Minnesota State Bar Association

"There’s no question that artificial intelligence (AI) is here to stay. It is already reshaping how we practice law, from predictive analytics that anticipate case outcomes to chatbots that enhance client communication and automated tools that streamline document review. And make no mistake—we aren’t going back. AI is becoming an integral part of the legal landscape." Join Kristi Paulson as she takes an in-depth look at specific uses of AI in legal tech in this Bench & Bar article. https://lnkd.in/gGAXRE2r #AI #LegalTech

Mary Fenske of Halvorson Legal in Buffalo is featured in Bench & Bar magazine's latest Pro Bono Spotlight. Pro bono has been important to Fenske since she graduated from the University of St. Thomas School of Law. “Having an attorney makes a significant difference in the outcome of a case,” she notes, “and income limitations shouldn’t create a barrier to equal access.” Read the profile: https://lnkd.in/gHC76KnR

In his latest Bench & Bar column, MSBA President Samuel Edmunds shares how the proposed sales tax on consumer legal services places an unfair burden on those who need legal help the most. https://lnkd.in/gcCr_zDB

The MSBA is seeking nominations from greater Minnesota (any district outside Hennepin or Ramsey Counties is eligible) for the position of MSBA secretary, which is part of our four-year presidential track. Learn more and submit your statement of interest here: https://lnkd.in/ei48nj-D

MSBA members, if you dedicated 50+ hours to pro bono service in 2024, time is running out to be recognized!?Certify your hours by March 15, 2025,?to secure your place as a North Star Lawyer and show your commitment to improving access to justice. Bonus:?List the organization where you volunteered, and eligible organizations will be entered in a drawing for a?$5,000 grant?from the Minnesota State Bar Foundation! Don’t wait—certify now: https://lnkd.in/g4fxv8Gc

Thanks to Deputy Attorney General Dana Mitchell from the Office of the Minnesota Attorney General for speaking to our staff today about her career path and her work with the Minnesota Association of Black Lawyers, where she currently serves as Immediate Past President.

Each year since 1980, March has been designated as Women’s History Month to honor women’s contributions in American history. Join?Rebecca Lucero, State Senator Bonnie Westlin and Joanna Woolman in a thoughtful conversation moderated by Judge Jessica Palmer-Denig to explore the advancement and protection of women’s rights and examines current issues related to equality for women and where we are headed. Register now: https://lnkd.in/gnGFrqhj

Exciting news for MSBA members. Starting today, all members can get FREE access to Smokeball - Legal Software's trust accounting and billing software -- Smokeball Bill. Don't miss out on our newest member benefit. Sign up for your free subscription now: https://lnkd.in/gNQ6mfpv

The rule of law is the foundation of our democracy, ensuring that government operates within legal bounds, laws are applied fairly, and no one is above the law. Our collective commitment to justice and democracy should not be a partisan issue. While change is expected when new leaders take office, it must occur in an orderly manner that respects legal principles, individual rights, and democratic institutions. Instead, we are witnessing efforts to erode judicial independence, sidestep constitutional processes, and undermine institutions that uphold accountability. Disregarding legal mandates and silencing those who uphold the law weakens our democracy and erodes public trust. The legal profession has long stood as a guardian of the rule of law. We reaffirm our commitment to holding all branches of government accountable, supporting our courts, and defending legal principles against unlawful encroachments. We urge all lawyers, judges, and public officials to stand with us. As legal professionals, we have sworn an oath to uphold the Constitution. That obligation compels us to act. Samuel Edmunds 2024-2025 President Minnesota State Bar Association https://lnkd.in/gNVPuvUj

The annual Meet the Bar event at the University of St. Thomas School of Law is always a highlight of the year. Attorneys from bar association Sections had a great time sharing their experiences, answering questions about their practice areas, and getting to know the next generation of lawyers. Thanks to all of the law students, faculty, and MSBA members who joined us on February 27.