The Town of Harrison in Marathon County has unanimously appointed Weld Riley to serve as their Town Attorneys! Our attorneys, including attorneys Nathan Miller and Davis Runde, are honored to represent so many municipalities across Wisconsin. Our experienced team provides legal counsel and assistance with zoning, public record requests, employment matters and more. Contact us today if you know of a community in need of representation!

We are thrilled to announce the City of Chippewa Falls has unanimously appointed Weld Riley to serve as their City Attorneys! Our attorneys, including attorneys Samuel Bach-Hanson and Brian Braziel, take pride in their representation of municipalities across Wisconsin. Our experienced team provides legal counsel and assistance with zoning, public record requests, employment matters and more. Contact us today if you know of a community in need of representation!

Weld Riley, S.C. proudly announces the election of Attorneys Samuel Bach-Hanson and Nathan Miller as shareholders of the firm!

Samuel, a graduate of the University of Wisconsin Law School practices in the firm’s Municipal & Government, Cooperative, and Business Sections. Nate, a graduate of the University of Minnesota Law School, practices in the firm’s Labor & Employment and Municipal & Government Sections.

“I am honored my fellow business partners have elected me to become a shareholder. I look forward to continuing to work with the great people at Weld Riley and provide excellent representation to all our clients,” said Bach-Hanson.

“It is an honor to be elected shareholder by my fellow business partners. I look forward to future opportunities to provide clients with the superior legal advice and service they have come to expect from our firm,” added Miller.

If you are in need of an experienced, compassionate attorney, contact Weld Riley at 715.829.7786.

Now Hiring | Legal Assistant/Paralegal.

A growing and thriving Eau Claire law firm is seeking applicants for a full-time legal assistant/paralegal.  Must be detail oriented and have excellent proofreading, communication, time management, organizational and typing skills.  Must be able to set priorities, organize work and exercise judgment in managing projects.  Must be able to multi-task and work well within a team environment. Salary based on qualifications; firm provides competitive benefits. 

Please send resume by September 1st to Cassie Manor, Finance Manager; Weld Riley, S.C.; P.O. Box 1030, Eau Claire, WI 54702-1030 or at [email protected].

Wausau Pilot & Review features Weld Riley, S.C. as Business of the Week

This week’s featured business is Weld Riley, S.C., a law firm in downtown Wausau that longtime residents will remember as the former Mallery & Zimmerman, S.C. The Wausau office joined the Weld Riley fold in July 2021, adding to the firm’s offices in Eau Claire, Black River Falls and Menomonie. Weld Riley represents the people and businesses that make up our central Wisconsin communities, as well as a number of government entities who create the ordinances and rules by which we live. From labor and employment to business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, frac sand, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditors’ rights, civil litigation, worker’s compensation defense, criminal defense, immigration, and divorce and family law, Weld Riley represents clients in a wide range of areas.

Continue reading at Wausau Pilot & Review.

Weld Riley is proud to welcome Attorney Nate Miller to our Eau Claire and Wausau offices. Nate has practiced law since 2015, most recently as the assistant city attorney for the City of Wausau and is a graduate of the University of Minnesota Law School in Minneapolis. Nate will practice labor and employment and municipal and government law.

One of the largest firms in the region with offices in Eau Claire, Menomonie, Black River Falls, and Wausau, Weld Riley is ideally suited to provide the assistance you need. Contact us for a consultation today!

Weld Riley is proud to announce that Attorney Jennifer Brown has been unanimously elected to the firm’s Management Committee. Jennifer will be assisting in managing and overseeing firm operations, as well as playing a role in recruiting, marketing and defining the firm’s vision for the future. Congratulations, Jennifer!

One of the largest firms in the region with offices in Eau Claire, Menomonie, Black River Falls, and Wausau, Weld Riley is ideally suited to provide the assistance you need. Contact us for a consultation today!

Weld Riley attorneys Maggie McLoone and Jennifer Brown are pleased to offer an evening of empowerment for women by women on November 29, 2022. Over complimentary dinner and drinks, attendees can learn about estate planning, family law matters and more. To reserve a spot, RSVP to Bridget at (715) 839-7786 or at [email protected].

Weld Riley, S.C. is proud to announce it has been appointed as the General Counsel of the St. Croix Electric Cooperative Board!

Our firm, including attorneys John Robert Behling and John Wagman, serves several electrical cooperatives throughout the state. Our experienced team provides legal counsel and assistance with mergers and acquisitions, real estate transactions, employment matters, litigation and more, and has been serving cooperative entities for more than 20 years.

Contact Weld Riley if you are a cooperative in need of legal assistance: 715.839.7786.

Weld Riley, S.C., is pleased to announce Steve Weld is again being honored by his peers as one of The Best Lawyers in America© for his representation of management in labor and employment law matters. Weld has earned the accolade, handed down by BestLawyers.com, a website that annually generates a peer-review process. Weld has been listed each year since 1995.

Contact Weld Riley if you need legal assistance.

715-839-7786

Weld Riley, S.C. is proud to have been unanimously appointed by the City of Augusta to serve as the City Attorney!

Our firm, including attorneys Anders Helquist, Justin Andrews, and Samuel Bach-Hanson serves a wide range of municipalities throughout western Wisconsin. Our experienced team provides legal counsel and assistance with zoning, public record requests, employment matters, civil litigation, and more.

Contact Weld Riley if you are a Township, Village, or City in need of legal assistance.
715.839.7786

Weld Riley, S.C. is pleased to announce Attorney Dean Dietrich is named the next President-Elect of the Wisconsin State Bar as of April 22, 2022. Dietrich will hold his spot as president for one year beginning July 1, 2023.

Dietrich’s primary areas of practice include school law, municipal law and employment law. He brings over 45 years of experience traveling across the state representing local governments and advising lawyers on ethics issues.

“I am very honored to be selected,” Dietrich said. “I am very excited about the opportunity to work with State Bar leadership, staff, and Wisconsin lawyers toward wellness for lawyers and expansion of legal services throughout the state.”

“I want to thank John Danner for a very enjoyable campaign and for the support of my staff, my firm, and my friends in the Bar,” stated Dietrich.

Read the full news announcement from the State Bar of Wisconsin here.

Weld Riley, S.C. is proud to have been unanimously appointed by the Town of Lafayette to serve as the Town Attorney!

Our firm, including attorneys Anders Helquist, John Behling, and Justin Andrews, serves a wide range of municipalities throughout western Wisconsin. From zoning and public record requests to employment matters and civil litigation, we have the skills and knowledge to meet your needs.

Contact Weld Riley if you are a Township, Village, or City in need of legal assistance.
715.839.7786

Weld Riley, S.C. is proud to have been unanimously appointed by the City of Cumberland to serve as the City Attorney!

Our firm, including attorneys John Behling, Benjamin Ludeman, and Samuel Bach-Hanson, provides advice and representation to municipalities throughout western Wisconsin on a variety of matters, such as zoning, open meetings law, civil litigation, municipal prosecutions, and employment law.

Contact Weld Riley if you are a Township, Village, or City in need of legal assistance!
715.839.7786

Weld Riley, S.C. is pleased to announce Attorney Jennifer Brown has been unanimously elected as shareholder of the firm! Jennifer Brown is a member of the firm’s Divorce & Family Law section and brings a well-versed background to the Weld Riley team.

“I am thankful for the opportunity to join Weld Riley as a full partner and shareholder. Weld Riley is a great place to work, and I look forward to meeting more people and building my practice in western Wisconsin,” said Jennifer Brown.

Throughout Jennifer’s years of experience, she has had 4 publications and presented at 10 different universities or associations, 4 of which were on Family Law. Jennifer has a large involvement within her community as a board member and volunteer in multiple associations.

Weld Riley attorneys Stephen Weld and Dean Dietrich have both been selected by Super Lawyers Magazine as being among the best attorney in the state in their practice areas.

The annual list is determined through a process that involves peer nominations, independent research, and selection by a final review panel. Only 5% of attorneys are selected as “Super Lawyers.”

Firm founder Steve Weld has been selected to the Super Lawyers list every year since its inception in 2005 and has been listed among The Best Lawyers in America since 1995. His practice is focused primarily on management labor and employment law.
Dean Dietrich has been selected to the Super Lawyers list for many years as well. His recognition is primarily in the Municipal law category.

Click Here to read the Super Lawyers Magazine: https://digital.superlawyers.com/superlawyers/mdslrs22/MobilePagedReplica.action?

We would like to welcome our new intern Bridget McDaniel who joins us from the Chippewa Valley Technical College Paralegal Program. Bridget attended the University of Wisconsin- Eau Claire, receiving her Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice and is expected to graduate the CVTC Paralegal Program in May of 2021.

CVTC Legal Studies/Paralegal Program students enroll in an internship course which relies on law offices in the Chippewa Valley to agree to work with our students, providing them with their first experience working in a law office.

“I know our students have thoroughly enjoyed their internship opportunities at Weld Riley and are thankful for an experience which better prepares them for their paralegal careers,” said Paralegal Program Director Mark B. Barker.

As an intern Bridget will be performing a variety of administrative and legal duties at Weld Riley, including drafting correspondence and pleadings as well as coordinating appointments and hearing dates with clients, attorneys, and the court system.

“We prize our long-standing partnership with CVTC in guiding the next generation of lawyers and paralegals. Our previous CVTC interns have done a fantastic job and often join our firm full time as legal assistants after graduation,” said Weld Riley President John Robert Behling.

We are happy to welcome our new intern Courtney Rauch who comes to us from the Chippewa Valley Technical College Paralegal Program. Courtney started the Paralegal Program at CVTC in August of 2020.

Each semester CVTC Legal Studies/Paralegal Program students enroll in the internship course which is a capstone course to their legal studies. In this course law offices in the Chippewa Valley agree to work with our students, providing them with their first experience working in a law office.

“Weld Riley is honored to play a part in growing our industry by nurturing and guiding the next generation of lawyers and paralegals,” said Weld Riley President John Robert Behling.

As an intern, Courtney will be performing a variety of administrative and legal duties at Weld Riley, including drafting correspondence and pleadings as well as coordinating appointments and hearing dates with clients, attorneys, and the court system.

“I would like to thank John Behling and all the attorneys at Weld Riley for their willingness to partner with our Program, allowing our students to work alongside Weld Riley staff and attorneys, where students gain real-world legal knowledge that we cannot provide in the classroom,” said Paralegal Program Director Mark B. Barker.

Dean Dietrich is a shareholder and a member of the firm’s labor and employment section. His practice includes school law, municipal law, labor relations, employment law, and professional responsibility matters. Dean has over four decades of experience practicing law and has statewide recognition.

In his practice, Dean has vast experience representing public and private sector employers in the various aspects of employment law and labor relations. Dean also has years of experience representing employers in collective bargaining and proceedings before state and federal administrative agencies. Dean represents school districts and local government units in all aspects of municipal law and compliance with state statutes.

Dean has also been a leader for more than 30 years in professional responsibility and ethics matters. Dean serves on the State Bar of Wisconsin’s Committee on Professional Ethics (he currently serves as Vice Chair) and is a member of the Association of Professional Responsibility Lawyers. He has represented attorneys from throughout Wisconsin in proceedings before the Supreme Court of Wisconsin and the Office of Lawyer Regulation. He is called upon by other attorneys and law firms to provide expert opinions on professional responsibility matters as well. In addition, he has a monthly article in the Wisconsin Lawyer magazine.

Volunteer work also has important meaning for Dean from both a personal and professional perspective. In recognition of his volunteer work both locally and statewide, he was recently awarded with the Charles L. Goldberg Distinguished Service Award. This is the highest award given by the Wisconsin State Bar and was done in recognition, and as a thank you, for Dean’s lifetime of service to the legal profession and community.

Dean earned his bachelor’s and Juris Doctorate degrees from Marquette University.

One of the largest firms in the region with offices in Eau Claire, Menomonie, Black River Falls, and Wausau, Weld Riley is ideally suited to provide the assistance you need. Contact us for a consultation today!

The law firm of Weld Riley, S.C. is pleased to announce Justin Andrews passed the BAR exam and is a licensed attorney prepared to serve Weld Riley clients. He joined the firm in June after receiving his Law degree from the Mitchell Hamline School of Law in St. Paul in May.

“These first few months at Weld Riley have really been a great experience so far. The attorneys, legal assistants, and support staff have all been very kind, welcoming, and supportive as I begin my legal career. The work has been challenging and rewarding, and I’m grateful for the opportunity and guidance they’ve provided so far,” said Justin Andrews.

Justin grew up in Boyceville, Wisconsin attending both Chippewa Valley Technical College and the University of Wisconsin – Stout for undergraduate degrees.

“Justin’s rural farm background and work ethic makes him a natural fit for our firm and the practice of law. He is a tremendous young lawyer who will serve his clients very well,” said Weld Riley President, John Robert Behling. “We are pleased to share the good news with our colleagues, friends and clients!”

Justin is an advocate of giving back to his community. “Three years (and one bar exam) later, I finally get the opportunity to take what I’ve learned and use that to help improve my community in whichever way I can,” Justin said.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, and family law.

Weld Riley S.C. President John Robert Behling was recognized at the June Board of Regents meeting. John served the citizens of Wisconsin with distinguished leadership during his seven years on the University of Wisconsin System Board of Regents, including two years as board president (2017 to 2019) and two years as vice president (2015 to 2017). In all four elections, the vote was unanimous.

Behling said the size and scope of the UW System – 165,000 students and more than 40,000 employees – presents the board with great challenges but also great opportunities. He thanked Regents and System and campus leadership for investing in Wisconsin and investing in students through their work.

According to current Board of Regents President Ed Manydeeds, “The UW-System and the Board of Regents built a stronger, more effective partnership with the legislature and the Governor during John’s time leading the Board, and John worked diligently to advocate for our campuses, govern wisely, and remain accountable to taxpayers, citizens, and students.”

On behalf of the citizens of the state and a grateful university community, the University of Wisconsin System Board of Regents highly commends John Robert Behling for his leadership and achievements as president, as vice president, and as a member of the UW System Board of Regents.

“John Robert Behling worked for me for over a decade and spent seven years on the Board of Regents. I could not be prouder of his accomplishments,” said former Wisconsin Governor and current UW System President Tommy G. Thompson.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, and family law

Weld Riley is proud to welcome Attorney Jennifer N. Brown into our Divorce and Family Law section!

Jennifer brings a well-versed background to the Weld Riley team. She received her undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin, a Master of Science from Washington University in St. Louis, and her Law degree from DePaul University College of Law in Chicago.

“We are so glad to add an experienced lawyer like Jennifer to our team,” said Weld Riley President John Robert Behling. “She has knowledge in many areas to help her clients fully solve their family law needs.”

Throughout Jennifer’s years of experience, she has had 4 publications and presented at 10 different universities or associations, 4 of which were on Family Law. Jennifer has a large involvement within her community as a board member and volunteer in multiple associations.

Jennifer previously served as a partner at another western Wisconsin firm where she practiced in all areas of Divorce and Family Law matters.

“I am really looking forward to being part of such a big and diverse firm and to learn from the team here at Weld Riley,” said Jennifer Brown.

Welcome Jennifer!

Thank you so much for voting for us in the Volume One Best of the Chippewa Valley poll this year! We are proud to announce that we have been voted:

#1 – Best Attorney: Business Law

#1- Best Attorney: Family Law

#1 – Best Attorney: Real Estate

#1 – Best Attorney: Wills, Trusts & Estates

#2 – Best Overall Law Firm

#3 – Best Attorney: Personal Injury 

We very much appreciate the support of our clients, friends and neighbors and look forward to another great year of service in 2021!

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

We are happy to introduce Jessah and Nadia, Weld Riley’s newest legal assistants who are currently enrolled in the Chippewa Valley Technical College Paralegal Program!

As legal assistants, Jessah and Nadia will be performing a variety of administrative and legal duties at Weld Riley, including drafting correspondence and pleadings as well as coordinating appointments and hearing dates with clients, attorneys, and the court system.

“Weld Riley is honored that we can play a part in growing and nurturing the next generation of lawyers and paralegals. We really prize our long-term relationship with CVTC, and working with students is both rewarding and good business,” said Weld Riley President John Robert Behling.

“The CVTC Paralegal Program greatly appreciates the attorneys at Weld Riley for their willingness to work with our students as interns and to provide our students with their first professional opportunity to work in a law office.

Program instructors can cover legal concepts and paralegal duties, but it the real-world experience working with Weld Riley attorneys that completes their education and better prepares them for their paralegal careers,” said Paralegal Program Director Mark B. Barker.

Welcome, Jessah and Nadia to the Weld Riley team!

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

Weld Riley, S.C. has been proud to serve as the Jackson County Corporation Counsel to the Jackson County Board of Supervisors since 2011, and is honored to have been unanimously approved to continue this work.

Our firm, including Weld Riley attorneys Benjamin Ludeman and Sam Bach-Hanson, provides advice and representation for matters ranging from child support, guardianship, and mental health commitments, to County ordinance prosecutions and records requests. Additionally, our firm works with the County Clerk’s Office and department heads on the formation or review of ordinances, resolutions, and contracts.

Thank you, Benjamin and Sam, for your continued commitment to our community!

Weld Riley attorney Stephen Weld has been selected by Super Lawyers Magazine as being among the best attorney in the state in his practice areas.

The annual list is determined through a process which involves peer nominations, independent research, and selection by a final review panel. Only 5% of attorneys are selected as “Super Lawyers.”

Firm founder Steve Weld has been selected to the Super Lawyers list every year since its inception in 2005 and has been listed among The Best Lawyers in America since 1995. His practice is focused primarily on management labor and employment law.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

Weld Riley attorneys Stephen Weld, Fred Morris, William Wallo, and Daneille Strong have been selected by Super Lawyers Magazine as being among the best attorneys in the state in their respective practice areas.

The annual list is determined through a process which involves peer nominations, independent research, and selection by a final review panel. Only 5% of attorneys are selected as “Super Lawyers,” while only 2.5% of attorneys under the age of 40, or with less than 10 years of practice, are selected as “Rising Stars.”

Firm founder Steve Weld has been selected to the Super Lawyers list every year since its inception in 2005 and has been listed among The Best Lawyers in America since 1995. His practice is focused primarily on management labor and employment law.

Fred Morris has been selected to the Super Lawyers list for the first time this year. Fred’s practice focuses on civil litigation insurance defense, and personal injury law.

Bill Wallo has been selected to the Super Lawyers list for the past four years. Bill’s practice focuses on business transactions, commercial litigation, and business bankruptcy, insolvency, and restructuring matters.

Daneille Strong has been selected as a Super Lawyers “Rising Star” for the past three years, as a top-rated attorney in the area of creditor/debtor rights. Daneille’s practice focuses on worker’s compensation defense, creditors’ rights, and collection matters.

 Other Weld Riley attorneys previously recognized by Super Lawyers Magazine include John Robert Behling (Rising Star, Administrative Law); William Milne (Rising Star, Estate Planning and Probate); Thomas Misfeldt (Super Lawyer, Personal Injury); Kathryn Prenn (Super Lawyer, Employment & Labor); Ryan Steffes (Rising Star, Employment & Labor); and Bryan Symes (Super Lawyer, Employment & Labor).

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

Weld Riley, S.C. is honored to be nominated for Best Law Firm by Volume One’s Best of the Chippewa Valley Reader Poll for the 4th year in a row!

We are proud to be nominated for this category again. Now until December 11th, you can cast your vote for us for Best Law Firm here: https://volumeone.org/bestof/324/questions/9526_best_law_firm

We are also nominated for Best Employer, and you can cast your vote for us here: https://volumeone.org/bestof/324/questions/9533_best_employer

U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers, for the tenth consecutive year, collaboratively announce the release of the “Best Law Firms” rankings, and Weld Riley is proud to have been ranked in two categories.

Weld Riley, S.C. was ranked Tier 1 in Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law.

Firms included in the 2020 Edition of “Best Law Firms” are recognized for professional excellence with consistently impressive ratings from clients and peers. Achieving a tiered ranking signals a unique combination of quality law practice and breadth of legal expertise.

Approximately 14,000 law firms across the country receive a “Best Law Firm” ranking. There are about 48,000 active law firms presently across the country, making Weld Riley among the top 30% law firms in the country.

The U.S. News – Best Lawyers® “Best Law Firms” rankings are based on a rigorous evaluation process that includes the collection of client and lawyer evaluations, peer review from leading attorneys in the field, and review of additional information provided by law firms as part of the formal submission process. To be eligible for a 2020 ranking, a law firm must have at least one lawyer recognized in the 25th Edition of The Best Lawyers in America list for that particular location and specialty.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

This October, Weld Riley president John Robert Behling is participating in the 2019 Chippewa Valley Real Men Wear Pink Fundraising Campaign for American Cancer Society. He is putting the power of pink into action to raise awareness and funds to invest in the American Cancer Society’s missions to save lives from breast cancer.

Breast cancer affects everyone – women and men. Real Men Wear Pink recruits men to fight breast cancer for this exact reason. With a determination to raise donations and awareness, these community leaders are making a difference in supporting the American Cancer Society’s mission. All of the donations raised help the American Cancer Society save lives from breast cancer through early detection and prevention, innovative breast cancer research and patient support.

Our staff is helping by making a monetary pledge each day John wears pink during the month. Our goal is to raise at least $2,500.

To contribute to the cause, visit John’s page on the Real Men Wear Pink of Wisconsin website to either donate online or find instructions for how to mail in your donation.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

As seen in the Leader-Telegram:

The Eau Claire law firm of Weld Riley S.C. is pleased to announce John Behling, a partner with the firm, has been elected to serve as president.

As part of a planned transition, the previous president and firm founder, Steve Weld, is stepping down from the presidency. Weld will continue to co-chair the labor employment law section for the foreseeable future at the firm and plans to continue to represent numerous clients.

“This is a great honor and I’m very proud to lead this firm into the future. Steve has set a great example and we’ll continue to provide our clients with the very best legal representation for decades to come,” attorney Behling said.

Behling practices in the areas of Frac Sand, Mining and Minerals, Government Relations and Administrative, Cooperative, Municipal & Environmental law. John is currently the President of the University of Wisconsin Board of Regents and was previously an aide to Governor Tommy Thompson in both Wisconsin and Washington.

While in the Thompson administration, Behling was the Governor’s policy advisor on labor, employment and regulatory issues. Behling was appointed to serve in the office of the Secretary at the Department of Commerce. In that role, he assisted businesses working to expand or relocate in Wisconsin.

Behling is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin with a Bachelor of Science in political science and economics. He also attended Georgetown University of Economics and received his law degree from the University of Wisconsin Law School.

“John has been serving as the Vice President in the firm for more than a decade and is well versed in the practical aspects of running a 21st century law firm. He is the right choice and I’m happy to know the firm is in great hands for the future,” Steve Weld commented.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

Weld Riley, S.C. attorney John Robert Behling has been selected by the UW-Eau Claire Alumni Association Board of Directors to be made an honorary Blugold. This award recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to their professions and communities, and who will advance the goals of Eau Claire. John has made many contributions to Eau Claire with his community work, not only as an attorney, but also with the University of Wisconsin Board of Regents. John graduated from the University of Wisconsin with a bachelor of science in political science and economics. He received his law degree from the University of Wisconsin Law School, and also attended Georgetown University of Economics.

John has been a part of the University of Wisconsin Board of Regents for several years. He currently serves as President and is the first Board of Regents President from the Chippewa Valley area. The Board of Regents is responsible for establishing policies and rules for governing the University of Wisconsin System, planning to meet future state needs for collegiate education, setting admission standards and policies, reviewing and approving university budgets, and establishing the regulatory framework within which the individual units are allowed to operate with as great a degree of autonomy as possible.

John is also a member of the Eau Claire Chamber of Commerce. John’s previous board service includes HSHS Sacred Heart Hospital, Wisconsin 4-H, Northwest Passage Foundation, and many more. We congratulate John on all of the amazing work he has done over the years and for this honor.

Weld Riley, S.C. has offices in Eau Claire, Black River Falls, Menomonie, and Wausau, and serves both families, private sector businesses and public sector clients, including school districts, county governments, and many municipalities around western Wisconsin.

Weld Riley is honored to have been voted #1 best law firm in the Chippewa Valley in VolumeOne’s Best of the Chippewa Valley Reader Poll for the third year in a row! We appreciate your votes of support.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

Weld Riley, S.C. is proud to be a sponsor of the Menomonie Area Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours on December 17. The event will be held at the Barrel Room in Menomonie.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

Four Weld Riley attorneys recognized as among the best lawyers in Wisconsin.

In its November 2018 annual list of top lawyers, Super Lawyers Magazine rated Steve Weld, Bill Wallo, Daneille Strong, and Bryan Symes as being among the best attorneys in the state in their respective practice areas. The annual list is determined through a process which involves peer nominations, independent research, and selection by a final review panel. Only 5% of attorneys are selected as “Super Lawyers,” while only 2.5% of attorneys under the age of 40, or with less than 10 years of practice, are selected as “Rising Stars.”

Firm founder and president Steve Weld has been selected to the Super Lawyers list every year since its inception in 2005 and has been listed among The Best Lawyers in America since 1995. His practice is focused primarily on management labor and employment law.

Bill Wallo has been selected to the Super Lawyers list for the past three years. Bill’s practice focuses on business transactions, commercial litigation, and business bankruptcy, insolvency, and restructuring matters.

Daneille Strong has been selected as a Super Lawyers “Rising Star” for the past three years, as a top-rated attorney in the area of creditor/debtor rights. Daneille’s practice focuses on worker’s compensation defense, creditors’ rights, and collection matters.

Bryan Symes was first selected as a Super Lawyers “Rising Star” in 2011, and has been selected each year since 2013 as a top-rated attorney in the area of employment and labor. Bryan’s practice focuses on employment law and litigation, labor relations and alternative dispute resolution.

Other Weld Riley attorneys previously recognized by Super Lawyers Magazine include John Robert Behling (Rising Star, Administrative Law); William Milne (Rising Star, Estate Planning and Probate); Thomas Misfeldt (Super Lawyer, Personal Injury); Kathryn Prenn (Super Lawyer, Employment & Labor); and Ryan Steffes (Rising Star, Employment & Labor).

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

Eau Claire, WI – The law firm of Weld Riley, S.C. is pleased to announce new attorneys have joined the firm. Brian A. Braziel and Sven W. Strutz will join the firm this spring.

Weld Riley President Steve Weld said, “We are very excited to have these experienced attorneys join our team, expanding our litigation, labor, employment, divorce and family law sections.”

Brian A. Braziel will join Weld Riley’s litigation section. Prior to joining Weld Riley, Braziel worked with the Wisconsin State Public Defender’s office since July of 2016 in the Eau Claire County Trial Division.

Sven W. Strutz will join Weld Riley’s labor and employment section, working primarily in the area of school law. Strutz advises and represents numerous school districts throughout the State of Wisconsin. Prior to joining Weld Riley, Strutz was an attorney with Eckert – Kost, LLP in Rhinelander.

“With diverse backgrounds and years of experience, these individuals will bring excellent and unique talents to our team,” said Melissa Kirschner, Managing Partner at Weld Riley.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

Weld Riley Attorney Ryan Steffes wrote a powerful amicus brief on behalf of the Eau Claire Chamber of Commerce aiding in this victory at the Wisconsin Supreme Court.

By unanimous vote, Regent John Robert Behling of Eau Caire was today re-elected President of the University of Wisconsin System Board of Regents, and Regent Drew Petersen of Middleton was re-elected to serve as Vice President of the Board. Both positions have a one-year term.

Behling has served on the Board since 2012. Behling is the first Regents’ president from the Chippewa Valley area, where he is an attorney with the Eau Claire law firm Weld Riley, S.C.  At the firm, Behling serves as the firm’s Vice President and chairs Weld Riley’s government and administrative law practice. Behling graduated from UW-River Falls with a bachelor of science in economics, and he is also a graduate of the University of Wisconsin Law School.

Petersen is the Senior Vice President for Corporate Affairs for TDS Telecom (TDS), the seventh largest wireline telecommunications company in the United States, with headquarters in Madison. Regent Petersen was appointed to the Board in 2013. He earned his Masters of Business Administration from UW-Madison and Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Leadership Studies from Ripon College in Ripon, Wisconsin.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

The law firm of Weld Riley, S.C. is pleased to announce Attorney Christopher B. Gierhart has been elected a Shareholder of the firm.

“I’m honored that my colleagues recently elected me as a shareholder. I look forward to continuing to provide services for existing and new clients on all business and municipal matters,” Gierhart said.

Gierhart, practices with the firm’s Government Law and Business & Corporate Sections. He represents local municipalities in a variety of legal matters, including representation at meetings, advising on compliance issues, and prosecution of citations. He has assisted clients on personal and commercial real estate transactions, including preparing and reviewing purchase agreements, lease agreements, and closing documents. Further, Chris has provided clients with advice on the process of forming, structuring and operating entities for their businesses.

Prior to joining the firm, Chris represented numerous clients in various civil actions, including collection (debtor and creditor), eviction, personal injury, contract, insurance coverage disputes, adverse possession, and partition.

In 2012, Chris earned his Juris Doctorate from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He has been admitted to practice law in the state of Wisconsin, U.S. Tax Court and the U.S. District Court, Western District of Wisconsin. He is also a current member of the Tri-County and Eau Claire County Bar Associations, Young Professionals of the Chippewa Valley, and was a Director for the Arcadia Chamber of Commerce.

“It’s very fulfilling to provide clients with solutions to address their issues and meet their goals,” Gierhart added.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

The law firm of Weld Riley, S.C. would like to congratulate Attorney Emily M. Long on her election to Eau Claire Circuit Court Branch 3 Judge.

Long practiced in Weld Riley’s divorce and family law, criminal defense, and municipal prosecution sections. In her family law practice, she helped families navigate situations such as divorce, child custody, and adoption.

Prior to joining Weld Riley, S.C., Long prosecuted felony and misdemeanor domestic violence and sexual assault cases as an Assistant District Attorney for both Eau Claire and La Crosse Counties. At the same time, she developed alternative means for achieving justice by developing and managing the Eau Claire County Diversion Program and working closely with other committees for alternative justice.

Long earned a Bachelor of Arts in sociology and math, cum laude, from the University of Arizona in Tucson, Arizona. She received her law degree with honors from the University of Wisconsin Law School in Madison, Wisconsin.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

Attorney and Firm President, Steve Weld has been busy in 2018 presenting his legal and business expertise at several different events in the Chippewa Valley. The following events include:

• January 27, 2018 – Steve presented on Interest Arbitration to the State and Local Bargaining Committee of the Labor and Employment Law Section of the American Bar Association in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
• February 2, 2018 – Steve gave a Labor and Employment Law Update to K-12 District Administrators in CESA #10 (Chippewa Falls).
• February 6, 2018 – In conjunction with Tim Benedict of Benedict Refrigeration and Mark Faanes of Wipfli, Steve participated in a Meet the Executives Panel for the Eau Claire Chamber of Commerce’s Young Professionals.
• February 9, 2018 – Steve made a presentation on Employee Leaves: Ensuring Compliance and Best Practices to the West Central Wisconsin SHRM group in Tomah.
• February 21, 2018 – Steve made a presentation to the management team of Integrity Grading & Excavating in Marathon City regarding insider collusion and conflict of interest when dealing with governmental employees.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

As Seen in the Leader-Telegram:

With last week’s appointment of Market & Johnson vice president Jason Plante to the UW System Board of Regents, Eau Claire will be well-represented on the governing body of Wisconsin’s public university system.

Assuming he is confirmed, Plante will join Regents President John Behling of Eau Claire and UW-Eau Claire student Regent Ryan Ring on the board, giving the state’s eighth-largest city three of the 18 seats on the panel.

Plante, 43, one of five owners of Eau Claire-based contractor Market & Johnson, was one of three appointments to the Board of Regents announced last week by GOP Gov. Scott Walker. The governor also appointed Cris Peterson, owner and chief financial officer of Four Cubs Farm in Grantsburg, and reappointed former Wisconsin Labor and Health and Human Services Secretary Gerald Whitburn of Wausau.

In an interview, Plante identified workforce development and finding ways to combat the brain drain and rising student debt as his priorities in advance of his expected official start date of March 20. He is replacing former Lt. Gov. Margaret Farrow, who resigned in December, and will serve the remainder of her term, which expires May 1, 2020.

“It’s a tremendous opportunity to represent the Chippewa Valley,” Plante said. “But more importantly, the training and development of young people is going to be the biggest challenge that almost all business owners face, and so if I can somehow play a little part in helping form solutions that make things better for them and for employers throughout Wisconsin, I think that’s a fantastic opportunity.”

Finding solutions to the labor shortage, in part by persuading more talented young college graduates to stay in their home markets or in the communities where they attend UW System campuses, is important for Wisconsin’s economy, as is helping students avoid ever-expanding debt loads, he said.

“Tuition is rising, student debt is rising, and it’s going to have a huge economic impact, so it’s really important to try to find the sweet spot between getting kids ready for future careers and getting them out into those careers as fast as they can with the highest quality education they can and not building up huge debt that they’re trying to overcome for years after graduation,” Plante said.

After substantial funding cuts for the UW System over the past decade, Plante acknowledged the system budget will present one of the biggest challenges of his new position.

“The budget is the million-dollar question, probably literally and figuratively,” Plante said. “I think being responsible to the taxpayers and balancing the wants and needs of the universities is probably the most challenging thing the board does. … Making sure, first and foremost, that the universities have the budgets allotted to provide the services and the training and education for the students has to be top priority, and balancing all the other needs is kind of that close second.”

Behling, who encouraged Plante to apply to be a regent, said he has worked with Plante in business and through the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce and HSHS Sacred Heart Hospital board.

“I know he’ll be a great advocate for the UW System, and it will be great to have another member of the Blugold family on the board,” Behling said.

North High grad

Plante, who graduated from North High School in 1992 and from UW-Eau Claire in 1997 with a degree in marketing, has deep roots in the field of education. Not only did he begin his career as a sales manager for Spectrum Industries in the education market and help run the Northwestern Wisconsin Education Association teachers convention in Eau Claire for several years, but his grandfather once headed the English department at Memorial High School, his father worked in the school district and his wife is a teacher.

Market & Johnson also executes a number of school construction projects for levels ranging from K-12 to the UW System.

As for potential conflicts of interest related to his work at Market & Johnson, Plante said he doesn’t believe that will be a major issue because he views the Board of Regents’ role as more about providing vision and policy guidance than approving individual construction projects. However, he said he would abstain from voting if a conflict arises.

Rural area voice

Behling said Plante’s presence on the board, as the only member hailing from the construction industry, will make it more representative of the state economy as well as providing another voice from rural Wisconsin. The Board of Regents historically was composed primarily of members from the Madison and Milwaukee areas, so the regional balance is a welcome change, Behling noted.

“With more representation from western Wisconsin, we can call attention to projects that are part of the local economy,” Behling said.

While Plante approaches the position with a global mindset, he acknowledged the presence of three regents from Eau Claire, one from Grantsburg and one from Woodville (OEM Fabricators President S. Mark Tyler), has the potential to benefit west-central Wisconsin.

“Obviously we all have biases in our geographic areas,” he said, “and you’re going to fight for what’s right for the entire system but also what’s right for the universities in this area in particular.”

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

Weld Riley, S.C is proud to have been voted Best Law Firm in Volume One’s Best of the Chippewa Valley Reader Poll for the second year in a row!

Thank you to everyone who voted for us and supported us. We couldn’t have done it without you!

Weld Riley Attorney John Robert Behling, in his capacity as University of Wisconsin Board of Regents President, signed a memorandum of understanding with the country of Oman. Behling and His Highness Sayyid Asaad bin Tariq Al Said signed a historic statement of shared commitment for expansion of joint academic and economic development with the University of Nizwa in Oman.

“This is an important commitment from the University of Wisconsin going forward with our partnership and cooperation, and most importantly friendship, with our friends in the country of Oman,” Behling said at the signing.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

Five Weld Riley attorneys recognized as among the best lawyers in Wisconsin

In its November 2017 annual list of top lawyers, Super Lawyers Magazine rated Steve Weld, Tom Graham, Bill Wallo, Daneille Strong, and Bryan Symes as being among the best attorneys in the state in their respective practice areas. The annual list is determined through a process which involves peer nominations, independent research, and selection by a final review panel. Only 5% of attorneys are selected as “Super Lawyers,” while only 2.5% of attorneys under the age of 40, or with less than 10 years of practice, are selected as “Rising Stars.”

Firm founder and president Steve Weld has been selected to the Super Lawyers list every year since its inception in 2005, and has been listed among The Best Lawyers in America since 1995. His practice is focused primarily on management labor and employment law.

Tom Graham has been selected to the Super Lawyers list every year since 2008, and has been listed among The Best Lawyers in America since 2011. In 2007, Tom was inducted as a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, one of the premier legal associations in America. His practice focuses on litigation, primarily personal injury, civil, and business litigation.

Bill Wallo has been selected to the Super Lawyers list for the past two years. Bill’s practice focuses on business transactions, commercial litigation, and business bankruptcy, insolvency, and restructuring matters.

Daneille Strong has been selected as a Super Lawyers “Rising Star” for the past two years, as a top-rated attorney in the area of creditor/debtor rights. Daneille’s practice focuses on worker’s compensation defense, creditors’ rights, and collection matters.

Bryan Symes was first selected as a  Super Lawyers “Rising Star” in 2011, and has been selected each year since 2013 as a top-rated attorney in the area of employment and labor. Bryan’s practice focuses on employment law and litigation, labor relations and alternative dispute resolution.

Other Weld Riley attorneys previously recognized by Super Lawyers Magazine include John Robert Behling (Rising Star, Administrative Law); William Milne (Rising Star, Estate Planning and Probate); Thomas Misfeldt (Super Lawyer, Personal Injury); Kathryn Prenn (Super Lawyer, Employment & Labor); and Ryan Steffes (Rising Star, Employment & Labor).

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

The Eau Claire law firm of Weld Riley S.C. is pleased to announce longtime attorney John B. Wagman is joining the firm starting November 20.

“I’m truly excited to be joining the talented attorneys at Weld Riley. We’ve known each other a long time and it’s a great opportunity,” said attorney John Wagman.

Wagman comes to Weld Riley from the law firm of Mallery and Zimmerman in Wausau, Wisconsin. His practice will be focused on the business section at Weld Riley where he has vast experience with real estate, financing, corporate formation, mergers, acquisitions, non-metallic mining, and other business specialties. Wagman will be serving clients both in Eau Claire and in Wausau as the firm broadens it reach in north central Wisconsin.

Wagman graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1997. He later graduated from University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Law in 2000.

“As an attorney who has spent years being involved and giving back to the community, the transition to Weld Riley will be seamless. I very much appreciate not only the first-rate legal services they provide, but also the commitment to helping and service Weld Riley is known for,” Wagman added.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

Weld Riley attorneys John Behling, Anders Helquist, and Grant Beardsley were recently involved in the completion of the Source Energy Services’ acquisition of a frac sand mine in Blair, Wisconsin, two terminals located in Chetwynd and Fort Nelson, British Columbia, Canada, and exploration rights to more than 3,600 acres in the Peace River Valley of Alberta, Canada from certain affiliates of Preferred Proppants. Source Energy Services is an international energy company based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada and is publicly traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange. This acquisition had a purchase price of $80 million, subject to post-closing adjustments. Read more about the acquisition here.

Weld Riley is counsel to multiple Fortune 100 companies and their attorneys provide counsel to both large and small businesses regarding initial formation, acquisitions, due diligence, environmental, real estate, and other regulatory and business matters.

The Eau Claire law firm of Weld Riley S.C. is pleased to announce longtime attorney James T. Parent is joining the firm starting December 1.

“It is truly an honor to be joining the talented and highly experienced attorneys of Weld Riley. I am beyond excited,” said attorney Jim Parent.

Parent comes to Weld Riley from the law firm of Schofield, Parent, Mayer & Huff, S.C. where he handled plaintiff personal injury and family law matters. Parent has been involved in multiple cases resulting in verdicts in excess of $1,000,000.00 and has represented clients who have sustained catastrophic brain, neurologic, and orthopedic injuries, as well as those suffering from the death of a family member.

His family law practice includes, but is not limited to, divorce, post-divorce issues, custody, placement, maintenance/alimony modification, paternity, adoption, guardianship, grandparent rights, CHIPS (children in need of protection and services), and termination of parental rights. He has experience with high asset divorces, executive pay, and farm and business division issues.

Parent was born and raised in Phillips, Wisconsin. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire in 1986 where he served with distinction as the University Student Body Vice-President. He later attended and graduated from Hamline University School of Law in St. Paul, Minnesota in 1989.

Parent added, “This is a dynamic group of attorneys whose dedication to high-quality legal representation, as well as their commitment to their communities, is second to none. I am eager to contribute my experience and expertise and help build upon the firm’s success in the coming years.”

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

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Board of Regents Elects Youngest President, First from Chippewa Valley
John Robert Behling to Serve as Next Regents’ President

The UW System Board of Regents elected a new Board president:  John Robert Behling.  Each June, the Board elects a President and Vice President.  Regent Behling has served as the Vice President for the Board since 2015, and will begin his term as President immediately following today’s meeting.  At age 46, Behling is the youngest president- elect, as well as the first Board President from the Chippewa Valley.  He succeeds current Regents’ President Regina Millner, whose term is ending.  The Board President designates Board committee membership, signs all diplomas and contracts issued by the Board, and speaks on behalf of the Board before the Governor and legislative groups. 

 “I would like to thank Governor Walker for appointing me to the Board of Regents.  The past two years as Vice President have been an educational and rewarding experience,” said new Board of Regents President John Robert Behling. “I am looking forward to serving the UW System even further as President.  We will continue to advocate for our campuses, govern wisely, and remain accountable to the taxpayers, citizens and students we serve.” 

 Behling is the first Regents’ president from the Chippewa Valley area, where he is an attorney with the Eau Claire law firm Weld Riley, S.C.  At the firm, Behling serves as the firm’s Vice President and chairs Weld Riley’s government and administrative law practice.  Behling graduated from UW-River Falls with a bachelor of science in economics, and he is also a graduate of the University of Wisconsin Law School.  

The Board also elected Regent Drew Petersen as the new Vice President.  Petersen is the Vice President of External Affairs and Corporate Communications for TDS Telecom (TDS), the seventh largest wireline telecommunications company in the United States, with headquarters in Madison.  Regent Petersen was appointed to the Board in 2013.

“Along with John, I will strive to continue the effective and beneficial governance of the Board, and ensure that the UW System remains one of the top public school systems of higher education in the nation,” said Regent Petersen. 

The Regents also thanked outgoing President Regina Millner, who will continue to serve on the Board. 

 “The UW System has a worldwide reputation for excellence, and it has been a pleasure and an honor to serve as president of the Board of Regents,” said current Regents’ President Regina Millner.  “I look forward to my continued role as a Regent, and I will continue to advocate on behalf of our institutions, students and families.  John is a tremendous colleague and he will provide continuity and leadership in his new role on the Board.” 

Governor Scott Walker recently appointed three new members to the Board:  Michael Jones of Milwaukee, Robert Atwell of Green Bay, and UW-Eau Claire student Ryan Ring.  Regents are appointed by the Governor and serve without pay.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

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Weld Riley Attorneys Ryan Steffes, Tom Rusboldt, Tom Sazama, and Steve Weld won the 2017 Bucky Open, a fundraising event sponsored by the Wisconsin Alumni Association – Chippewa Valley Badgers.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

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Eau Claire, WI – Weld Riley Attorneys John Behling and Rich White announced after many hours of crafting and revising legal language, new legislation has been signed into law by Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker granting greater access to music festivals for young people.

“It’s exciting to be part of something that will impact hundreds of thousands of people. This is common sense legislation and it’s great to get this accomplished,” Behling said.

Governor Scott Walker signed Assembly Bill 194 into law which allows an unaccompanied underage person to be present during a music festival at a venue that has been issued an alcohol beverage license.

Under current law, a person under 21 years of age may not be on the premises of a site that has been issued an alcohol license unless they are accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, or spouse. By adding music festivals to the list of exceptions, unaccompanied minors will now be allowed to attend a music festival where alcohol is being served as long as the attendance at that music festival is expected to be more than 2,500. The bill passed the Assembly on a voice vote and was concurred by the Senate on a voice vote.

“Weld Riley has a long history of being involved in groundbreaking legal matters both at the local and state level.  Wherever our clients need our help, whether it’s on main street or at the state capital in Madison, we’re there to provide skilled counsel,” White added.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

Weld Riley attorney Anders Helquist presented “From the Wellhead, to the White House, to Wisconsin – An Update on Regulatory Issues in the Sand Box” at the American Institute of Professional Geologists (AIPG) Sand Mine Life Cycle Seminar on May 12, 2017.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

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Weld Riley attorneys Anders Helquist and John Behling (a member of the University of Wisconsin System Board of Regents) recently gave a seminar to the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire Geology Department on Preparing Expert Testimony for Permit Hearings.

Thank you for your commitment to our community, Anders and John!

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

The law firm of Weld Riley, S.C. is pleased to announce Attorney Christopher B. Gierhart has joined the firm.

Weld Riley President Steve Weld said, “We are excited to have Chris join our firm’s Business & Corporate section and expand our Government Law services.”

Prior to joining the firm, Gierhart represented numerous clients in various civil actions, including collection (debtor and creditor), eviction, personal injury, contract, insurance coverage disputes, adverse possession, and partition. Gierhart has also represented local municipalities in a variety of legal matters, including representation at meetings, advising on compliance issues, and prosecution of citations. He has assisted clients on personal and commercial real estate transactions, including preparing and reviewing purchase agreements, lease agreements, and closing documents. Further, Gierhart has provided clients with advice on the process of forming, structuring and operating entities for their businesses.

In 2012, Christopher Gierhart earned his Juris Doctorate from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He has been admitted to the Wisconsin Bar Association, U.S. Tax Court and the U.S. District Court, Western District of Wisconsin. He is also a current member of the Tri-County Bar Association and was a Director for the Arcadia Chamber of Commerce.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

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At the Menomonie Chamber of Commerce’s 78th annual banquet, Bill Thedinga was honored as the Distinguished Citizen of 2016.  Read the full article from the Dunn County News

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

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As seen in the Leader-Telegram and on WQOW News 18:

In honor of the firm’s 25th anniversary, the attorneys at Weld Riley, S.C. are making a huge difference this holiday season for kids in our community by donating 25,000 meals to Kids Against Hunger and are packing 2,500 of the meals on December 13.

Attorneys from Weld Riley, S.C. packed 2,500 of the meals on their “Silver Service Day” at Grace Lutheran Communities Capernaum Community Center. In partnership with the Chippewa Valley After Hours Rotary Club, the Menomonie Rotary Clubs and Kids Against Hunger, Weld Riley, S.C. is donating the meals to Feed My People for distribution throughout the Chippewa Valley to kids in need.

The goal of Kids Against Hunger is to provide a stable nutritional base from which recipient families can move their families from starvation to self-sufficiency. The Menomonie Rotary Clubs brought Kids Against Hunger to the Chippewa Valley and began a partnership in the last year with the Chippewa Valley After Hours Rotary Club to extend areas of impact into Eau Claire and Chippewa counties.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

Weld Riley Attorney William H. Thedinga is being honored at the Menomonie Chamber Banquet this year as a “Distinguished Citizen”.
Congratulations, Bill!

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

Four Weld Riley attorneys recognized as among the best lawyers in Wisconsin

In its November 2016 annual list of top lawyers, Super Lawyers Magazine rated Steve Weld, Tom Graham, Bill Wallo, and Daneille Strong as being among the best attorneys in the state in their respective practice areas. The annual list is determined through a process which involves peer nominations, independent research, and selection by a final review panel. Only 5% of attorneys are selected as “Super Lawyers,” while only 2.5% of attorneys under the age of 40, or with less than 10 years of practice, are selected as “Rising Stars.”

Firm founder and president Steve Weld has been selected to the Super Lawyers list every year since its inception in 2005, and has been listed among The Best Lawyers in America since 1995. His practice is focused primarily on management labor and employment law.

Tom Graham has been selected to the Super Lawyers list every year since 2008, and has been listed among The Best Lawyers in America since 2011. In 2007, Tom was inducted as a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, one of the premier legal associations in America. His practice focuses on litigation, primarily personal injury, civil, and business litigation.

New to this year’s list is Bill Wallo, who joined Weld Riley in 2013 after serving for 18 years as the career law clerk to a federal bankruptcy judge. Bill’s practice focuses on business transactions, commercial litigation, and business bankruptcy, insolvency, and restructuring matters.

Also new to this year’s list is Daneille Strong, who was selected as a “Rising Star” as a top-rated attorney in the area of creditor/debtor rights. Daneille’s practice focuses on worker’s compensation defense, creditors’ rights, and collection matters.

Other Weld Riley attorneys previously recognized by Super Lawyers Magazine include John Robert Behling (Rising Star, Administrative Law); William Milne (Rising Star, Estate Planning and Probate); Thomas Misfeldt (Super Lawyer, Personal Injury), and Ryan Steffes (Rising Star, Employment & Labor).

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

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Weld Riley, S.C. is a proud sponsor of the 2016 Regis Catholic Schools Auction taking place on November 5^th at the Florian Gardens in Eau Claire. Support our local schools while enjoying a live and silent auction, games, raffles, along with food and beverages.

Tickets are $80 a person and all proceeds go to the St. Benedict tuition assistance scholarship programs. Tickets are now available! For more information, call (715) 830-2273, ext. 1406 or check out the website for schedules, prizes and more! https://regiscatholicschools.ejoinme.org/regiscatholicschoolsauction

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

On Thursday, October 21, 2016, Jim Ward was one of two recipients of the George Tipler Award for Distinguished Service in School Law.  The award is given out each year by the Wisconsin School Attorneys Association (WSAA).  Past recipients include firm members Steve Riley, Kathy Prenn and Steve Weld.  Jim has represented school districts throughout northwest and west central Wisconsin for over 40 years. Pictured are Jim Ward, Steve Weld, and Mindy Dale, current President of the WSAA.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

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In 1991 the average cost for a gallon of gas was $1.12, the Dow Jones topped 3,000 for the first time, Nirvana kicked off the grunge craze, and the first web browser was introduced so the one million computers in the world could connect to something called the Internet. Also in 1991, a group of local attorneys decided to strike out on their own to create their vision of western Wisconsin’s premiere law firm.

“It was a new era of service. We wanted to create a law firm that reflected what was important to us and one that not only cared about our clients, but also cared about the people in our community. It was an exciting time,” said partner Steve Weld.

This fall, Weld Riley, S.C. is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a number of special events and community initiatives. The firm that started with just a handful of lawyers now numbers more than 30 and represents clients in labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, frac sand, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditors’ rights, civil litigation, worker’s compensation defense, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

In honor of the 25th anniversary, Weld Riley, S.C. shortened its name and updated its logo. And while the firm’s name and “face” have changed, its history, values and commitment to its Wisconsin roots remain and continue to strengthen.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

Weld Riley, S.C. was voted best law firm in Volume One’s Best of the Chippewa Valley Readers Poll for 2016!

http://volumeone.org/bestof/109/questions/3502_best_law_firm

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

The law firm of Weld Riley, S.C. is pleased to announce Attorney Ryan J. Steffes has been elected to the firm’s Management Committee.

Commenting on the announcement, Firm President Steve Weld, stated, “Ryan has been with the firm for over a decade and is well respected by his peers and by the judges in Western Wisconsin. It is no surprise that he was unanimously elected to join our firm’s Management Committee. We recruited Ryan directly out of law school and he continues to impress everyone who works with him.”

Ryan works in the Civil Litigation, Insurance Defense, and Labor & Employment Sections. In his practice, Ryan defends employers on a wide range of employment matters, including breach of contract claims, wage and hour disputes, unemployment compensation disputes, and discrimination claims filed under the Wisconsin Fair Employment Act. He also represents clients in general litigation and appellate matters. Ryan is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin Law School and joined the firm in 2005.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

Weld Riley, S.C. participates in nationwide wellness competition

The Wellness Council of America (WELCOA) launched an exciting national challenge to get employees across the country On the Move in 2016. The On the Move competition is focused on fueling national corporate health initiatives to combat physical inactivity and initiate behavior change. Eighty-four companies representing almost 80,000 employees participated in this 12-week online challenge spanning April, May and June. The challenge engaged employees with educational resources, behavior change incentives, social support and, of course, movement.

The goal for organizations that participated? A thriving place to work, more energy, more comradery, and the designation as one of the Top Most Active Companies in the country. Employees tracked their activity types, duration and intensity to work toward 100 “Move points” each day. Taking in metrics like intensity and activity type, the On the Move algorithm allowed participating organizations to encourage employees to truly move when they wanted, how they wanted, and how much they wanted to reap all of the rewards of an active lifestyle. Weld Riley, S.C. finished as one of the Top 25 most active companies in the Small Business category.

By participating in the On the Move National Challenge, organizations around the country took a stand for more movement and improved cultures of wellbeing for their employees. In fact, the challenge has been shown to cut sedentary behavior in half and revolutionize worksites for physical activity— over 80% of employees who complete the challenge say they will continue to be active in the long term.

When asked about the main goal of the challenge, Ryan Picarella, President of WELCOA responded, “We knew that people sitting at their desks all day was killing them and that workplace cultures were suffering along with employees. Traditional wellness program challenges do not zero in on culture change or connect employees with “whys” for being active that matter to them—so we created something that did. On the Move is designed to build a culture for more movement into an organization. We thought, why not start a movement where employees can move when they want, how they want and how much they want and get credit for all of it?”

To see the full leaderboard, check out https://onthemovechallenge.welcoa.org/leaderboard

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

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John Robert Behling named as one of this year’s 15 most influential people in the Greater Madison Area.  Read the article here

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

Attorney John Robert Behling unanimously re-elected as Vice President of the UW System Board of Regents.

By unanimous vote, Regent Regina M. Millner of Madison was today re-elected President of the University of Wisconsin System Board of Regents, and Regent John Behling of Eau Claire was re-elected to serve as Vice President of the Board. Both positions have a one-year term.

Read Full Article

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

The 13th annual Western Dairyland Women’s Business Conference will be held April 21, 2016 at The Plaza Hotel & Suites in Eau Claire, Wisconsin.

Registration is now open! We are incredibly excited about this year’s lineup of speakers and educational sessions. If you attend just one event this year for the betterment of you and your business, make this the one! Whether you are thinking about starting a business, are new to the world of entrepreneurship or are a seasoned veteran, this day is for you! To attend, please click the link below.

Register Now!

Early bird registration is $49.00 until April 1, 2016, after that it will be $69.00. One week prior to event and at the door price will be $89.00. Scholarships are available for qualifying individuals.

For more information, go to www.WomensBusinessConference.com.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

Greetings,

You’re invited to attend a complimentary, all-day seminar on Industrial Sand Mining.

The seminar will feature WDNR presenters, who will speak on the following topics:

• Stormwater Permitting
• Wetland/Mitigation
• Air Management
• High Capacity Wells
• Health Impact Assessment
• Wisconsin Green Tier Program

Continental breakfast and lunch will be provided courtesy of Weld Riley, S.C. and Axley Brynelson, LLP.

Holiday Inn Eau Claire South, 4751 Owen Ayres Court, Eau Claire, WI 54701

This event is sponsored by the attorneys at Weld Riley, S.C. and Axley Brynelson, LLP

To register, contact Tiffany L. O’Neil by March 14, 2016 at 715-839-7786 or [email protected]

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

Weld Riley, S.C. to host  February 18 Labor Law CLE Luncheon regarding Impact of Proposed Worker’s Compensation Act Changes.

For more information or to sign up email [email protected]

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Impact of Proposed Worker’s Compensation Act Changes on Employment Law Practice

By William R. Sachse, Jr.

Peterson, Johnson & Murray, S.C.

In February 2015, Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker proposed to spin off the Worker’s

Compensation Division from the Dept. of Workforce Development (DWD) to two different state

agencies. The judicial functions would be conducted by the Division of Hearings and Appeals

(DHA) in the state Dept. of Administration and all other functions, including claims management

and insurance regulation, would be conducted by the Office ofthe Commissioner of Insurance

(OCl). In late May 2015, the Joint Finance Committee of the Wisconsin Legislature voted to

approve the governor’s request to remove the judicial functions from the DWD and reassign the

administrative law judges to the DHA. The committee rejected the governor’s request to spin off

the other functions and instead kept them in the DWD.

In early July 2015, the Legislature passed the Joint Finance Committee’s amendments to

the budget bill, including the provisions affecting worker’s compensation. On July 12, 2015,

Gov. Walker vetoed the legislation in part. He removed language that required the

administrative law judges who were transferred to the DHA to devote at least 80% of their work

time to worker’s compensation cases. The governor argued that his administration should be

free to assign the administrative law judges to whatever duties it saw fit. Gov. Walker objected

to being limited by the Legislature. The Legislature did not override the governor’s veto. The

amended version of the budget bill is 2015 Wisconsin Act 55. The changes in the worker’s

compensation system go into effect on January 1, 2016.

As of January 1, 2016, worker’s compensation matters will be handled by two separate

state agencies. Litigated claims will be resolved by the DHA. All other worker’s compensation

matters, including claims management and insurance policy regulation, will be administered by

the DWD, Worker’s Compensation Division. DHA created a separate subagency to handle

worker’s compensation hearings. It is called the Office of Worker’s Compensation Hearings

(OWCH, no kidding). The following DWD hearing judges will move to the OWCH: Donald

Doody, Roberta Arnold, Janine Smiley, Andy Roberts, Mark Shore, Nia Enemouh-Trammel,

Stanley Michelstetter, John Minix, Roy Sass, Ryan O’Connor, Cathy Lake, Hamdy Ezalarab,

Sherman Mitchell, William Phillips, Jr., Nancy Schneiders, Leonard Martin, Angela McKenzie,

Aaron Konkol, Edward W.J. Falkner, andThomas Landowski. These AUs will stay with the

DWD: James O’Malley, Mary Lynn Endter, Joseph Schaeve and Walter Thurow. The DHA

judges will have a new supervisor, Brian Hayes, Administrator of the DHA.

As of this writing, the DHAjudges may be contacted with their DWD email addresses

and phone numbers. Mail, including hearing applications, is to go to the current DWD address.

Once a hearing application is filed, then mail, including the answer and all evidentiary

submissions, go to a new OWCH mailing address: Office of Worker’s Compensation Hearings,

PO Box 7922, Madison, WI 53707-7922. OWCH’s fax number is 608-266-0018. Its general

email address [email protected]. Avoid using the general OWCH mailbox for

specific cases or ALJ contacts.

OWCH is changing the manner in which settlement conferences are conducted. Under

DWD policy, it held three types of hearings: prehearings, formal hearings and settlement

conferences. The latter was like a mediation session. The parties appeared before an ALJ,

usually Walter Thurow or Mark Shore, and the ALJ mediated the dispute, often separating the

parties and conducting a series of ex parte communications. OWCH will apparently now call

those types of hearings “mediations.” They must be requested before the applicant files the

certification of readiness for hearing. ALJ Thurow will preside over them and they will be

conducted in the same manner as he conducted settlement conferences. There will not be any

more official settlement conferences. Parties may try to settle cases at hearings and with the

assistance of the presiding ALJ, but no ex parte communication will be allowed. If the case does

not settle, then the hearing will immediately follow.

Compromise agreements should be sent to the DWD prior to the filing of a hearing

application. After filing of the application, the agreement goes to the OWCH.

Hayes has told some practitioners that he will not assign OWCH judges to other matters

that are adjudicated by the DHA judges. DHA judges who are not OWCH judges will not

adjudicate worker’s compensation disputes. That means the “cross training” ofjudges that was

touted as an efficiency by the proponents of the worker’s compensation reorganization will not

happen.

The Worker’s Compensation Division of the DWD also has a new administrator. Earlier

this fall, the DWD Secretary Reggie Newson recently appointed Delora Newton as the Worker’s

Compensation Division Administrator. Newton resigned the position in Oct. 2015, only to be

appointed by Sec. Newson to administrator of the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. On

Nov. 2, 2015, Sec. Newson appointed BJ Dembach, a long-time aide to Republicans in the state

Legislature, as the new administrator of the Worker’s Compensation Division. Here is his

biography from the secretary’s announcement: “Before joining DWD, BJ worked in the

Legislature for nearly eight years, including for State Rep. Dan Knodl, where he worked closely

on a host of workforce development and labor issues, including worker’s compensation. BJ also

was an aide to fonner state Rep. J.A. ‘Doc’ Hines from 2006-2010. BJ earned his Bachelor of

Arts in Politics and Government with a minor in Communication from Ripon College and holds

a Masters of Public Affairs degree from the UW-Madison La Follette School of Public Affairs.”

The act of the Legislature that changed the law is 2015 Wis. Act 55. It is more than 600

pages long. Here is a link to the Act:

http://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/raw/path/PublisherIWSUFrontPage/Special/1 00%20%

20Act%2055%20-%20Executive%20Budget%20with%20Partial%2OVeto

Analysis of20l5 Assembly Bill 501 to Amend the Worker’s Compensation Act of

Wisconsin

By

William R. Sachse, Jr.

On Nov. 10,2015, several state legislators, all Republicans, sponsored a bill to amend the

Wisconsin Worker’s Compensation Act. It was subsequently amended on Dec. 18,2015.

The bill, which is called 2015 Assembly Bill 501 (AB 501), is pending before the

Assembly’s committee on insurance. Among other things, it would change longstanding

worker’s compensation law in Wisconsin by:

• Allowing employers to deny compensation (not medical expenses) by asserting

that an employee’s violation of its alcohol or drug policy caused the injury.

• Allowing employers to select the medical practitioners who treat an injured

worker and, in cases where the employer had a directed-care health insurance

plan, the employer is allowed to direct the treatment received by the employee.

• Allowing employers to deny claims where the employee willfully concealed

preinjury physical conditions.

• Shortens the statute of limitations for traumatic injuries from 12 to two years.
• Ending the increases in temporary disability compensation payment rates for

disability occurring more than two years after the injury date.

• Creates a procedure that may lead to the reduction in minimum permanent

disability awards in cases involving joint and back surgery under Wis. Adm. Code

Sec. DWD 80.32.

Unlike prior substantive changes to the WC Act, this proposal did not originate in the

Worker’s Compensation Advisory Council (WCAC). Knodl, Spiros and Stroebel are

Republican legislators and they drafted the proposal. If enacted without WCAC support,

the political comity that exists between Republicans and Democrats over amending the

WC Act may end. In the past, neither party has pressed a partisan advantage to amend

the WC Act to favor its constituents.

Below is a summary of the key changes proposed in AB 501. The references are to the

statute numbers of the affected sections. In some cases, new sections are created. They

are listed nearest to the existing sections. Any comments are from the perspective of an

attorney who represents employers and insurers and who assumes that the framers of this

proposal intended it to favor the interests of employers and insurers. My personal bias is

to oppose this proposal because it did not start in and is not supported by the WCAC. I

believe that the interests of employers, insurers, employees and the citizens of Wisconsin

are best served when worker’s compensation legislation is supported by the WCAC.

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.03(I)(c)3: Adds “… and the program, event, or activity is outside

the scope of the employee’s employment” to the tests that must be met for a “wellness

activity” not to be considered services growing out of and incidental to employment.

Currently to avoid liability for an injury to an employee engaged in an activity designed

to improve the employee’s physical well-being, the employer must prove that the

employee is doing so voluntarily and without “compensation for participation.” The

proposed amendment likely makes it more difficult to defend claims because the

employer has to meet three tests, not two. Plus, the new provision is confusing and could

potentially lead to interpretation not intended by its framers. “Scope of employment” is

often used as a shorthand phrase for “performing services growing out of and incidental

to employment,” the official Wisconsin term for being at work when injured. Judges and

commissioners who have to interpret the meaning of this new phrase may consider it

confusing as the first clause of the section starts, “An employee is not performing service

growing out of and incidental to employment …” If the activity is “outside the scope of

employment,” then one is not performing services growing out of and incidental to

employment under Wisconsin law. If the desire is to reduce wellness-related injuries,

then the most effective amendment would be to rewrite the clause “receives no

compensation for participation” with “receives no compensation specifically attributable

to participation.” That would signal intent to depart from the judicial rule that a person is

being paid to participate in the wellness activity if earning a normal salary or wage at the

time the event takes place. See, City ofKenosha v. LIRC, 2011 WI App 51,332 Wis. 2d

448,797 N.W.2d 885.

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.03(6): A new provision: Where an employee’s worker’s

compensation claim was denied “under the laws of another jurisdiction” that bars any

claim in Wisconsin “for the same injury.” Current law allows such a claim to be made,

even if dismissed in another state. If payments are made in another state, those payments

are a credit against any Wisconsin compensation award. There is no requirement in this

proposal that the law in the other jurisdiction be similar to Wisconsin law. (See

discussion of Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.44(5m)(a) below.)

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.12: Adds “whichever is later” to the 30-day notice rule, requiring an

employee to notify the person designated by the employer within 30 days after an injury’s

occurrence or after the employee knew or should have known of a connection between

the employment and the disability. Shortens the two-year “laches” provision of the

statute to one year. Under the proposal, an employee could not file a hearing application

more than one year after the injury date, if no compensation was paid by the employer.

The huge exceptions for notices to lower-level supervisors, actual or “should have

known” notice from non-employee sources, and the employer not being misled by lack of

notice remain. Because of those exceptions, this amendment will not affect the way

claims are defended or denied, nor will it provide employers with a significant new

defense on notice grounds.

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.125(3): Instructs the Dept. of Workforce Development to refer some

fraud cases to the Dept. of Justice for prosecution. The specific criminal statutes added

are for theft, forgery, fraudulent writings, fraudulent data writing, fraudulent insurance

2

claims and fraudulent destruction of certain writings. Plus, it adds “any other criminal

law” violation to the list. The current version refers just to fraudulent insurance claims.

The proposals broader language means that employees, employers, insurers and their

agents could be prosecuted. Another provision creates and funds a position in the Dept.

of Justice for prosecuting worker’s compensation fraud by any party.

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.127: Creates a complete defense to an injury claim where an

employee “knowingly and willfully” falsely represents his or her “physical condition” to

an employer prior to the commencement of employment. The employer’s reliance on the

false representation must have been a “substantial factor” in hiring the employee. There

must also be a “causal connection” between the false representation and the injury.

Finally, the condition about which the employee lied must be “reasonably related to the

employee’s ability to adequately undertake the job-related responsibilities of the

employee’s employment.” There are several “escape hatches” for employees in the

language. First, limiting it to misrepresentations on “physical condition” means that any

lies about pre-hire mental problems will not bar a claim. Second, is an employee’s

medical condition ever a substantial factor in a hiring decision? The “substantial factors”

in the hiring decision usually tum on economic factors, such as whether the employer

needs more workers and whether the job candidate has the skills to fit the job description.

Third, causal connection to the injury is an awkward phrase. Does it mean that the prehire

condition has to be a cause of the injury itself, or simply render the employee more

susceptible to a disability because he or she was allowed to work a job that they had been

previously prohibited from performing? Employee-oriented judges are likely to adopt the

former interpretation and greatly limit the application of this provision. Same goes for

the fourth requirement that the “falsely represented condition” must be reasonably related

to the proposed job duties. All four of these requirements have to be met before the

section bars a claim. The intent seems to be to bar claims when the employee fails to

disclose a known physical condition that, if disclosed, would have caused an employer

not to hire the employee and expose him or her to injury risk, or to assign the employee

to a position that is unlikely to expose the employee to injury risk. But the four qualifiers

go beyond that to be more like a fair employment discrimination statute. Proving a fourpronged

test is tough in any situation. This statute is not likely to have a major impact on

claims.

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.13(2)(b): Allows medical providers to provide records in digital

format for $26 per request.

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.13(2)(c): Adds “in its entirety” as a modifier to “claim denial” in the

rule requiring final medical reports in all cases involving surgery (other than hernias) or

disability of more than three weeks. The new phrase means that final treating doctor

reports will be required in all applicable cases, except where the entire claim was denied.

Apparently, some employers or insurers refused to provide the reports when only certain

elements of a claim were denied. This was probably inserted at the Worker’s

Compensation Division’s request. The Legislature did not propose to further limit the

amount that a provider can charge for the final medical report. The current limit is “a

reasonable fee.”

3

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.16(2)(dm): This new section appears intended to allow employers

and insurers to negotiate fees for medical treatment expense with health-care providers

and mandates that the government enforce that agreement by declaring any charges above

the negotiated amount to be “unreasonable.” Such a provision seems unnecessary unless

one of the parties to the contract violates it, in which case one would think that the

contract could be enforced in another forum. (See also the discussion of Wis. Stat. Sec.

102.42 changes below.)

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.17(4): Shortens the statute of limitations (SOL) for certain traumatic

injuries to two years, from the current 12. All other exceptions are not changed. What

will happen is that a large number of hearing applications will be filed the minute this

statute is enacted to toll the running of the limitation period in all affected cases. The

Worker’s Compensation Division’s current policy is to hold those applications

indefinitely in order to prevent the SOL from barring claims. Thus, this provision will

not have its intended effect, unless the Division changes its policy or other statutory

language makes it clear that hearing applications filed solely to toll the running of the

limitation period are to be rejected, in the absence of an actual dispute between the

parties.

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.18(1)(b)2: Allows for ALJs to order the payment of vocational

retraining compensation before the employee actually commences a course of instruction.

This pro-employee provision will likely lead to increased litigation because workers will

want to use the threat of impending retraining to obtain settlement money from

employers and insurers. Currently, these cases are litigated after the worker actually

starts school, so there is some proof that the worker intends to be retrained. There is also

some evidence that the worker can actually manage school and complete classes. This

provision could result in workers starting school but later quitting, thereby requiring the

respondent to pay start-up costs like tuition, books, fees and some temporary disability

compensation. It has no provision for the worker to repay the respondent if he or she

quits school and does not obtain successful retraining, nor does it give the respondent any

credit against a subsequent lost earning capacity claim that can be made for those workers

who failed to complete school. This provision was in the most recent “agreed bills” from

the Worker’s Compensation Advisory Council.

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.18(3): Requires petitions for review to be filed at the Labor and

Industry Review Comm., not the Worker’s Compensation Division. No changes in time

deadlines.

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.18(7): New provision that allows a respondent to request that the

worker submit to a respondent medical exam every three years after “a final award of

compensation” for “permanent partial disability” and a redetermination of disability after

a subsequent hearing. What is a “final award”? Seems to omit interlocutory orders,

which are almost all permanent disability orders. It is also limited to PPD, so permanent

total disability decisions, which are for life, are not affected, yet that is where the money

is.

4

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.42: Major change in how medical treatment is provided to injured

workers. The employee no longer chooses the treating medical provider, the employer

does. The proposal sets up two ways that this is done. The first way, which is primary,

applies when the employer has a defined benefit health plan under Wis. Stat. Sec.

609.01(lg). In that case, the worker has to see a medical provider available under the

health plan and have treatment “as provided under the health care plan.” That appears to

be authority for the employer to control the provider and the treatment. Emergencies are

excluded, but once ended, the treatment is with the defined-benefit plan’s provider. If

there is no such plan, then the second option applies. In that scenario, the employer picks

the provider, but cannot direct the treatment. An employer that fails to “tender treatment”

loses the right to select the provider. Moreover, the employee’s practitioner choice in

that scenario is “without restriction,” which appears to eliminate the two-practitioner

choice in current law.

Large employers will benefit most from this provision because they have directed-care

health plans. Smaller employers may not have those types of plans and many are

exempted from having to provide health insurance under the federal Affordable Care Act.

Injured employees of small employers are more likely to have unlimited physician choice

than those of large employers. Thus, small business costs will increase at a higher rate

relative to large employers doing the same type of work.

This should be good news for nurse case managers, but perhaps not for the independent

companies that currently provide those services to employers. The section seems to put

responsibility for treatment decisions in the hands of the health plan’s preferred medical

providers. Thus, nurses with expertise in managing worker’s compensation treatment

may become employees of large health-care provider organizations. The independent

case management providers will be relegated to a smaller unrestricted practitioner choice

market.

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.43(S)(c): Extends the “sunset” on the provision that requires an

employee work more than 24 hours in a week for a respondent to credit wages earned

against vocational retraining temporary total disability compensation. The new sunset

date is April 30, 2018. After several of these extensions, the provision usually is made

pennanent. This one has been extended at least twice. It is currently not the law.

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.43(7)(c): Ends the escalation of temporary disability compensation

rates for workers in healing periods or in vocational rehabilitation retraining programs

that start more than two years after the injury. Current law escalates the weekly

temporary disability rate by multiplying the proportion that the time-of-injury average

weekly wage relates to the maximum average weekly wage on the injury date by the

maximum temporary total disability rate in effect at the commencement of the renewed

healing period or course of instruction. For instance, if the worker earned 90% of the

maximum wage on the injury date, the escalated temporary disability compensation was

90% of the maximum TID rate in effect at the start of renewed healing or school classes,

provided that was more than two years after the injury date. Under this proposal, there is

5

no escalation. In the example, the employee’s TID for all time would be 90% ofthe

maximum TID rate on the injury date. This seems like an awkward way of eliminating

this worker benefit. It might be simpler to repeal sec. 102.43(7) in its entirety. A nonstatutory

provision at the end of the bill indicates that this applies to “a week of disability

[compensation] beginning after the effective date of this subsection.” It is to be applied

retroactively to injuries occurring prior to the effective date of the subsection.

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.44(I)(ag): Extends eligibility injury date for supplemental

permanent total disability compensation from Jan. 1,2001, to Jan. 1,2003. A companion

provision, Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.44(1 )(b), increases the maximum weekly payment from

$582 to $669.

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.44(4m): Requires the Dept. of Workforce Development to write

rules for minimum permanent disability ratings in cases of “amputation levels, losses of

motion, sensory losses, and surgical procedures … Those rules shall provide that those

minimum ratings for a surgical procedure … do not apply ifit is shown that after the

procedure the injured employee suffers form no actual impairment as a result of the

employee’s injury.” This is designed to avoid payment of permanent disability

compensation under Wis. Adm. Code Sec. DWD 80.32 where an employee has surgery

that mandates a minimum permanent disability but seems to be “better” physically than

before the surgery. For instance, the minimum permanent disability for a successful total

knee replacement is 50% loss of use of the leg at the knee. This provision seems to say

that the 50% would not be awarded if, for instance, the employee were allowed to return

to work without physical limitation. But is someone who has a prosthetic knee joint

unimpaired as compared to a person with a healthy knee joint? This provision may not

save employers that much money because “unimpaired” was not defined.

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.44(5): Extends the reverse social security offset rate recalculation to

“old age” social security benefit payments. Under current law, the offset applies only to

social security disability payments, which expire when the beneficiary reaches the age at

which he or she is entitled to old-age social security. The old-age reduction does not

apply if the “employee is available for work.” Does that mean that the employee has to

have been injured while eligible for old-age social security, or simply declare that he or

she is interested in working? The same formula applies to each benefit. It says that

reductions in rates apply only to payments after Jan. 1,2016.

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.44(5m)(a): Allows respondents to require an employee to disclose

worker’s compensation payments, including compromise payments, under the worker’s

compensation law of another state for the same injury. Any such payments are a credit

against Wisconsin worker’s compensation. The statute specifically excludes from the

credit vocational retraining benefits and payments to dependents. The proposal requires

reductions to be reported to the WC Division. The statute is not retroactive to injuries

prior to its effective date. The proposal says that Wisconsin compromise payments may

be credited, but how that would happen is unclear. There is no provision for repayment

orders in our law. And what if some of the Wisconsin settlement funds were for a

vocational retraining claim? How would they be segregated from the other payments?

6

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.58: Preserves the current rule for injuries caused by the employee’s

failure to use safety devices or follow employer safety rules. In those cases, with certain

qualifiers, compensation (not medical expenses) can be reduced by 15% to a maximum of

$15,000 per injury date. Expands the statute to a total compensation bar where the injury

is caused by the employee’s violation of”the employer’s policy concerning drug or

alcohol use.” It does not say that the policy has to exist prior to the injury, that it has to

be written, or that it has to be “reasonably enforced,” as is set forth in the 15% part of the

statute. It does not bar the payment of medical expenses. This provision will cause

litigation to increase because it is broader than the previous version. The earlier version

essentially required proof of legal intoxication. Under the proposal, if an employer

prohibits any alcohol use, it would apply because the employer’s policy defines the level

of prohibited intoxication. More cases will potentially apply. However, the causation

requirement will limit the increase. Litigation costs may also increase, however, as

parties seek expert opinions to prove that a certain level of intoxication caused the injury.

Here is a link to the original version ofAS 501:

http://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/2015/related/proposals/ab501

It was then amended by its sponsor, Rep. Spiros, and here is a link to the amendments:

http://docs.legis.wisconsin.govf20 15frelatedlamendmentsfab50 lfaa I ab501

William R. Sachse, Jr.

Jan. 14,2016

7

Analysis of the “Agreed Bill” (2015 Senate Bill 536) to Amend the Worker’s

Compensation Act of Wisconsin

By

William R. Sachse, Jr.

In Dec. 2015, the Wisconsin Worker’s Compensation Advisory Council (WCAC)

released its “agreed bill” to amend the Wisconsin Worker’s Compensation Act. On Jan.

8,2016, it was introduced into the Legislature as 2015 Senate Bill 536. Its main

provisions are assessed below:

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.11(1): Increases the maximum permanent partial disability

compensation weekly rate to $342 for injuries after its effective date in 2016 and to $362

for 2017 injuries. The current maximum is $322 per week and has been since Jan. I,

2013. Assuming this provision is passed, the 2017 rate will be $80 per week greater than

it was for 2007 injuries ($262 per week), a 30.5% increase. From 2007 to Oct. 2015, the

Consumer Price Index, a measure of price inflation used by the U.S. Dept. of Labor,

increased by 14.7%.

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.125(3): Requires the Worker’s Compensation Division to notify the

state Dept. of Justice when its investigation shows a possible criminal law violation. This

is similar to the provision in 2015 Assembly Bill SOl (AB SOl). Both proposals expand

the types of “crimes” that can cause prosecution. The specific criminal statutes added are

for theft, forgery, fraudulent writings, fraudulent data writing, fraudulent insurance

claims and fraudulent destruction of certain writings. They also add an “any other

criminal law” violation to the list. The current statute is limited to fraudulent insurance

claims. The proposals’ broader language means that employees, employers, insurers and

their agents could be prosecuted. Another provision creates and funds a position in the

Dept. of Justice for prosecuting worker’s compensation fraud by any party.

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.13(2)(b): Allows medical providers to send records electronically

for $26 per request. This same proposal is in AB SOl.

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.13(2)(c): Caps the amount a medical practitioner can charge for a

“final medical report” at $100 per injury date. This is half-a-Ioaf for overburdened

worker’s compensation claims adjusters. Employers should not be legally required to

prove the employee’s claim for any compensation. The WCAC should end this mandate

altogether.

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.17(4): Shortens the statute oflimitations (SOL) for traumatic

injuries from 12 to six years. No change in existing law regarding the “clock” starting

after the final payment of compensation or exceptions for certain types of injuries,

including amputations, loss of vision, permanent brain injuries, and hip and knee

prostheses. What will happen is that a large number of hearing applications will be filed

the minute this statute is enacted to toll the running of the limitation period in all affected

cases. The Worker’s Compensation Division’s current policy is to hold those

applications indefinitely in order to prevent the SOL from barring claims. Thus, this

provision will not have its intended effect, unless the Division changes its policy or other

statutory language makes it clear that hearing applications filed solely to toll the running

of the limitation period are to be rejected, in the absence of an actual dispute between the

parties. AB 50 I shortens the limitation period for traumatic injuries to two years.

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.175(3): Requires an injured worker who claims permanent disability

compensation for an injury to disclose “all previous findings of permanent disability or

other impainnents that are relevant to that injury.” Further provides for apportionment of

permanent disability between disability caused by a traumatic work injury and that

caused by “other factors, including occupational exposure with the same employer,

whether occurring before or after the time of injury.” The employer is liable only for

permanent disability caused by the work injury and also any permanent disability caused

by occupational disease. The evidence of the other disability can come from medical

reports, medical records or other competent evidence. Medical practitioners who rate

PPD “shall address in the report the issue of causation of the disability and shall include

in the report an opinion as to the percentage of permanent disability that was caused by

the injury and the percentage ofpermanent disability that was caused by other factors,

whether occurring before or after the injury.” It is unclear whether the preinjury

disability had to be established by the rating of a qualified medical expert prior to the

subject work injury. What if the worker had, prior to the work injury, a surgery for which

a minimum permanent disability is mandated by Wis. Adm. Code Sec. DWD 80.32?

Will an operative report be sufficient to prove pre-injury PPD? Or will a medical expert

have to apportion PPD between the pre-injury operation and any post-injury permanent

disability? It is also unclear what the “occupational disease” language will have on this

rule. An applicant might try to create a preinjury occupational disease-type injury to

explain away a preinjury disability, such as one arising out of what was originally

considered surgery for a personal medical condition. Will that result in additional

litigation against the employer or insurer that is liable for the pre-existing disability?

This will also likely compel the Worker’s Compensation Division to redo the WKC-16

and WKC-16-B medical practitioner reports to include specific questions about noninjury-

related permanent disability. It will not be a simple task.

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.18(1)(b)2: Allows administrative law judges to order the payment of

vocational retraining compensation before the employee actually commences a course of

instruction. This pro-employee provision will likely lead to increased litigation because

workers will want to use the threat of impending retraining to obtain settlement money

from employers and insurers. Currently, these cases are litigated after the worker

actually starts school, so there is some proof that the worker intends to be retrained.

There is also some evidence that the worker can actually manage school and complete

classes. This provision could result in workers starting school but later quitting, thereby

requiring the respondent to pay start-up costs like tuition, books, fees and some

temporary disability compensation. It has no provision for the worker to repay the

respondent ifhe or she quits school and does not obtain successful retraining, nor does it

give the respondent any credit against a subsequent lost earning capacity claim that can

be made for those workers who failed to complete school. This same provision is in AB

501.

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.23(1)(a): This provision should make it easier for parties to

determine who to name in circuit court complaints for review of decisions from the Labor

and Industry Review Commission. It is intended to avoid pleading problems that

occurred inXcel Energy Services, Inc. v. LIRe, 2013 WI 64, 349 Wis. 2d 234,833

N.W.2d 665 (2013). It requires the LlRC orders to identify the parties that must be

named in judicial review complaints. It mandates that complaints list as the plaintiff the

party commencing the action, the loser at the LIRe. All others named by the LIRC are

defendants. The circuit court is allowed to add a missing party, unless doing so will

unduly delay resolution. That should put to an end litigation over improper pleadings.

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.43(S)(c): Makes permanent the provision that requires an employee

work more than 24 hours in a week for a respondent to credit wages earned against

vocational retraining temporary total disability compensation. It is currently not the law.

It had been the law until 2014, but was allowed to expire. There is a similar provision in

AB 501, but that bill preserves the “sunset” provision and makes the date April 30,2018.

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.43(9)(e): Adds a defense to claims for temporary disability

compensation for employers that refuse to provide light work to a disabled employee

because of the employee’s misconduct. The definition of misconduct is imported from

the Unemployment Insurance Act, specifically, Wis. Stat. Sec. 108.04(5), which

provides:

“… For purposes of this subsection, ‘misconduct’ means one or more actions or

conduct evincing such willful or wanton disregard of an employer’s interests as is

found in deliberate violations or disregard of standards of behavior which an

employer has a right to expect of his or her employees, or in carelessness or

negligence of such degree or recurrence as to manifest culpability, wrongful

intent, or evil design of equal severity to such disregard, or to show an intentional

and substantial disregard of an employer’s interests, or of an employee’s duties

and obligations to his or her employer. In addition, ‘misconduct’ includes:

(a) A violation by an employee of an employer’s reasonable written policy

concerning the use of alcohol beverages, or use of a controlled substance or a

controlled substance analog, if the employee:

1. Had knowledge of the alcohol beverage or controlled substance policy;

and

2. Admitted to the use of alcohol beverages or a controlled substance or

controlled substance analog or refused to take a test or tested positive for

the use of alcohol beverages or a controlled substance or controlled

substance analog in a test used by the employer in accordance with a

testing methodology approved by the department.

(b) Theft of an employer’s property or services with intent to deprive the

employer of the property or services permanently, theft of currency of any value,

felonious conduct connected with an employee’s employment with his or her

employer, or intentional or negligent conduct by an employee that causes

substantial damage to his or her employer’s property.

(c) Conviction of an employee of a crime or other offense subject to civil

forfeiture, while on or off duty, if the conviction makes it impossible for the

employee to perform the duties that the employee performs for his or her

employer.

(d) One or more threats or acts of harassment, assault, or other physical

violence instigated by an employee at the workplace of his or her employer.

(e) Absenteeism by an employee on more than 2 occasions within the 120-day

period before the date of the employee’s termination, unless otherwise specified

by his or her employer in an employment manual of which the employee has

acknowledged receipt with his or her signature, or excessive tardiness by an

employee in violation of a policy of the employer that has been communicated to

the employee, if the employee does not provide to his or her employer both

notice and one or more valid reasons for the absenteeism or tardiness.

(f) Unless directed by an employee’s employer, falsifying business records of the

employer.

(g) Unless directed by the employer, a willful and deliberate violation of a written

and uniformly applied standard or regulation of the federal government or a state

or tribal government by an employee of an employer that is licensed or certified

by a governmental agency, which standard or regulation has been

communicated by the employer to the employee and which violation would cause

the employer to be sanctioned or to have its license or certification suspended by

the agency.

This new section also refers to Wis. Stat. Sec. 108.04(Sg)(a) as an appropriate reason to

tenninate an employee and refuse payment of temporary disability compensation. That

section uses the tenn “substantial fault” as a legitimate basis for an employer to tenninate

an employee’s employment and deny the payment of unemployment insurance. Here is

the definition from that statute:

“… For purposes of this paragraph, ‘substantial fault’ includes those acts or

omissions of an employee over which the employee exercised reasonable control

and which violate reasonable requirements of the employee’s employer but does

not include any of the following:

1. One or more minor infractions of rules unless an infraction is repeated after

the employer warns the employee about the infraction.

2. One or more inadvertent errors made by the employee.
3. Any failure of the employee to perform work because of insufficient skill,

ability, or equipment.

The provisions of Wis. Stat. Secs. 108.04(5)(a) conflict with existing provisions of Wis.

Stat. Sec. 102.43(9)(c), which requires that an employee violate an existing drug or

alcohol policy and that the violation occur during the healing period. This current

provision frustrates employers because it requires a positive drug test occur “during the

period when the employee could return to a restricted type of work during the healing

period.” Most employers test for drugs and alcohol immediately after an injury occurs

and before, in most cases, the employee has not yet been allowed by a medical

practitioner to return to light work. Most employers’ drug policies mandate immediate

employment termination for drug violations, so employers are not able to run a second

drug test after the employee’s doctor allows light work. Thus, the defense is unavailable.

Under Wis. Stat. Sec. I08.04(5)(a), no such healing period or light work limitation exists.

Employers will be able to use this defense more often than under the current statute.

However, the conflict raises a question as to which provision will apply. There could be

litigation over that question. A better bill would repeal Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.43(9)(c) and

eliminate the conflict.

Wis. Stat. Secs. 108.04(5)(b) and 108.04(5)(c) conflict with existing sec. 102.43(9)(b).

The existing statute requires “commission of a crime, the circumstances of which are

substantially related to that employment, and the employee has been charged with the

commission of that crime.” It also reinstates temporary disability compensation if the

employee is acquitted. The unemployment statute does not require that the crime be

“substantially related to the employment.” Termination for “theft” is allowed without a

requirement that there be a conviction. It also seems to broaden the definition of”crime”

by including any offense that results in a civil forfeiture. Does that include a traffic

violation? Again, there is a conflict with the existing statute and failure to repeal or

rewrite the existing statute is going to cause litigation over which to apply.

Wis. Stat. Sec. 108.04(5)(e) allows termination for absenteeism. It does not say that

absences for work injuries are excluded from those that qualify an employee for

termination. It excludes absences where the employee shows “valid reasons” for missing

work. In Great Northern COfp. v. LIRC, 189 Wis. 2d 313, 525 N.W.2d 361 (et. App.

1994), the appeals court held that absences for a compensable work injury could not be

included in an employer’s no-fault attendance policy to justify as “reasonable cause” an

employment termination under Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.35(3). Perhaps that holding will be

extended to absences under this provision. But expect some litigation to resolve the

Issue.

If enacted, this provision is the death knell for Brakebush Bros. v. LIRe, 210 Wis. 2d

623,563 N.W.2d 512 (1997).

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.44(1)(ag): Extends eligibility injury date for supplemental

permanent total disability compensation from Jan. 1,2001, to Jan. 1,2003. A companion

provision, Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.44(1)(b), increases the maximum weekly payment from

$582 to $669. These provisions are also in AB SOl, but the maximum weekly rate is

$615.

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.44(4m)(a): Creates a provision that requires the Dept. of Workforce

Development to write rules on minimum permanent disability ratings for amputations,

motion loss, reduced sensation and surgery. It directs the department to convene a

“medical advisory committee” to “review and recommend revision of those ratings to the

department and the council on worker’s compensation.” This relates to Wis. Adm. Code

Sec. DWD 80.32 and codifies the method by which the rule has previously been

amended. Much mischief is occurring these days over minimum ratings that apply to

motion loss. The Worker’s Compensation Division has quietly implemented a program

to raise permanent partial disability ratings through a dubious process of comparing

motion allegedly lost due to injury to alleged normal motion in a similar but uninjured

limb. The Division staffers who demand compliance with their “ratings” under penalty

of fine improperly assume that any apparent motion loss is due to the injury, without

relying on any expert medical proof. The WCAC could end this practice by removing

reference to motion loss from the statute. As for the medical advisory committee, that is

what gave us the nonsensical rule 80.32 that we have today, which grossly overstates

disability in cases ofsurgically-implanted prostheses. It would be better if the WCAC

simply negotiated the percentages.

Wis. Stat. Sec. 102.58: This identical provision is in AB SOl. Preserves the current rule

for injuries caused by the employee’s failure to use safety devices or follow employer

safety rules. In those cases, with certain qualifiers, compensation (not medical expenses)

can be reduced by 15% to a maximum of $15,000 per injury date. Expands the statute to

a total compensation bar where the injury is caused by the employee’s violation of”the

employer’s policy concerning drug or alcohol use.” It does not say that the drug and

alcohol policy has to exist prior to the injury, that it has to be written, or that it has to be

“reasonably enforced,” as is set forth in the 15% part of the statute. It does not bar the

payment of medical expenses. This provision will cause litigation to increase because it

is broader than the previous version. The earlier version essentially required proof of

legal intoxication. Under the proposal, if an employer prohibits any alcohol use, it would

apply because the employer’s policy defines the level of prohibited intoxication. More

cases will potentially apply. However, the causation requirement will limit the increase.

Litigation costs may also increase, however, as parties seek expert opinions to prove that

a certain level of intoxication caused the injury.

Here is a link to the entire agreed bill:

http://docs.legis.wisconsin. gov/20 15/related/proposals/sb536

William R. Sachse, Jr.

Jan. 13,2016

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

Eau Claire-based law firm Weld Riley Prenn & Ricci, S.C. unveils new name and brand identity in time for its 25-year anniversary.

Eau Claire, WI—After twenty-five years, respected northwestern Wisconsin-based law firm, Weld Riley Prenn & Ricci, S.C. has changed its name—and its look. The new streamlined name, Weld Riley, S.C., reflects modern branding conventions as well as the firm’s evolving vision. In addition, the firm created a dynamic new logo and tagline plus a full range of identity and marketing materials, highlighted by a sleek new website. The recently launched site enables both current and prospective clients to better engage with the firm and understand who Weld Riley is and what it has to offer. The new brand reflects the way the firm operates—clean, clear, collaborative. “Our new brand is more aligned with where we’re headed in the future,” said president and founding partner Steve Weld. “We wanted to honor and preserve our accomplished history while looking forward to our future, all while staying true to the Wisconsin roots and core beliefs that have always guided the firm’s growth and success.”

As a nod to its history, Weld Riley’s primary brand color, green, has been retained, but has been brightened to give the firm’s marketing materials a fresh, modern feel. The logo icon consists of four vertical bars in honor of the four founding partners. The firm’s new tagline, “A more powerful partnership,” builds on the strength of the firm’s size and scope, as well as being a statement on the way the firm sees its relationship with its clients—as helpful business partners instead of just another outside resource.

In updating its name, logo, tagline, and look, Weld Riley sought to create a brand image that better reflects the standard of service, professionalism and unique culture of the firm. While the firm’s name and outward face have changed, the core beliefs and business approach of the firm are the same as ever. Committed to providing a high level of dedicated, responsive service and legal insight to its clients and the community, Weld Riley prides itself on being true to its down-to-earth approach—offering big-city legal talent without the stuffy attitude.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

Leaders in the Mining industry rely on Weld, Riley, Prenn & Ricci for full-service legal representation and most importantly, results.

Weld Riley is the largest law firm in the heart of Wisconsin’s frac sand deposits. Weld Riley’s industry-leading accomplishments include:

Obtained annexations for Sand Products Wisconsin (915 acres) and Vista Sand (645 acres) to create regulatory certainty for frac sand operations while facing national opposition.

Guided a Fortune 100 company through the complicated regulatory process to build the largest sand-processing plant in North America. First firm in state history to roll back a county-wide mining moratorium (Eau Claire County)

Counsel for separate $75 million-plus private equity and credit agreements with emerging mining entities.
Brokered mining agreements in 1986 for the Flambeau Mine in Ladysmith.

Negotiated and implemented a cutting-edge royalty agreement between an industrial sand company and private landowners.

On behalf of frac sand company, authored the Wisconsin Towns Association-endorsed Mining and Mineral Development Agreement (Town of Howard)

Featured speakers regarding frac sand at national conferences in Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Denver.

If you need help siting a plant or mine, obtaining regulatory certainty, negotiating real estate deals, drafting landowner or industrial royalty agreements, working with federal, state or local governments, or defending your business, Weld, Riley, Prenn & Ricci is the premier Wisconsin Mining Team in the heart of frac sand country.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

Join us for a seminar on September 30th that takes an in-depth look at the recent changes to the Affordable Care Act (ACA). 

With tweaks and changes being introduced every day, it’s critical that your business remain aware of shifting responsibilities. There are several ACA provision deadlines quickly approaching including: the employer mandate, temporary reinsurance fees, and additional employee-specific reporting and disclosures. Johnson Insurance can help your business prepare.

Panelists
Mike Derdzinski – SVP, Director, Johnson Insurance 
Chris Lokken – Employee Benefits Consultant, Johnson Insurance 
Stephen L. Weld – Weld, Riley, Prenn & Ricci, S.C.

Join Us for Breakfast, Register Here Today
September 30th, 7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Lehman’s Supper Club  |  2911 S. Main Street  |  Rice Lake, WI 54868 

Join Us for Lunch, Register Here Today
September 30th, 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
The Steakhouse & Lodge  |  15860 T Bone Lane  |  Hayward, WI  54843

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

Hall Financial Group LLC will host an Estate Planning Workshop in conjunction with Weld, Riley, Prenn & Ricci, S.C. Thursday October 23, 2014.
Articles/HallWeldWorkshop.pdf

Weld Riley attorneys, including William Milne, presented UW-Eau Claire Continuing Education program “Planning for a Confident Retirement”. Information and Registration
http://www.uwec.edu/CE/programs/retirement-planning.htm

The Wellness Committee at Weld, Riley, Prenn and Ricci has received the Gold Level Wellness Award from the Eau Claire Chamber of Commerce. The Gold Level certificate completion has been a long term goal of the Wellness Committee and is given for Implementing Best Practices in Workplace Wellness.

Bob McCoy, EC Chamber President, and Kate Banchy, Health & Wellness Committee Chair, present the Weld, Riley, Prenn & Ricci Wellness Committee with the Gold certificate for Implementing Best Practices in its Workplace Wellness Program. The Weld, Riley, Prenn & Ricci Wellness Program has grown over the last few years from Bronze in 2011, Silver in 2013 and now the Gold! Bob noted that we are the only company to make this progression. Pictured are Bob, Kate, Ben, Cheryl, Amy, Renee, and Jaime (missing from photo are Mindy and Michelle).

The law firm of Weld, Riley, Prenn & Ricci, S.C. of Eau Claire, Wisconsin is pleased to announce the return of Attorney John Robert Behling to its practice. John’s return comes after a one year leave of absence from the firm to work as General Counsel and Executive Vice President of Regulatory Affairs for Smart Sand, Inc.

John is known throughout the state for his expertise in regulatory, environmental, zoning, permitting and public relations efforts on behalf of his clients. John practices in the areas of Frac Sand, Mining and Minerals, Government Relations and Administrative & Environmental law. At the firm, he has served as the co-chair of these sections as well as the firm’s Vice President and member of the Management Committee. In 2012, John was appointed by Governor Scott Walker and unanimously confirmed by the Wisconsin Senate to a position on the University of Wisconsin Board of Regents. He was also unanimously elected Vice President of the Board of Regents in June, 2015.

John is “results oriented.” In 2010, John represented an oil and gas company in brokering an agreement with the Town of Howard in Chippewa County on a Non-Metallic (“Frac Sand”) Mining Agreement. This Agreement is now known statewide and has become the standard for companies and municipalities alike. John has a proven track record of introducing international and local entrepreneurs to federal, state and local leaders. These introductions allow his clients to gain a foothold and collaborate directly with these leaders.

John’s client list includes multiple Fortune 100 and international companies. He represents EOG Resources, Inc., as well as the Menards corporation. He is also local counsel for administrative and environmental projects for Phillips Plastics, Kraemer Mining & Materials, Alter Trading Corporation and many other companies.

John is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin with a bachelor of science in political science and economics. He also attended Georgetown University of Economics and received his law degree from the University of Wisconsin Law School.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

SaveSave

September 29, 2015

On Tuesday, September 29, Steve Weld was a co-presenter at an Eau Claire Chamber of Commerce Seminar entitled “Affordable Care Act Update; What Employers Need to Know”. This is the fourth in a series of seminars offered by the Chamber to its members since the passage of the Act. Steve has presented at all four.

Weld advised that the uninsured rate in the U.S. has dropped from 20.3%in 2012 to 12.6% in 2015. Thus, there are nearly 17.6 million newly insured people. If the goal of the Act was to decrease the number of uninsured people, the Act has been successful.

However, Weld reported that what remains unknown is the Act’s impact on health care costs. Clearly, there is a cost inherent in serving 17.6 million more insureds – a cost which is reduced by implementation of the exchanges and offset by taxes on uninsured individuals (the individual mandate) and employers who do not offer affordable health care which meets certain minimal requirements (the employer mandate).

Weld reported that the Act has resulted in the consolidation within the insurance industry and among health care providers, including hospitals, but the jury is out on whether that will reduce or increase the cost of health care. Weld summarized two recent U.S. Supreme Court cases and then focused on the implementation and potential impact of the “Cadillac” tax scheduled to go into effect in 2018.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

March 10, 2015
Weld, Riley, Prenn & Ricci will donate $50,000 to the Confluence Project’s art center fundraising campaign. With this donation they add their company to the Business for Growth campaign focusing on donations from local businesses.

“We are proud to support this project because we believe it will enrich the lives of everyone living in and around the Chippewa Valley.” said managing partner, Christine Gimber, from Weld, Riley, Prenn & Ricci, “Eau Claire is a place we are proud to call home and we want to make it even better.”

“We appreciate of the support Weld, Riley, Prenn & Ricci.” said Gerald and Meghan Bauer, co-Chairs of the Confluence fundraising committee, “They have been a great example of civic leadership in the Chippewa Valley, and their commitment will help the Confluence Arts Center become a reality.”
Businesses for Growth is a Confluence Arts Center Building Fund campaign launched on Feb 5th to reach out to businesses throughout the Chippewa Valley seeking to raise $3 million towards the $13.5 million of donations needed to build the Confluence Arts Center.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

August 1, 2014

Weld, Riley, Prenn & Ricci has partnered with JA Counter to offer seven complimentary workshops throughout west central Wisconsin to educate employers on utilizing self-funded health insurance as a way to comply with the Affordable Care Act and potentially control costs.

Each workshop will help employers identify and better understand health benefit alternatives and self-funding options. Self-funding is best suited for companies that have at least 25 full-time employees, or anticipate having 25 employees through forecasted growth.

Guest speakers from Security Health Plan, Health Partners and Weld, Riley, Prenn & Ricci will present information to help employers understand these issues.

For locations, dates, and times, please refer to this attached invitation or go to http://jacounter.com/news-events/

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

May 15, 2014
EAU CLAIRE – The Chippewa Valley Chapter of the Wisconsin Alumni Association recently recognized Attorney Steve Weld as the “2014 Badger of the Year” award winner. The Badger of the Year award honors University of Wisconsin-Madison graduates who are making a difference as business or community leaders, volunteers, educators, philanthropists, or UW-Madison advocates.

Steve Weld was chosen by the local chapter in recognition of his contributions to the community.

Steve is President of Weld, Riley, Prenn & Ricci, S.C., the largest law firm in the Chippewa Valley with offices in Eau Claire, Menomonie and Black River Falls. Steve graduated from UW-Madison with honors in 1969 and from the UW Law School in 1972. Steve is the past Chair of the Eau Claire Chamber of Commerce, formerly served on the United Way Board and was Vice President of the YMCA Board.

Since the early 1980’s, Steve has spearheaded an annual bus trip to Camp Randall Stadium to watch Badger football. The bus trip raises funds for UW-Madison scholarships and provides a fun-filled day for Chippewa Valley Badger fans. Commenting on the recognition, Steve said, “Attending UW-Madison played a large role in developing me into who I am today as a business professional. I love being able to give back while having a little fun. Go Badgers!”

The Weld, Riley, Prenn & Ricci Law Firm was formed in 1991. The firm practices in all major areas of the law and is comprised of a Litigation, Labor and Employment, Business, Real Estate, Energy, Frac Sand Mining and Minerals, and Government Relations Sections.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.

December 11, 2013
EAU CLAIRE – The law firm of Weld, Riley, Prenn and Ricci, S.C. is pleased to announce Attorney Anders Helquist has been elected Shareholder.

“Anders Helquist has quickly become recognized by mining companies and other industrial companies as an expert in permitting, licensing, and regulatory matters. In addition, Anders has developed a number of key contacts within both the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and Wisconsin Department of Transportation which give him an insight into industrial and regulatory trends. This background makes him the go-to person in the Chippewa Valley for mining and environmental matters,” said Steve Weld, the firm’s President.

Anders works in the Environmental and Administrative, Government Relations, and Frac Sand, Mining and Minerals Sections. In his practice, Anders counsels businesses with environmental, permitting, compliance, and government relations issues. He is actively involved representing industrial frac sand entities seeking to establish nonmetallic mines in Wisconsin. Anders also assists local governments in municipal and labor-related matters.

Anders is a graduate of the Drake University School of Law and joined the firm as an Associate in 2008.

Weld Riley, S.C. was founded in 1991. The firm consists of lawyers across four offices (Eau Claire, Menomonie, Wausau and Black River Falls) and offers a full range of legal services, including labor and employment, business law, estate planning, tax representation, municipal law, mining and mineral rights, environmental law, banking and creditor rights, civil litigation, criminal defense, immigration, and family law.