Are the Steps in the Estate Planning Process in Wisconsin?](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-are-the-steps-in-the-estate-planning-process-in-wisconsin/) - Plan your estate in Wisconsin: take inventory, draft a will, form trusts, and secure life insurance. Contact Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C., for guidance.
- [Do You Have to Pay Taxes on Inheritance in Wisconsin?](https://www.pbclaw.com/do-you-have-to-pay-taxes-on-inheritance-in-wisconsin/) - Wisconsin does not impose inheritance or estate taxes. Learn how inherited assets might affect your income taxes. Contact Peterson, Berk & Cross today.
- [How Long Does an Executor Have to Settle an Estate in Wisconsin?](https://www.pbclaw.com/how-long-does-an-executor-have-to-settle-an-estate-in-wisconsin/) - Learn the timelines for settling an estate in Wisconsin, key responsibilities, and how to request extensions. Contact Peterson, Berk & Cross today for guidance.
- [What Is the Consequence of Not Writing a Will and Planning for Your Estate After Death?](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-is-the-consequence-of-not-writing-a-will-and-planning-for-your-estate-after-death/) - Without a will, Wisconsin laws decide your estate's future. Avoid disputes, delays, and unintended outcomes. Plan your estate today—call us for a free consult!
- [Who Can Petition for Probate in Wisconsin?](https://www.pbclaw.com/who-can-petition-for-probate-in-wisconsin/) - Learn who can petition for probate in Wisconsin and navigate the process with ease. Protect your loved one’s estate—contact us for guidance today!
- [What Are the Benefits of a Revocable Trust in Wisconsin?](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-are-the-benefits-of-a-revocable-trust-in-wisconsin-2/) - Discover the benefits of a revocable trust in Wisconsin, from avoiding probate to privacy, flexibility, and incapacity planning. Secure your estate plan today.
- [What Happens to Debt After You Die in Wisconsin?](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-happens-to-debt-after-you-die-in-wisconsin/) - Wondering what happens to debt after death in Wisconsin? Learn how estates handle debts, probate rules, and how to protect your family. Call us for guidance.
- [Understanding The Role of the Financial Power of Attorney in Wisconsin Estate Planning](https://www.pbclaw.com/understanding-the-role-of-the-financial-power-of-attorney-in-wisconsin-estate-planning/) - Learn how a Financial Power of Attorney in Wisconsin protects your finances if you're incapacitated. Get custom estate planning guidance. Call us today.
- [How to Incorporate Life Insurance into Your Wisconsin Estate Plan](https://www.pbclaw.com/how-to-incorporate-life-insurance-into-your-wisconsin-estate-plan/) - A will, trust, and power of attorney are standard estate planning tools individuals use to manage their property and assets. These tools can help people plan for the future, protect assets, and distribute them according to their final wishes after their passing. A life insurance policy is another tool that can help your plan. Life
- [How to Find the Best Estate Planning Attorney for Your Needs in Wisconsin](https://www.pbclaw.com/how-to-find-the-best-estate-planning-attorney-for-your-needs-in-wisconsin/) - Not every attorney approaches estate planning the same way. Some firms treat it like a quick paperwork job. Others take the time to understand your life, your family, and your goals – because that’s what good planning requires. If you want a lawyer who helps you build something meaningful, start by asking the right questions.
- [Do I Need a Will If I Want to Leave Everything to My Spouse in Wisconsin?](https://www.pbclaw.com/do-i-need-a-will-if-i-want-to-leave-everything-to-my-spouse-in-wisconsin/) - Many married couples assume their spouse will receive everything automatically after death. That’s not always true. Without a valid will, Wisconsin law – not your personal wishes – decides how your property gets divided. Even if you want everything to go to your spouse, you still need a clear estate plan. Talking with knowledgeable Wisconsin estate
- [How to Plan for a Second Marriage in Wisconsin Estate Planning](https://www.pbclaw.com/how-to-plan-for-a-second-marriage-in-wisconsin-estate-planning/) - Divorce and remarriage are significant life events. After either of them, you should reexamine your current estate plan. While second marriages are common, they can present unique challenges for people who want to manage and protect their assets and ensure their final wishes are respected. With careful planning and help from an experienced Wisconsin estate planning
- [Ladies Night Out: Shop, Sip & Stroll in Downtown Appleton, Sponsored by Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C.](https://www.pbclaw.com/ladies-night-out-shop-sip-stroll-in-downtown-appleton-sponsored-by-peterson-berk-cross-s-c/) - Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. is a sponsor of Appleton Downtown, Inc.’s Ladies Night Out: Shop, Sip and Stroll! Have a fun night out with your girlfriend in Appleton, Wisconsin. The night begins by checking in at the Appleton Downtown Inc. office, located in the Hilton Appleton Paper Valley Hotel, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Receive
- [Basic Elements of an Estate Plan](https://www.pbclaw.com/basic-elements-of-an-estate-plan/) - Are you thinking about creating an estate plan? We suggest you do, no matter your age! Click here to learn the three essential elements of an estate plan.
- [Employee Spotlight: Jeanie Feavel](https://www.pbclaw.com/employee-spotlight-jeanie-feavel/) - Jeanie Feavel began working at Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. in 2004 as a paralegal to Avi Berk, in the personal injury section. She came to the firm with many years of experience and a wealth of knowledge. After graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, with a degree in communications, Jeanie worked in the
- [5 Back to School Tips for Divorced Parents](https://www.pbclaw.com/5-back-to-school-tips-for-divorced-parents/) - It is almost back to school time! Are you excited or worried? Both feelings are completely normal. Whether your kids are starting back up in August or September, it is never too early to start preparing. Follow these five tips for a smooth start to the new school year: 1. Tell Teachers About the Divorce If
- [What is an Umbrella Insurance Policy & How Do I Know if I Need One?](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-is-an-umbrella-insurance-policy-how-do-i-know-if-i-need-one/) - Do you need an umbrella policy to protect yourself and your family? Watch this video to learn about the purpose of an umbrella insurance policy. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lxswinoui4k
- [Back to School Adjustments](https://www.pbclaw.com/back-to-school-adjustments/) - Back to school can be tough on both parents and children, especially when the family is separated. If you are feeling stressed about this back-to-school season, follow the tips in the link below to help your child adjust as smoothly as possible. https://www.kidsfirstcenter.org/siteglide-blog/kids-of-divorced-parents-the-back-to-school-adjustment
- [These 5 Questions May Change Your Perspective on Your Marriage](https://www.pbclaw.com/these-5-questions-may-change-your-perspective-on-your-marriage/) - Being unhappy with your marriage does not necessarily mean you need to get a divorce. If you’ve asked yourself these questions and feel like there is no hope for your marriage, reach out to one of our experienced divorce lawyers for advice and representation. https://www.getlasting.com/unhappy-marriage
- [How Will Divorce Impact Your Business?](https://www.pbclaw.com/how-will-divorce-impact-your-business/) - If you are in the process of getting a divorce, you may be wondering what is going to happen to your business. Will it get split up? Given to one of you entirely? Contact us for guidance to questions like these, and more!
- [Child Custody and Visitation With a Felony Conviction](https://www.pbclaw.com/child-custody-and-visitation-with-a-felony-conviction/) - A felony conviction can cast unfavorable results on your child custody and visitation rights. Visit the website linked below to learn more about how you may be affected if you are facing a situation like this. https://talkingparents.com/parenting-resources/felony-record-affects-on-custody-and-visitation
- [Why You Need to Create a Will Now](https://www.pbclaw.com/why-you-need-to-create-a-will-now/) - Don't put off creating a will until it is too late. Having a will does not only benefit you, but also your family, friends, pets, and more. Follow the link to learn a few reasons you should create a will as soon as possible. Contact our office at 920-831-0300, we would love to help you
- [Do You Know What to Wear to Child Custody Court?](https://www.pbclaw.com/do-you-know-what-to-wear-to-child-custody-court/) - Deciding what to wear to court can be stressful because it can have an effect on the outcome of your case. Click the link below to find out what attire is appropriate for the courtroom.
- [VIDEO: Building a Successful Charity Lunch with a Lawyer](https://www.pbclaw.com/video-building-a-successful-charity-lunch-with-a-lawyer/) - Do you want to build a successful charity? We can help! Follow the link below to watch our informative and interactive lunch with a lawyer session discussing this exact topic! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D1nw7dwgFos
- [Auto Accident Claims Are All About Insurance](https://www.pbclaw.com/auto-accident-claims-are-all-about-insurance/) - "How much is my case worth?" is one of the questions the victims of auto accidents ask us after an auto accident. They don't ask this question because they are greedy; they ask it because a personal injury claim is the best way to obtain the financial resources needed to get better and be made
- [Four Best Practices of Co-Parenting](https://www.pbclaw.com/four-best-practices-of-co-parenting/) - Co-parenting can undoubtedly be difficult and complex. Some issues may be resolved easily, while some may seem like they will never come to an end. Follow the link below to read about the four best practices for a good co-parenting experience. https://www.ourfamilywizard.com/blog/coparenting-guide-healthy-communication-after-divorce#improving-coparenting
- [VIDEO: Legal Rights for Single Dads!](https://www.pbclaw.com/video-legal-rights-for-single-dads/) - Hello to all single dads out there! Single dads who do not have paternity established or a custody in placement order signed by a judge, you need to obtain that now! Follow the link to hear Attorney Stacey Schlemmer speak on why you need to speak with an experienced attorney regarding your rights as a
- [Employee Spotlight: Jessica Fortune](https://www.pbclaw.com/employee-spotlight-jessica-fortune/) - Jessica Fortune started with Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. as a paralegal intern. After graduation from Fox Valley Technical College with an associate degree in paralegal studies, she was hired as the firm’s legal assistant and receptionist in 2020. Jessica was drawn to paralegal studies because of her interest in the justice system and the
- [Is it Time to Review Your Estate Plan?](https://www.pbclaw.com/is-it-time-to-review-your-estate-plan/) - Estate planning is not a “set it and forget it” item. While creating a will and never giving it a second thought is likely better than not having one at all, it is important to revisit your estate plan as your life circumstances, relationships, financial status, and goals change. How often should you revisit your
- [What is the Best Interest of the Child?](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-is-the-best-interest-of-the-child/) - So, what is the best interest of a child? Watch Lunch with a Lawyer hosted by Devin Shanley to find out! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6QZEI5wXEGE
- [Are You Ready for Divorce?](https://www.pbclaw.com/are-you-ready-for-divorce/) - It is one thing to think about it, another to threaten it, and yet another to follow through with it. If you are considering divorce it is crucial to ask yourself whether you are truly serious about it and begin taking steps to make sure you are prepared for the divorce process. Deciding to divorce is rarely
- ["How Do We Tell the Kids?"](https://www.pbclaw.com/how-do-we-tell-the-kids/) - How to tell the kids about your separation and divorce. https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/were-separating-tell-kids-173500137.html
- [Power of Attorney: Healthcare vs. Financial](https://www.pbclaw.com/power-of-attorney-healthcare-vs-financial/) - Learn about the differences between healthcare power of attorney and financial power of attorney. Both are an important component of a comprehensive estate plan.
- [The Connection Between Medical Crisis and Divorce](https://www.pbclaw.com/the-connection-between-medical-crisis-and-divorce/) - A marriage falling apart after a serious diagnosis is far more common when the wife is the patient, researchers have found. https://www.today.com/health/health/illness-divorce-risk-rcna24083
- [Monthly Newsletter!](https://www.pbclaw.com/monthly-newsletter/) - Follow the link to sign up for our monthly newsletter and stay informed on Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C.- a law firm specializing in you! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdhfotPmiZ_Q-FOrtkEm59c1BQfFc6t9AVWcXndNYVaigNOiA/viewform
- [Remote Swearing](https://www.pbclaw.com/remote-swearing/) - On Monday, April 11, 2022, Attorney Amy Risseeuw testified before the Wisconsin Supreme Court in her role as President of the Wisconsin Association for Justice (WAJ). During the pandemic, the Wisconsin Supreme Court had issued an emergency order permitting court reporters to swear in witnesses remotely through the use of audio-visual equipment (Zoom and other
- [How to Survive the Shock of the Decision to Divorce](https://www.pbclaw.com/how-to-survive-the-shock-of-the-decision-to-divorce/) - Even if you "saw it coming" divorce can still be quite the shock when it happens. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/better-divorce/202203/how-survive-the-shock-the-decision-divorce
- [Employee Spotlight: Amoreena Petersen](https://www.pbclaw.com/employee-spotlight-amoreena-petersen/) - Amoreena Petersen began working with Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. in 2019 as a paralegal in the family law section. She currently works with attorney Stacy Schlemmer, assisting with divorces, legal separations, paternity actions, custody and placement issues and child support. Amoreena worked as a dispatcher for many years, before she decided she needed to
- [Feds Taking Action to Reduce Traffic Fatalities](https://www.pbclaw.com/feds-taking-action-to-reduce-traffic-fatalities/) - The National Roadway Safety Strategy, paid for with funds from the recently passed infrastructure law, aims to minimize the chance for death or serious injury when crashes occur. https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2022-01-28/la-me-car-deaths-california
- [What if I am Hurt by a Dog Bite?](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-if-i-am-hurt-by-a-dog-bite/) - Spring will be here before you know it. That means you are more likely to encounter people walking their dogs on local streets, and parks and elsewhere in the neighborhood. Read this to find out what you can do if you are hurt by a dog bite.
- [Life After Divorce: Does Your Estate Planning Need Refreshing?](https://www.pbclaw.com/life-after-divorce-does-your-estate-planning-need-refreshing/) - Whether your divorce serves as a happy or a grim milestone in your life, it is a milestone nonetheless. It is crucial at this juncture to make sure other areas of your life also reflect your new reality, including your needs and goals. Perhaps there is no other area as crucial as your estate plan
- [Employee Spotlight: Sue Stahl](https://www.pbclaw.com/employee-spotlight-sue-stahl/) - Sue Stahl began working with Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. in 2018 as a paralegal in the personal injury section. She currently works with managing partner, Amy Risseeuw. Upon graduation from the University of Wisconsin-Parkside, Sue started her career as a paralegal at a law firm in Milwaukee. While in school, Sue always enjoyed her
- [Your Vacation Home Needs an Estate Plan](https://www.pbclaw.com/your-vacation-home-needs-an-estate-plan/) - Passing along your vacation home to your loved ones will not happen on its own. It is crucial to include your vacation home and other properties in your estate plan. https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/estate-planning/604139/your-vacation-home-needs-an-estate-plan
- [Are Grandparents Entitled To Custody?](https://www.pbclaw.com/are-grandparents-entitled-to-custody/) - Wisconsin law presumes that a child's parents are best suited to protect their interests and raise them how they choose. Grandparents, stepparents and other interested parties can petition the court for visitation rights. These petitions often surround situations where their grandchild's parent (their child) is out of the picture due to abandonment, incarceration, drug abuse
- [Avoid Injury While Clearing Snow and Ice](https://www.pbclaw.com/avoid-injury-while-clearing-snow-and-ice/) - Property owners are responsible for maintaining safe premises. Here's how you can avoid injuries while clearing snow and ice from your driveway, steps, sidewalk or parking lot.
- [What Compensation Is Available for Dog Bite Victims?](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-compensation-is-available-for-dog-bite-victims/) - Wisconsin dog owners are liable for two times the full amount of damages caused by a dog bite that breaks the victim's skin. https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/174/02
- [A New Year Message from Amy Risseeuw, Managing Partner of Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C.](https://www.pbclaw.com/a-new-year-message-from-amy-risseeuw-managing-partner-of-peterson-berk-cross-s-c/) - 2021 has come to a close and I am excited to see what 2022 will bring. Throughout 2021 Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. was honored to help you reach your legal goals and obtain fair outcomes in your cases. Thank you for providing us the opportunity to serve you when you needed a trusted ally.
- ["Irretrievably Broken" The Only Grounds You Need](https://www.pbclaw.com/irretrievably-broken-the-only-grounds-you-need/) - Chinese courts have made the curious ruling that adultery is not reason to file for divorce. We don't have this problem in Wisconsin. We are a no-fault divorce state, which means that neither spouse must prove that the other has done something wrong. The only grounds for divorce necessary are one spouse testifying under oath
- [Want a Divorce? First You Must Wait.](https://www.pbclaw.com/want-a-divorce-first-you-must-wait/) - There is a 120-day waiting period to get a divorce in Wisconsin. That does not stop you from getting your ducks lined up in a row with the help of a knowledgeable divorce attorney. https://www.wicourts.gov/formdisplay/FA-4100V_instructions.pdf?formNumber=FA-4100V&formType=Instructions&formatId=2&language=en#:~:text=There%20is%20a%20120%2Dday,reasons%20for%20wanting%20a%20divorce.
- [How Was Your Holiday?](https://www.pbclaw.com/how-was-your-holiday/) - Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse; the stockings were hung by the chimney with care, but it felt painfully empty without my children there. If that modified excerpt from of “The Night Before Christmas” describes your holiday season thus far, there are two things you need to hear: We’re sorry you had
- [Commercial Vehicle Wreck Brings Traffic To a Halt](https://www.pbclaw.com/commercial-vehicle-wreck-brings-traffic-to-a-halt/) - Traffic backed up for four miles after two commercial vehicles crashed and went off the road near Caledonia. This serves as a reminder of the destructive capabilities of the commercial vehicles we share the road with. https://www.nbc15.com/2021/12/17/crash-backs-up-traffic-over-4-miles-i-9094-near-portage/
- [Sawyer County Man Demonstrates The Risks of Failing To Pay Child Support](https://www.pbclaw.com/sawyer-county-man-demonstrates-the-risks-of-failing-to-pay-child-support/) - They will come for you and you will have to pay. You cannot run from your child support obligations. If you are struggling to make your payments, your best bet is to explore modifying your support order with the help of an experienced family law attorney. https://youtu.be/8JNLpOeh8tA
- [Peterson, Berk & Cross Intern Spotlight](https://www.pbclaw.com/peterson-berk-cross-intern-spotlight-2/) - Nathan Wendt started his internship at Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C.’s Appleton office in 2020. His interest in the legal field was inspired by his aunt, who has been a family law attorney and Guardian ad Litem for many years. Nathan’s parents divorced when he was young, and he felt disappointed with how the situation
- [Protecting Your Future In Divorce](https://www.pbclaw.com/protecting-your-future-in-divorce/) - It is crucial to address your estate plan as well as your financial situation as part of your divorce. The actions you take during divorce can have a tremendous impact on your future. Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2021/11/15/dont-get-divorced-from-financial-reality-when-ending-your-marriage.html
- [How To Help Kids During The Holidays](https://www.pbclaw.com/how-to-help-kids-during-the-holidays/) - Show your children love by cooperating, not competing this holiday season. Source: https://childmind.org/article/divorced-for-the-holidays-what-to-give-the-kids/
- [Tips For Rebuilding Your Life After Divorce](https://www.pbclaw.com/tips-for-rebuilding-your-life-after-divorce/) - It may be hard to see in the moment, but divorce is a chance to rebuild your life around what you value the most. Source: https://goodmenproject.com/divorce/10-actionable-tips-for-rebuilding-a-life-after-divorce-for-yourself-kfnn-cmtt/
- [Our 2021 Wisconsin Super Lawyers](https://www.pbclaw.com/our-2021-wisconsin-super-lawyers/) - Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. is pleased to announce that Amy M. Risseeuw and Avram D. Berk have been named as Top Rated Personal Injury Attorneys on the 2021 Wisconsin Super Lawyers list. “We are proud that attorneys from Peterson, Berk & Cross continue to be recognized as leaders in the legal community. Although I
- [Where Do Personal Injury Settlements Come From? ](https://www.pbclaw.com/where-do-personal-injury-settlements-come-from/) - We are well aware of the stereotypes surrounding personal injury lawyers and lawsuits. We’ve heard our profession referred to as “ambulance chasers” and heard the complaints about folks just being too quick to sue these days. If you or a loved one has been hurt through no fault of your own, it would be tragic
- [5 Helpful Tips To Remember During Deer Season](https://www.pbclaw.com/5-helpful-tips-to-remember-during-deer-season/) - Keeping these tips in mind will help you and the wildlife stay safer this season Source:
- [Peterson, Berk & Cross Intern Spotlight: Macy Taylor](https://www.pbclaw.com/peterson-berk-cross-intern-spotlight/) - Macy Taylor began her internship with Peterson, Berk & Cross in 2020, as an Appleton North High School senior. Her interest in criminal justice led her to a part-time opportunity with the firm. Throughout her time with our office, we have been impressed with the speed at which she learns new things, such as legal
- [What Is Legal Separation In Wisconsin?](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-is-legal-separation-in-wisconsin/) - Legal separation can last for many years but it typically a stop on the way to an eventual divorce. Source: https://www.divorcenet.com/resources/legal-separation-in-wisconsin-faqs.html
- [Safety Tips For Older Drivers](https://www.pbclaw.com/safety-tips-for-older-drivers/) - These are good tips for drivers of all ages. You're never too old - or too young - to learn some new tricks. Source:
- [Cryptocurrency Adds Additional Complexity To Property Division](https://www.pbclaw.com/cryptocurrency-adds-additional-complexity-to-property-division/) - Identifying all marital property and dividing it under Wisconsin’s theory of “equitable division of property” is one of the most complex and divisive issues in any divorce. It is common for spouses to take drastic steps to hide assets in order to limit what they “lose” as a result of their divorce. In the past,
- [Divorced? Time To Update Your Estate Plan](https://www.pbclaw.com/divorced-time-to-update-your-estate-plan/) - Divorce and other major life changes are also a good time to revise your estate planning documents. Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2021/09/21/divorce-can-devastate-womens-retirement-savings-how-to-rebuild.html
- [What is Premises Liability?](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-is-premises-liability/) - Premises liability means that property owners and managers are responsible for ensuring their property is safe. If a patron or visitor is injured on their property, then the injured party can recover damages. Fault must be proven Wisconsin’s Safe Place Statute details the requirement of public properties being free of hazards. You can view the
- [Paralegal Participates in Paws for a Cause Charity Demolition Day](https://www.pbclaw.com/paralegal-participates-in-paws-for-a-cause-charity-demolition-day/) - Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. paralegal, Molly Steiner, has motorsports in her blood. She has been involved in demolition derbies for half of her life. Molly grew up in a small community with a dad and brother who made demolition derbies a family tradition. As a child, she watched them participate in this unique motorsport,
- [Car Accidents Are Not Always the Drivers Fault](https://www.pbclaw.com/car-accidents-are-not-always-the-drivers-fault/) - A New Holstein woman was injured after an equipment failure caused her vehicle to roll over. This is a stark reminder that motor vehicle accidents are not always the fault of a driver. Personal injury claims can be pursued against the manufacturers of defective equipment, providing compensation to the injured. https://www.wbay.com/2021/09/18/new-holstein-woman-injured-sheboygan-county-crash/
- [Ways to Establish Paternity in Wisconsin](https://www.pbclaw.com/ways-to-establish-paternity-in-wisconsin/) - In Wisconsin, ways to establish paternity include: -Voluntarily Paternity Acknowledgment -Court Ruling -Genetic Testing -Acknowledgement of Marital Child Which avenue is taken depends on your unique circumstances. If you have questions about establishing paternity in Wisconsin, or need experienced guidance throughout your case, contact our paternity lawyers. Doing so is the first step to ensure
- [Family Law Cases](https://www.pbclaw.com/family-law-cases/) - When it comes to your family law case, it is important to be cognizant of what content exists on your social media accounts. It is helpful to revise your privacy settings, or remove friends who you feel may use your posts against you. Such posts that may be used against you in property division negotiations
- [Construction Worker Injuries](https://www.pbclaw.com/construction-worker-injuries/) - If you are a construction worker who is injured on the job, you can usually qualify for worker’s compensation. However, you might have an additional claim against another negligent party. If you hope to obtain compensation for the damages you have suffered, contact Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. We have recovered a number of large
- [3 Back to School Tips for Divorced or Separated Parents](https://www.pbclaw.com/3-back-to-school-tips-for-divorced-or-separated-parents/) - If you and your ex have recently gotten divorced in Wisconsin or gone through any sort of litigation over changes in custody or placement of your minor children, you’ll need to make some reasonable attempts to communicate about those changes when the school year rolls around. Your relationship as a couple didn’t work out, but
- [Back to School Drop Off and Pick Up Safety](https://www.pbclaw.com/back-to-school-drop-off-and-pick-up-safety/) - It’s August in Wisconsin. The kids are rushing to check off fun activities from their summer bucket lists, making sure they urge their parents to fit in one last trip to Erb Pool in Appleton or Bay Beach in Green Bay. Parents are hunting for new clothes for the kids and rummaging through last year’s
- [Wisconsin Boating Safety Precautions](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-boating-safety-precautions/) - Amid the summer season, boating is a popular activity in Wisconsin, and for good reason. It offers beautiful views, and a fun experience for family and friends. According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, “operator inexperience, inattention, recklessness and speeding are the four leading causes of tragic watercraft crashes”. Here are tips on safety
- [Avi Berk Achieves Recertification in Civil Trial Law With the National Board of Trial Advocacy](https://www.pbclaw.com/avi-berk-achieves-recertification-in-civil-trial-law-with-the-national-board-of-trial-advocacy/) - We are pleased to announce that Attorney Avram D. Berk of the law firm has successfully achieved recertification as a Civil Trial Specialist from the National Board of Trial Advocacy. The NBTA was formed out of a strong conviction that both the law profession and its clients would benefit from an organization designed specifically to create an objective set
- [Bicycle Accidents in Wisconsin: Who is Responsible?](https://www.pbclaw.com/bicycle-accidents-in-wisconsin-who-is-responsible/) - According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (DOT), more than 90% of bicycle accidents are caused by human error. In other words, bicycle accidents and the injuries associated with them are largely preventable. Automobile drivers are responsible for about 60% of bicycle accidents involving adult cyclists according to the Wisconsin DOT. However, cyclists can contribute
- [Estate Planning](https://www.pbclaw.com/estate-planning/) - If you do not involve the guidance of a lawyer to craft an estate plan that aligns with your wishes, many mistakes are possible. Such possible mistakes include: -Procrastination of creating a comprehensive estate plan in the first place -Utilizing wills and forms that are outdated -Failing to coordinate beneficiaries -Failure to involve legal advice
- [Visitation Rights as a Grandparent in Wisconsin](https://www.pbclaw.com/visitation-rights-as-a-grandparent-in-wisconsin/) - What are your visitation rights as a grandparent in Wisconsin? If you wish to visit your grandchild but their parent objects, you must file a petition requesting visitation. There is a list of factors that must be present in order to be granted visitation rights. Such factors include that the grandparent has attempted to maintain
- [Domestic Violence Restraining Orders](https://www.pbclaw.com/domestic-violence-restraining-orders/) - If a partner or relative has committed abuse against you, your child or another family member, it is important that you take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones. A domestic violence restraining order, also called a protective order, may be appropriate. The process of being granted a restraining order commences when you complete
- [Motorcycle Safety Tips](https://www.pbclaw.com/motorcycle-safety-tips/) - May marked Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, and looking out for motorcyclists on the road continues to be increasingly important as warmer weather approaches. Unfortunately, drivers do not always respect motorcyclist’s right to be one the road. Crashes often occur when motorcyclists are hidden in a car’s blind spot. It is important for drivers to check
- [Tips for Co-Parenting](https://www.pbclaw.com/tips-for-co-parenting/) - Co-parenting can prove hard, especially if you do not have a positive opinion about your ex’s character. However, successful co-parenting is necessary if you want to best ensure your child’s well-being. Here are 30 tips for divorcing parents, on how to be the best co-parent possible. Please note that the tips from this list are
- [Traumatic Brain Injury as a Result of an Accident](https://www.pbclaw.com/traumatic-brain-injury-as-a-result-of-an-accident/) - There are at least 1.7 million traumatic brain injuries each year, according to the CDC. Car accidents are the leading cause of these injuries. If you have suffered a traumatic brain injury due to an accident that occurred due to the negligence of another party, contact Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. Our law firm has a long
- [Does Domestic Violence Impact Child Custody?](https://www.pbclaw.com/does-domestic-violence-impact-child-custody/) - In Wisconsin, in most cases, domestic violence impacts child custody. A judge will decide if a shared custody arrangement would be in the child’s best interests. If it is decided that a shared custody arrangement would in fact pose harm to the child, then parenting time may be decreased, or even completely barred. At Peterson,
- [What (And What Not To Say) To an Insurance Company Following an Accident](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-and-what-not-to-say-to-an-insurance-company-following-an-accident/) - After a car accident, you may have to talk to both your insurance company and the other driver's insurance company. It's very common for the other driver's insurance company to contact you, and many people tend to notify their insurance company right away. There are a number of traps you can fall into when you talk
- [6 Tips to Follow When Gathering Financial Documents for Your Divorce](https://www.pbclaw.com/6-tips-to-follow-when-gathering-financial-documents-for-your-divorce/) - The best divorce lawyers and their staff know it’s crucial to your case that you complete your financial disclosure statement accurately and provide the right financial documents. Here are a few tips that can make the difference between an extremely expensive divorce process and an affordable divorce. Keep all your financial records and any statements
- [Wisconsin Child Relocation Laws](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-child-relocation-laws/) - If you plan to move a distance of more than 100 miles with your child, then you are required under Wisconsin law to notify the other parent. If the other parent objects, then the move must be litigated. Ultimately, the court will determine the outcome of your case according to what situation would align with
- [What Is Mediation?](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-is-mediation/) - Divorce mediation involves case disputes being resolved by a neutral third party. This form of negotiation as opposed to going to court can offer many benefits. Such benefits include avoiding the expenses associated with a court action, as well as allowing you to reach a settlement more quickly. Mediation additionally allows you to control your
- [National Healthcare Decisions Day](https://www.pbclaw.com/national-healthcare-decisions-day/) - April 16 is The National Healthcare Decisions day. The day exists in order to inform the public on the importance of advance care planning. View more information about National Healthcare decisions day, and how you can become involved in the movement here. For help with creating advance care directives or reviewing existing documents that may
- [Voting Open for Best of the Valley!](https://www.pbclaw.com/voting-open-for-best-of-the-valley/) - Thank you for nominating Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C to the top five in the Post Crescent’s Best of the Valley! Voting is now open for the next stage of the contest. You can vote once a day, every day. We would be honored to have your vote. Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. is a
- [Bicycle Accidents Prove Quite Prevalent](https://www.pbclaw.com/bicycle-accidents-prove-quite-prevalent/) - According to the magazine Outside, there were 675 cyclist deaths from January 2020-December 2020. When taking into consideration the fact that traffic was reduced by 41 percent due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this number is substantial. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2019, there were 846 fatal bicycle accidents. As a bicyclist,
- [Legal Spring Cleaning](https://www.pbclaw.com/legal-spring-cleaning/) - Spring is finally here! At this time of year in Wisconsin, many people’s minds turn to organizing, cleaning closets, home repairs, gardening and planning outdoor activities. What about your legal-related chores though? This is a great time to take inventory of your important paperwork and make a plan for any adjustments you may need to
- [Wisconsin High Asset Divorce Process](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-high-asset-divorce-process/) - Divorce can easily be categorized as one of the most stressful events that can occur in one’s life. In a high net worth divorce, this is especially the case. Many assets exist, multiple of which are not cash. Some of these assets include stocks, real estate, businesses and antiques. Under Wisconsin law, property that is
- [What Happens If You Die Without a Will?](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-happens-if-you-die-without-a-will/) - It is understandably dreadful to think about your own death. However, dying without a will prevents certainty that your assets will end up where you wish. Additionally, the absence of a will creates added stress for your loved ones, on top of the grief of their loss. In order to ensure your assets are protected,
- [Personal Injury Pointers Facebook Live Series with Amy Risseeuw](https://www.pbclaw.com/personal-injury-pointers-facebook-live-series-with-amy-risseeuw/) - At Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. we not only work diligently to assist our clients get the fair compensation and results they deserve, but we also strive to be a helpful resource for our communities in Appleton, Green Bay, Oshkosh, Waupaca, Chilton, Oconto, Shawano, Door County and the surrounding areas. Join Attorney Amy Risseeuw every
- [What Questions Should You Consider Before a Meeting With Your Estate Planning Attorney?](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-questions-should-you-consider-before-a-meeting-with-your-estate-planning-attorney/) - The meeting itself will surely spark questions that you have never thought of before. However, in order to ensure maximum preparedness going into the meeting, here are multiple questions and information topics you should consider. View more information here.
- [Eye-Opening Car Crash Statistics](https://www.pbclaw.com/eye-opening-car-crash-statistics/) - Did you know that crashes caused by speeding cost Americans $40.4 billion every year? Or that permanent injuries result from car crashes in the case of over 2 million drivers per year? View more eye-opening car crash statistics here. If you or a loved one becomes injured due to a car accident, it is now
- [5 Zoom Etiquette Tips for Court Hearings](https://www.pbclaw.com/5-zoom-etiquette-tips-for-court-hearings/) - You have probably heard about the attorney who could not turn off a silly cat filter during a Zoom court hearing. The #CatLawyer video went viral and many of us had a pretty good laugh over it. As an attorney myself (I am not a cat either, by the way), I thought this was a
- [Nominate Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. for the 2021 Best of the Valley!](https://www.pbclaw.com/nominate-peterson-berk-cross-s-c-for-the-2021-best-of-the-valley/) - Have your voice heard by nominating the best our community has to offer. Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C., a law firm in Appleton and Green Bay, strives to be the best at what we do. We focus on helping our clients get the optimal results in their personal injury, family law, estate planning and criminal
- [Wisconsin Property Division Laws](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-property-division-laws/) - How is property divided during the divorce process in Wisconsin? Wisconsin is a community property state. This means that under Wisconsin law, marital property must be divided 50/50, down the middle. This differs from many other states, that utilize the “equitable division” theory when dividing property. The “equitable division” theory entails dividing property according to
- [Kaepernick Celebrates 40 Years](https://www.pbclaw.com/kaepernick-celebrates-40-years/) - In 1981, a young woman, interning at Fox Valley Institute’s (now known as Fox Valley Technical College) placement office, was told about a job posting at law firm in Appleton. She promptly sat down at a typewriter, composed her resume and sent it off in the mail. She hoped her training in the secretarial science
- [Valentine’s Day While Getting Divorced](https://www.pbclaw.com/valentines-day-while-getting-divorced/) - Divorce can often make one feel unsettled, unorganized and possibly even, unloved, especially on Valentine’s Day. Even if a divorce is going relatively smoothly, going through your first Valentine’s Day without a partner can ignite all sorts of feelings. Here are some options to help you cope and get you through the day: Avoid Social
- [Possible Estate Tax Law Changes on the Horizon](https://www.pbclaw.com/possible-estate-tax-law-changes-on-the-horizon/) - Numerous estate tax law changes may soon be initiated. Some possible changes in the horizon could include a reduction of the Estate Tax exemption to $3.5 million per individual. Another possible potential change would entail an increase in tax rates for estates in higher tax brackets. The chances of these estate tax laws being passed
- [Five Reasons Why Creating an Estate Plan Is Crucial](https://www.pbclaw.com/five-reasons-why-creating-an-estate-plan-is-crucial/) - Estate planning is crucial for everyone, no matter your age, or how many assets you own. Here are five reasons why it is crucial for everyone to have an estate plan. If you need help creating and implemented a customized estate planning strategy, contact Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. With offices in Green Bay and
- [Child Custody FAQ's](https://www.pbclaw.com/child-custody-faqs/) - During our 150 years of combined legal experience among all of our lawyers, we have answered countless questions pertaining to child custody and parental rights in Wisconsin. Here are some of the most frequently asked child custody questions we have been presented with, accompanied by guiding answers. At Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C., we understand
- [Avoid Snowmobile Related Injuries This Winter With These Tips](https://www.pbclaw.com/avoid-snowmobile-related-injuries-this-winter-with-these-tips/) - In the midst of winter, many enjoy taking advantage of the over 250,000 miles of snowmobile trails Wisconsin has to offer. However, snowmobiling can be dangerous if the correct precautions are not followed. According to the Wisconsin Recreational Vehicle Annual Report, in 2019, there were 159 snowmobile accidents in Wisconsin, with 19 proving fatal. If
- [Legal Resolutions for 2021](https://www.pbclaw.com/legal-resolutions-for-2021/) - Last year taught us that the way we spend money, the way we spend time and the way we live our daily lives can change in an instant. There were so many things that were simply beyond our control yet moving into 2021 we want to be able to live our lives to the fullest.
- [Drowsy Driving Crashes](https://www.pbclaw.com/drowsy-driving-crashes/) - According to a study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, 328,000 drowsy driving crashes happen each year. This figure is more than three times larger than the police-reported number. According to the same study, 109,000 drowsy driving crashes caused an injury and approximately 6,400 of the crashes were fatal. The study concluded that drowsy
- [Importance of Winterizing Vehicles](https://www.pbclaw.com/importance-of-winterizing-vehicles/) - As winter months approach in Wisconsin, it is important to ensure your car is “winterized” in case disaster strikes. Winterizing your car includes taking steps such as servicing your car, gathering an easily accessibly emergency kit and ensuring you are driving safely at all times. Unfortunately, even if you fully prepare your car for the
- [The Role of a Guardian ad Litem and What Parents Need to Know](https://www.pbclaw.com/the-role-of-a-guardian-ad-litem-and-what-parents-need-to-know/) - A guardian ad litem, also known as a GAL, is an attorney for the minor children in family law matters, such as divorce, legal separation, paternity and child custody cases. A GAL is appointed by the court to represent the best interests of the children to ensure that the well-being of the children is at
- [Holiday Donation to Harbor House](https://www.pbclaw.com/holiday-donation-to-harbor-house/) - This year at Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. we chose to donate to Harbor House for our charitable holiday giving. Harbor House’s mission is to empower communities to be free of domestic abuse through safety, knowledge and engagement. The passionate advocates at Harbor House help to shelter individuals from domestic abuse and assist in breaking
- [Amy Risseeuw Receives a 10.0 AVVO Score](https://www.pbclaw.com/amy-risseeuw-receives-a-10-0-avvo-score/) - Avvo is a prominent source for consumers to view ratings, reviews and disciplinary records of lawyers in each state. Each attorney profile is assigned a rating on a scale of 1.0-10.0, with a 1.0 rating denoting “Extreme Caution” and a 10.0 rating meaning “Superb”. In order to calculate where each lawyer falls on this scale,
- [5 Quick Tips for Meeting with a Guardian ad Litem](https://www.pbclaw.com/attorney-boelters-5-quick-tips-for-meeting-with-a-guardian-ad-litem/) - A guardian ad litem (GAL), is an attorney for the minor children in family law matters, such as divorce, legal separation, paternity, child custody and child placement cases. In Wisconsin, a GAL may be appointed by the court to represent the best interests of the children to ensure that their needs are taken into consideration.
- [Police Dog Bites](https://www.pbclaw.com/police-dog-bites/) - Each year, thousands of Americans, including bystanders, police officers and children are bitten by police dogs. This report entails an examination of 150 serious police dog bite cases that occurred in the United States from 2010-2020. Three of these cases ended fatally. The report found that the most common target of police dog bites are
- [Car Crash Fatalities Have Risen Since Onset of Pandemic in Wisconsin](https://www.pbclaw.com/car-crash-fatalities-have-risen-since-onset-of-pandemic-in-wisconsin/) - At the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, transportation officials hoped the decrease in traveling would lead to less car crash fatalities. However, according to David Pabst of the State of Wisconsin Department of Transportation’s Bureau of Transportation Safety and Technical Services, the number of fatalities has risen. 433 individuals died in Wisconsin car crashes through
- [How Covid-19 May Impact Your Personal Injury Claim](https://www.pbclaw.com/how-covid-19-may-impact-your-personal-injury-claim/) - COVID-19 is surely impacting your everyday life in numerous ways. However, one thing that has not changed is that an unexpected injury may still occur. Clients who are seeking compensation for their injuries may be wondering how the presence of COVID-19 might impact their personal injury case. There are some new roadblocks that exist, but
- [Auto Accident Injures And Hospitalizes Construction Worker](https://www.pbclaw.com/auto-accident-injures-and-hospitalizes-construction-worker/) - Road construction and repair is necessary in Wisconsin and across the United States. Because of wear and tear or outright damage, drivers can be put at risk of an accident with injuries and death. Although people might lament having their commute slowed because of this road work, it is important to drive slowly and pay
- [Man Faces Sixth Arrest For Drunk Driving In Wisconsin](https://www.pbclaw.com/man-faces-sixth-arrest-for-drunk-driving-in-wisconsin/) - Drivers in Wisconsin are keenly aware of the potential penalties for a drunk driving arrest. In the state, it is generally referred to as operating while intoxicated (OWI). If there is a conviction, the circumstances will determine the severity of the penalties. A key aspect of the case is the number of times the person
- [Auto–Pedestrian Accident Kills Green Bay Man](https://www.pbclaw.com/auto-pedestrian-accident-kills-green-bay-man/) - We may feel safer around here because we live in a less populous area that we can walk around without fear of being hit by a vehicle. However, we should always be on the lookout when we are on the roads because pedestrians have no protection from vehicles, which means that pedestrian accidents often result
- [How To Stay Safe On ATVs](https://www.pbclaw.com/how-to-stay-safe-on-atvs/) - All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are an exciting way to get around and explore areas of your community that you may not otherwise see. ATVs can be fun, but they also need proper safety precautions to avoid catastrophic injuries. When ATV drivers are not taking the proper precautions, a joyride can quickly turn fatal. Every safety measure you take
- [Estate Planning Without Family Conflict](https://www.pbclaw.com/estate-planning-without-family-conflict/) - When parents assemble their estate plan, they often overlook the agreeability of their heirs. Though most siblings love and care for each other, grief impacts everyone differently. Some siblings may feel slighted by their inheritance and make a claim against the estate. Legal battles between siblings can tear a family apart. Parents who want to
- [Bicycle Tips To Keep Your Whole Family Safe](https://www.pbclaw.com/bicycle-tips-to-keep-your-whole-family-safe/) - As warmer weather sticks around for a while in Wisconsin, you might find yourself spending more time outdoors. If you plan on biking in the near future, it’s important to keep in mind that safe riding habits can prevent injury and accident. In fact, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation reports that almost all bicycle crashes are the
- [Safety Rules You Want To Follow As A Pedestrian](https://www.pbclaw.com/safety-rules-you-want-to-follow-as-a-pedestrian/) - You are the most vulnerable as a pedestrian. There are no protections from a vehicle or other safety devices to keep you safe in an accident. This is why you have to be proactive. You need to look out for yourself and take the right steps to ensure your safety whenever you are walking on
- [How To Help Keep Your Teen Driver Safe](https://www.pbclaw.com/how-to-help-keep-your-teen-driver-safe/) - When teenagers have their licenses, it can be hard to make sure they stay safe when they are on their own. Being able to drive alone is exciting, and it is easy for new drivers to forget the safety rules of the road. As a parent, what can you do to help keep your young
- [Know The Symptoms Of Delayed Car Crash Injuries](https://www.pbclaw.com/know-the-symptoms-of-delayed-car-crash-injuries/) - You might see a doctor right after being involved in a car crash. But, you might not realize the importance of medical follow-up, even if you look and feel healthy days and weeks later. The reality is there are many injuries that won’t become clear until several days after the accident. Knowing the physical symptoms of delayed
- [A Guardian Ad Litem Protects Children’s Best Interests](https://www.pbclaw.com/a-guardian-ad-litem-protects-childrens-best-interests/) - Minors are not allowed to pursue personal injury lawsuits on their own. They must be represented in court by a parent or guardian. Sometimes those people have a stake in the outcome. In those cases, a guardian ad litem might be appointed. The court wants to ensure the best interests of the child are met. Personal injury
- [3 Tips For Driving Through Summer Construction Sites](https://www.pbclaw.com/3-tips-for-driving-through-summer-construction-sites/) - The joke that there are two seasons in the Midwest — winter and construction season — can often feel like a reality in Wisconsin. As road projects and home construction sites continue to pop-up and remain through the warm months of the year, it’s important to be mindful of the crews and vehicles who share
- [Teaching Kids How To Prevent Dog Bites](https://www.pbclaw.com/teaching-kids-how-to-prevent-dog-bites/) - To millions of Americans, their dog is a crucial member of their family. As such loving and loyal creatures, it’s hard to imagine these beloved companions would ever be capable of harming another person. But with approximately one-third of all U.S. homes having a dog as a pet, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that severe dog
- [Avoid These Common Estate Planning Mistakes](https://www.pbclaw.com/avoid-these-common-estate-planning-mistakes/) - A lot of people try to do estate planning on their own, or else go to an attorney who does not practice estate planning law regularly. Unfortunately, whatever money they might save tends to be outweighed by costly mistakes in their plan. Mistakes can happen, no matter how complex your estate plan might be. Here
- [6 Things To Do Immediately After A Car Accident](https://www.pbclaw.com/6-things-to-do-immediately-after-a-car-accident/) - Whether you were in a minor fender-bender or a serious crash, a car accident can have an impact on your health, your ability to travel and your life. Taking the right steps after an accident can help protect you and ensure that you have the support you need. 1. Get to safety. First and foremost,
- [Wisconsin Woman With Child In Car Arrested For Drunk Driving](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-woman-with-child-in-car-arrested-for-drunk-driving/) - Wisconsin law enforcement is vigilant about drivers who may be on the road after drinking or using drugs. This means they will initiate traffic stops and investigate if they see signs of a driver who is under the influence. While this may be a worrisome experience for the driver, it does not necessarily mean there
- [4 Reasons To Contest A Will](https://www.pbclaw.com/4-reasons-to-contest-a-will/) - Many people consider an estate plan a concrete set of documents that shouldn’t be altered or revised. Unfortunately, this is the wrong way to think of a comprehensive plan. Significant life events and various changes should result in an amended document. There are times, however, when estate planning documents – namely a will – contain
- [Why Having A Defense Attorney Matters](https://www.pbclaw.com/why-having-a-defense-attorney-matters/) - We’ve heard it in almost every crime movie and TV show: as the police arrest the villain, one of the officers informs them of their rights. One of these rights is the right to an attorney to defend them. This right originates with the Bill of Rights to the U.S. Constitution, specifically the Sixth Amendment. The
- [Comparative Negligence Threatens Injury Compensation](https://www.pbclaw.com/comparative-negligence-threatens-injury-compensation/) - When a party is liable for the personal injury or illness of another person, the liable party is commonly responsible for the compensation of those injuries or illnesses. A tactic that the defendant in a liability claim would take is using comparative negligence. There are several ways people can use comparative negligence to affect compensation across various
- [Divorce Courts Could Order Some Temporary Peace Of Mind](https://www.pbclaw.com/divorce-courts-could-order-some-temporary-peace-of-mind/) - Divorce can be an incredibly stressful undertaking, and any uncertainty might only make it worse. Not knowing what shape your life is supposed to take at this tough time can be taxing, but there may be a way to get some answers. Dealing with divorce can be hard, both emotionally and financially. While research has
- [Hit-And-Run Car Accident Injures 2](https://www.pbclaw.com/hit-and-run-car-accident-injures-2/) - It seems to be a fact of modern life that nearly every driver will, at some point, be involved in a car crash. The hope is that, if it occurs, it won’t be serious enough to result in injury, but unfortunately, that doesn’t always happen. A recent car accident here in Wisconsin left two people injured, and if that
- [Utility Truck Accident Kills Man, Dog In Wisconsin](https://www.pbclaw.com/utility-truck-accident-kills-man-dog-in-wisconsin/) - Drivers in Wisconsin and across the country encounter a variety of different traffic signs and signals each time they get behind the wheel of a vehicle. For drivers with years of experience, it is often second nature to obey. Unfortunately, an oversight, such as failing to stop at a stop sign, can have serious consequences.
- [How To Stay Safe On Your Snowmobile This Winter](https://www.pbclaw.com/how-to-stay-safe-on-your-snowmobile-this-winter/) - When you live in Wisconsin, one of the most enjoyable winter activities is snowmobiling. Snowmobiling can be a recreational activity with family or friends, and it can even be a means of transportation while you are hunting or ice fishing. Even though riding on a snowmobile can be fun, there is still the potential for
- [Woman Killed, 2 Arrested Following Wisconsin Car Accident](https://www.pbclaw.com/woman-killed-2-arrested-following-wisconsin-car-accident/) - Because motor vehicles are part of the everyday lives of millions of people across the United States, drivers may take for granted the potential harm they can cause if they are involved in an accident. Unfortunately, a car accident in Wisconsin illustrates this harm after a woman was killed in a rollover crash. Both the driver
- [Disinheriting A Family Member Through Estate Planning](https://www.pbclaw.com/disinheriting-a-family-member-through-estate-planning/) - Families in Wisconsin are complicated. In some cases, certain circumstances could prompt someone to disinherit a family member, such as ongoing disputes among siblings. Many people are surprised to learn that certain family members, even if not included as beneficiaries of a will, are entitled to be notified of the probate process. Fortunately, there are
- [Wisconsin Sees Increase In Alcohol-Related Traffic Fatalities](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-sees-increase-in-alcohol-related-traffic-fatalities/) - Newly released statistics from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) show alcohol-related fatalities fell by 3.6% across the United States in 2018. However, Wisconsin saw a more than 5% increase in traffic deaths where alcohol was a factor. The total number of deaths (588) on Wisconsin roadways in 2018 decreased compared to 2017, which
- [Which Age Group Texts And Drives The Most?](https://www.pbclaw.com/which-age-group-texts-and-drives-the-most/) - It is undeniable that Wisconsin has suffered from a distracted driving problem in recent years. In particular, texting while driving has become a huge issue not only in the state, but across the entire country. Today, we will take a closer look at some of the numbers behind texting and driving incidents. According to Cosmos
- [Daughter Fights For Her Alleged Inheritance](https://www.pbclaw.com/daughter-fights-for-her-alleged-inheritance/) - The importance of clear verbiage in a will or a trust cannot be overstated to residents in Wisconsin. Even the slightest opportunity for interpretation may provide fuel for a person’s estate plan to be contested by heirs or potential heirs. An example of this can be seen in the case of a woman in New
- [Boating Under The Influence In Wisconsin: The Facts](https://www.pbclaw.com/boating-under-the-influence-in-wisconsin-the-facts/) - In late summer of 2017, a 53-year-old man from suburban Milwaukee was boating on Lake Nagawicka. Without slowing down, he steered his white deck boat into the side of a pontoon. A 61-year-old woman was ejected from the pontoon, “and died from drowning and blunt force trauma.” The driver of the white deck boat, a
- [Do Not Ignore Symptoms After A Crash](https://www.pbclaw.com/do-not-ignore-symptoms-after-a-crash/) - Victims of car accidents in Wisconsin have a lot to deal with after a collision. They need to call the police, exchange information with the other driver, deal with property damage and possibly miss work. For those who have minor aches and pains, it may be easy to ignore them and avoid a trip to
- [Driver Errors And Serious Crashes](https://www.pbclaw.com/driver-errors-and-serious-crashes/) - As residents in Wisconsin watch the continued development of autonomous vehicles, they may or may not yet be convinced that it is safe to ride in one of these vehicles. However, many people are highlighting the dangers associated with riding in vehicles operated by human drivers. These people actually have statistics to back up their concerns.
- [New Marriage, New Estate Plan](https://www.pbclaw.com/new-marriage-new-estate-plan/) - With divorce and remarriage far from usual these days, estate planning can bring up some issues that are not present for people in nuclear families with only one marriage for both spouses. Wisconsin residents who are planning to get married for the second time should make estate planning as much of a priority as wedding
- [5 Brothers Injured, 1 Killed In Wisconsin Rollover Crash](https://www.pbclaw.com/5-brothers-injured-1-killed-in-wisconsin-rollover-crash/) - Licensed teenaged drivers in Wisconsin may transport immediate family members as passengers. However, the advisability of allowing teens to do this may be in question following a rollover crash last week that injured five brothers, one of whom has since died. A 16-year-old boy and his four younger brothers, ages 7 to 15, were traveling from their
- [Multi-Vehicle Wisconsin Crash Kills 1, Injures Several](https://www.pbclaw.com/multi-vehicle-wisconsin-crash-kills-1-injures-several/) - Authorities cite speed entering a construction zone and inattentive driving as factors in a multi-vehicle crash near Columbus, Wisconsin, on Highway 151 last week. Helicopters and ambulances were necessary to transport five people injured in the collision, four men and a woman, to the hospital, and another man died at the scene. An investigation into the accident
- [Did Your Crash Result In A Brain Injury?](https://www.pbclaw.com/did-your-crash-result-in-a-brain-injury/) - In Wisconsin, there are plenty of big trucks on the road. When they share road space with smaller personal passenger vehicles like yours, there can be big consequences for crashes. Today, we at Peterson Berk & Cross will take a look at the possibility of brain injury post-crash and how it may affect you. Brain
- [How Should You Plan For Long-Term Care?](https://www.pbclaw.com/how-should-you-plan-for-long-term-care/) - If you are an older Wisconsin resident, you may be thinking about health care options for yourself and/or your partner. If you sustain an injury from an accident or end up with a cognitive impairment such as Alzheimer’s disease, you may end up needing long-term care. Even if you never end up requiring this type
- [How To Have A Safe Boating Season](https://www.pbclaw.com/how-to-have-a-safe-boating-season/) - Boating is a favorite pastime for Wisconsin residents. With the snow melting and temperatures rising, boats will soon be filling our lakes again. After all, what’s better than spending a beautiful afternoon with friends and family on the water? While these days make for great memories, tragedy can strike if you don’t take proper care
- [What Are Wisconsin’s Contributory Negligence Laws?](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-are-wisconsins-contributory-negligence-laws/) - If another person or entity causes you to sustain harm, Wisconsin law provides you the opportunity to sue for damages on the premise of negligence. However, the party you sue has the opportunity to refute your claim by proving your own negligence played a role in the incident. This is thanks to the theory of
- [Convictions For Small Crimes Can Have Big Consequences](https://www.pbclaw.com/convictions-for-small-crimes-can-have-big-consequences/) - It is becoming increasingly clear that there are major problems with the criminal justice system in the United States, including racial and socioeconomic bias, wrongful convictions and overly harsh prison sentences. But there is also a problem with the way that the criminal justice system influences life in the rest of society. A criminal record
- [Slip And Falls Are More Dangerous For Older People](https://www.pbclaw.com/slip-and-falls-are-more-dangerous-for-older-people/) - In the United States, falls are a leading cause of death and injuries for seniors over 65. What might seem like a minor fall for a younger person, can be a very dangerous event for an older person. Not only can a fall cause death and injury, a fall can threaten a senior’s independence and
- [Don’t Let Celebration Lead To Regret](https://www.pbclaw.com/dont-let-celebration-lead-to-regret/) - Alcohol is a common part of celebration in Wisconsin, but the celebrating can get you in trouble if you choose to get behind the wheel after drinking. Driving when you’re drunk is not only illegal but dangerous. Each year in Wisconsin, drunk driving kills hundreds and injures thousands more. According to the US Department of
- [Snowmobile safety](https://www.pbclaw.com/snowmobile-safety/) - Winter in Wisconsin brings accumulating snow and for many, the opportunity to get outside and experience it. For snowmobilers, the chance to enjoy the trails can’t come soon enough. As the birthplace of snowmobiling, one of our favorite pastimes in Wisconsin is exploring the trails on our machines. More than 200,000 registered snowmobilers hit Wisconsin’s
- [Drugged Driving Leads To Serious Car Accidents And Injuries](https://www.pbclaw.com/drugged-driving-leads-to-serious-car-accidents-and-injuries/) - Each day you get in your vehicle, you never know if it will be your last time doing so. Every day, in Wisconsin and all across the nation, motorists and pedestrians lose their lives to drugged driving accidents. Individuals who survive them often have to deal with the long-term and devastating medical, emotional and financial
- [3 Types Of Damages You Can Seek After A Car Accident](https://www.pbclaw.com/3-types-of-damages-you-can-seek-after-a-car-accident/) - Although no one ever plans to have a car accident, the risk of a crash exists every time you get behind the wheel. While you certainly do not want to anticipate an injury, if you do suffer an injury after a car crash, you should have a basic idea of what to do. Oftentimes in
- [High Net Worth Divorce And Hidden Assets](https://www.pbclaw.com/high-net-worth-divorce-and-hidden-assets/) - Couples with a high net worth who are facing divorce have a number of particular issues to face that require specialized attention. When a couple shares a substantial asset profile, oftentimes, one spouse will make an effort to secure a majority of the assets in the divorce settlement. In an attempt to retain assets that the
- [Should I Safeguard My Property To Keep Children From Harm?](https://www.pbclaw.com/should-i-safeguard-my-property-to-keep-children-from-harm/) - If you heard that you may be held responsible if a dangerous feature on your property harms a neighborhood child, this might conflict with what you know about trespassing. Nobody, including children, should come onto your property without your permission, so it isn’t your fault if a child enters your yard and gets hurt, right?
- [3 Essential Boating Safety Guidelines](https://www.pbclaw.com/3-essential-boating-safety-guidelines/) - Boating in the summer is a staple activity in Wisconsin. When the warm weather hits, it is time to go out on the lake. No matter how many times you have gone boating, it is always smart to review some boating safety guidelines before departing. According to the National Safety Council, there were 2,613 boating injuries
- [When Co-Parents Disagree Over Elaborate Gifts](https://www.pbclaw.com/when-co-parents-disagree-over-elaborate-gifts/) - When you co-parent children with someone who lives in a different household, it is good to be on the same page as far as bedtimes, house rules and internet use go. This consistency helps keep children on an even keel, but children can thrive even when their lives are different at both homes. Of course, disagreements
- [How Can I Get The Other Parent To Comply With Child Support?](https://www.pbclaw.com/how-can-i-get-the-other-parent-to-comply-with-child-support/) - One frustrating thing that many divorced parents deal with is the other parent not paying court-ordered child support or even child support that both parents agreed to with the help of lawyers. If you are in the middle of such a situation, you have several options. However, one mistake to avoid is to withhold visitation from the
- [Can Your TV And Other Items In The Home Harm Your Child?](https://www.pbclaw.com/can-your-tv-and-other-items-in-the-home-harm-your-child/) - unting of the mirror on the wall. You and other Wisconsin parents are very cautious about keeping your homes safe for your young children, but there are some common dangers that you may not be aware of. When you childproofed your home, you probably blocked unused electrical outlets and put locks on cabinet doors that
- [3 Challenges In High-Asset Divorces](https://www.pbclaw.com/3-challenges-in-high-asset-divorces/) - People with a high net worth who are facing a divorce should proceed with caution. Individuals in this situation often face specific challenges that require assistance from an attorney with experience handling cases of this nature. Here are three common challenges regarding high-asset divorces. Awareness of these challenges can help couples to better understand a few of the major issues at
- [Can Kids Bully Others With Food Allergies?](https://www.pbclaw.com/can-kids-bully-others-with-food-allergies/) - As you know, it can be life-threatening if your child has an allergy to certain types of food. Other adults and children should also understand this important fact, but food allergy bullying is not often recognized in schools. You and other Wisconsin parents who have kids with allergies need to know about this dangerous form of
- [The Bias Of Independent Medical Exams](https://www.pbclaw.com/the-bias-of-independent-medical-exams/) - In many personal injury cases, our client is required to be examined by a doctor chosen by the defense insurance company. That examination is often referred to as an “independent medical exam,” also known as an “IME.” In most cases, there is nothing independent about the examination and the doctor is specifically hired by the
- [Are You Scared To Ask For A Divorce?](https://www.pbclaw.com/are-you-scared-to-ask-for-a-divorce/) - If you want a divorce but are scared to ask for one, know that you are far from alone. Many men and women wake up every day with the mixed emotions of fear and wanting to be free. Fear is a protective instinct, a survival mechanism, so of course it tends to win out. There are
- [What’s The Difference Between Custody And Placement?](https://www.pbclaw.com/whats-the-difference-between-custody-and-placement/) - Child custody and child placement are probably terms that you’ve heard if you are in the midst of a family law action. It’s important to know the distinction. Do you know the difference? What is child custody? In Wisconsin, the statutory definition of legal custody is “the right and responsibility to make major decisions concerning the child, except with respect to specified
- [3 Ways To Prepare For A New Year Divorce](https://www.pbclaw.com/3-ways-to-prepare-for-a-new-year-divorce/) - January is a popular time to get a divorce. This is because the new year is a time of new chances and leaving bad things behind. If your marriage is going through some trouble and you are considering getting a divorce in the new year, you are not alone. According to Forbes, many people get a
- [Consider This Before You Ask For A Divorce This Holiday Season](https://www.pbclaw.com/consider-this-before-you-ask-for-a-divorce-this-holiday-season/) - Many people in the Appleton area think the holiday season is the perfect time for families to get together to celebrate their love for each other. But for some couples, it brings about thoughts of separation and divorce. Not all relationships end in death. Many of them end in separation and divorce court. As you get ready
- [Wisconsin’s Snowmobile Accident Causes And Statistics](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsins-snowmobile-accident-causes-and-statistics/) - Snowmobile season is never far off in Wisconsin, and if you are a fan of the popular winter activity, you may well be prepping for the fun that lies ahead. As much as snowmobiling can be an enjoyable activity, however, it is also an inherently dangerous one. Just as motorcycle riders face certain hazards due
- [Attorney Schlemmer To Conduct FREE Seminar In Appleton](https://www.pbclaw.com/attorney-schlemmer-to-conduct-free-seminar-in-appleton/) - Attorney Stacy Schlemmer will present a FREE seminar called Know Your Rights as a Single Parent. The seminar will be held at Peterson, Berk & Cross, located at 200 E. College Ave. in Appleton. It will take place on October 19th at 5:30 p.m. To register, please call our office at 920-831-0300. Space is limited!
- [Subtle Signs Of A Traumatic Brain Injury](https://www.pbclaw.com/subtle-signs-of-a-traumatic-brain-injury/) - As the name suggests, traumatic brain injuries are ones that result in trauma to the brain. Falls rank as the highest cause of TBIs, with vehicular accidents also being a significant source, according to the CDC. Not as traumatic as the causes and injuries, however, are the symptoms. Whether you suffer a severe blow to the
- [3 Ways To Get A Divorce In Wisconsin](https://www.pbclaw.com/3-ways-to-get-a-divorce-in-wisconsin/) - As you prepare to end your marriage, you may wonder what is the best way to go about doing it. The approach you take can influence the consequences divorce will have on you and your children. Therefore, it is important to know your options. Three common ways to divorce in Wisconsin are through mediation, collaboration and litigation.
- [Attorney Emily Lonergan Receives Award Of Excellence](https://www.pbclaw.com/attorney-emily-lonergan-receives-award-of-excellence/) - Attorney Emily Lonergan was recently the recipient of the Wisconsin Law Foundation Gordon Sinykin Award of Excellence. She received her award at the Wisconsin State Bar’s Annual Meeting and Conference in June. The Gordon Sinykin Award of Excellence recognizes lawyers for their work on a law-related education or public service project. Nominees are judged based
- [3 Essential Tips For Boating Safely In Wisconsin](https://www.pbclaw.com/3-essential-tips-for-boating-safely-in-wisconsin/) - Summer is here, and that means it is time to enjoy the beautiful lakes of Wisconsin. Taking your boat out for a day on the water is one of the greatest pleasures of this time of year. However, no matter how many times you have done it over the years, it is crucial to review
- [Common Causes Of Boating Accidents And Fatalities](https://www.pbclaw.com/common-causes-of-boating-accidents-and-fatalities/) - At about this time each year, many residents across Wisconsin and beyond are prepping their boats to get back in the water. If you are among these excited mariners, safety is likely an utmost priority. The more knowledge and training you have when you get out on the water, the better your chances of a
- [How To Determine If You Have A Slip And Fall Case](https://www.pbclaw.com/how-to-determine-if-you-have-a-slip-and-fall-case/) - Slips, trips and falls do not happen only at the workplace or in stores. Although they may be prevalent in industrial jobs and establishments with wet floors, they also happen frequently in other places, including private residential properties. If you have fallen in or outside someone’s house, any injury you receive may be just as
- [Attorney Laura M. Nelson Running For Reelection In Village Of Suamico](https://www.pbclaw.com/attorney-laura-m-nelson-running-for-reelection-in-village-of-suamico/) - Attorney Laura M. Nelson is the current Village of Suamico President and is now running for reelection. Election day is April 4th. She was recently featured in the Green Bay Press Gazette. In response to why Laura is running for office, she says, “My job is not done. We’ve made some progress: we’ve reduced our debt…and we’ve identified
- [Attorney John Peterson Helps Make Downtown Appleton “One Great Place”](https://www.pbclaw.com/attorney-john-peterson-helps-make-downtown-appleton-one-great-place/) - Attorney John C. Peterson has been on the Board of Directors for Appleton Downtown, Inc. for many years. Most recently, he served as President of the Board from 2014-2016. “It has been a tremendously exciting two years to be president of Appleton Downtown, Inc. We have progressed through the parking study, the mobility study and now the comprehensive
- [Paralegal Intern, Molly Steiner, Volunteers At Fox Valley Free Legal Assistance Clinic](https://www.pbclaw.com/paralegal-intern-molly-steiner-volunteers-at-fox-valley-free-legal-assistance-clinic/) - Molly Steiner is one of the founding members of Fox Valley Technical College’s Paralegal Student Organization. This is a newly started organization on campus as of the fall of 2016. This organization and its advisor, Christine O’Brien, run and operate the Fox Valley’s Free Legal Aid Clinics at local libraries in Menasha, Neenah and Oshkosh
- [The Link Between Nursing Home Understaffing And Elder Abuse](https://www.pbclaw.com/the-link-between-nursing-home-understaffing-and-elder-abuse/) - A serious understaffing problem is permeating many of America’s nursing homes and continuing care facilities, and it may be placing your loved ones at risk. When nursing homes do not have enough staff members to comfortably cater to all residents and handle all necessary tasks, the quality of care tends to suffer, which can lead
- [Paralegal Intern, Molly Steiner, Awarded 1st Place In Human Resource Management At Collegiate DECA State Competition](https://www.pbclaw.com/paralegal-intern-molly-steiner-awarded-1st-place-in-human-resource-management-at-collegiate-deca-state-competition/) - Molly Steiner, a new member of the Peterson, Berk & Cross team, is a very active student on the Fox Valley Technical College campus. She is in the process of obtaining her associate degree in paralegal studies. Molly is the President of FVTC Collegiate DECA, a business club that promotes leadership and prepares emerging leaders in their
- [Alcohol causing Wisconsin snowmobile accidents](https://www.pbclaw.com/alcohol-causing-wisconsin-snowmobile-accidents/) - Every winter, outdoor enthusiasts from all around Wisconsin head out to enjoy the blankets of fresh powder covering the state. While skiing and snowshoeing are great ways to explore, one of the most exciting ways to see both backcountry trails and public park routes is on a snowmobile. Cruising across the ice is exciting, but
- [New Year’s Resolutions During Divorce](https://www.pbclaw.com/new-years-resolutions-during-divorce/) - While many people start the new year with goals of losing weight, exercising more or eating better, those who are going through divorce may benefit from slightly different resolutions. Weight loss and health are still important, but for people who are separated or in the midst of divorce, resolutions that help them deal with the
- [FREE Seminar With Attorney Stacy Schlemmer & Mike Grahek](https://www.pbclaw.com/free-seminar-with-attorney-stacy-schlemmer-mike-grahek/) - Attorney Stacy Schlemmer and President of Titletown Financial Services, Mike Grahek, will present a FREE seminar called Top Financial Mistakes People Make in Divorce. The seminar will take place in our Green Bay office on January 26th at 5:30 p.m. To register, please call our office at 920-831-0300. Space is limited!
- [When There’s A Will…](https://www.pbclaw.com/when-theres-a-will/) - Appreciating Richard Eisenberg’s title, “Americans’ Ostrich Approach To Estate Planning,” Forbes, When There’s a Will… I know I’m not going to shock you with this news: you’re going to die. I don’t know when; and neither do you, nor should you know. Enjoy life; live it to the fullest. Be happy. Love your family and
- [How To Survive The Holidays After Divorce](https://www.pbclaw.com/how-to-survive-the-holidays-after-divorce/) - Dissolving a marriage is tough, and doing so during the holidays can be even harder. Seasonal songs, foods and activities can now be reminders of what you do not have instead of what you do. While there is no way to make it easy, there are things you can do to make sure you and
- [Attorney Laura M. Nelson Walks In Howard-Suamico Holiday Parade As President Of Village Of Suamico](https://www.pbclaw.com/attorney-laura-m-nelson-walks-in-howard-suamico-holiday-parade-as-president-of-village-of-suamico/) - On Saturday, December 3rd, as President of the Village of Suamico, Attorney Laura M. Nelson walked in the Howard-Suamico Holiday Parade with her family by her side. “I’ve always tried to encourage members of the community to get involved in local government. To communicate my message, I created a postcard with a message that read,
- [Safe Winter Driving Tips, Part 2](https://www.pbclaw.com/safe-winter-driving-tips-part-2/) - The previous post discussed how to prepare for a safe winter driving experience in Wisconsin. There are also several driving skills you should learn so that you will be prepared for treacherous driving conditions. Practice these maneuvers during the daylight hours before the wet weather hits, so you will be ready for winter: 1. Buckle up
- [Planning Ahead: What To Consider When You’re Ready To Start Planning](https://www.pbclaw.com/planning-ahead-what-to-consider-when-youre-ready-to-start-planning/) - Planning Ahead: What To Consider When You’re Ready To Start Planning By: Attorney Laura M. Nelson “No one wants to die. And yet death is the destination we all share.” – STEVE JOBS, Commencement Address, Stanford University, 06/12/2005 Providing for your immediate family; easing the strain on your family during a particularly painful time in their lives;
- [Property Division: What Happens If My Spouse Has Missing Assets?](https://www.pbclaw.com/property-division-what-happens-if-my-spouse-has-missing-assets/) - When going through a divorce, it becomes extremely important to have the most recent documentation of all assets and debts, especially if you suspect some have mysteriously disappeared or suspect your spouse is accumulating a significant amount of debt in a short period of time. All assets and debts are presumed to be marital property. For example,
- [How To Stay Safe Around Railroad Crossings](https://www.pbclaw.com/how-to-stay-safe-around-railroad-crossings/) - There were 12 injuries and two deaths around railroad crossings in Wisconsin last year, and eight more people died while trespassing on railroad tracks. State officials are trying to get those numbers down to zero by raising awareness during Rail Safety Week, which kicked off in Wisconsin on Monday with an event at Ashwaubenon’s National Railroad
- [Punitive Damages Are Available When Drunk Boaters Injure Others](https://www.pbclaw.com/punitive-damages-are-available-when-drunk-boaters-injure-others/) - Summer is a time for fun and relaxing in the sun. In Green Bay, the water is an inviting place where plenty of people converge throughout the hot months to partake in sports and recreation alike. There is a lot of boating, and a lot of drinking. Unfortunately, sometimes those two elements come together, causing
- [We’re Hiring!](https://www.pbclaw.com/were-hiring/) - Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. is seeking a paralegal to work full time in the family law section at our Green Bay location. Candidate must have a strong academic background, excellent people skills, proficiency in Word, Excel and Outlook, and the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. This person must be able to work well in a team environment,
- [Attorney Risseeuw Presented A Seminar At The Outagamie County Bar Association Meeting](https://www.pbclaw.com/attorney-risseeuw-presented-a-seminar-at-the-outagamie-county-bar-association-meeting/) - Attorney Amy M. Risseeuw presented a seminar to other local attorneys at the monthly meeting of the Outagamie County Bar Association yesterday. Attorney Risseeuw’s presentation, entitled the Low Impact Tool Kit, addressed personal injury cases involving car accidents with minimal property damage. Insurance companies call these minimal property damage cases “low impact,” even though the amount
- [Family Law Basics: Preparing To Meet With A Divorce Attorney](https://www.pbclaw.com/family-law-basics-preparing-to-meet-with-a-divorce-attorney/) - Determining how to hire a divorce attorney can be a daunting task. You are most likely already overwhelmed by emotions and financial uncertainty. You probably have a constant stream of questions and worries. Finding an attorney who is committed to getting you the best result is important. The first step in hiring a lawyer to represent you
- [Attorney Stacy Schlemmer Recipient of Future 15](https://www.pbclaw.com/attorney-stacy-schlemmer-recipient-of-future-15/) - We are pleased to announce that Attorney Stacy J. Schlemmer is one of the recipients of the Future 15! The Greater Green Bay Chamber’s Current Young Professionals annually profile 15 young professionals in the area who are growing and excelling in their respective fields. These individuals are currently influencing the growth, prosperity and quality of life
- [Small Bumps May Lead To Subdural Hematomas](https://www.pbclaw.com/small-bumps-may-lead-to-subdural-hematomas/) - People in Wisconsin may be surprised to learn that they can develop a condition known as a subdural hematoma where blood accumulates on the surface of the brain from a relatively minor bump on the head. Sometimes, the bump is so minor that people do not remember it happening. In fact, most people never realize
- [Bubbles In Brain Could Cause Traumatic Brain Injuries](https://www.pbclaw.com/bubbles-in-brain-could-cause-traumatic-brain-injuries/) - A research team at Brown University is studying whether bubbles created by pressure waves are to blame for traumatic brain injuries. The results of the study could lead to better protective gear and TBI treatments for people in Wisconsin and worldwide. The goal of the study, which was presented at the annual meeting of the
- [Understanding How Alcohol Affects The Body](https://www.pbclaw.com/understanding-how-alcohol-affects-the-body/) - Several agencies and organizations have made an effort to spread awareness about the effects that drinking alcohol has on the body. Wisconsin residents, however, may get a clearer picture of these effects from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Using information from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and University of New Mexico, the
- [The Impact Of Concussions](https://www.pbclaw.com/the-impact-of-concussions/) - According to the National Institutes of Health, there are nearly 4 million concussions that stem from sports and recreational activity. This is in addition to the untold number that occur after car crashes and falls. About 80 percent of those who suffer a concussion will recover in three weeks, but the other 20 percent may
- [Research Examines Brain Inflammation And Traumatic Brain Injury](https://www.pbclaw.com/research-examines-brain-inflammation-and-traumatic-brain-injury/) - For Wisconsin residents who have incurred a traumatic brain injury, there might be certain assumptions as what it can lead to. Research is trying to get a firmer grasp on TBIs and their symptoms. One particular study suggests that long-term inflammation is a bigger culprit than other diagnoses. The authors of the study believe that
- [New Study Links ADHD And TBI In Adults](https://www.pbclaw.com/new-study-links-adhd-and-tbi-in-adults/) - Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder complicates the daily lives of many Wisconsin residents of all ages. Traumatic brain injuries subject millions of individuals to an assortment of cognitive problems yearly. A recent study has helped to affirm a potential correlation between these problems, raising the possibility that more might be done to screen adults with past brain
- [Common Drugs Could Delay Brain Injury Recovery](https://www.pbclaw.com/common-drugs-could-delay-brain-injury-recovery/) - According to a new study, a class of drugs commonly prescribed to treat conditions like depression, insomnia and bladder issues could make it more difficult for Wisconsin patients to recover from brain injuries. The medications, called anticholinergics, are given to up 50 percent of older patients around the country. The study, which was conducted by a
- [Increased Education Key To Patient Satisfaction](https://www.pbclaw.com/increased-education-key-to-patient-satisfaction/) - In an effort to avoid mistakes when preparing for surgery, it is important that patients in Wisconsin receive education regarding the medical procedures they are facing. While it might be difficult and take a bit more time to explain the situation to patients, it is a worthwhile endeavor. The results of a recent Gallup survey indicate
- [Attorney John Peterson President Of ADI Board Of Directors](https://www.pbclaw.com/attorney-john-peterson-president-of-adi-board-of-directors/) - Attorney John Peterson was recently named President of the Board of Directors for Appleton Downtown, Inc. ADI’s mission is to make Downtown Appleton a vibrant and accessible destination for business, learning, living and leisure.
- [Study Suggests Head Traumas May Lead To Premature Brain Aging](https://www.pbclaw.com/study-suggests-head-traumas-may-lead-to-premature-brain-aging/) - A study conducted by British researchers has added new fuel to concerns that head injuries might be the source of signs of premature aging in the brains of victims, a finding that may have implications for personal injury cases in Wisconsin. The researchers examined brain scans from 99 people who had suffered traumas arising from
- [Attorney Dan Cross Participating In Child Support Webinar](https://www.pbclaw.com/attorney-dan-cross-participating-in-child-support-webinar/) - Attorney Dan Cross will be participating in a child support webinar through the State Bar of Wisconsin called “Child Support: It’s Not Just Percentages” on April 27th in Madison. Attorney Cross is the author of the widely used child support calculator “DCF150 Sheets”, which is now also incorporated into Divorce Financial Solutions’ comprehensive maintenance and child support calculator, “DFS-Tax
- [Attorney Stacy Schlemmer Featured in Management Women Newsletter](https://www.pbclaw.com/attorney-stacy-schlemmer-featured-in-management-women-newsletter/) - Attorney Stacy Schlemmer is featured in the Management Women, Inc.newsletter this month. In the newsletter, Attorney Schlemmer discusses family law and her perspective on representing her clients.
- [Attorney John Peterson 2015 President of ADI Board](https://www.pbclaw.com/attorney-john-peterson-2015-president-of-adi-board/) - Attorney John Peterson is the 2015 President of the Appleton Downtown, Inc. Board of Directors. Appleton Downtown, Inc. (ADI) is a not-for-profit community coalition dedicated to an economically strong, safe, attractive and exciting downtown.
- [Attorney John Peterson Named as 2015 Leader in the Law](https://www.pbclaw.com/attorney-john-peterson-named-as-2015-leader-in-the-law/) - Attorney John Peterson was recently recognized by The Wisconsin Law Journal by being named as one of the 2015 Leaders in the Law. Winners are recognized for their outstanding leadership, career achievements, legal expertise and giving back through community and pro bono work.
- [Check Your Insurance Coverage Before Your Spring Break Trip](https://www.pbclaw.com/check-your-insurance-coverage-before-your-spring-break-trip/) - Automobile insurance is one of those grown-up topics that isn’t that much fun to think about. We all know we should have insurance (it is the law!), we all want to pay reasonable rates, and we all see a lot of insurance company commercials promising stellar service or cheaper prices. While getting good service at a
- [How To Deal With A Concussion](https://www.pbclaw.com/how-to-deal-with-a-concussion/) - A concussion is a serious head injury that needs to be monitored to lower the odds of its long-term effects. If a Wisconsin athlete suffers a concussion during a game or during a practice, it is recommended that he or she not return to play until at least the next day. In the meantime, it
- [Wisconsin Construction Worker Dies At Milwaukee Project Site](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-construction-worker-dies-at-milwaukee-project-site/) - The Wisconsin Department of Transportation called the death of a 33-year-old man a rare incident when he was killed by machinery at the site of the Zoo Interchange project in Milwaukee. The work accident happened near 91st Street on the westbound side of Interstate 94. Details about the type of machinery involved were not provided
- [Trucks More Likely To Be Involved In Multiple Vehicle Crashes](https://www.pbclaw.com/trucks-more-likely-to-be-involved-in-multiple-vehicle-crashes/) - Some residents of Wisconsin may have experience with truck accidents. While any form of crash has the potential to be dangerous, truck accidents tend to involve more vehicles and may in general be more deadly for other motorists. Commercial companies may sometimes pressure drivers to work more than they’re physically capable of doing. For example,
- [Facts Wisconsin Drivers Should Know About Impaired Driving](https://www.pbclaw.com/facts-wisconsin-drivers-should-know-about-impaired-driving/) - Wisconsin drivers should be aware that alcohol-impaired drivers lead to roughly 30 deaths each day in the United States alone, or one death in every 51 minutes. In fact, almost one-third of all traffic-related deaths involve a driver with a blood-alcohol content of higher than the legal limit of .08. In addition to the injured
- [Brain Injury Victims Likely To Be Re-Hospitalized](https://www.pbclaw.com/brain-injury-victims-likely-to-be-re-hospitalized/) - Research shows that patients in Wisconsin with traumatic brain injuries may be more likely to be re-hospitalized than people with other kinds of injuries. According to the study conducted by the Brain Injury Association of America, 20 percent of individuals with traumatic brain injuries are re-hospitalized for both elective and non-elective reasons. The study looked
- [Statistical Facts Regarding Uninsured Motorists](https://www.pbclaw.com/statistical-facts-regarding-uninsured-motorists/) - In regards to the number of uninsured motorists in 2012, the state of Wisconsin ranked 25 in the country with 11.7 of its motorists being uninsured, according to a report by the Insurance Information Institute. The state of Massachusetts carried the fewest amount of uninsured motorists, and Oklahoma carried the highest amount at 26 percent.
- [Wisconsin Man Seriously Injured By Drunk Driver](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-man-seriously-injured-by-drunk-driver/) - The Marathon County Sheriff’s Department reported that a drunk driver struck and seriously injured a 39-year-old man on Nov. 7. The accident happened on Highway K around 6 p.m. According to authorities, the victim, who is a Wausau resident, was directing traffic around a prior accident involving a car and a hay trailer when a
- [Understanding Traumatic Brain Injuries](https://www.pbclaw.com/understanding-traumatic-brain-injuries/) - Brain injuries can be particularly devastating for families. If brain function is limited due to damage, then quality of life can fall drastically. There are two basic types of traumatic brain injury: closed and penetrating. With penetrating injuries, a foreign object enters the brain. One example would be a bullet going through the skull and
- [Facts On Traumatic Brain Injuries In Wisconsin](https://www.pbclaw.com/facts-on-traumatic-brain-injuries-in-wisconsin/) - A traumatic brain injury may result from a variety of causes. The aftermath of brain trauma may include permanent disability or a prolonged coma. The medical expenses, therapy, rehabilitation and long-term care needed to care for a person with brain damage can be considerable. These traumas are a major cause of death and disability in
- [Distracted Drivers Often Harm Children In School Zones](https://www.pbclaw.com/distracted-drivers-often-harm-children-in-school-zones/) - Distracted driving has become an epidemic in the United States. Unable or unwilling to focus their attention on the road, too many people choose to use their cellphone or other electronic devices while driving. Others believe, despite all evidence to the contrary, that eating or putting on makeup behind the wheel are safe and won’t
- [Mayfly Swarm Causes 3-Car Accident In Wisconsin](https://www.pbclaw.com/mayfly-swarm-causes-3-car-accident-in-wisconsin/) - Wisconsin motorists know to be ready for anything on the road. In wintertime, this means snow, ice and sleet, which can make streets and highways slippery. Drivers who do not adjust by slowing down and allowing for more following distance risk getting into a car accident. Late in July, a different sort of natural phenomenon may
- [Officials: Fewest Fatalities In Wisconsin Car Wrecks Since WWII](https://www.pbclaw.com/officials-fewest-fatalities-in-wisconsin-car-wrecks-since-wwii/) - The last time there were so few deadly car accidents in Wisconsin, World War II had just ended. In fact, if trends from this year hold, the rate could be even better, at least for four-wheeled motorists. The state Department of Transportation recently reported that the number of fatal car accidents in Wisconsin over the first six
- [Man Killed In Wisconsin Accident](https://www.pbclaw.com/man-killed-in-wisconsin-accident/) - Here’s an unusual and unfortunate story of a man who was in a fatal accident in Sheboygan County. According to the news, the Wisconsin man’s wrongful death took place as he walked to a roadway to ask for help after an accident resulted in his car going off the road. According to the news, the
- [Truck-Car Accident Leaves A Wisconsin Toddler With Brain Injury](https://www.pbclaw.com/truck-car-accident-leaves-a-wisconsin-toddler-with-brain-injury/) - A car accident on May 23 in Eau Galle, Wisconsin, sent a woman from Elmwood and her two children to a hospital in St. Paul. The family, including the 35-year-old mother, her two-year son and her 14-month-old daughter were injured when a cattle trailer being pulled by a pickup truck struck the woman’s 2006 Chevy
- [PBC Attorney Avi Berk Speaker At Recent ABOTA & WI Bar Seminar On Trial Practice](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-attorney-avi-berk-speaker-at-recent-abota-wi-bar-seminar-on-trial-practice/) - PBC Attorney Avi Berk was a speaker at a November 5, 2010 full-day seminar, “21st Annual Institute of Trial Practice.” The seminar was co-sponsored by the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) and the State Bar of Wisconsin. Avi presented a segment on the direct examination of the plaintiff. Other presenters, including a judge and well-regarded litigation
- [Wisconsin Man Receives Probation For Car Accident Injuring 4](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-man-receives-probation-for-car-accident-injuring-4/) - A young man received a sentence of two years on probation for a 2011 car accident that injured four people, including the defendant. According to the news story, the driver of the car pleaded no contest in March to two Class I felony counts of reckless driving causing great bodily harm, both of which are
- [Fatal Accident Growth Is A Deadly By-Product Of Fracking Boom](https://www.pbclaw.com/fatal-accident-growth-is-a-deadly-by-product-of-fracking-boom/) - All across the country, oil and gas companies are busy engaged in a practice known as fracking, which is the process of injecting mixtures of water, chemicals, sand or gravel into the earth under high-pressure to extract oil and gas. While the industry is lucrative and even necessary to supply the world’s energy needs, the
- [Wrongful Death Claim By Family Of Slain Airport Security Officer](https://www.pbclaw.com/wrongful-death-claim-by-family-of-slain-airport-security-officer/) - The family members of a Transportation Security Administration officer slain last year at the Los Angeles International Airport have filed a wrongful death claim for $25 million against the city of Los Angeles. The claim was filed on April 16 and alleges Los Angeles World Airports and the city of Los Angeles failed to provide
- [Subcontractor Files Lawsuit Against Parsons For Delay Of Settlement Payment](https://www.pbclaw.com/subcontractor-files-lawsuit-against-parsons-for-delay-of-settlement-payment/) - PBC Attorney Michael Brown, along with co-counsel Attorney Vonda Vandaveer, represent a subcontractor that recently filed a lawsuit against Parsons Global Services Inc. and other Parsons entities (collectively referred to here as “Parsons”) in the Central District of California Federal Court. Parsons was a primary contractor to the United States Government (USG) for construction work
- [DOL-WHD News Release About Public Schools Charged With Violating H-1B Laws [04/04/2011]](https://www.pbclaw.com/dol-whd-news-release-about-public-schools-charged-with-violating-h-1b-laws-04-04-2011/) - According to a press release on the U.S. Department of Labor’s website: An investigation by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division found Maryland’s Prince George’s County Public Schools system in willful violation of the laws that govern the H-1B temporary foreign worker visa program. Investigators found that PGCPS illegally reduced the wages
- [Wisconsin To Pay For Wrongful Death By Suicide](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-to-pay-for-wrongful-death-by-suicide/) - It’s not often one hears the word suicide in connection with a wrongful death lawsuit, but that didn’t stop the mother of a patient who killed himself in a Wisconsin mental health institution from filing a suit. The man’s mother accused members of the hospital staff of negligence in the lawsuit, which was dismissed by
- [Wisconsin Uses Education To Reduce Teen Distracted Driver Wrecks](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-uses-education-to-reduce-teen-distracted-driver-wrecks/) - According to a Wisconsin Department of Transportation public information and outreach specialist, teens are more likely to be involved in car accidents than any other age group. The DOT employee also said that teenagers have grown up with technology at their fingertips and use their cell phones frequently. What is the connection? Employees of Wisconsin’s
- [Wisconsin Police-Involved Car Accident Kills An Elderly Man](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-police-involved-car-accident-kills-an-elderly-man/) - In a tragic turn of events, an 81-year-old man died following a car collision with a West Allis PD squad car. According to police reports, the auto accident occurred on March 26 at about 4:20 p.m. near Lincoln Ave. and 80th. Police say the officer was on his way to an auto accident investigation at
- [Wisconsin City Aiming For New Record Low Of Car Accident Deaths](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-city-aiming-for-new-record-low-of-car-accident-deaths/) - The city of Milwaukee has set a lofty goal for itself — to reach a new all-time low in traffic-related deaths. If that sounds like a difficult task, consider that the number of Milwaukee’s traffic fatalities in 2013 approached the current all-time recorded low of 25 deaths. City officials believe research combined with community awareness
- [Attorney Peterson Receives Bernie Pearlman Downtowner Award](https://www.pbclaw.com/attorney-peterson-receives-bernie-pearlman-downtowner-award/) - Attorney John C. Peterson is the recipient of the 2014 ADI Bernie Pearlman Award! The Bernie Pearlman Downtowner Award is presented to a person who is dedicated to Appleton’s downtown. The recipients of the award are known for having great enthusiasm for the downtown and a significant, positive impact on the downtown’s success. Attorney Peterson
- [Traumatic Brain Injury Can Result From Shaking Infant](https://www.pbclaw.com/traumatic-brain-injury-can-result-from-shaking-infant/) - Shaken baby syndrome, also known as abusive head trauma, is caused by sudden impact, an inflected head injury or whiplash. It can result in a serious brain injury from forcefully shaking an infant or toddler. The syndrome is detrimental to a baby’s brain cells and can prevent the flow of oxygen to the brain or
- [Milwaukee Judge Rules On Wrongful Death Case](https://www.pbclaw.com/milwaukee-judge-rules-on-wrongful-death-case/) - A ruling handed down by a Milwaukee County Circuit Judge an insurance company is responsible for damages against a contractor supervising a project that resulted in a 13 and 1/2 ton panel falling from a county parking garage that claimed the life of a teenager from Greenfield. The collapse of the concrete panel also caused
- [Attorney Cross To Teach Child Support Calculator Seminars In March 2014](https://www.pbclaw.com/attorney-cross-to-teach-child-support-calculator-seminars-in-march-2014/) - Attorney Dan Cross, along with Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, Grant Zielinski of Divorce Financial Solutions, will again be leading four interactive training sessions in March to teach other family law professionals how to utilize their spreadsheets. Dan Cross is well-known in the local legal community for authoring the DCF 150 Sheets. The DCF 150 Sheets spreadsheet is widely used
- [Fiery Car Accident Claims Life Of Wisconsin Man](https://www.pbclaw.com/fiery-car-accident-claims-life-of-wisconsin-man/) - A deadly week has hit the roadways of most of the country as weather conditions have created havoc with drivers. A tragic truck accident that occurred in Texas has resulted in the death of a Wisconsin man. The crash took place on Interstate 20 several miles west of Pecos. The collision involved three tractor-trailers. Two
- [Wisconsin Man Killed In Crash With Semi-Truck](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-man-killed-in-crash-with-semi-truck/) - Most people don’t think that something bad will happen to them when they take a trip away from home. As you drive along the interstates, you likely expect that other drivers are being just as careful as you are. Accidents will happen, but senseless accidents caused by careless drivers shouldn’t happen. For one Wisconsin man,
- [Man Falls To Death At Wisconsin Construction Site](https://www.pbclaw.com/man-falls-to-death-at-wisconsin-construction-site/) - If you’ve been keeping up with the local news, you may have heard about the man who died due to a fall at a construction site in Wisconsin. According to the news from Jan. 14, the man has now been identified as a 40-year-old from Cambridge. Reports state that the worker died in what they
- [4 People Injured In Appleton, Wisconsin, Car Accident](https://www.pbclaw.com/4-people-injured-in-appleton-wisconsin-car-accident/) - If you’ve been watching the news in Wisconsin, you might have heard about this serious three-car accident that took place in Appleton. According to reports about the car accident, at least four people were hurt. The three-vehicle crash happened early on Dec. 26, according to police records. If you’ve ever been in a multiple-car crash,
- [Land Rover Recalls 2013-2014 Range Rovers For Airbag Malfunction](https://www.pbclaw.com/land-rover-recalls-2013-2014-range-rovers-for-airbag-malfunction/) - Some motorists in Wisconsin may have recently received a recall notification from Land Rover. Due to possibly defective airbags, Land Rover has been notifying owners of certain 2013 and 2014 models of the Range Rover SUV. Currently 3,912 vehicles are affected by the announcement nationwide. The 4-wheel drive manufacturer reports that the issue stems from
- [Dialing, Texting While Driving Dangerous, Especially For Teens](https://www.pbclaw.com/dialing-texting-while-driving-dangerous-especially-for-teens/) - Drivers in Wisconsin and around the U.S. have new data to consider after a new study revealed that, especially for teen drivers, dialing or reaching for a cell phone is far more dangerous than simply speaking on the phone. The study, conducted by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, was a real-world study that looked at
- [What’s The Value Of Your Employee Rights Case?](https://www.pbclaw.com/whats-the-value-of-your-employee-rights-case/) - If you’re a worker who is pursuing (or thinking about pursuing) an employment-law complaint, you may have ideas about the monetary value your case is worth. Unfortunately, workers’ own case valuations are usually wrong. Very wrong, in fact. Workers often come up with wrong valuations because they rely on factors that are important to the workers- such
- [NHTSA Announce Plan To Improve Safety For Elderly Drivers](https://www.pbclaw.com/nhtsa-announce-plan-to-improve-safety-for-elderly-drivers/) - Wisconsin drivers may be interested to learn that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, or NHTSA, announced on Dec. 8 a plan that will help elderly drivers be safer while driving. According to the report, elderly drivers are actually the safest group that uses national roadways but, as the number of elderly drivers increases, they
- [Professional Drivers Also Struggled To Control Porsche](https://www.pbclaw.com/professional-drivers-also-struggled-to-control-porsche/) - The details of the accident that killed Paul Walker of “Fast and Furious” fame are reasonably well-known at this point. However, another fact about the car accident is beginning to emerge, and it’s coming from the world of professional drivers. They have known for many years that the Porsche Carrera GT was especially difficult to
- [PBC Atty. John Peterson Selected As Wisconsin Super Lawyer](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-atty-john-peterson-selected-as-wisconsin-super-lawyer/) - PBC attorney John Peterson has recently been selected for inclusion on the 2013 Wisconsin Super Lawyers list, published by Milwaukee Magazine. Only 5% of attorneys in Wisconsin are chosen each year for inclusion as a Super Lawyer.
- [Wisconsin SUV Rollover Crash Leaves 1 Dead, 4 Injured](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-suv-rollover-crash-leaves-1-dead-4-injured/) - A collision between a truck and an SUV in Gordon left one person dead and four others injured. The crash is being investigated by the Douglas County Sheriff’s Department and the Wisconsin State Police. The accident happened on the morning of Nov. 29 at around 7:00 a.m. when a truck collided with a sport utility
- [Honda Minivan Owners Cautioned On Brakes In Recall Announcement](https://www.pbclaw.com/honda-minivan-owners-cautioned-on-brakes-in-recall-announcement/) - Appleton drivers of Honda Motor Company minivans should be aware that the car maker announced plans to recall some 344,000 of its Odyssey models. The recall was over concerns about a software problem that made the vehicle’s brakes unexpectedly engage, which could cause auto accidents. The glitch could make it possible for the system known as
- [Drunk Boat Accident Leads To The Death Of One In Wisconsin](https://www.pbclaw.com/drunk-boat-accident-leads-to-the-death-of-one-in-wisconsin/) - In June 2013, a man from Minnesota was allegedly operating a recreational boat in Pierce County when he got into an accident. The incident resulted in the personal injury of one of the boat’s passengers, a 40-year-old man from New Richmond. The injured man died as a result of the accident. According to officials, the 47-year-old operator
- [Dressing For Court](https://www.pbclaw.com/dressing-for-court/) - As I walked through the lobby of the courthouse a few weeks ago, I saw many people wearing jeans and sneakers, shorts and flip-flops and ill-fitting athletic gear. Dressing in everyday, casual attire to a hearing or trial shows a lack of respect for the court. Judges and Court Commissioners have the power to make
- [Peterson, Berk & Cross On Social Media](https://www.pbclaw.com/peterson-berk-cross-on-social-media/) - Peterson, Berk & Cross has a company Facebook page and a company LinkedIn page. Check them out for the most up-to-date information about our firm.
- [Former Infosys Employees Allege Discrimination Against U.S. Workers, Join Class Action Lawsuit](https://www.pbclaw.com/former-infosys-employees-allege-discrimination-against-u-s-workers-join-class-action-lawsuit/) - The attorney-author and co-counsel filed a federal class action lawsuit against Infosys Limited Inc. (“Infosys”), filed on behalf of a proposed class of job applicants denied employment by Infosys. That original lawsuit alleged Infosys’ hiring policies and conduct discriminate against workers of American or non-South Asian national origin, in violation of Title VII law. Recently,
- [Attorney Avi Berk Makes Donation to Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame](https://www.pbclaw.com/attorney-avi-berk-makes-donation-to-green-bay-packers-hall-of-fame/) - Peterson, Berk & Cross attorney, Avi Berk, was pleased to make a donation to the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame yesterday. In 1967 Attorney Berk attended the infamous Ice Bowl game as a band member, and took some bunting home with him as a souvenir. To see coverage of Attorney Berk’s donation, you can
- [Wisconsin Woman Charged In Fatal Crash](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-woman-charged-in-fatal-crash/) - Prosecutors in Wisconsin recently announced that they have charged a woman with homicide by drunken driving following an accident that took the life of a 52-year-old Lanark woman on the morning of Sept. 15. According to law enforcement officials, the woman killed as a result of the accident was a passenger in her son’s automobile.
- [Attorney DeLeers to participate in “Dancing with Our Stars”](https://www.pbclaw.com/attorney-deleers-to-participate-in-dancing-with-our-stars/) - Peterson, Berk & Cross attorney, Deb DeLeers, will be participating in the “Dancing with Our Stars” event for the American Red Cross of Northeast Wisconsin. As part of her commitment, she’ll be spending the next four months learning two ballroom dances which will be performed on February 15, 2014 at the KI Center in Green
- [Avi Berk Speaker For Bay Area Association For Legal Professionals (BAALP)](https://www.pbclaw.com/avi-berk-speaker-for-bay-area-association-for-legal-professionals-baalp/) - Peterson Berk & Cross attorney Avi Berk recently spoke about issues concerning practice and professionalism at an event for the Bay Area Association for Legal Professionals (BAALP). More information about BAALP can be found at its Facebook page.
- [PBC Attorney Michael Brown Speaks About Employment Law Issues For Outagamie County Bar Association](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-attorney-michael-brown-speaks-about-employment-law-issues-for-outagamie-county-bar-association/) - On September 10, 2013, Peterson Berk & Cross attorney Michael Brown spoke at a meeting of the Outagamie County Bar Association, with the presentation titled “Employment Law Callers? Important Deadlines, Issues and Damages Considerations.”
- [PBC Attorney John Peterson To Speak About Arbitration At Wisconsin Association For Justice (WAJ) December Seminar](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-attorney-john-peterson-to-speak-about-arbitration-at-wisconsin-association-for-justice-waj-december-seminar/) - In December, Peterson Berk & Cross attorney John Peterson will speak about arbitration issues at a Past Presidents seminar for the Wisconsin Association for Justice (WAJ). Information about WAJ seminars is posted here.
- [Peterson, Berk & Cross Staff to Participate in Fox Cities Marathon](https://www.pbclaw.com/peterson-berk-cross-staff-to-participate-in-fox-cities-marathon/) - This weekend many will be participating in the Community First Fox Cities Marathon, including some members of the Peterson, Berk & Cross staff! Our office manager, Julie Kaepernick, will be participating in the half marathon, alongside her sister, Chris, and niece, Emily. Julie’s niece has been recognized as one of the Great Women of the
- [Deaths And Injuries In Wisconsin Car Accident](https://www.pbclaw.com/deaths-and-injuries-in-wisconsin-car-accident/) - Two women were traveling east on State Highway 16 in a black Nissan when their car left the road and crossed over the median of the highway where they ran into an oncoming vehicle. The accident occurred in Waukesha County on Sept. 9. Both the women in the Nissan died as a result of the
- [Ribbon Cutting & Open House](https://www.pbclaw.com/ribbon-cutting-open-house/) - Yesterday afternoon we had a ribbon cutting ceremony and open house at our Green Bay office, located at 300 North Broadway, in Suite 1A of the Smet Construction Building. We would like to thank everyone who was in attendance to celebrate with us. Please visit the Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. Facebook fan page to
- [Firefighter Killed In Wisconsin Highway Accident](https://www.pbclaw.com/firefighter-killed-in-wisconsin-highway-accident/) - A crash under investigation on Highway O in Lake Mills resulted in the death of a Jefferson firefighter, according to law enforcement authorities. The crash occurred just after noon and involved three motorcycles and a truck. According to initial reports about the accident, one of the motorcycles crossed the highway’s center line and collided with
- [Peterson, Berk & Cross Ribbon Cutting Ceremony](https://www.pbclaw.com/peterson-berk-cross-ribbon-cutting-ceremony/) - We are excited to announce that Peterson, Berk & Cross, S.C. will host a ribbon cutting on September 12th at our Green Bay office located at 300 N. Broadway in Suite 1A.
- [Wisconsin Woman Dead After Highway 23 Crash](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-woman-dead-after-highway-23-crash/) - A woman was charged with vehicular homicide after witnesses claim to see her pass a line of cars and run into an oncoming vehicle that was being driven by a 53-year-old woman. The 53-year-old woman ended up being ejected from her vehicle and died at the scene. When the accused was passing the line of
- [Peterson, Berk & Cross is on Facebook](https://www.pbclaw.com/peterson-berk-cross-is-on-facebook/) - Peterson, Berk & Cross has a new Facebook fan page.
- [Crash critically injures Wisconsin man](https://www.pbclaw.com/crash-critically-injures-wisconsin-man/) - On August 7, 2013, a 61-year-old man from Tomah, Wisconsin, was critically injured after running a stop sign in his minivan and crashing into the side of a refrigerated truck. The 23-year-old driver of the truck did not suffer life-threatening injuries and was treated at St. Mary’s Hospital, while the critically injured driver was evacuated
- [Wisconsin Woman Dies In Assisted Living Center](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-woman-dies-in-assisted-living-center/) - The mother of a woman who died in a Wisconsin assisted living center is suing the group home for damages. The woman’s daughter was 49-years-old and was mildly mentally disabled, developmentally disabled and had a schizoaffective disorder due to brain damage from being in the birth canal too long. Her death was caused by choking
- [Roller Coaster Accident Claims Woman’s Life](https://www.pbclaw.com/roller-coaster-accident-claims-womans-life/) - Visitors of Wisconsin amusement parks often spend days, weeks, and sometimes, hours planning their trip. However, they rarely prepare for catastrophic situations, such as injuries or even wrongful death. An investigation is underway following a deadly accident that occurred July 19 at a Six Flags amusement park located in Texas. The incident, which claimed the life
- [One person injured in Wisconsin car accident](https://www.pbclaw.com/one-person-injured-in-wisconsin-car-accident/) - A Milwaukee man is facing DUI charges following a two-car accident that sent the other driver to the hospital. He had a 14-year-old passenger with him at the time of the auto accident. The 14-year-old was not injured; the three children in the other car were not reported to have suffered any injuries either. According
- [Were You a Shareholder Who Was Removed or Financially Harmed By Majority Shareholders or Board of Directors? You May Have Strong WI Law Rights (Even Without a Contract)](https://www.pbclaw.com/were-you-a-shareholder-who-was-removed-or-financially-harmed-by-majority-shareholders-or-board-of-directors-you-may-have-strong-wi-law-rights-even-without-a-contract/) - In some instances, a shareholder of a company is also employed by that company, and compensated via salary, bonuses, dividends or other financial benefits. If you were a shareholder of a Wisconsin company and were removed from duties or suffered financial loss due to actions of majority shareholders or board of directors, you may have
- [PBC Atty. John Peterson Named President Of Appleton Public Library Board Of Trustees](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-atty-john-peterson-named-president-of-appleton-public-library-board-of-trustees/) - Peterson, Berk & Cross attorney John Peterson was recently named President of the Appleton Public Library’s Board of Trustees.
- [Illinois Man Killed In Crash With Former Lodi, Wis. Resident](https://www.pbclaw.com/illinois-man-killed-in-crash-with-former-lodi-wis-resident/) - After investigation and reconstruction of the accident scene, Wisconsin State Patrol identified excessive speed as the cause of a fatal automobile accident that occurred at the intersection of Highways 188 and 60. The driver of a 2010 Jeep Wrangler, a former Lodi, Wis. resident, exceeded the posted speed by 24 miles per hour, leaving little
- [Negligent Estimate Summary Judgment Motion, AGT v. US Army](https://www.pbclaw.com/negligent-estimate-summary-judgment-motion-agt-v-us-army/) - PBC Attorney Michael Brown, along with co-counsel Vonda Vandaveer, represent a contractor in a case against the U.S. Army. The case is in litigation before the Armed Services Board of Contract Appeals (ASBCA), ASBCA No. 56758, Under Contract No. DABM06-03-C-0009. The contractor we represent, American General Trading & Contracting (AGT), provided laundry services for U.S.
- [Wisconsin Authorities Try To Stop Drunk Boating](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-authorities-try-to-stop-drunk-boating/) - Wisconsin’s lakes and rivers see heavy boating traffic each year, and law enforcement is taking their role seriously in preventing alcohol-related boating deaths. In 2012, Wisconsin had the third-highest number of boating deaths related to alcohol as well as numerous personal injury accidents involving drunk boaters. Eight people lost their lives on Wisconsin waters in 2012 due
- [Fatal auto accidents linked to cellphones may be underreported](https://www.pbclaw.com/fatal-auto-accidents-linked-to-cellphones-may-be-underreported/) - The number of fatal car crashes caused by distracted driving in Wisconsin and across the country may be much higher than originally thought. The National Safety Council, an advocacy group, recently released its findings from a study of state and federal data on auto accidents from 2009 to 2011. The group found that out of
- [One killed and two babies injured in car accident](https://www.pbclaw.com/one-killed-and-two-babies-injured-in-car-accident/) - According to authorities, a 23-year-old Wisconsin man who had allegedly been involved in an accident that took the life of a 21-year-old woman turned himself in to the Beloit police. When he turned himself in, the man was in the company of an attorney and invoked his Miranda rights. He was arrested for negligent homicide
- [Future of Wisconsin intersection unclear after several accidents](https://www.pbclaw.com/future-of-wisconsin-intersection-unclear-after-several-accidents/) - An intersection in the town of Brussels is getting plenty of attention these days, and it was even set to be discussed at the April 4 Door County Highway Safety Commission meeting. After more than 20 vehicular accidents occurred at the junction over a span of just five years, many are starting to think the
- [PBC Atty. John Peterson Named Among “Top Attorneys In Wisconsin” By Milwaukee Magazine](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-atty-john-peterson-named-among-top-attorneys-in-wisconsin-by-milwaukee-magazine/) - PBC Atty. John Peterson was named among the “Top Attorneys in Wisconsin” by Milwaukee Magazine, Dec. 2012 edition. The “Top Attorneys” distinction is selected by peer recognition and professional achievement.
- [Peterson, Berk & Cross Attorney Featured In The Business News](https://www.pbclaw.com/peterson-berk-cross-attorney-featured-in-the-business-news/) - Retired Peterson, Berk & Cross attorney, Lisa Lotte Gammeltoft, is featured in The Business News publication this month. Attorney Gammeltoft is recognized for her volunteer work with Literacy Green Bay and the Brown County Oral Health Partnership. While working at Peterson, Berk and Cross, Attorney Gammeltoft focused her practice on family law. For more information in regard to the
- [Wisconsin car crash results in injuries to both drivers](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-car-crash-results-in-injuries-to-both-drivers/) - In Mukwa, Wis., two drivers were rushed to the hospital after their cars collided on Wisconsin Highway 54. The Waupaca County Sheriff’s Department reports that a 51-year-old woman was exiting a private driveway and attempting to cross the highway when she lost control of her SUV. The accident occurred when a 66-year-old man traveling eastbound
- [PBC Atty. Amy Risseeuw Speaks About Federal Tort Claims At Wisconsin Association For Justice Seminar](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-atty-amy-risseeuw-speaks-about-federal-tort-claims-at-wisconsin-association-for-justice-seminar/) - Peterson, Berk & Cross Attorney Amy Risseeuw recently spoke at the Wisconsin Association for Justice (WAJ) spring seminar on March 22, 2013 in Green Bay, WI. Amy’s presentation concerned Federal tort claims. For more information about the WAJ seminar and presentations, you can visit this WAJ website.
- [Todd And Troy Merryfield, Clients Of Attorney John Peterson, Reach Settlement With Roman Catholic Diocese Of Green Bay](https://www.pbclaw.com/todd-and-troy-merryfield-clients-of-attorney-john-peterson-reach-settlement-with-roman-catholic-diocese-of-green-bay/) - Todd and Troy Merryfield, clients of attorney John Peterson, recently reached a settlement in their civil lawsuit against the Roman Catholic Diocese of Green Bay. The settlement was discussed in this Post Crescent article. The Post Crescent and other Gannett publications have published several articles about developments in the case, which was filed in 2008 and relates
- [PBC Atty John Peterson To Become VP Of ADI Board](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-atty-john-peterson-to-become-vp-of-adi-board/) - On March 28, 2013, PBC Attorney John Peterson will become Vice President of the Board of Directors of Appleton Downtown, Inc. (ADI). As described in its website, ADI “is a not-for-profit community coalition dedicated to an economically strong, safe, attractive and exciting downtown.”
- [Attorney Debra DeLeers Chairing American Heart Association Go Red for Women Event](https://www.pbclaw.com/attorney-debra-deleers-chairing-american-heart-association-go-red-for-women-event/) - Attorney Debra A. DeLeers is chairing the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women Event, which will take place on May 1, 2013 at the Oneida Country Club. The Go Red for Women event is celebrating its 10th year of raising women’s awareness about the risks of heart disease. Attorney DeLeers has been working as
- [Recent Arrest of Officials of H-1B Employer/Bodyshop](https://www.pbclaw.com/recent-arrest-of-officials-of-h-1b-employer-bodyshop/) - As detailed in this article from www.itbusinessedge.com, officials of Dibon Solutions, a sponsor employer of H-1B visa workers, were recently arrested by Federal authorities for criminal charges for conspiracy to commit visa fraud and wire fraud. The Federal indictment was filed under seal on February 20, 2013 with the U.S. District Court, Northern District of
- [Two-car accident sends two people to the hospital](https://www.pbclaw.com/two-car-accident-sends-two-people-to-the-hospital/) - On Feb. 28, a two-vehicle accident in Whitefish Bay resulted in two adults being transported to a local hospital with injuries. The auto accident took place during the afternoon near the intersection of Santa Monica Boulevard and Birch Avenue. According to a Whitefish Bay police sergeant, the incident occurred when a vehicle traveling north on
- [Inclement weather leads to one fatality and 26-vehicle crash](https://www.pbclaw.com/inclement-weather-leads-to-one-fatality-and-26-vehicle-crash/) - On Feb. 19, ice, snow and gusting winds led to poor driving conditions and scores of accidents, including a 26-vehicle crash, in Winnebago County. Most of the auto accidents involved only minor injuries, but one of them resulted in a fatality. In that early morning crash on State 26 in Nekimi, a box truck driver
- [Reckless homicide charges filed against Necedah man](https://www.pbclaw.com/reckless-homicide-charges-filed-against-necedah-man/) - A Necedah man was recently charged with second-degree reckless homicide and jailed following a fatal crash in November 2012. If the 31-year-old is convicted, he could be sentenced to up to 25 years in prison because of his role in the auto accident, which occurred in the city of Lemonweir north of 47th Street on
- [Wisconsin Good Samaritan Dies From Injuries Sustained In Crash](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-good-samaritan-dies-from-injuries-sustained-in-crash/) - Late last month, a Toyota Highlander and a PT cruiser were involved in an automobile accident along Wisconsin 172. A 26-year-old man stopped to assist passengers in the Toyota. As he and an unidentified third party were helping the victims of the accident, they were struck by a passing Chevrolet minivan, resulting in the wrongful death of
- [Changed liability laws may hinder accident victims’ claims](https://www.pbclaw.com/changed-liability-laws-may-hinder-accident-victims-claims/) - In April of last year, a 51-year-old Wisconsin man was injured while driving on Highway 151 when a large chunk of concrete dislodged from the road and flew through the driver’s windshield, hitting his skull before landing in the rear seat of the vehicle. The driver was able to reach a hospital 20 miles away.
- [Anti-stacking law benefitted Wisconsin accident victim](https://www.pbclaw.com/anti-stacking-law-benefitted-wisconsin-accident-victim/) - In 2010, a driver with multiple car insurance policies was involved in a drunk driving accident in which the other driver was uninsured. Luckily for the injured driver, he was still able to use a 2009 Wisconsin law, which was repealed in 2011, to his benefit. It was deemed illegal in 2009 for insurance companies
- [Green Bay Man Sentenced In Fatal Car Accident Case](https://www.pbclaw.com/green-bay-man-sentenced-in-fatal-car-accident-case/) - The case of a fatal car accident in July has recently reached a conclusion that resulted in the conviction and sentencing of a Green Bay man. The incident occurred on Main Street in Green Bay. An 18-year-old man caused a car accident that resulted in the wrongful death of a 52-year-old man. Rather than stop
- [Wisconsin Couple Claim Zoloft Caused Newborn’s Death](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-couple-claim-zoloft-caused-newborns-death/) - The large drug manufacturer Pfizer is the subject of a wrongful death suit in a Philadelphia federal court concerning Zoloft, one of its flagship antidepressants. The lawsuit, filed by the Wisconsin parents of an infant who died the same day she was born, claims that the drug caused the severe birth defects that led to the infant’s
- [Hilbert man faces multiple civil suits for striking motorcyclists](https://www.pbclaw.com/hilbert-man-faces-multiple-civil-suits-for-striking-motorcyclists/) - Last May, a Hilbert man crashed into 10 motorcyclists after allegedly crossing the centerline. Two of the motorcyclists who were struck were killed, and eight others were faced with serious personal injury. While their injuries ranged in severity, one of the motorcyclists lost his leg, and both he and one other were placed on life
- [Oshkosh man kills one in 2nd OWI accident](https://www.pbclaw.com/oshkosh-man-kills-one-in-2nd-owi-accident/) - While all fatal auto accidents are tragic, they are especially tragic when the driver is drinking and has previous OWI convictions. This was the case in a recent crash that killed an 80-year-old man and injured his 81-year-old female passenger. The driver responsible for that accident was cited for drunk driving for the second time.
- [Wisconsin Boat Operator Pleads Not Guilty In Deadly Crash](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-boat-operator-pleads-not-guilty-in-deadly-crash/) - A 22-year-old man charged with DUI in a boating accident that killed a passenger has pled not guilty to the charges. The crash occurred on Castle Rock Lake in July, when the defendant was driving a boat after partying. He was allegedly drinking at the time and ran into a bridge pillar, killing a male passenger. A
- [2 Superior residents injured in rear-end crash](https://www.pbclaw.com/2-superior-residents-injured-in-rear-end-crash/) - Two people from Superior were injured when their car was rear-ended in a Duluth crash. Rear-end accidents are among the most common type of auto accidents and often involve whiplash-like injuries and other types of physical trauma. The crash took place on Martin Road in St. Louis County. The victim’s car was slowing down to
- [PBC Atty. Avi Berk Selected As Wisconsin Super Lawyer](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-atty-avi-berk-selected-as-wisconsin-super-lawyer/) - PBC attorney Avi Berk has recently been selected for inclusion in the 2013 Wisconsin Super Lawyers list, published by Milwaukee Magazine. Only 5 percent of attorneys in Wisconsin are chosen each year for inclusion as a Super Lawyer.
- [PBC Atty. Dan Cross Selected As Wisconsin Super Lawyer](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-atty-dan-cross-selected-as-wisconsin-super-lawyer/) - PBC attorney Dan Cross has recently been selected for inclusion on the 2013 Wisconsin Super Lawyers list, published by Milwaukee Magazine. Only 5% of attorneys in Wisconsin are chosen each year for inclusion as a Super Lawyer.
- [PBC Atty. Amy Risseeuw Selected As Rising Star By Wisconsin Super Lawyers](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-atty-amy-risseeuw-selected-as-rising-star-by-wisconsin-super-lawyers/) - PBC attorney Amy Risseeuw has recently been selected for inclusion as a Rising Star on the 2013 Wisconsin Super Lawyers publication of Milwaukee Magazine.
- [Wisconsin man sentenced to 10 years fatal accident](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-man-sentenced-to-10-years-fatal-accident/) - A Wisconsin man was recently sentenced to time in jail after causing a car accident because he was texting and driving. He received a sentence of 10 years for his negligent actions. The accident occurred in December 2010. The defendant was driving and approaching a stop sign when he failed to stop, which resulted in
- [Greenfield car crash sends 2 children to hospital](https://www.pbclaw.com/greenfield-car-crash-sends-2-children-to-hospital/) - A woman trying to make a left turn in her vehicle was hit by a postal truck, causing injury to her two children. The car accident happened on Highway 21 in the town of Greenfield around 4:45 in the afternoon. The woman slowed down and signaled to make her turn. The driver of a postal
- [Contract Case Of PBC Atty. Michael Brown Named By Wisconsin Lawyer To “Top 12” Wisconsin Supreme Court Decisions Last Term](https://www.pbclaw.com/contract-case-of-pbc-atty-michael-brown-named-by-wisconsin-lawyer-to-top-12-wisconsin-supreme-court-decisions-last-term/) - The November 2012 issue of Wisconsin Lawyer magazine has an article titled “Top 12 2011-12 Wisconsin Supreme Court Decisions,” and it lists as number 5 the case of Kroner v. Oneida Seven Generations Corporation. The plaintiff John Kroner is represented by Michael Brown, an attorney at Peterson, Berk & Cross attorney and an author of this blog. Mr. Kroner was
- [Take Justice Back: A New Website Regarding Rights of Individuals Harmed By Corporations](https://www.pbclaw.com/take-justice-back-a-new-website-regarding-rights-of-individuals-harmed-by-corporations/) - Today, the American Association for Justice, a lawyers’ group, launched a new website called Take Justice Back. The website seeks to inform everyday Americans about the civil justice system, and why they should care about protecting that system, and protecting the rights of individuals harmed by corporations. The American Association for Justice describes the new
- [New Complaint Filed in Our H-1B Underpaid-Worker Class Action Against Access Therapies, RN Staff Inc. d/b/a Rehability Care](https://www.pbclaw.com/new-complaint-filed-in-our-h-1b-underpaid-worker-class-action-against-access-therapies-rn-staff-inc-d-b-a-rehability-care/) - The attorney-authors of the H-1B Legal Rights blog, including Michael Brown of Peterson, Berk & Cross, have represented underpaid H-1B workers with a number of legal cases across the U.S., including a class action case pending in the Southern District of Indiana federal court. This federal class action lawsuit was filed on behalf of a
- [Wisconsin Child Killed In Highway 93 Crash](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-child-killed-in-highway-93-crash/) - A crash on Highway 93 resulted in the wrongful death of a 9-year-old child after a driver struck the car in which the child was riding. The driver apparently crossed into lanes of oncoming traffic after losing control of his vehicle, hitting the other car and causing a serious collision. The driver was cited with
- [Wisconsin woman causes 3 DUI accidents](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-woman-causes-3-dui-accidents/) - Three separate auto accidents involving a driver who traveled across two counties in Wisconsin led to injuries for one driver and may have been fueled by drinking. The cross-county odyssey began when a 21-year-old suspected of being under the influence at the time ran a woman off the road in Green County. The mother, who
- [2 injured in Cashton car accident](https://www.pbclaw.com/2-injured-in-cashton-car-accident/) - A recent auto accident in Cashton sent two drivers to the hospital with injuries. The accident occurred around 5 p.m. when a car driven on Highway 33 by a 17-year-old boy crossed Highway 27 without seeing an oncoming car driven by a 52-year-old woman. The two cars collided at the intersection; both drivers were transported
- [Wisconsin Woman Dies In Crash](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-woman-dies-in-crash/) - In an auto accident that may lead to a wrongful death liability case, an elderly Wisconsin woman was killed in a two-car collision that occurred in the Village of Nora at the intersection of North Stagecoach Trail and North Tiger Whip Road. Authorities stated that the 69-year-old victim from South Wayne was killed when her vehicle was
- [Man causes fatal car crash while talking on a cellphone](https://www.pbclaw.com/man-causes-fatal-car-crash-while-talking-on-a-cellphone/) - A 65-year-old Wisconsin man is awaiting trial where he will face charges of second-degree reckless homicide and negligent homicide. The man is accused of causing the death of a 37-year-old woman while driving on a wet road. After a police investigation, authorities have stated that the 65-year-old man was driving behind a truck pulling a
- [Wisconsin Drunk Driver Kills Woman While Turning Into Driveway](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-drunk-driver-kills-woman-while-turning-into-driveway/) - A Wisconsin man driving a pickup truck hit an oncoming motorcycle while attempting to make a left-hand turn into his driveway. The driver of the motorcycle flew more than 6 feet over the hood of the truck. His passenger — who was his wife — flew about 60 feet away from the point of the accident.
- [Wisconsin man kills elderly woman in hit-and-run car accident](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-man-kills-elderly-woman-in-hit-and-run-car-accident/) - A 36-year-old Hammond man killed an 84-year-old woman in a hit-and-run accident one recent afternoon. The elderly woman was walking along a county road in a neighboring state when the fatal crash occurred. The man hit the woman and fled the scene in as she was left in a ditch. Emergency personnel detected a pulse
- [Wisconsin man killed in rear-end motor vehicle accident](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-man-killed-in-rear-end-motor-vehicle-accident/) - A man from Onalaska was killed in a two-vehicle auto accident on one late afternoon. According to the police, the man was driving on Interstate 90 and slowed his vehicle as he neared an exit. At that point, a truck hit the back of the victim’s car. The collision caused the vehicle to swerve out
- [Wisconsin man flies past stop sign, killing 2 and injuring 8](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-man-flies-past-stop-sign-killing-2-and-injuring-8/) - A 67-year-old man killed two people and injured eight others when he blew past a stop sign Suburban at an intersection in Eagle Point. As a result, a pickup truck T-boned the man’s car at the intersection. The Suburban carried five people besides the driver. There were four people in the truck. Two women in
- [PBC Atty. John Peterson Named Vice President Of Appleton Public Library Board Of Trustees](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-atty-john-peterson-named-vice-president-of-appleton-public-library-board-of-trustees/) - Peterson, Berk & Cross attorney John Peterson was recently named Vice President of the Appleton Public Library’s Board of Trustees.
- [Texas Farm Accused of Discriminating Against U.S. Citizen Job Applicants in Favor of H-2A Foreign Workers](https://www.pbclaw.com/texas-farm-accused-of-discriminating-against-u-s-citizen-job-applicants-in-favor-of-h-2a-foreign-workers/) - A Texas farm has been accused of discriminating against U.S. citizen workers, and instead favoring foreign workers hired under the H-2A temporary worker visa program. In June 2010, a U.S. citizen with more than 12 years of experience in the agricultural industry said in a complaint that he had applied for a job as a
- [PBC Atty. Amy Risseeuw Is Named As Member Of The National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-atty-amy-risseeuw-is-named-as-member-of-the-national-trial-lawyers-top-40-under-40/) - Peterson Berk & Cross attorney Amy Risseeuw was recently named as a member of The National Trial Lawyers: Top 40 Under 40. Amy is one of only 40 trial lawyers from the State of Wisconsin to be chosen for membership into this group of influential and accomplished young trial lawyers.
- [Brothers face charges in fatal hit-and-run](https://www.pbclaw.com/brothers-face-charges-in-fatal-hit-and-run/) - Criminal charges have been filed against a 17-year-old boy for killing a 52-year-old man in a hit-and-run car accident. His family members persuaded the nearly blind teenager to go to Mexico after the accident and assisted him. He later came back to the U.S., and police arrested him while he was hiding in a closet
- [Driver Pleads Guilty In BUI Accident That Killed Wisconsin Man](https://www.pbclaw.com/driver-pleads-guilty-in-bui-accident-that-killed-wisconsin-man/) - Drunk driving is not exclusive to the highways and byways as it happens on our lakes and rivers all too often as well. Recently a 39-year-old man from another state plead guilty to BUI manslaughter charges after a boating accident killed a 35-year-old Wisconsin man and injured a 34-year-old man who was also in the
- [Women’s Caucus Seminar September 13 & 14, Wisconsin Association For Justice](https://www.pbclaw.com/womens-caucus-seminar-september-13-14-wisconsin-association-for-justice/) - The Women’s Caucus of the Wisconsin Association for Justice, which is Chaired by attorney Amy Risseeuw of Peterson Berk & Cross, is conducting its Annual Seminar and Retreat on September 13 and 14, 2012. The seminar will cover issues of interest for attorney-attendees, and provide continuing legal education credit. For more information about the event, which is
- [PBC Atty. Amy Risseeuw Is Named Secretary Of Outagamie County Bar Association](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-atty-amy-risseeuw-is-named-secretary-of-outagamie-county-bar-association/) - Peterson, Berk & Cross attorney Amy Risseeuw has been named Secretary of the Outagamie County Bar Association, a local bar of the State Bar of Wisconsin.
- [PBC Atty. Avi Berk Again Named As Fellow Of The Litigation Counsel Of America](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-atty-avi-berk-again-named-as-fellow-of-the-litigation-counsel-of-america/) - PBC Attorney Avi Berk has again been named as a Fellow of the Litigation Counsel of America (LCA). The LCA is an invitation- only trial lawyer honorary society, with recognition of excellence among litigation and trial counsel. Membership is limited to less than one-half of one percent of American lawyers, and only select lawyers, judges and law professors in
- [21 H-1B Employees Awarded Back Wages for Unpaid Company Training](https://www.pbclaw.com/21-h-1b-employees-awarded-back-wages-for-unpaid-company-training/) - The Department of Labor (DOL) reaffirmed that an H-1B employer must pay its employees the full, required wage when in training. DOL ordered SVK Systems Inc. in Montgomery, AL to pay $257,635 in back wages to 21 H-1B employees hired for tech jobs across the United States, according to a recent press release. DOL investigators
- [What to Do if You Are Seriously Injured in an Accident Outside of Wisconsin? By Attorney John Peterson](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-to-do-if-you-are-seriously-injured-in-an-accident-outside-of-wisconsin-by-attorney-john-peterson/) - Although there are similarities, the laws governing the rights of accident victims differ depending on in which state an accident occurred. The law of the state where the accident happened governs the rights and responsibilities of the parties involved. When car accidents occur in states the parties are just visiting, most of the investigation, deposing
- [H-1B End Clients With Blind Eyes?](https://www.pbclaw.com/h-1b-end-clients-with-blind-eyes/) - The attorney-authors have represented many H-1B workers, some of whom have done project work for some of the biggest companies in the U.S. Some things that seem remarkable to us: (1) the epidemic of H-1B workers across the country who are underpaid or not paid during benched time and are not paid, underpaid or have
- [Assumptions Kill the Cat (At Least in the Workplace)](https://www.pbclaw.com/assumptions-kill-the-cat-at-least-in-the-workplace/) - In the workplace, curiosity does NOT, as they say, “kill the cat.” To the contrary, if you are in a workplace dispute, curiosity is a GOOD thing. Curiosity will cause you- before you take action- to take time to pause, gather more information, learn what is truly going on, and hopefully learn from credible sources
- [H-1B Body Shop Ordered To Pay More Than $740,000 in Back Wages](https://www.pbclaw.com/h-1b-body-shop-ordered-to-pay-more-than-740000-in-back-wages/) - An H-1B IT body shop in Georgia was ordered to pay $741,288 in back wages to 73 employees who were unlawfully benched or required to pay visa and application processing fees. The Department of Labor ordered Semafor Technologies LLC in Norcross to pay the back wages following an investigation into allegations of its unlawful practices.
- [What Can Be Done if You Believe the “At Fault” Driver’s Insurance Company is Acting Unreasonably and in “Bad Faith”? By Atty. John Peterson](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-can-be-done-if-you-believe-the-at-fault-drivers-insurance-company-is-acting-unreasonably-and-in-bad-faith-by-atty-john-peterson/) - One of our clients was helping a friend put a new window into his house. Our client went out to his car to get some tools. His friend’s pickup truck was parallel parked directly behind our client’s car. As our client opened his trunk to retrieve his tools, a negligent driver struck the rear of
- [Are You an H-1B Worker Promised a Percentage-Based Wage Higher Than the Prevailing Wage? Get Documentation](https://www.pbclaw.com/are-you-an-h-1b-worker-promised-a-percentage-based-wage-higher-than-the-prevailing-wage-get-documentation/) - Has your H-1B employer promised you a wage that is based on a percentage of project work? If so, read on, as this article discusses some common issues and important considerations for H-1B workers offered percentage-based pay. This includes the importance of having documentation of what the employer promised. The attorney-authors encounter many H-1B workers
- [Todd And Troy Merryfield, Clients Of Attorney John Peterson, Successful In Lawsuit Against The Roman Catholic Diocese Of Green Bay](https://www.pbclaw.com/todd-and-troy-merryfield-clients-of-attorney-john-peterson-successful-in-lawsuit-against-the-roman-catholic-diocese-of-green-bay/) - Todd and Troy Merryfield, clients of attorney John Peterson, were recently successful in their civil lawsuit against the Roman Catholic Diocese of Green Bay. According to an article in the Post Crescent: When an Outagamie County jury decided the Roman Catholic Diocese of Green Bay covered up a priest’s history of child molestation, it sent
- [PBC Attorney Avi Berk Is Certified As A Civil Pretrial Practice Advocate](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-attorney-avi-berk-is-certified-as-a-civil-pretrial-practice-advocate/) - Peterson, Berk & Cross Attorney Avi Berk has been certified as an advocate by the National Board of Civil Pretrial Practice Advocacy. His certification date as a Civil Pretrial Practice Advocate is May 9, 2012. The Civil Pretrial Practice Advocacy is the newest division of the National Board of Legal Specialty Certification.
- [“Meat Glue” Product Can Be Used (But Is It?) to Bind Together Cheap Meat Scraps and Sell Them As a “Filet”](https://www.pbclaw.com/meat-glue-product-can-be-used-but-is-it-to-bind-together-cheap-meat-scraps-and-sell-them-as-a-filet/) - Be aware: “Meat Glue” Used to Bind Cheap Meat Scraps Together As “Filets” Here in the United States, there are periodic news reports, including ABC affiliate reports, about “meat glue”- a product apparently being used by some meat suppliers and restaurants to “glue” together pieces of inexpensive meat (e.g. stew scraps) and make them appear
- [Attorney Amy Risseeuw Appears On The Philcast On WHBY 1150 AM, Comments On Social Media In Courtrooms](https://www.pbclaw.com/attorney-amy-risseeuw-appears-on-the-philcast-on-whby-1150-am-comments-on-social-media-in-courtrooms/) - The issue of social media in the courtroom was in the news recently with the criminal trial of an individual accused of murdering family members of the actress/singer Jennifer Hudson in Illinois. Attorney Amy M. Risseeuw of Peterson, Berk & Cross, was asked to comment on this issue on a segment of The Philcast with Phil
- [Social Media And The Courtrooms By Attorney Amy Risseeuw](https://www.pbclaw.com/social-media-and-the-courtrooms-by-attorney-amy-risseeuw/) - There is significant debate among judges, lawyers, reporters and the public regarding the use of social media in the courtroom. From the perspective of most lawyers and judges, the main concern is the that jury is free of influence during the trial, and bases its decision solely upon the evidence presented in the case. In
- [PBC Attorney John Peterson Is Certified As A Civil Pretrial Practice Advocate](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-attorney-john-peterson-is-certified-as-a-civil-pretrial-practice-advocate/) - PBC Attorney John Peterson has been certified as an advocate by the National Board of Civil Pretrial Practice Advocacy. His certification date as a Civil Pretrial Practice Advocate is April 25, 2012. The Civil Pretrial Practice Advocacy is the newest division of the National Board of Legal Specialty Certification.
- [One-Year Deadline Passed For An H-1B Wage Complaint At DOL? There May Still Be Options For Getting Your Wages](https://www.pbclaw.com/one-year-deadline-passed-for-an-h-1b-wage-complaint-at-dol-there-may-still-be-options-for-getting-your-wages/) - If you are an H-1B worker with unpaid wages, there is a 1-year deadline for a particular type of legal complaint you could pursue. That is, there is 1-year deadline to file a WH-4 complaint at the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). We have found that many H-1B workers (whether they have read our blog
- [Getting Your Unpaid Wages Is A PROCESS](https://www.pbclaw.com/getting-your-unpaid-wages-is-a-process/) - Before they retained us, many underpaid workers we represent had tried to get their unpaid wages by themselves and without an attorney. The workers tried to (1) get the wages directly from the employer, via complaining or negotiating; (2) filed a legal complaint with a government agency; or (3) took both of these actions. Many
- [What If I Am Hurt As a Result of a Dog Bite? By Attorney John Peterson](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-if-i-am-hurt-as-a-result-of-a-dog-bite-by-attorney-john-peterson/) - Over the years, the lawyers at Peterson, Berk & Cross have represented many victims of attacks and bites by dogs. Tragically, the victims are often little children who end up with lifelong physical and emotional scars. Our attorneys and staff are experienced in working with victims and their families during the initial trauma after the
- [PBC Atty. Amy Risseeuw To Give Presentation At Mar. 23 WAJ Seminar: “Surviving An Appeal”](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-atty-amy-risseeuw-to-give-presentation-at-mar-23-waj-seminar-surviving-an-appeal/) - Peterson, Berk & Cross Attorney Amy Risseeuw will speak at the Wisconsin Association for Justice (WAJ) spring seminar on March 23, 2012 in Green Bay, WI. Amy’s presentation is titled “Surviving an Appeal.” For more information about the WAJ seminar and presentations, or to register, you can visit this WAJ website
- [What Happens If I Cannot Settle My Personal Injury Case? By Attorney John Peterson](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-happens-if-i-cannot-settle-my-personal-injury-case-by-attorney-john-peterson/) - Unfortunately, many personal injury cases cannot be settled without litigation. When it becomes necessary to commence what lawyers call a civil action, commonly known as a lawsuit, you will want to retain the services of an experienced personal injury attorney. Civil actions can be expensive and complicated, and the insurance industry has access to some
- [WI Supreme Court Argument for Kroner v. Oneida Seven Generations Corp.](https://www.pbclaw.com/wi-supreme-court-argument-for-kroner-v-oneida-seven-generations-corp/) - Yesterday, Attorney Michael Brown, who represents John Kroner in the case of John Kroner v. Oneida Seven Generations Corporation (Appeal No. 2010AP002533), conducted argument before the Wisconsin Supreme Court. The issues before the Supreme Court concern the Brown County Circuit Court’s decision to transfer the case to the Oneida Tribal Judicial System, and whether that
- [The Truth Will Not Set You Free In An Employment Dispute](https://www.pbclaw.com/the-truth-will-not-set-you-free-in-an-employment-dispute/) - Many employees engaged in employment disputes believe that the truth will set them free. That once the employer, or the legal system, finds out the employee is factually correct or “in the right,” then everything will work out in the employee’s favor. This view, while understandable, is flat wrong. More often than not, the truth
- [“DON’T SHOOT, I’M A LAWYER: Police Shootings, Taserings and Section 1983 Litigation” — Outline of WAJ Presentation By PBC Attorney John Peterson](https://www.pbclaw.com/dont-shoot-im-a-lawyer-police-shootings-taserings-and-section-1983-litigation-outline-of-waj-presentation-by-pbc-attorney-john-peterson/) - PBC Attorney John Peterson gave a presentation, for a Wisconsin Association of Justice (WAJ) seminar, titled “DON’T SHOOT, I’M A LAWYER: Police Shootings, Taserings and Section 1983 Litigation.” Here is a link to the Outline for this presentation.
- [“SETTING UP ‘THE STING:’ WHEN THE POLICY LIMIT IS NOT THE LIMIT…” — Outline of WAJ Presentation By PBC Attorney John Peterson](https://www.pbclaw.com/setting-up-the-sting-when-the-policy-limit-is-not-the-limit-outline-of-waj-presentation-by-pbc-attorney-john-peterson-2/) - PBC Attorney John Peterson gave a presentation, for a Wisconsin Association of Justice (WAJ) seminar, titled “SETTING UP ‘THE STING:’ WHEN THE POLICY LIMIT IS NOT THE LIMIT – SETTING UP THE RECALCITRANT, THIRD PARTY CARRIER.”
- [What to Do If You are Hurt in An Automobile Accident – By Attorney John Peterson](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-to-do-if-you-are-hurt-in-an-automobile-accident-by-attorney-john-peterson/) - During the last 36 years, Peterson, Berk & Cross‘s personal injury attorneys have successfully concluded thousands of motor vehicle accident cases. If you are hurt in an automobile accident caused by another driver, you need to know that the “at fault” driver’s insurance company is not on your side. Its obligation is not to protect
- [What To Do If You Are Hurt In An Automobile Accident – By PBC Attorney John Peterson](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-to-do-if-you-are-hurt-in-an-automobile-accident-by-pbc-attorney-john-peterson/) - During the last 36 years, Peterson, Berk & Cross‘s personal injury attorneys have successfully concluded thousands of motor vehicle accident cases. If you are hurt in an automobile accident caused by another driver, you need to know that the “at fault” driver’s insurance company is not on your side. Its obligation is not to protect you,
- [“SETTING UP ‘THE STING:’ WHEN THE POLICY LIMIT IS NOT THE LIMIT…”– Outline of WAJ Presentation By PBC Attorney John Peterson](https://www.pbclaw.com/setting-up-the-sting-when-the-policy-limit-is-not-the-limit-outline-of-waj-presentation-by-pbc-attorney-john-peterson/) - PBC Attorney John Peterson gave a presentation, for a Wisconsin Association of Justice (WAJ) seminar, titled “SETTING UP ‘THE STING:’ WHEN THE POLICY LIMIT IS NOT THE LIMIT – SETTING UP THE RECALCITRANT, THIRD PARTY CARRIER.” Here is a link to the Outline for this presentation.
- [“When Torts Turn Toxic: Revisited”– Outline Of WAJ Presentation By PBC Attorney John Peterson](https://www.pbclaw.com/when-torts-turn-toxic-revisited-outline-of-waj-presentation-by-pbc-attorney-john-peterson/) - PBC Attorney John Peterson gave a presentation at the Wisconsin Association of Justice (WAJ) Winter Seminar titled “When Torts Turn Toxic: Revisited.” Here is a link to the Outline for this presentation.
- [Video About Wisconsin Lawyer Assistance Program](https://www.pbclaw.com/video-about-wisconsin-lawyer-assistance-program/) - The Wisconsin Lawyer Assistance Program (WisLAP) has posted a video on YouTube (embedded below), which describes the WisLAP program. As stated at WisLAP’s website: The Wisconsin Lawyers Assistance Program (WisLAP) provides confidential assistance to help lawyers, judges, law students, and their families cope with problems related to the stress of practicing law. PBC Attorney Michael Brown
- [PBC Attorney Avi Berk To Appear At Pledge Drive For The Avenue, 91.1 Radio](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-attorney-avi-berk-to-appear-at-pledge-drive-for-the-avenue-91-1-radio/) - PBC Attorney Avi Berk will appear at a pledge drive on November 18, 2011, for The Avenue radio, 91.1.
- [PBC Atty. Avi Berk Interviewed By Fox 11 Regarding WI Supreme Court Rules Proposal](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-atty-avi-berk-interviewed-by-fox-11-regarding-wi-supreme-court-rules-proposal/) - PBC attorney Avi Berk was interviewed by Fox 11 regarding proposed rules by the Wisconsin Supreme Court. The rules, if adopted, would try to make the WI Supreme Court more transparent to the public, and improve civility on the Court. The proposed rules would, among other new changes, allow the public to watch the justices
- [PBC Atty. Avi Berk Speaks At Business To Business Meeting Held By Tax Management Services, Inc](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-atty-avi-berk-speaks-at-business-to-business-meeting-held-by-tax-management-services-inc/) - On September 14, 2011, PBC Attorney Avi Berk was a featured speaker at the Business to Business meeting held by Tax Management Services, Inc. Avi shared legal tips for business and personal situations, including the importance of having a will, POA and medical POA. Avi also discussed ways to ensure individuals have enough liability insurance
- [Do NOT Email An Attorney About Personal Matters From Your Employment Email Address](https://www.pbclaw.com/do-not-email-an-attorney-about-personal-matters-from-your-employment-email-address/) - I am an attorney, and every so often, a new potential client will email me, and will do so using their employment email address. When this happens, often the person’s email will contain negative information about his or her employer, or other information the person would not want the employer’s management to read. Please know
- [PBC Attorney Avi Berk Comments In NBC 26 Media| Family Upset Disabled Man Bullied In Workplace – Www.Nbc26.Com](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-attorney-avi-berk-comments-in-nbc-26-media-family-upset-disabled-man-bullied-in-workplace-www-nbc26-com/) - via nbc26.com PBC Attorney Avi Berk provided legal commentary in this NBC 26 article and video
- [Were You Denied WI Unemployment In The Initial Determination? If You Appeal, Don’t Be Late!](https://www.pbclaw.com/were-you-denied-wi-unemployment-in-the-initial-determination-if-you-appeal-dont-be-late/) - If you are a Wisconsin worker who lost your initial determination for unemployment benefits, and you want to contest/appeal that decision, make sure you file your appeal on time, and before the deadline stated on the determination document. An appeal can be submitted online at the unemployment division’s website (click here), or via a letter. When submitting
- [An Excellent Article With Cites/Authority For Employee Rights Attorneys](https://www.pbclaw.com/an-excellent-article-with-cites-authority-for-employee-rights-attorneys/) - For you employee rights attorneys out there who deal with federal summary judgment motions and common employer arguments, including those arguments that over-rely on the credibility of employer (interested) witnesses, this article is a must read: ” Preserving the Right to a Jury Trial by Preventing Adverse Credibility Inferences at Summary Judgment” by attorney Matthew
- [How Preparing to Be a Good Witness Is Like Weight Training](https://www.pbclaw.com/how-preparing-to-be-a-good-witness-is-like-weight-training/) - When I prepare with an individual before a legal proceeding in which he or she will testify- say, for example, when I meet with a worker before a deposition or an unemployment hearing- I discuss with that person what it means to be a good witness. Being a good witness does not simply mean telling
- [Googling for Legal Information: The Good and Bad](https://www.pbclaw.com/googling-for-legal-information-the-good-and-bad/) - Perhaps you found this legal site’s webpage because you have a legal issue that you want free information about, and a Google search led you here. As a consumer, I have often used a Google or other website searches to find free information. Sometimes, that has been successful for me. For example, my dryer once
- [Why PG County Schools’ Wage Violations May Throw Its H-1B Teachers Out Of The US](https://www.pbclaw.com/why-pg-county-schools-wage-violations-may-throw-its-h-1b-teachers-out-of-the-us/) - n the wake of Maryland’s Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) settlement agreement involving H-1B wage violations, questions have been raised about the unfair effect this is having on the victims, the teachers who will be forced to leave their jobs and the United States once their H-1B time runs out. As part of the
- [MD County’s Public Schools Barred From H-1B Program And Fined For Wage Violations](https://www.pbclaw.com/md-countys-public-schools-barred-from-h-1b-program-and-fined-for-wage-violations/) - In a settlement agreement signed this month in connection with H-1B wage violations, Maryland’s Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) system must reimburse more than 1000 teachers $4.2 million in H-1B application fees and pay a $100,000 fine. The Department of Labor and USCIS have also barred the school system from filing applications for work
- [Don’t Play The Blame Game In Unemployment Proceedings](https://www.pbclaw.com/dont-play-the-blame-game-in-unemployment-proceedings/) - Workers involved in Wisconsin unemployment proceedings are often tempted to play the “blame game.” Human instinct may tell you that it’s important to tell the unemployment interviewer or judge your opinions about what the employer did wrong. For example, say a worker was fired because the employer said the worker was “falsifying formwork,” and the
- [WI Resident John Kroner Appeals Transfer To Tribal Court, Submits Petition For Review To WI Supreme Court](https://www.pbclaw.com/wi-resident-john-kroner-appeals-transfer-to-tribal-court-submits-petition-for-review-to-wi-supreme-court/) - On July 1, 2011, John Kroner, a Wisconsin resident represented by Peterson, Berk & Cross and the firm’s attorney Michael Brown, filed a petition for review with the Wisconsin Supreme Court. Mr. Kroner is appealing a Wisconsin Circuit Court’s decision, upheld by the Wisconsin Court of Appeals, to transfer Mr. Kroner’s case from the Wisconsin forum to
- [The Danger Of Labels In Employment Disputes](https://www.pbclaw.com/the-danger-of-labels-in-employment-disputes/) - If you’re an employee in an employment dispute or legal dispute, you will be tempted- very tempted- to describe events in terms of adjectives or conclusions, i.e. labels. For example, a worker may want to tell a boss or a legal authority “I was treated unfairly” (the operative label being “unfair”), as compared to saying “On June 5th, Supervisor
- [Afraid You’ll Be Fired And Lose Your Status If You Complain To Your H-1B Employer? The Law May Protect You](https://www.pbclaw.com/afraid-youll-be-fired-and-lose-your-status-if-you-complain-to-your-h-1b-employer-the-law-may-protect-you/) - H-1B employees who have been benched without pay or underpaid often are reluctant to complain against their employers because they fear they will be fired and lose their immigration status. This fear is understandable, but exaggerated. This article will explain why complaining can actually help preserve your status in the United States. The Relationship Between
- [What Happened To The H-1B Employees Charged With IT Employer As Visa Fraud Conspirators?](https://www.pbclaw.com/what-happened-to-the-h-1b-employees-charged-with-it-employer-as-visa-fraud-conspirators/) - The H-1B employees who were originally indicted as co-conspirators in connection with Vision Systems work visa fraud scheme have either plead guilty to reduced charges or had charges dismissed last year. Apparently, these results were in exchange for the H-1B workers cooperating with the investigation and prosecution of their employer. Most of those who plead guilty did
- [Vision Systems Owners Plead Guilty To H-1B Related Fraud Charge](https://www.pbclaw.com/vision-systems-owners-plead-guilty-to-h-1b-related-fraud-charge/) - The H-1B Legal Rights Blog posted an article in February 2009 about the two owners of the now defunct IT services firm Vision Systems. The owners pleaded guilty to mail fraud in connection with submitting a fraudulent H-1B petition, and they were sentenced to three years of probation and ordered to pay $236,250 in restitution to USCIS. Vision Systems and its
- [Pursuing Unpaid Wages? Get Your Ducks In A Row](https://www.pbclaw.com/pursuing-unpaid-wages-get-your-ducks-in-a-row/) - If you’re a worker who believes you’re owed unpaid wages, there are a few pressing things to consider upfront, such as: (1) learning legal deadlines that may apply; and (2) promptly organizing information and documents that describe the unpaid wage issues, i.e. getting your ducks in a row. When a worker with unpaid wages contacts me about potentially representing
- [Former White House Lawyer Talks Of Ill-Trodden Steps And Reinforces Integrity | State Bar Of Wisconsin](https://www.pbclaw.com/are-you-a-worker-considering-a-legal-claim-consider-the-value-of-witnesses/) - I recently attended a Wisconsin State Bar seminar, where speaker Egil “Bud” Krogh spoke of his experience as a former Nixon administration attorney, and his admitted involvement in illegal decisions. As noted in a WI Bar article: Krogh authorized a covert operation to burglarize the office of Ellsberg’s psychiatrist to find information that would discredit
- [Websites With Information About H-1B Employers And H-1B Filings](https://www.pbclaw.com/websites-with-information-about-h-1b-employers-and-h-1b-filings/) - Readers interested in H-1B worker issues may already know of many websites with information about H-1B employers and H-1B filings. But in case you haven’t heard, below are some websites with H-1B-related information that may be of interest. (Please note these websites are potential resources for information of interest, but this blog’s authors are not
- [“Salaried” Workers With Hours Docked May Be Overtime-Eligible](https://www.pbclaw.com/salaried-workers-with-hours-docked-may-be-overtime-eligible/) - If you are a worker paid a salary, then you may be ineligible for overtime pay, assuming other circumstances exist as well. (Being paid a salary is one of multiple criteria that must be met before an employer can consider you overtime-exempt). However, some workers who are called “salaried” workersby their employers are not paid on a “salaried basis”
- [Wage Issues? Tip #10: Avoid Signing Documents You Disagree With](https://www.pbclaw.com/wage-issues-tip-10-avoid-signing-documents-you-disagree-with/) - This post continues my series of tips, or things to consider, for workers with unpaid wages. Tip #10 is this: Don’t Sign Documents the Employer Presents That You Disagree With, or Believe to Be False. If you have unpaid wages, and an employer approaches you with a document to sign relating to the unpaid wages, chances
- [Wage Issues? Tip #8: Being Paid On Salary Basis Does Not (By Itself) Exclude You From Overtime Pay](https://www.pbclaw.com/wage-issues-tip-8-being-paid-on-salary-basis-does-not-by-itself-exclude-you-from-overtime-pay/) - This post continues my series of tips, or things to consider, for workers with unpaid wages. Tip #8 is this: Being Paid on Salary Basis Does Not (By Itself) Exclude You From Overtime Pay. There is a common myth among workers that if a worker is paid on a salaried basis, then the worker is not
- [PBC Attys. John Peterson And Amy Risseeuw Talk About Tort Reform On The Bill Sebastian Show On WHBY Radio](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-attys-john-peterson-and-amy-risseeuw-talk-about-tort-reform-on-the-bill-sebastian-show-on-whby-radio/) - PBC Attorneys John Peterson and Amy Risseeuw recently appeared on the Bill Sebastian show on WHBY radio, for an interesting discussion about tort reform. You can listen to the show here.
- [Tribal-Transfer Case Briefed at Wisconsin Court of Appeals, Involving PBC Client and Atty. Michael Brown](https://www.pbclaw.com/tribal-transfer-case-briefed-at-wisconsin-court-of-appeals-involving-pbc-client-and-atty-michael-brown/) - A Wisconsin resident John Kroner, represented by PBC Attorney Michael Brown, has appealed a Wisconsin circuit court’s decision to transfer Mr. Kroner’s case to the Oneida Tribal Judicial System, pursuant to Wisconsin Statute 801.54, which involves discretionary transfer of civil actions to tribal court. This is the first appeal of its kind involving Wis. Stat.
- [Attys. John Peterson And Amy Risseeuw Talk About Tort Reform On The Bill Sebastian Show On WHBY Radio](https://www.pbclaw.com/attys-john-peterson-and-amy-risseeuw-talk-about-tort-reform-on-the-bill-sebastian-show-on-whby-radio/) - PBC Attorneys John Peterson and Amy Risseeuw appeared on the Bill Sebastian show on WHBY radio, for an interesting discussion about tort reform. You can listen to the show here.
- [Wisconsin State Capitol: THUNDERDOME. On Twitpic](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-state-capitol-thunderdome-on-twitpic/) - via twitpic.com Picture of supporters of Wisconsin State workers’ union, in the State Capitol. Posted via email from Mike Brown’s posterous
- [Three Rules For An Unemployment Interview Or Hearing](https://www.pbclaw.com/three-rules-for-an-unemployment-interview-or-hearing/) - If you are a Wisconsin worker with an unemployment application pending, you may have a phone interview or hearing coming up. If you do, you will soon be answering questions from a legal authority in the unemployment process. Before you have a phone interview or hearing- that is, before you start answering questions as a
- [Appealing WI Unemployment Initial Determination- Be Careful When Stating “Reason” In Your Appeal Form/Letter](https://www.pbclaw.com/appealing-wi-unemployment-initial-determination-be-careful-when-stating-reason-in-your-appeal-form-letter/) - If you are a Wisconsin worker who lost your initial determination for unemployment benefits, the next step is to submit a timely appeal. An appeal can be submitted online here, or via a letter. When submitting the appeal, you should be very careful to follow the instructions closely, and to submit the appeal before the
- [Be Careful About Saying “Discrimination” In A WI Unemployment Proceeding- That Word Usually Has No Place There](https://www.pbclaw.com/be-careful-about-saying-discrimination-in-a-wi-unemployment-proceeding-that-word-usually-has-no-place-there/) - As an employee rights attorney, I routinely represent Wisconsin workers in unemployment proceedings. It is common for me to read unemployment-related documents, and to see that my client has (before s/he retained me), used the word “discrimination” in talking about the employer’s actions to the unemployment office. And almost always when I see that word
- [Employee Tip: Document, Document, Document (And SAVE Documents!)](https://www.pbclaw.com/employee-tip-document-document-document-and-save-documents/) - If you are an employee with concerns about your employer, or you think you may pursue a legal action someday, please know that the documentation you keep is critical. Do not assume the employer or others will keep important documents and give them to you later. Also, don’t assume the employer will agree with your
- [Unemployment Advice- Good Times To Seek It (And Not Be Too Late)](https://www.pbclaw.com/unemployment-advice-good-times-to-seek-it-and-not-be-too-late/) - If you are a Wisconsin worker seeking unemployment benefits, you may be considering the idea of getting an attorney versus not getting an attorney. I am not writing this point to convince you to get an attorney like me- despite my self-interest in having people retain me, I understand that’s a decision for only you
- [Want to Negotiate With an Employer You Distrust? Consider Talking to a Trusted Third Party First](https://www.pbclaw.com/want-to-negotiate-with-an-employer-you-distrust-consider-talking-to-a-trusted-third-party-first/) - You may be in a situation where (1) an employer has violated your trust in the past, and you are uncomfortable with that employer; but (2) you still need something from that employer- their payment of overdue wages, their approval of a pending administrative request, etc. Often, I see employees in this situation- that is,
- [PBC Atty. Avram Berk Re-Elected To Board Of Wisconsin Association For Justice](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-atty-avram-berk-re-elected-to-board-of-wisconsin-association-for-justice/) - PBC attorney Avram Berk has been re-elected to the Board of Directors of the Wisconsin Association for Justice (WAJ). The term of office is two years. Avi has served on the WAJ Board since 1984. WAJ is the largest voluntary statewide bar organization in Wisconsin. Members of the Association are attorneys who represent consumers seeking
- [Asking For Personnel File = Sending A Message (Think What It Is, And How It Will Be Received)](https://www.pbclaw.com/asking-for-personnel-file-sending-a-message-think-what-it-is-and-how-it-will-be-received/) - Many States, including Wisconsin, have laws that require an employer to give an employee a copy of his or her employee file (or “personnel file”) upon request. In some situations, a request for a personnel file can be a mundane, harmless and totally bureaucratic event. Maybe you’ve worked for an employer for ten years, and
- [PBC Atty. John Peterson To Speak At Wisconsin Association For Justice Winter Seminar](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-atty-john-peterson-to-speak-at-wisconsin-association-for-justice-winter-seminar/) - PBC Attorney John Peterson will be a speaker at the Wisconsin Association for Justice’s 2010 Winter Seminar, which will take place Friday, 12/3/2010 – Saturday, 12/4/2010 at 424 E. Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI. More information about the seminar is available here.
- [WI Supreme Court Upholds Decision In Favor Of Employees Fired By Employers Looking To Avoid Benefit Payments](https://www.pbclaw.com/wi-supreme-court-upholds-decision-in-favor-of-employees-fired-by-employers-looking-to-avoid-benefit-payments/) - This Wisconsin State Bar article describes a recent WI Supreme Court case, US Bank, the outcome of which I think is very helpful for diverse employee benefits situations. The WI SC was split (the even # was due to Justice Annette Ziegler not participating), and the appellate decision in favor of the employee thus stands. The
- [PBC Atty. Avi Berk To Speak At National Business Institute Seminar](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-atty-avi-berk-to-speak-at-national-business-institute-seminar/) - PBC Attorney Avi Berk will be a speaker at a December 16, 2010 seminar, “Plaintiff’s Personal Injury From Start to Finish,” conducted by the National Business Institute. The live seminar will be in Green Bay, WI. If you are an attorney who may want to attend the seminar, or you want more information about the seminar, click
- [PBC Atty. John Peterson Selected As Wisconsin Super Lawyer For 2010](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-atty-john-peterson-selected-as-wisconsin-super-lawyer-3/) - PBC attorney John Peterson has been selected for inclusion on the 2010 Wisconsin Super Lawyers list, published in the November 12, 2010 issue of Milwaukee Magazine. Only 5% of attorneys in Wisconsin are chosen each year for inclusion as a Super Lawyer.
- [PBC Client John Steffens To Have Case Heard By Wisconsin Supreme Court](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-client-john-steffens-to-have-case-heard-by-wisconsin-supreme-court/) - John Steffens, a client of PBC Attorneys John Peterson and Amy Risseeuw, will have his case heard by the Wisconsin Supreme Court. The WI Supreme Court’s website summarizes the case here. Mr. Steffens’ case is also subject of a WHBY news article here. Mr. Steffens was injured in an automobile accident, and his insurance plan, BlueCross BlueShield, paid some of
- [PBC Atty. Amy Risseeuw Speaks About WI Domestic Partnerships At Outagamie County Bar Lunch](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-atty-amy-risseeuw-speaks-about-wi-domestic-partnerships-at-outagamie-county-bar-lunch/) - PBC Attorney Amy Risseeuw was a presenter at the recent Outagamie County Bar lunch concerning Domestic Partnerships. A copy of the seminar outline, with information about WI domestic partnership law, can be found here.
- [Got Text Or Voice Messages From Your Harasser(S) Or Employer? Save Them To A Secure Place ASAP.](https://www.pbclaw.com/got-text-or-voice-messages-from-your-harassers-or-employer-save-them-to-a-secure-place-asap/) - If you have received text and/or voice messages from someone who has mistreated you- for example, a harassing text message, or a voice message about your job being terminated, from your boss- you should save those messages to a secure place ASAP. Those messages may serve as legal evidence later, so you want to be sure
- [About To Complain To Management? Think Big Picture First.](https://www.pbclaw.com/about-to-complain-to-management-think-big-picture-first/) - Are you gearing up to give management an earful about all the wrongs they have been committing? Before you confront management, please give thought to the big picture. Especially if you are right, and you have proof you are right. Being right is not enough. Say your employer thinks the sky is green, and fires you because
- [Interesting Article Re U.S. Chamber Of Commerce’s Strong Use Of Litigation (Despite Tort Reform View As To Individuals)](https://www.pbclaw.com/interesting-article-re-u-s-chamber-of-commerces-strong-use-of-litigation-despite-tort-reform-view-as-to-individuals/) - [The U.S. Chamber of Commerce] has its own multimillion dollar affiliate, the Institute for Legal Reform (ILR), whose sole mission is to restrict the ability of individuals harmed by negligent corporations to file suit.Yet ironically, the Chamber is also one of the most aggressive litigators in Washington, D.C., appearing in hundreds of lawsuits a year.
- [Negotiate? Acme Co. Doesn’t Negotiate Our Non-Competes](https://www.pbclaw.com/negotiate-acme-co-doesnt-negotiate-our-non-competes/) - A little story for those of you considering a new job where the employer is asking you to sign a non-compete agreement, and they are giving you the vibe their non-compete is a take-it-or-leave-it sort of deal… Once, several years ago, I was looking at apartments, and found one I liked. The landlord gave me
- [Interesting Statistics About Lawsuits In WI And Elsewhere](https://www.pbclaw.com/interesting-statistics-about-lawsuits-in-wi-and-elsewhere/) - Does Wisconsin and the U.S. generally need “tort reform?” Are too many (or an increasing number) of lawsuits being filed, with too many plaintiffs receiving large awards, and too many businesses suffering due to law suits by individuals? As a plaintiff’s employment attorney, I have shared my own observations and biases in trying to answer
- [15th Annual Spelling Bee For Fox Valley Literacy Coalition: Hats Off To Winner Lawrence; PBC Team Takes 3rd Place](https://www.pbclaw.com/15th-annual-spelling-bee-for-fox-valley-literacy-coalition-hats-off-to-winner-lawrence-pbc-team-takes-3rd-place/) - The results are in for the 15th Annual Fox Valley Spelling Bee on Thursday, October 14, 2010, proceeds for which benefited the Fox Valley Literacy Coalition and adult literacy services. Congratulations to Lawrence University’s spellers, who took first place amongst 13 teams, and to runner-up ThedaCare. Peterson, Berk and Cross’s team (Michael Brown, Meghan Hanley, Amy Risseeuw and Heidi
- [The 10 Biggest Corporate Campaign Contributors In U.S. Politics| Via DailyFinance.Com](https://www.pbclaw.com/the-10-biggest-corporate-campaign-contributors-in-u-s-politics-via-dailyfinance-com/) - Here are 10 companies that give America the best elections that money can buy, arranged in ascending order by campaign dollars contributed between 1989 and 2010.
- [Polite Hearings, And The Distinction Between The Person And His Conduct](https://www.pbclaw.com/polite-hearings-and-the-distinction-between-the-person-and-his-conduct/) - Not long ago I was at an unemployment hearing. It was the same old drill in most respects. Two parties opposed each other. A boss had fired an employee. The boss’s testimony opposed the employee’s testimony, and vice versa. Neither side changed any beliefs when the hearing was over. But after the hearing, a great
- [My H-1B Employer Is Asking Me To Take A Vacation… Last Year](https://www.pbclaw.com/my-h-1b-employer-is-asking-me-to-take-a-vacation-last-year/) - Given the poor shape of the U.S. economy, fraudulent H-1B employers are likely to adopt new tricks, or to increase the use of old ones, with benched H-1B workers. If you have been benched, your employer may approach you and ask you to sign a document that falsely states that you took voluntary leave (e.g. vacation leave,
- [Wisconsin Law Now Prohibits Two More Types Of Discrimination, Based On Political And Religious Communications](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-law-now-prohibits-two-more-types-of-discrimination-based-on-political-and-religious-communications/) - The Wisconsin Legislature has added two forms of prohibited discrimination to Wisconsin employment law, which concern religious and political communications. Now, a Wisconsin employer must not discriminate against an employee for: declining to attend a meeting about religious mattersdeclining to participate in any communication about religious mattersdeclining to attend a meeting about political matters; ordeclining
- [Interesting Article About Need For Introspection And “The Problem Of The Ego”](https://www.pbclaw.com/interesting-article-about-need-for-introspection-and-the-problem-of-the-ego/) - This is a very interesting article by Ramnath Subramanian: The Bhagavad Gita and the Problem of the Ego. The post discusses the great need for everyone (ALL of us!) to be introspective, and be open to our own flaws and our egos. And that our egos (often subconsciously) block us from truth and progress. But
- [PBC Atty. Amy Risseeuw Elected Vice-Chair Of Wisconsin Association For Justice (WAJ) Women’s Caucus; Events](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-atty-amy-risseeuw-elected-vice-chair-of-wisconsin-association-for-justice-waj-womens-caucus-events/) - PBC Attorney Amy Risseeuw was recently elected vice-chair of the Wisconsin Association for Justice (WAJ) Women’s Caucus. Amy also serves as co-chair (along with PBC Attorney Jolene Schneider) of the Women’s Caucus’ Mentoring Program. The program promotes professional growth for young lawyers with less than 10 years of experience, matching them with a more experienced lawyer. It is also open
- [PBC Client/Pension Case Completes Oral Argument At Seventh Circuit](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-client-pension-case-completes-oral-argument-at-seventh-circuit/) - On September 27, the case of PBC client Kenneth Pearson, which relates to a pension plan’s misstatement of benefits, was heard by the United States Court of Appeals, Seventh Circuit, for oral argument. Mr. Pearson is represented by PBC Attorney Michael Brown, and Attorney William Parsons of Hawks Quindel. Per practice of the Seventh Circuit’s website, the parties’ oral
- [Employment At Will, And Three General Exceptions](https://www.pbclaw.com/employment-at-will-and-three-general-exceptions/) - This post describes the doctrine of “employment at will,” and exceptions to the doctrine. (Please note this post does not provide legal advice, and that different locations/States and their laws vary in how employment-at-will is interpreted). Meaning of Employment at Will Employment at will, as described in Wisconsin law, means an employer may fire an
- [PBC Atty. Michael Brown To Attend Individual Rights & Responsibilites Section Board Meeting Sept. 24](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-atty-michael-brown-to-attend-individual-rights-responsibilites-section-board-meeting-sept-24/) - PBC Attorney Michael Brown will attend a Board meeting for the Wisconsin State Bar’s Individual Rights & Responsibilities Section (IRR) on Friday, September 24, 2010. IRR’s members include attorneys with interests in civil liberties and constitutional rights. The section presents various programs, publishes a newsletter and initiates and reviews legislative proposals in areas of concern to members.
- [Executives & Professionals: Consider These Things In Event Of Potential/Actual Termination](https://www.pbclaw.com/executives-professionals-consider-these-things-in-event-of-potential-actual-termination/) - In other articles, I’ve discussed things that all employees should keep in mind when it comes to potential job loss, job loss and severance. These include articles such as those here: Problems at the Job (archive) and Things to Consider When Your Employer Offers a Severance Agreement. If you are an executive or professional, there are some considerations
- [Have You Thought About Investments (With Or Without An Attorney) Required For Your Potential Legal Matter?](https://www.pbclaw.com/have-you-thought-about-investments-with-or-without-an-attorney-required-for-your-potential-legal-matter/) - If you are an individual thinking about pursuing a legal matter- and you are like most people- you probably haven’t given thorough thought to the investments required for that type of legal matter. Investments are not just money, but also time and emotion. Sometimes, people proceed without an attorney, and are surprised to learn later
- [Website Shows How Federal Stimulus Money Used In WI: WI Recovers.Org](https://www.pbclaw.com/website-shows-how-federal-stimulus-money-used-in-wi-wi-recovers-org/) - This website shows how the Recovery Act helped Wisconsin and what we can do to create a more secure economic revival.
- [PBC Atty. Avi Berk Named For Membership In American Trial Lawyers Association](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-atty-avi-berk-named-for-membership-in-american-trial-lawyers-association/) - The American Trial Lawyers Association is a national organization composed of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers from each state. Membership is obtained through special invitation and is extended only to those attorneys who exemplify superior qualifications, leadership, reputation, influence, stature, and profile as trial lawyers.
- [PBC Atty. Avi Berk Again Named As Fellow of the Litigation Counsel of America](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-atty-avi-berk-again-named-as-fellow-of-the-litigation-counsel-of-america-2/) - PBC Attorney Avi Berk has again been named as a Fellow of the Litigation Counsel of America (LCA). The LCA is an invitation-only trial lawyer honorary society, with recognition of excellence among litigation and trial counsel. Membership is limited to less than one-half of one percent of American lawyers, and only select lawyers, judges, and
- [PBC Atty. John Peterson Selected As Member of American Trial Lawyers Association](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-atty-john-peterson-selected-as-member-of-american-trial-lawyers-association/) - The American Trial Lawyers Association, according to its website, “[I]s a national organization composed of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers from each state. Membership is obtained through special invitation and is extended only to those attorneys who exemplify superior qualifications, leadership, reputation, influence, stature, and profile as trial lawyers, both civil plaintiff and criminal defense.”
- [PBC Atty. John Peterson Selected As Fellow Of The Litigation Counsel Of America](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-atty-john-peterson-selected-as-fellow-of-the-litigation-counsel-of-america/) - PBC Attorney John Peterson has been selected as a Fellow of the Litigation Counsel of America (LCA). The LCA is an invitation- only trial lawyer honorary society, with recognition of excellence among litigation and trial counsel. Membership is limited to less than one-half of one percent of American lawyers, and LCA expects only 68 lawyers, judges and law professors
- [PBC Client John Steffens Is Successful At WI Court Of Appeals](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-client-john-steffens-is-successful-at-wi-court-of-appeals/) - After settling an automobile accident case for the defendant’s entire limit of liability insurance, PBC client John Steffens was summarily ordered by the trial court to repay almost $65,000.00 to his health insurance carrier, to reimburse it for back surgery Mr. Steffens endured long after the accident. Working as a team, PBC Attorneys John Peterson, Amy Risseeuw,
- [ABA Journal Re: Work No More Than 40 Hours A Week](https://www.pbclaw.com/aba-journal-re-work-no-more-than-40-hours-a-week/) - For the last 100 years, every productivity study in every industry has come to the same conclusion: After about 40 hours in a week, the quality of your work starts to degrade,” she writes. “You make mistakes. That’s why working 60 hours may not save you time or money: You’ll spend too much of that
- [PBC Atty. Amy Risseeuw To Speak At FVYLA Seminar, “The Practical And Ethical Considerations Of Wisconsin Domestic Partnership Protections,”](https://www.pbclaw.com/pbc-atty-amy-risseeuw-to-speak-at-fvyla-seminar-the-practical-and-ethical-considerations-of-wisconsin-domestic-partnership-protections/) - The Fox Valley Young Lawyers Association (FVYLA), for which PBC Attorney Amy Risseeuw serves as past Co-Chair, is conducting a CLE seminar titled “The Practical and Ethical Considerations of Wisconsin Domestic Partnership Protections,” on September 1, 2010. Amy will be a speaker at the event. For those interested in attending, the Seminar Registration form is here.
- [Pinoy Teachers In US File Class Suit Vs Recruiters | Philstar.Com](https://www.pbclaw.com/pinoy-teachers-in-us-file-class-suit-vs-recruiters-philstar-com/) - MANILA, Philippines – A group of Filipino teachers employed in the United States has filed a class suit against their foreign and local recruiters for alleged extortion, wire fraud and human trafficking.According to Partido ng Manggagawa (PM), hundreds of Filipino migrant teachers who are working under H1-B visa and employed in different school districts in
- [Lise Lotte Gammeltoft Recognized As One Of “20 Local Women To Know” In You Magazine](https://www.pbclaw.com/lise-lotte-gammeltoft-recognized-as-one-of-20-local-women-to-know-in-you-magazine/) - Lise Lotte Gammeltoft, a retired attorney from Peterson, Berk & Cross, was recognized as one of “20 Local Women To Know” in You Magazine (Green Bay Press Gazette), July 21, 2010 issue. The article references Lise’s extensive volunteer work, including her service as a board member of Women’s Fund of Greater Green Bay and Green Bay
- [The Top 10 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Was 30 | Crazy Sexy Life](https://www.pbclaw.com/the-top-10-things-i-wish-i-knew-before-i-was-30-crazy-sexy-life/) - 9. The material world will not bring you true happiness. My generation was taught to think that happiness and success come from consumption. Materialism doesn’t bring you happiness. The media keeps feeding our need to buy more (appealing to our inner lizard of lack) and then we end up in our 50s or 60s with
- [Wisconsin Unemployment Info And Resources For Workers](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsin-unemployment-info-and-resources-for-workers/) - Here are some (hopefully) handy resources for Wisconsin workers with pending unemployment issues: – State of WI DWD’s Legal Resources webpage Information from the State about unemployment laws, case decisions, and practical information (e.g. FAQs, info about how to file an appeal, attending an unemployment hearing). – Blog Articles About WI Unemployment for Workers Contains links to
- [Article By John Robbins: Why Factory Farms Threaten Your Health](https://www.pbclaw.com/article-by-john-robbins-why-factory-farms-threaten-your-health/) - This article discusses how large factory farms’ routine use of antibiotics are the biggest cause of drug-resistant bacteria. The numbers and types of drug-resistant bacteria are increasing, and are causing more illnesses and deaths. The article discusses pending legislation, H.R. 1549, that would require factory farms to reduce their overuse of antibiotics, and find ways
- [TIME Article: Workplace Bullying: New York Bill Targets Abusive Bosses](https://www.pbclaw.com/time-article-workplace-bullying-new-york-bill-targets-abusive-bosses/) - Worker abuse is a widespread problem – in a 2007 Zogby poll, 37% of American adults said they had been bullied at work – and most of it is perfectly legal. Workers who are abused based on their membership in a protected class – race, nationality or religion, among others – can sue under civil
- [Wisconsin’s New OWI Law, Wisconsin Lawyer June 2010, State Bar Of Wisconsin](https://www.pbclaw.com/wisconsins-new-owi-law-wisconsin-lawyer-june-2010-state-bar-of-wisconsin/) - The legislature responded by passing 2009 Wisconsin Act 100, which takes effect July 1, 2010.4The media labeled the law as taking a firm stance against drunk driving by enforcing harsher penalties.5 However, a deeper analysis reveals that the new law encourages jurisdictions to consider and determine if a well-monitored treatment program, combined with a period
- [From Positivity Blog: 7 Of My Favorite Timeless Tips From The Last 2500 Years](https://www.pbclaw.com/from-positivity-blog-7-of-my-favorite-timeless-tips-from-the-last-2500-years/) - These 7 tips describe very practical approaches and attitudes for life challenges. The quoted tip below reminds me of the Supreme Court, and all the confirmation-process talky-talk where Justices are described with labels like “activists” (bad label) or “umpires” (good label).Behind all the labels and analogies, as well as behind the intellectual rationalizations of complex
- [Cloverleaf On-Ramps And The Law](https://www.pbclaw.com/cloverleaf-on-ramps-and-the-law/) - When I was in law school, a professor discussed an interesting analogy. It involved the invention of cloverleaf-shaped on-ramps. The new on-ramps were self-imposed structures, which- like the self-imposition of new laws- improved safety and prevented us from making human errors. Prior to the cloverleaf on-ramp, people merged on to a busy highway the same
- [LexUniversal Post: H-1B Site Visits Soon Will Be Routine](https://www.pbclaw.com/lexuniversal-post-h-1b-site-visits-soon-will-be-routine/) - Per LexUniversal: 25,000 companies will be randomly selected for investigation this year if they employ H-1B workers according to Robert Blackwood, FDNS, Fraud Detection Branch Chief at USCIS, responsible for overseeing the management of the site visit program.
- [New Blog (“On Point”) By The Wisconsin State Public Defender](https://www.pbclaw.com/new-blog-on-point-by-the-wisconsin-state-public-defender/) - The WI Public Defender has launched a new blog, which is described as follows: The Wisconsin State Public Defender distills the latest decisions concerning criminal law and tracks issues pending before the United States and Wisconsin Supreme Courts. For the Wisconsin criminal defense lawyer, this is an indispensable source for news and analysis of cases
- [Employee Tip: Save Important Documents, And Don’t Write On Them!](https://www.pbclaw.com/employee-tip-save-important-documents-and-dont-write-on-them/) - If you have an important document relating to a dispute with your employer- for example, a termination letter or a pay stub showing underpaid wages- please save that document. (You can read a more detailed post here about all the types of good documentation, and how to preserve it). Sounds simple, right? But it’s easy to inadvertently misplace or
- [For Employees In WI Considering A Do-It-Yourself Discrimination Complaint, Consider This…](https://www.pbclaw.com/for-employees-in-wi-considering-a-do-it-yourself-discrimination-complaint-consider-this/) - On many occasions, employees have called me for advice after they have filed a discrimination complaint with Wisconsin’s Department of Workforce Development Equal Rights Division (ERD), or the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). When I review their situations, I find that many of those employees should not, in my opinion, have filed their discrimination complaints. These employees’
- [Bill Moyers: Chevron’s “Crude” Attempt To Suppress Free Speech](https://www.pbclaw.com/bill-moyers-chevrons-crude-attempt-to-suppress-free-speech/) - This article discusses the Chevron case, and the parties’ battle between two important principles: (1) journalists’ right to confidentiality for their sources/source info; versus (2) litigants’ right to access evidence that is important to their litigation. The article also had an interesting quote about lawyers: In a 1905 speech before the Harvard Ethical Society, Brandeis
- [Article About High Worker Productivity- Here For The Long Haul?](https://www.pbclaw.com/article-about-high-worker-productivity-here-for-the-long-haul/) - Interesting article that discusses an increase in U.S. workers’ productivity, but questions whether the gains are part of a short-term burnout that will actually hurt us over the long haul. Tony Schwartz: The Productivity Myth Consider this: The average American sleeps 6 ½ hours a night – and the costs include not just much higher
- [Atty. Michael Brown Speaks About Employment Law Rights At Wisconsin Association Of Justice Seminar On March 26, 2010](https://www.pbclaw.com/atty-michael-brown-speaks-about-employment-law-rights-at-wisconsin-association-of-justice-seminar-on-march-26-2010/) - PBC attorney Michael Brown gave a spoken presentation, “Spotting Employment Law Rights & Damages of Personal Injury Plaintiffs,” at a seminar conducted by the Wisconsin Association of Justice on March 26, 2010.
- [Atty. Dan Cross Authors Child Support Calculation Sheets Used By State Bar, Family Law Section](https://www.pbclaw.com/atty-dan-cross-authors-child-support-calculation-sheets-used-by-state-bar-family-law-section/) - PBC attorney Dan Cross authored child support calculation spreadsheets, called DCF 150 40 Sheets, which calculate child support under Wisconsin law’s child support standards at Ch. DCF 150, Regs. The State Bar’s Family Law Section links to the DCF 150 Sheets, for use by persons involved in Wisconsin’s family law system. Dan recently updated the
- [Atty. Amy Risseeuw, Bd. Member Big Brothers Big Sisters Of The Fox Valley Region, Attended Annual Meeting & Banquet On April 27, 2010](https://www.pbclaw.com/atty-amy-risseeuw-bd-member-big-brothers-big-sisters-of-the-fox-valley-region-attended-annual-meeting-banquet-on-april-27-2010/) - PBC attorney Amy Risseeuw recently attended the annual meeting and banquet for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Fox Valley Region on April 27, 2010. If you are interested in serving as a volunteer for BBBS Fox Valley, click here!
- [Workplace Anti-Bullying Bill Considered By Wisconsin Legislature, Part I](https://www.pbclaw.com/workplace-anti-bullying-bill-considered-by-wisconsin-legislature-part-i/) - Wisconsin legislators are considering enactment of a bill, 2009 Assembly Bill 894, that prohibits workplace bullying by employers. The bill seeks to prohibit abusive work environments in Wisconsin, and to allow a worker subjected to such an environment to bring a civil legal claim. Importantly, a civil claim would be filed in a Wisconsin county
- [Benched or Underpaid H-1B Wages? The Importance of Acting Promptly](https://www.pbclaw.com/benched-or-underpaid-h-1b-wages-the-importance-of-acting-promptly/) - If you’re an H-1B worker who has been benched or otherwise underpaid wages, and you’re interested in trying to address your problems, you should consider acting promptly. Promptly educate yourself about the legal options you have, and promptly take action. If you take the right actions at the wrong time (i.e. after too much delay),
- [My Employer Made Me Pay For My H-1B Application And/Or Deductions From My Paycheck. Can They Do That?](https://www.pbclaw.com/my-employer-made-me-pay-for-my-h-1b-application-and-or-deductions-from-my-paycheck-can-they-do-that/) - Were you forced to pay for your H-1B application fees? Did your employer order you to travel to another city for work and make you pay for your own hotel? Did your employer make you pay for your plane trip to the United States from your home? Can your employer do that? In this article
- [The 5 Biggest Mistakes Employees Make In Employment Disputes](https://www.pbclaw.com/the-5-biggest-mistakes-employees-make-in-employment-disputes/) - Below are the top 5 mistakes I see employees make in employment disputes. And, I should note, in my own work experience, dating back to the junior high paper route, I personally have made several of these mistakes several times. Please know these are general opinions, and do not give legal advice for any particular
- [Want To Post To A Message Board About An Employer? Think Twice, And Count To Ten](https://www.pbclaw.com/want-to-post-to-a-message-board-about-an-employer-think-twice-and-count-to-ten/) - If you are thinking about all your problems with your employer, and want to tell the world- or, tell Facebook, listservs, and/or public message boards- you should think twice and count to ten before posting. It is understandable to feel highly frustrated by an employer who has underpaid you, harassed you, fired you, or otherwise
- [Lawrence University News Article Referencing PBC Attorney Amy Risseeuw And Her Role With An American Mock Trial Association Tournament](https://www.pbclaw.com/lawrence-university-news-article-referencing-pbc-attorney-amy-risseeuw-and-her-role-with-an-american-mock-trial-association-tournament/) - Lawrence University news article referencing PBC attorney Amy Risseeuw and her role with an American Mock Trial Association tournament
- [WSAW-TV Article Referencing PBC Attorney Avi Berk](https://www.pbclaw.com/wsaw-tv-article-referencing-pbc-attorney-avi-berk/) - WSAW-TV article referencing PBC attorney Avi Berk
- [ESPN Article Referencing PBC Attorney Avi Berk And His Client Nick Barnett, A Player With The Green Bay Packers](https://www.pbclaw.com/espn-article-referencing-pbc-attorney-avi-berk-and-his-client-nick-barnett-a-player-with-the-green-bay-packers/) - ESPN article referencing PBC attorney Avi Berk and his client Nick Barnett, a player with the Green Bay Packers
- [Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Article Referencing PBC Attorney Avi Berk](https://www.pbclaw.com/milwaukee-journal-sentinel-article-referencing-pbc-attorney-avi-berk/) - Milwaukee Journal Sentinel article referencing PBC attorney Avi Berk
- [WEAU.Com Article Referencing PBC Attorney Avi Berk](https://www.pbclaw.com/weau-com-article-referencing-pbc-attorney-avi-berk/) - WEAU.com article referencing PBC attorney Avi Berk
- [AP Article On First Amendment Center’s Website Referencing PBC Attorney John Peterson](https://www.pbclaw.com/ap-article-on-first-amendment-centers-website-referencing-pbc-attorney-john-peterson/) - AP article on First Amendment Center’s website referencing PBC attorney John Peterson
- [Madison.Com Article Referencing PBC Attorney John Peterson](https://www.pbclaw.com/madison-com-article-referencing-pbc-attorney-john-peterson/) - Madison.com article referencing PBC attorney John Peterson
- [Employee Tip: Preparing For Mediation At The Equal Rights Division](https://www.pbclaw.com/employee-tip-preparing-for-mediation-at-the-equal-rights-division/) - If you have a discrimination complaint at the Equal Rights Division (ERD) and are scheduled for mediation (settlement discussions), you can prepare in the following ways to improve your chances of reaching a favorable settlement. While the information below is tailored to ERD proceedings, it should be useful for EEOC mediation and other types of
- [ESPN Article Referencing PBC Attorney Avi Berk](https://www.pbclaw.com/espn-article-referencing-pbc-attorney-avi-berk/) - ESPN article referencing PBC attorney Avi Berk
- [Boston.Com Article Referencing PBC Attorney Avi Berk](https://www.pbclaw.com/boston-com-article-referencing-pbc-attorney-avi-berk/) - Boston.com article referencing PBC attorney Avi Berk
- [Lawrence University News Article Referencing PBC Attorney John Peterson And His Role With An American Mock Trial Association Tournament](https://www.pbclaw.com/lawrence-university-news-article-referencing-pbc-attorney-john-peterson-and-his-role-with-an-american-mock-trial-association-tournament/) - Lawrence University news article referencing PBC attorney John Peterson and his role with an American Mock Trial Association tournament
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