It's a guy thing: Male attorneys in Wisconsin chapter of Association for Women Lawyers.

Byline: Jack Zemlicka

Nowadays, there is no shortage of legal organizations courting attorneys for membership.

These associations offer ways to enhance practice skills and increase networking opportunities.

Five male attorneys in Wisconsin have found that to be the case, albeit in a unique setting: the state chapter of the Association for Women Lawyers (AWL).

This profession was male-dominated for years, [but] the times are changing, said member Thomas P. Krukowski. This is a great way for me to stay in touch with what female lawyers are doing in the community.

He joined the association of 400-plus members several years ago as a show of support for his daughter and former AWL president, Deborah A. Krukowski.

But Krukowski has also found membership to be an asset to his labor and employment practice.

He is one of two practicing male attorney members, and said his in-volvement with the AWL has been a good source of referrals.

I look for members to refer work, but I also do the same, he noted. When I get a call on an employee matter, that is often something I know a number of people in AWL would be able to handle.

Legal consultant Dana Kader Robb sees networking as one of the primary reasons for men to join the organization.

In her 10 years as AWL administrator, Robb said the number of men in the association has remained steady at five or so. But she suggested that membership could potentially boost business.

If I'm a woman looking for an attorney and can't find a female, a man who I know supports a woman's organization may be the next best thing, she said.

It's also not a bad idea to have the unique affiliation on your resume, Robb said, especially since the AWL doesn't publish a membership directory.

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Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Richard J. Sankovitz has been an AWL member since 1992. As one of six people vying for a seat on the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals, Sankovitz suggested his affiliation with the association could be an asset during...