Civil Law

The 2026 ‘burning issues’ confronting firm leaders

Keywords: Uncertain, Unstable, Changing, Chaotic, Complex, Technology, AI, Private Equity, Talent, Litigation Finance

[Editor’s note: This post is an large excerpt from Patrick’s and Michael’s annual survey of law firm leaders. By a wide margin, what makes this year’s survey so interesting are the numbers of issues that five or ten years ago, no one would have seen coming—AI, PE investment in law firms. Many thanks to Patrick and Michael for sharing these interesting and provocative findings. wdh.]

Everybody wants … Read the rest

Civil Law

It’s that time again: 2026 Works Council elections in Germany

Works Council elections 101: Understanding the basics for employers

Between 1 March and 31 May 2026, works council elections, which are held every four years in Germany, will take place in all companies that already have a works council. Moreover, if a company has several operations, each with its own works council, an election campaign and works council election will be held in each individual operation.

The upcoming works council elections are therefore a hot topic in Germany. In the … Read the rest

Circuit Courts

Judicial Branch Seeks $9.4 Billion in FY 2026 Budget Request

Two federal judges told Congress that the Judiciary has been negatively affected by two straight years of flat funding in most accounts, and they said a 9.3 percent increase in appropriations for the upcoming fiscal year is needed to ensure that the Judiciary can perform its essential constitutional functions.
Judiciary News – United States Courts… Read the rest