Episode 25: Practice Insights and Tips with Judges Ellen Brostrom and Krista LaFave

About this episode

The episode features a discussion on the career paths and insights of judges transitioning to mediation, emphasizing mentorship and the evolving legal landscape.

In this episode of the Bottom Up Podcast, produced by the State Bar of Wisconsin, host Kristen Hardy talks with former Milwaukee Circuit Court Judge Ellen Brostrom, now a mediator at Resolute Systems LLC, and Wauwatosa Municipal Court Judge Krista LaFave, also a personal injury attorney at Warshafsky Law. Both explore their unique career paths, motivations for public service, and the differences between circuit and municipal courts. They discuss the importance of courtroom presentation, the challenges with pro se litigants, and the balance between judicial duties and private practice. The conversation highlights the collegiality within the Wisconsin legal community and the significance of professional organizations, including the vital role of mentorship and networking for young lawyers, particularly women in the legal profession. Hardy and her guests highlight the evolving needs of legal organizations, the transition from judicial roles to mediation, and the significant impact of AI on the legal landscape. The speakers share insights on how young lawyers can navigate their careers, emphasizing the importance of deep preparation, professionalism, and maintaining connections…

People in this episode

Host: Kristen Hardy

Guests: Ellen Brostrom, Krista LaFave

Topics covered

• legal careers
• judicial roles
• mediation
• courtroom presentation
• mentorship
• networking
• AI in law

Keywords

• legal profession
• pro se litigants
• judicial duties
• young lawyers
• professionalism
• court systems
• AI impact

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: State Bar of Wisconsin, Resolute Systems LLC, Warshafsky Law

Places: Milwaukee, Wauwatosa, Wisconsin

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