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Ruder Ware is pleased to congratulate Jane Lokken on receiving the Woman of Achievement Award from the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce. This award celebrates the potential of all women as valued members and leaders of their community, honoring an individual who strives toward the highest level of professional accomplishment and excels in her chosen field. On announcing the award, the Chamber cited Jane’s active involvement in the Eau Claire community for over 25 years. Currently, she is the chair-elect of the Eau Claire Community Foundation and on the Board of Directors of Clear Vision Eau Claire, U.S. Bank Eau Claire’s Advisory Board, and the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire Foundation. She is also a member of the Ethics Committee for Mayo Clinic Health Systems NW WI Region. Jane has twice been Chair of the State Bar of Wisconsin Elder Law Section and has been listed as a Best Lawyer in elder law since 2007. She is also a member of the National Academy of Elder Law attorneys and on the Board of Directors of its Wisconsin Chapter.
March 2013 - Ruder Ware is pleased to announce the following attorneys were recently selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America® 2013 (Copyright 2012 by Woodward/White, Inc. of Aiken SC): David G. Anderson: Real Estate Law Mark J. Bradley: Trusts & Estates Linda M. Danielson: Trusts & Estates Dean R. Dietrich: Employment Law and Labor Law Sebastian J. Geraci: Tax Law and Trusts & Estates Jane E. Lokken: Elder Law Joseph M. Mella: Real Estate Law Mark D. Munson: Elder Law Randi L. Osberg: Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law Lon Roberts: Corporate Law and Mergers & Acquisitions Law Matthew D. Rowe: Corporate Law Russell W. Wilson: Commercial Litigation and Workers’ Compensation Law - Employers
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Attorney Chris Seelen, Eau Claire: Bankruptcy & Creditor/Debtor Rights; Business/Corporate. Attorney Mark Munson, Wausau: Elder Law
September 2012 - Ruder Ware is pleased to announce the addition of Shanna Yonke to their attorney team; she will be based in the Wausau office as a member of the Trusts & Estates Practice Group. A Wausau native, Shanna advises individuals and business owners in all aspects of personal estate and business planning. Working with individuals, Shanna drafts wills and estate plans bringing a particular talent to capturing the family’s desires while maximizing tax saving opportunities. In addition, Shanna represents exempt organizations providing counsel in matters such as obtaining and retaining tax exempt status and compliance with federal code to avoid tax penalties. A magna cum laude graduate of the University of Minnesota Law School, Shanna received her B.A. summa cum laude from the University of Minnesota – Minneapolis.
Along with the Executive Director, Lon will be responsible for the agency’s response to all media inquiries and the public communications of SWIB. SCCE defines the CHC designation as follows: SCCE also states that:
Attorney Fisher has also obtained his Certification in Healthcare Compliance (CHC) from the Health Care Compliance Association.
Nick joins Ruder Ware with five years of experience in estate planning, business counseling, and banking law. He will continue to work with businesses and individuals, providing counsel on the formation and operation of businesses of varying sizes in addition to reviewing contracts, assisting with business transactions, and providing counsel on real estate and banking matters. Nick’s work with individuals will primarily consist of personal planning in the areas of asset protection and estate planning. An honors graduate of Drake University Law School, Nick earned his Bachelor’s of Science from the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Based in Eau Claire, Nick plans to continue his active involvement in the Mondovi community.
Attorney Chris Seelen, Eau Claire: Bankruptcy & Creditor/Debtor Rights; Business/Corporate. Attorney Mark Munson, Wausau: Elder Law Attorney John Fisher Receives Certification in Health Care Compliance Attorney John H. Fisher II, a health care attorney with Ruder Ware in Wausau, Wisconsin, has obtained certification in health care compliance. Mr. Fisher will now carry the designation of CHC (Certified Healthcare Compliance). The certification is provided by the Health Care Compliance Association (“HCCA”), a national organization based in Minneapolis. Mr. Fisher is the fourth attorney resident in the State of Wisconsin to obtain this certification. The HCCA defined the CHC designation as follows: The CHC© is a professional with knowledge of relevant regulations and expertise in compliance processes sufficient to assist the health care industry to understand and address legal obligations, and promote organizational integrity through the operation of effective compliance programs. The HCCA also states that: The purpose of certification is to promote health care compliance through the certification of qualified health care compliance professionals by:
ATTORNEY KYLE FLANAGAN JOINS WISCONSIN ALUMNI ASSOCIATION: WAUSAU CHAPTER BOARD OF DIRECTORS October 4, 2011 - Kyle B. Flanagan has been named a member of the Wisconsin Alumni Association (WAA): Wausau Chapter board of directors. The WAA: Wausau Chapter is a nonprofit, volunteer group dedicated to raising the overall awareness of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, generating scholarships for local students, and providing UW-Madison alumni with a local connection to the university. Mr. Flanagan is a 2010 graduate of the University of Wisconsin Law School. He is an attorney at Ruder Ware, where he is a member of the Business Transactions Practice Group. As a member of the WAA: Wausau Chapter board, Mr. Flanagan will work to increase the presence of UW-Madison in the area and connect UW-Madison alumni in the community through activities and events such as Founders' Day. For more information regarding the WAA: Wausau Chapter, visit www.uwalumni.com/wausau. ATTORNEY kevin j.t. terry JOINS RUDER WARE
At Ruder Ware, Kevin Terry will provide counsel on all aspects of the employer-employee relationship in matters relating to labor and employment law, municipal law, and school law. Kevin is a graduate of Marquette University Law School, his undergraduate degree is in Economics from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities. Ruder Ware’s Employment, Benefits & Labor Relations Practice Group works in tandem with private and public employers providing counsel on all aspects of human resource management. The breadth of services offered, unique for a law firm headquartered in Wausau, Wisconsin, includes counsel on highly sensitive issues such as workplace harassment, employee privacy, drug and alcohol testing, and disciplinary issues. In addition, attorneys design and assist with the development, implementation, and enforcement of policies and procedures relating to benefits, hiring practices, employee handbooks, state and federal discrimination laws, FMLA, FLSA, ADA, OSHA, and workers’ compensation.
June 20, 2011 - Ruder Ware is pleased to announce the addition of John H. Fisher, II to their attorney team. He will be based in the Wausau office as a member of the Health Care Focus Team. John Fisher is an experienced health care attorney who has practiced extensively in the health care industry providing counsel to a wide variety of health care providers. John has counseled health care clients, including hospitals, physicians, and health systems on health care regulatory compliance, contracts, mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, recruitment and compensation issues, integrated network development, and Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement. John is knowledgeable on the laws and regulations that affect financial relationships between health care providers including the Stark Law, Anti-Kickback Statute and safe harbor regulations, fraud and abuse, antitrust and exempt organization tax issues. John is also an active blogger on these issues and operates the health law blog at wisconsinhealthlawyer.com. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin Law School, he holds a bachelor’s in business administration from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
June 6, 2011 - Ruder Ware recently promoted Attorneys Sara Ackermann and Melissa Kampmann to shareholder. To attain shareholder status, individuals must have proven their dedication to client service, dedication to the profession and the clients we serve, and active involvement in the communities we practice in. About Sara Ackermann Ms. Ackermann is a magna cum laude graduate of the William Mitchell College of Law. Sara’s practice as an employment law attorney includes serving as an advisor to HR professionals and small business owners. She provides counsel on federal and state employment law issues, including drug and alcohol testing, wrongful discharge, anti-discrimination, anti-harassment, plant closing and mass lay-off, wage and hour, family medical leave, and reasonable accommodation. Sara drafts employee handbooks, separation and non-compete agreements, disciplinary memoranda, affirmative action plans, employment contracts, and independent contractor agreements. A frequent writer, presenter and trainer on employment topics, Sara is on the Board of Directors for the Central Wisconsin Society of Human Resource Management.
About Melissa Kampmann Ms. Kampmann is a cum laude graduate of the University of Wisconsin Law School. As a seasoned estate planner, Melissa counsels individuals and families to create a plan for the transfer and preservation of their assets during their lifetime and at death. Melissa works with a client’s trusted advisors to create a flexible life plan that meets both their emotional and financial goals. Melissa also assists family members and friends of her clients working through probate and trust administration. She recently receive her Certified Financial Planner certification which she uses to better advise clients on their estate plans, retirement options, and transfer of wealth. Actively involved, Melissa serves on the board of directors for the Wausau Region Chamber of Commerce and the St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation and as secretary for the Paul and Ruth Schultze Foundation. Attorney bryan T. Symes Joins Ruder Ware May 17, 2011 - Ruder Ware is pleased to announce the addition of Bryan Symes to their attorney team; he will be based in the Eau Claire office as a member of the Employment, Labor & Benefits and Litigation & Dispute Resolution Practice Groups. Bryan represents management-side clients in the areas of employment and labor law and provides counseling and litigation services associated with such substantive topics as employment compliance matters, employment practices policies, discrimination, harassment, fair employment claims, unemployment benefits, wage and hour law, FMLA, ADA, employment contracts, affirmative action plans, and non-compete and non-solicitation agreements. He previously worked at a prominent employment law firm in Minneapolis. An honors graduate from Chicago-Kent College of Law, Bryan’s undergraduate degree in political science is from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. CYNTHIA ANDERSON OF BRICKNER'S OF wAUSAU WINS TWO TICKETS TO THE GRAND'S PERFORMANCE OF sTOMP May 6, 2011 - Ruder Ware congratulates Cynthia Anderson, General Manager at Brickner's of Wausau, who won two tickets to Stomp, a performance at The Grand in March 2012. The tickets were Ruder Ware's give away item for exhibiting at the Wausau Chamber's Small Business Expo. For additional information on the performance, watch for details at The Grand's Web site. Christopher M. Seelen receives Certification in creditors' rights law May 5, 2011 - Ruder Ware is pleased to announce that Eau Claire-based attorney Christopher M. Seelen has earned his national certification in creditors’ rights law from the American Board of Certification. Mr. Seelen is only the 6th attorney in Wisconsin to achieve certification in creditors rights and the only attorney outside the greater Milwaukee area. Mr. Seelen is a member of Ruder Ware’s Banking & Financial Institutions Focus Team and represents banks, credit unions, and other creditors in bankruptcy court and state court. He is a chapter 7 bankruptcy trustee and a 2010 Rising Star as selected by Wisconsin Super Lawyers magazine. To become certified, Mr. Seelen satisfied the following requirements:
Congress has added this certification by adding it to the list of Section 330 compensation factors in the new bankruptcy law. Legislators and courts recognize that the successful operation of the bankruptcy system depends upon the involvement of professionals with special expertise. This new law recognizes that Board certification provides a simple, meaningful, and objective measure of skill and expertise in the bankruptcy field. Attorneys within Ruder Ware’s Banking & Financial Institutions Focus Team have substantial experience representing creditors’ committees, financial institutions, and other creditors in bankruptcy and insolvency proceedings, as well as in matters involving complex commercial workouts and foreclosures, replevins, and homestead foreclosures. We also have a wide range of experience advising clients on transactions involving distressed businesses, and we have regularly represented financial institutions and other lenders, creditors’ committees, individual secured and unsecured creditors, business debtors, trustees, receivers, investors, buyers, sellers, and others in connection with various insolvency matters. The American Board of Certification (ABC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to serving the public and improving the quality of the bankruptcy bar. The rigorous ABC certification standards are designed to encourage bankruptcy practitioners to strive toward excellence and to recognize those attorneys who are experts in the bankruptcy field. The ABC offers separate certification programs in business and consumer bankruptcy and creditors' rights. All three ABC certification programs are accredited by the American Bar Association. RUDER WARE IS DESIGNATED AS A GREEN BUSINESS BY THE EAU CLAIRE CHAMBER January 27, 2011 - The Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce recently designated Ruder Ware as a "Green Business." Currently, the Chamber recognizes 62 businesses in the area with this distinction. UNITED WAY OF MARATHON COUNTY SELECTS ATTORNEY DEAN DIETRICH AS ADVOCATE OF THE YEAR January 12, 2011 – The United Way of Marathon County presented Attorney Dean Dietrich with their first ever “Advocate of the Year” award at a recent recognition luncheon. The award honors an individual who speaks out, builds awareness of issues, and steps up to do something productive for our community. Dean was recognized for his years of service, leadership, and passion for advancing services to families with young children. He has led the Start Right Advocacy Board for six years and this year led the formation of an early childhood advocacy council. As an advocate, Dean recently spoke to the Marathon County Board advocating for funding for Start Right, a collaborative program between the Health Department of Children’s Service Society that focuses on families with young children. In addition, he has attended meetings in Madison to help our state representatives understand the importance of investing in services for young children. FIVE RUDER WARE ATTORNEYS SELECTED FOR WISCONSIN SUPER LAWYERS NOVEMBER 30, 2010 - Attorneys Mark Bradley, Dean Dietrich, Doug Klingberg, Randi Osberg, and Chris Seelen have been selected as Wisconsin Super Lawyers. Only five percent of the lawyers in the state are named by Super Lawyers. Selections for this esteemed list are made by the research team at Super Lawyers, which is a service of the Thomson Reuters, Legal division based in Eagan, Minn. Each year, the research team at Super Lawyers undertakes a rigorous multi-phase selection process that includes a statewide survey of lawyers, independent evaluation of candidates by the attorney-led research staff, a peer review of candidates by practice area, and a good-standing and disciplinary check. Attorneys selected for inclusion in 2010 Wisconsin Super Lawyers are: Attorneys named for inclusion in 2010 Wisconsin Rising Star are: Attorney Chris Seelen, Eau Claire: Bankruptcy & Creditor/Debtor Rights; Business/Corporate. NOVEMBER 16, 2010 - Ruder Ware is pleased to announce Attorney Christopher M. Seelen has been appointed to the panel of Chapter 7 bankruptcy trustees for the Western District of Wisconsin. Mr. Seelen practices at the firm’s Eau Claire office. As a Chapter 7 bankruptcy trustee, Mr. Seelen is designated to be the presiding officer at first meetings of creditors with authority to examine debtors under oath. Mr. Seelen is the second attorney with Ruder Ware to be honored with this appointment, Attorney Randi L. Osberg has served as a Chapter 7 trustee for the Western District for nearly 20 years. In addition to his duties as a Chapter 7 trustee, Mr. Seelen will continue to concentrate his practice on representing creditors in bankruptcy court and state court. He has represented secured creditors in bankruptcy court cases under Chapter 7, Chapter 11, Chapter 12 and Chapter 13 of the Bankruptcy Code in addition to representing Chapter 7 Trustees in avoidance actions including fraudulent conveyances and preferential transfers. Mr. Seelen represents banks, credit unions, lenders, and other creditors in state court collection actions involving commercial and residential foreclosures, replevins, and money judgments. Mr. Seelen is a member of the American Bankruptcy Institute, the Commercial Law League of America, and the National Association of Bankruptcy Trustees.
Ms. Heinzelman is a tax attorney with Ruder Ware who works with individuals and businesses providing counsel on tax issues involved in forming limited liability companies and other entities, mergers and acquisitions, and compensation planning. In addition, she provides tax planning counsel for estates, trusts and charitable organizations, as well as issues relating to qualified retirement plans and individual retirement accounts. Ms. Heinzelman is a graduate of the Marquette University Law School. She completed her undergraduate degree at Marquette University where she holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and finance. Ms. Heinzelman also has an LL.M. (Master of Laws) in taxation from Northwestern University Law School.
ATTORNEY G. Lane Ware Receives American bar foundation's Wisconsin outstanding service award OCTOBER 28, 2010 - Ruder Ware is pleased to announce Attorney G. Lane Ware was selected as the recipient of the Wisconsin Outstanding Service Award by The Fellows of This award is in recognition of professional service, adhering to the highest principles and traditions of the legal profession and to the service of the ATTORNEY Dean R. Dietrich receives John l. cook memorial award OCTOBER 26, 2010 - Ruder Ware is pleased to announce the selection of Attorney Dean R. Dietrich as the recipient of the prestigious John L. Cook Memorial Award, awarded by the Wausau Region Chamber of Commerce. The John L. Cook Memorial Award was established to honor the memory of John Cook, a member of the first class of Leadership Wausau/Marathon County, who was murdered while on vacation. John Cook was an active community volunteer committed to helping people expand their potential as individuals in the workforce and community. Mr. Dietrich was recognized for his years of service to bettering the quality of life for Wausau area residents. Actively involved both professionally and civically, Mr. Dietrich recently completed his board chairman position for Aspirus, Inc. In addition, he serves on the board of directors for the Wisconsin Public Radio Association and is a member of the Wausau Early Bird Rotary Club. Professionally Mr. Dietrich chairs the State Bar of Wisconsin’s Committee on Professional Ethics and serves as president for the Wisconsin Law Foundation where he is a Fellow.
ATTORNEY JOSHUA D. TAGGATZ JOINS RUDER WARE OCTOBER 21, 2010 - Ruder Ware is pleased to announce the addition of Mr. Joshua D. Taggatz to the firm’s attorney team; he will be based in the Wausau office as a member of the Business Transactions Practice Group. At Ruder Ware, Mr. Taggatz advises clients on a wide variety of business transactional matters, including the organization of business entities, sale and acquisition transactions, banking and securities matters, and related issues. He is a magna cum laude graduate of the University of Minnesota Law School in addition to holding a bachelors degree in political science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. AttorneY Kyle B. flanagan JOINS RUDER WARE OCTOBER 1, 2010 - Ruder Ware is pleased to announce the addition of Mr. Kyle B. Flanagan to the firm’s attorney team; he will be based in the Wausau office as a member of the Business Transactions Practice Group. At Ruder Ware, Mr. Flanagan advises clients on a wide variety of business transactional matters, including the organization of business entities, sale and acquisition transactions, and related matters. Mr. Flanagan also advises the firm’s secured creditor clients in connection with financing transactions, workouts and foreclosures and related issues, and he assists clients who are involved in general business litigation matters. Mr. Flanagan is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin Law School in addition to being a summa cum laude graduate of the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities, Carlson School of Management where he holds a bachelor of science in business.
RUDER WARE HOSTS HIGHER EDUCATION LEADERS SEPTMEBER 8, 2010 - In an ongoing effort to bring higher education leaders together and work toward a common goal, Mark Bradley hosted a luncheon meeting on September 8, 2010 to introduce Bernie Patterson, the new Chancellor of UW-Stevens Point, to the leaders of other central and northern Wisconsin higher education institutions. Mr. Bradley has served on the Board of Regents since 2003 and recently completed a two-year term as its president.
(Left to right) Mark Bradley, president of Ruder Ware and member of the UW System Board of Regents; Elizabeth Burmaster, president of Nicolet College in Rhinelander; Sandra Smith, dean of UW-Marathon County; Lori Weyers, president of North Central Technical College in Wausau; Bernie Patterson, chancellor of UW-Stevens Point. aTTORNEY MARK MUNSON RECEIVES CERTIFICATION IN ELDER LAW August 10, 2010 - The National Elder Law Foundation recently certified Attorney Mark Munson as a Certified Elder Law Attorney (CELA) – one of ten in the state of Wisconsin. The certification program, the only one approved by the American Bar Association for elder law, has been developed to identify lawyers who have the enhanced knowledge, skills, and experience to be properly identified as certified elder law attorneys to the public. Licensed to practice law in Wisconsin, Illinois and South Dakota, Mr. Munson principally advises clients in the areas of elder law, public benefits (including special needs trusts), estate and trust planning, and taxation. Mr. Munson regularly advises clients in the areas of asset protection and medical assistance eligibility. He also assists clients with probate and estate administration, trust administration and guardianship. Mr. Munson is very active within the professional elder law community. He is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA), including its Wisconsin chapter. He has presented on trusts and taxes at the organization’s last two annual meetings, which draws elder law attorneys from across the country. Elder law is one of the fastest growing fields in the legal profession. As loved ones age, the task of planning for their future care can be overwhelming. Elder law focuses on the financial, legal, and health care needs of individuals age 65 and older. As elder law advocates, Ruder Ware’s attorneys are committed to providing solutions to the needs and concerns of our clients and their families. Services provided by Ruder Ware include: Attorney mark j. bradley elected president of ruder ware
In making the announcement, Roberts said the firm’s board of directors has planned and guided this management transition for the past 18 months. “Our clients will not experience any change in the professional services they receive because Mark has been actively involved as a board member since 1999 and played an important role in establishing the firm’s strategic vision,” states Roberts. “We will continue to be committed to providing quality legal service in a timely and efficient manner while working hard, under Mark’s leadership, to build our base and improve on all aspects of the service experience clients expect from Ruder Ware.” Bradley concentrates his practice on business succession planning, tax and estate planning, and estate and trust administration. He also serves as trustee of numerous client trusts through Ruder Ware’s Fiduciary Services Department. Since 1991, Bradley has been recognized by “Best Lawyer in America” in the areas of Tax Law and Trusts & Estates. In addition, he has been an elected Fellow of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel since 1989. Governor Jim Doyle reappointed Bradley to the University of Wisconsin System Board of Regents where he’s served since 2003, most recently completing a term as its president. A nationally recognized leader in the trusts and estates legal field, Bradley also is a member of the estate planning faculty of the State Bar of Wisconsin, and teaches at state and national continuing education programs for attorneys, accountants, and financial planners. Bradley spends much of his free time giving back to his community through various foundations and nonprofit organizations including the Good News Project, the Wisconsin Institute for Public Policy & Service, and the Marshfield Clinic National Advisory Council. Attorney mark munson presents at annual meeting of national academy of elder law attorneys
NAELA’s annual meeting, held in Orlando, FL, draws attorneys practicing elder law from across the United States. The nonprofit organization’s mission is to establish its members as the premier providers of legal advocacy, guidance, and services to enhance the lives of people with disabilities and people as they age. In addition to Mr. Munson’s presentation, other topics covered at the four day annual meeting included “Blended Families and Medicaid Planning,” “Elder Justice Issues Update,” and “Achieving Family Harmony in Estate Plans/Practice Tools and Trust Provisions.” “I’m honored to be invited back to present at NAELA’s annual meeting. This organization truly represents the gold standard in the practice of elder law and all facets related to it and I’m pleased to be a part of this information-packed event,” comments Mr. Munson. Munson concentrates his practice in the areas of elder law, including medical assistance eligibility planning and divestment, estate planning, special needs planning, taxation, and asset protection planning. In addition, Mr. Munson regularly practices in the areas of probate and estate administration, trust administration, and guardianship. In addition to practicing elder law, Ruder Ware's Trusts & Estates group advises business owners and individuals in all aspects of business and personal planning, including the formation, operation, and growth of closely held businesses and the adoption and implementation of sophisticated succession and estate planning techniques. Local organization honors mark j. bradley with the badger of the year award
At Ruder Ware, Mr. Bradley is both a shareholder and board member. Throughout his career he has held a number of high profile leadership positions. In 2003, Governor Jim Doyle appointed Mr. Bradley to the University of Wisconsin System Board of Regents where he’s held committee chair positions and most recently served as president of the Board. At the end of February 2010, Governor Doyle re-appointed Mr. Bradley to another seven year term on the Board of Regents. Mr. Bradley is a member of the estate planning faculty of the State Bar of Wisconsin, and teaches at state and national continuing education programs for attorneys, accountants, and financial planners. He is also an elected fellow of the American College of Trust & Estate Counsel. Mr. Bradley spends much of his free time giving back through various foundations and nonprofit organizations including the Good News Project, the Wisconsin Institute for Public Policy & Service, and the Marshfield Clinic National Advisory Council. MELISSA S. KAMPMANN RECEIVES CFP LICENSE
The CFP® certification is a recognized standard of excellence for personal financial planning. According to the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. “attaining CFP® certification is a highly respected professional achievement for those who work within the financial services industry and an achievement with meaningful benefits for a CFP® certificant’s practice and clients.” Lon Roberts, managing partner at Ruder Ware, states, “Our profession values continuing education and our firm places special importance on exceeding our client’s needs. Melissa, true to her calling as an attorney and to her leadership within the firm, sets an excellent example for pursuing a certification outside of the legal profession, one that has a positive impact for our clients.” Ms. Kampmann intends to use the CFP certification when advising clients on estate and retirement planning issues. GOVERNOR DOYLE REAPPOINTS ATTORNEY MARK J. BRADLEY TO UW SYSTEM BOARD
In announcing the appointment, Governor Jim Doyle stated, “Mark Bradley has served on the Board of Regents with distinction, and I am pleased to reappoint him to continue his service to the state.” Mr. Bradley has served on the Board of Regents since 2003 and recently completed a two-year term as its president. At Ruder Ware, Bradley is president-elect and former chair of the Trusts & Estates Practice Group. “Business leaders understand that to be competitive in the knowledge economy our state must maintain a quality system of higher education that focuses on essential learning outcomes at the undergraduate and graduate levels. I am honored to be asked to continue this important work,” states Mark Bradley. Mr. Bradley concentrates his practice on business succession planning, tax and estate planning, and estate and trust administration. He also serves as trustee of numerous client trusts through Ruder Ware’s Fiduciary Services Department. Since 1991, Mr. Bradley has been recognized by “Best Lawyer in America” in the areas of Tax Law and Trusts & Estates. In addition, he has been an elected Fellow of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel since 1989. FOUR RUDER WARE ATTORNEYS SELECTED TO JOIN FELLOWS OF THE WISCONSIN LAW FOUNDATIon
The Wisconsin State Bar describes the Fellows as, “an honorary program, which recognizes members of the profession in Wisconsin who are known by their peers for high achievements in their profession and outstanding contributions for the advancement and improvement of the administration of justice in the State of Wisconsin.” These four attorneys join Lane Ware, Mark Bradley, and Dean Dietrich also Fellows. Lon Roberts, managing partner at Ruder Ware, states, “It’s an honor for Ruder Ware to have seven attorneys as members of the Fellows. We strive for excellence in our profession and this achievement is humbling to each of us.” ATTORNEY MELISSA KAMPMANN RECEIVES UP AND COMING LAWYER AWARD The award recognizes those attorneys who are on the fast track to making a significant impact on the legal profession. Per WLJ, “They show determination – in legal work, in community betterment, and in improving their own law firms.” “Melissa is a shining example to all young professionals, including those who also want to raise children. She is focused on what fulfills her and that includes being a wife, mother, lawyer and dedicated community member,” states Attorney Mark Bradley, Shareholder and Chair of the Trusts & Estates practice group. Ms. Kampmann advises individuals and families on a variety of personal legal needs including sophisticated trust and estate planning, premarital agreements, guardianship, and probate and trust administration work. She also assists business owners with the creation of new businesses and business succession planning.
“Patrick’s background in finance and real estate provide a practical backdrop for his practice of law and adds to the depth and breadth of services offered at Ruder Ware. He works closely with the firm’s practice group chairs and various attorneys utilizing his skills in the areas of law we practice,” states Attorney Mark Bradley, Shareholder and Co-Chair of the Trusts & Estates Practice Group. A graduate of the Marquette University Law School, Mr. Bodden is a cum laude graduate of the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee with undergraduate degrees in Finance and Real Estate. Before entering law school, Mr. Bodden worked in the institutional trading department of a Midwest brokerage firm, where he maintained his Series 7 and Series 66 licenses. At Ruder Ware, Bodden will advise business owners and individuals in all aspects of business and personal planning, including the formation, operation, and growth of closely held businesses, and the design and implementation of estate planning and asset protection techniques.
Mr. Dietrich spent countless pro bono hours negotiating with the Wisconsin Bankers Association and appearing before the Wisconsin Supreme Court in a successful effort to obtain a court rule that will result in banks paying interest on lawyers’ trust accounts that matches the interest paid on comparable bank products. Leveraging his board of director role with the Wisconsin Trust Account Foundation (WisTAF), Mr. Dietrich was able to roughly double the foundation's revenue which in turn increases WisTAF’s grants to legal services firms. The primary goal of WisTAF is ensuring access to civil legal services for low-income individuals and families. WisTAF provides funds to legal service agencies to assist people with legal needs, such as family, housing, employment, disability and consumer issues. John F. Ebbott, executive director at Legal Action, states, “The time and effort involved in this, and the dogged persistence it required, were tremendous. The entire Wisconsin legal services community is profoundly grateful to Dean Dietrich for his tireless dedication to equal justice."
Matthew Rowe, chair of Ruder Ware’s Business Transactions practice group states, “Jeremy’s commitment to the firm and dedication to our clients is deserving of his promotion to shareholder. Over the course of his eight-year tenure with the firm, Jeremy’s contributions have been significant, and we look forward to the leadership he will bring as shareholder.” Mr. Welch is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin Law School. In addition to his legal practice, he is involved in a number of civic organizations, including service as a board member for both the United Way of Marathon County and the Woodson YMCA. Ruder Ware’s Business Transactions practice group advises businesses of all sizes in a wide range of areas. Among other services, Ruder Ware attorneys assist with the sale and acquisition of businesses, provide tax counseling to businesses and individuals, and advise clients with regard to all aspects of business transactions. The firm has extensive experience in the negotiation and preparation of commercial loan documentation and the representation of lenders and other creditors in workouts and bankruptcy proceedings. Additionally, Ruder Ware is one of the few Wisconsin law firms with attorneys who practice in the areas of securities and employee benefits.
NAELA’s annual meeting, held in Washington, D.C., draws attorneys practicing elder law from across the United States. The nonprofit organization’s mission is to establish its members as the premier providers of legal advocacy, guidance, and services to enhance the lives of people with disabilities and people as they age. “I’m honored to be selected amongst my peers to present at the annual meeting of an organization that represents the gold standard in the practice of elder law and all facets related to it,” comments Munson. In addition to practicing in the areas of elder law and special needs planning, Ruder Ware's Trusts & Estates group of attorneys advise business owners and individuals in all aspects of business and personal planning, including the formation, operation, and growth of closely held businesses and the adoption and implementation of sophisticated succession and estate planning techniques.
“Finding the right law firm was very important to me, as I am grateful for the opportunities afforded me by my clients. I felt it important to affiliate with a firm that operates by the same standards and priorities as I do. I found that in Ruder Ware,” states Schrage. Schrage will work with Ruder Ware Attorney Linda Danielson, and her team of estate planning attorneys, through most of 2009 to familiarize them with his clients, procedures, and expectations. Danielson, who has practiced law in Eau Claire for twenty years, concentrates her practice on tax and estate planning and business law. “I’m honored to be selected as the main contact point for Steve’s clients. I’m aware of his solid reputation in Ruder Ware’s Trusts & Estates group of attorneys advise business owners and individuals in all aspects of business and personal planning, including the formation, operation, and growth of closely held businesses, and the adoption and implementation of sophisticated succession and estate planning techniques.
In reflecting on the task ahead, Laehn said, “The chamber’s volunteer leadership team rotates on an annual basis while the chamber’s mission to foster business growth and success remains constant. I feel privileged to join the ranks of past chamber presidents; I’m inspired by their leadership and achievements and I hope to continue their progress.” Ruder Ware has a long-standing commitment to our community, beginning with the philosophy of George Ruder, the firm’s founder. “Mr. Ruder felt that if we make our living here, it’s our responsibility to give back to our communities. John Laehn is the fourth chamber president since 1981 to serve from Ruder Ware. We’re honored that our own leaders are elected by their peers to serve in this important role,” stated G. Lane Ware, chairman of the board at Ruder Ware.
“With the addition of Mark, our department is fully diversified in all areas of planning for an individual’s and a family’s legacy. Mark’s nine-year legal career has focused solely on all aspects of estate planning; our team welcomes his experience and perspective,” states Attorney Mark Bradley, Shareholder and Co-Chair of the Trusts & Estates practice group. A graduate of the University of South Dakota School of Law, Mark holds a bachelor of science from the Carlson School of Management (University of Minnesota – Twin Cities) in general management. Licensed to practice in both Wisconsin and Illinois, Mark will continue to concentrate in the areas of asset preservation and protection, taxation, estate planning, and estate and trust administration at Ruder Ware. Attorneys within the Trusts & Estates department of Ruder Ware advise and counsel business owners and individuals in all aspects of business and personal planning, including the formation, operation, and growth of closely held businesses, and the adoption and implementation of sophisticated succession and estate planning techniques. In addition, our attorneys often represent corporate and individual trustees and personal representatives. In certain situations attorneys in our group serve as trustees through Ruder Ware's Fiduciary Services Department. With our experience in all aspects of business planning, income and estate tax planning, and trust and estate administration, our attorneys are able to advise and implement creative and flexible strategies that fulfill a client's business needs while at the same time achieving the client's personal goals and objectives.
Business Transactions practice group chair, Matt Rowe, states, “Through Steve’s eight-year tenure as an associate with our firm, I have been able to witness his development into an attorney with a sophisticated law practice. I look forward to the leadership that Steve will bring to the firm as a shareholder.” A graduate of the University of Wisconsin Law School, Steve divides his professional and civic involvement amongst a number of state and community-based organizations.
“Ruder Ware is pleased to welcome an associate attorney of Mike’s caliber to our firm. Our department works to secure and transfer the business and other financial legacies of our clients. Mike’s diverse experience, such as his position as Articles Editor and published author for the prestigious Wisconsin Law Review and his internship with Wisconsin Supreme Court Chief Justice Shirley S. Abrahamson, make him a valued member of our team and an asset to our clients,” states Attorney Sam Geraci, Shareholder and Co-Chair of the Trusts & Estates practice group. A cum laude graduate of the University of Wisconsin Law School, Ahrens also holds an M.S. in Entomology from the University of Wisconsin and is a summa cum laude graduate from Western Michigan University with a B.S. in Biological Sciences. At Ruder Ware, Ahrens will advise business owners and individuals in all aspects of business and personal planning, including the formation, operation, and growth of closely held businesses, and the adoption and implementation of sophisticated succession and estate planning techniques.
Rutlin, chair of the firm’s Employment, Labor & Benefits practice group, has been practicing law in the state of Wisconsin for over thirty years. Rutlin is chief spokesman in collective bargaining negotiations with many medium to large clients and handles grievance arbitrations, employment discrimination cases filed with state and federal fair employment practice agencies, and counsels clients on a broad range of employment law issues. Rutlin also provides regular advice and counsel with respect to a wide range of employee relation problems, including employee disciplinary issues, formulating and drafting policies and work rules, handbooks, severance agreements, union elections and decertifications, and unfair labor practice charges. Dietrich, a shareholder with Ruder Ware, and member of the firm’s Employment, Labor & Benefits practice group, has been practicing law in the state of Wisconsin for just over 30 years. Dietrich practices in the areas of labor and employment law, representing public and private sector employers in the many aspects of employment law and labor relations. Dietrich has extensive experience in representing employers in collective bargaining and proceedings before state and federal administrative agencies. Dietrich is also Chair of the Wisconsin State Bar’s Professional Ethics Committee. The selection process is complex with over 24,000 lawyers in the United States submitting more than two million evaluations confidentially rating their professional peers. The Best Lawyers in America® 2008 guide contains 29,769 lawyers in 77 specialty legal areas, in all 50 states including the District of Columbia. "We’re pleased at the caliber at which our attorneys regularly hold themselves, Ron and Dean are no exception. These two attorneys are active within the community and daily provide insightful legal advice to their clients. We appreciate being recognized in this legal specialty area," comments Ruder Ware’s COO, John Laehn. The Employment, Labor & Benefits department of Ruder Ware consists of seven attorneys assisting private and public sector employers of all sizes with the employment, labor and benefits aspects of their business. Service areas include: federal and state discrimination laws; state and federal family medical leave laws; state and federal wage and hour laws; contract negotiations; employee discipline and discharge; employee handbooks and personnel policies; drug and alcohol testing policies; sexual harassment policies and training; corporate downsizing; employment, labor and benefits aspects of corporate mergers and acquisitions; union elections and decertifications; unfair labor practice charges; maintaining nonunion status; plant closing laws; employment/severance agreements; affirmative action plans; supervisory training; workers' compensation and unemployment compensation; and arbitration.
Ware currently serves as Chairman of the Board for Ruder Ware law firm, headquartered in Wausau, Wis. with an additional location in Eau Claire, Wis. “Lane’s passion for the legal profession continues to be an inspiration for everyone here in our firm. Savvy in marketing, customer service, and strategic direction, we continue to be shaped by Lane’s vision for what he wanted the firm to aspire to become,” comments Lon Roberts, managing partner. True to George Ruder’s enduring philosophy, “We make our living here, we have a responsibility to give back to our communities,” Ware’s deep commitment to the community is best illustrated through the breadth of organizations advanced by his leadership. To highlight a few organizations, Ware presently serves on the board for the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum and the Aspirus Health Foundation. He previously served as a council member for the Wisconsin Humanities Council and as President of the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin. An accomplishment to credit Ware’s leadership skills includes the formation of The Performing Arts Foundation (PAF). Created to encourage entrepreneurial efforts at the local level, the PAF undertook the purchase and renovation of the existing Grand Theatre in 1972. On May 16, 2008 at the Italian Community Center in Milwaukee, Wis., Ware will be honored among twenty other legal professionals, from practicing attorneys, to judges and educators.
OCTOBER 2007 - State Bar of Wisconsin Features G. Lane Ware In Volunteer Opportunities Ad Campaign.
“Meritas stipulates a periodic recertification process as a membership requirement to ensure that member firms continue their compliance to the high-standards set forth by Meritas. Every firm must re-earn their membership,” states Lon E. Roberts, president of Ruder Ware. The rigorous recertification process examines such factors as adherence to standards set by clients, the timeliness and quality of a firm’s client service, and its professional conduct. That translates into such specifics as enabling clients to benefit from multi-jurisdictional client management teams. “Our membership in Meritas means we can provide clients - from the smallest business to the largest corporations - with access to legal expertise throughout the world. As more companies do business worldwide, both large and small companies alike are finding they need coordinated, trustworthy global legal services.”
A cum laude graduate of the University of Minnesota Law School, Rauckman also holds a B.B.A. from the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire. Rauckman will advise clients on labor and employment law-related issues including employee discipline and discharge, discrimination, drafting of handbooks, contract negotiations, arbitration and all other aspects of state and federal labor and employment laws. In addition, he will represent our business and municipal clients before state agencies, and in state and federal trial and appellate courts, on employment and labor related issues.
A magna cum laude graduate of Michigan State University College of Law, Smith will advise our clients on a wide variety of business transactions, including the formation of business entities and the negotiation of contracts documenting real estate and other sale and acquisition transactions. In addition, she will assist our clients in addressing executive compensation, employee benefits and securities issues.
Ruder Ware President Lon Roberts commented, “We are confident this will help us continue providing exceptional value to our clients. We feel it is the best decision for our firm’s future success. We have been located in downtown Wausau since our firm’s inception in 1920. We’re thrilled that First Wausau Tower, LLC has provided us the opportunity to remain located here for a long time to come in such an outstanding facility. This is a tremendous project for our local economy, our downtown, our clients, and our firm.” Dick Dudley, the Chairman of First Wausau Tower, LLC added: “We are very pleased that Ruder Ware has committed to this new, state of the art, Class A building. The firm has been a major asset to the area for many years, and we are confident that their participation will enhance the success and regional recognition of our project.” Ruder Ware traces its roots in Wausau back to 1920, when George L. Ruder began practicing here. On July 14, 1920, the Wausau Daily Record-Herald carried a public statement that “Messrs. Karl A. Schmidt and George L. Ruder respectfully announce the formation of a law partnership under the name of Schmidt and Ruder…for the general practice of law.” Ruder and Schmidt’s law offices were located in the First National Bank building in downtown Wausau at Third and Jefferson streets. In 1933, George Ruder moved into the bank building at Third and Scott streets. Here the firm grew to become trusted counsel to many of the area’s businesses and businesspeople. Following the untimely death of George Ruder in 1970, the remaining members of the firm, led by G. Lane Ware, determined to continue Mr. Ruder’s tradition of community service and standards of professionalism. By the time the firm moved into the new First American Center in January of 1976, seven attorneys practiced with the firm in estate planning and business law. Over the next 29 years, the firm’s areas of practice expanded to include areas of emphasis such as employment, labor, and benefits; commercial litigation; securities; fiduciary services; municipal; school; real estate; intellectual property; and environmental law. In 1990, the firm became an inaugural member of Meritas Law Firms Worldwide, which now provides clients access to screened, like-minded business law firms in nearly 200 cities around the world. Led by current president, Lon Roberts, on July 1, 2005, Ruder Ware merged with Garvey Anderson, a business law firm in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. This added depth to many existing areas of practice, but also new capability in patent law, as well as a downtown Eau Claire location. Today, Ruder Ware has 44 attorneys with substantial experience in a broad range of business law areas, is the 11th largest law firm in Wisconsin, and the largest Wisconsin business law firm headquartered north of Madison and Milwaukee.
“As I have in the past, I have assembled a task force of distinguished Wisconsin legal minds and community leaders to give me their best advice and counsel during this process,” Kohl said. “It’s important that reason and thoughtfulness prevail over partisan influence as we weigh this important decision.”
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