The legal profession is a field that sees a lot of change. What was the right practice for a law firm in one quarter may not be the best approach for another. This is due to the nature of the work and the constant changes that occur with new cases. For many lawyers, this requires an open mind at all times and a willingness to look for new ways to help clients and grow the business. That is why some firms are starting to embrace the idea of “law new.” This concept can be hard to define, but in general it refers to using different methods of providing legal services and creating strategies that have not been used before. It also means working with underserved communities and using different kinds of technology.
Law new is one of the fastest growing segments of the legal industry and all firms should be familiar with it. It offers the opportunity to create a separate revenue stream for firms while still being part of the overall legal practice. As a result, it should be an important component of any legal firm’s strategy.
New laws went into effect in New York this year. From workers rights to education and housing, major changes are happening across the state.
A few of the laws that have taken effect include a higher minimum wage in NYC, Westchester and Long Island. Also, new legislation makes it a misdemeanor for homeless people to sleep or camp on state-owned land.
Another law would require public safety agencies to disclose when their data breaches put people’s private information at risk. The City would have to do this if they are notified of a breach by their vendors or they discover that private information was accessed, disclosed or used by an unauthorized person. This bill is intended to make the City’s breach notification laws more consistent with the SHIELD Act.
There are other bills that focus on issues related to data privacy, security and water quality. One law would require NYCHA residents to be notified within 24 hours if the building’s water is unsafe for drinking or cooking. Another law would require that those who test water quality at public buildings comply with federal and state regulations. It also establishes a new procedure for certifying these companies.
In addition, there are other laws that address issues such as voter access. One law makes it a crime to vote without a valid ballot or with a non-validated signature. It also makes it easier for prosecutors to use DNA evidence in court. Other new laws allow voters to submit absentee ballots in advance of Election Day and provide more leeway for voting at a polling station that isn’t their assigned one.
