Commentary

SCOMO: Summary judgment is not “an extreme and drastic remedy”

The Missouri Supreme Court reaffirmed that summary judgment is not an extreme or drastic remedy under Rule 74.04 in Wilkinson v. Farmers Holding Companies.

Commentary: Is there a mentor in the house?

Spencer Farris discusses the scarcity of mentors for young lawyers in Missouri and the impact on legal practice and professional development.

‘AI Won’t Take Your Job’ and Other Things CEOs Say Before the Layoffs

Gartner data shows AI-driven layoffs often fail to improve returns as companies struggle with automation, training and workforce change.

A Judge Walked into a Bar. He Should have Ducked.

Spencer Farris urges lawyers to defend judges against increasing public and political attacks undermining the rule of law in Missouri.

Commentary: Maintain your client’s file to protect your client and yourself

It is common for lawyers to treat business practices, like record-keeping, as secondary. Maintaining the client file is required by Missouri ethics rules, and it can help protect lawyers from a malpractice claim.

Commentary: Final means final: Rule 74.16 and the end of attorney-fee finality confusion

Nearly four years after the adoption of Supreme Court Rule 74.16, courts are still dismissing appeals because parties continue to apply the old framework. Here's a look at the confusion the rule has created.

Mr. Bluebird is on my shoulder, and now I have to get my suit cleaned

Spencer Farris discusses how technology and changing work-life balance have improved legal practice in Missouri, including remote appearances and mediation.

Commentary: A “Friend” in the Trial Court? Yes

A trial-level amicus brief can serve a useful and legitimate purpose: helping the court evaluate a legal issue that may have consequences extending well beyond the immediate dispute.

Your best people are not leaving for more money — they are leaving because you stopped paying attention

The companies that are winning on culture and retention right now are not necessarily the ones with the biggest compensation packages. They are the ones where leaders pay close enough attention to know what their people are actually reaching for and then find ways to put it within reach.