Law is a changing profession, and those in it need to be open to new ideas at every turn. One concept that is growing and evolving is that of “new law,” a practice model that allows legal firms to expand their reach to clients in new ways. This can include working with underserved communities, creating strategies to better serve certain types of clients or otherwise offering legal help that may have been less readily available in the past. A well-thought out plan that uses this model can help a firm discover new sources of revenue while also allowing it to offer the type of help that some clients need without threatening the primary focus of the firm.
A New York lawmaker’s proposal to let a local law enforcement agency confiscate a suspect’s cellphone could be blocked by federal privacy laws, according to a state judge.
The new year will bring changes to the way that people can access public records in New York. A bill to be introduced in the Assembly would remove restrictions on how and when public agencies can release police booking photos of individuals. The measure is named for Matthew Horan, a young man from Brooklyn who died of a fentanyl overdose in 2020.
If passed, the bill will amend the Freedom of Information Law to allow local law enforcement agencies to retain electronic booking photos in the interest of public safety and to prevent the potential for unwarranted invasions of personal privacy. The bill will also require the Office of General Services to establish guidelines for the deletion of identifying details from records that are released and for establishing procedures to ensure that the names of minors are not disclosed when releasing arrest or booking photographs.
This is one of a number of bills introduced in this session by Assembly members who were touched by the tragic death of a local teenager who overdosed on fentanyl. The others are aimed at expanding access to addiction treatment and helping families of opioid addicts.
Lawmakers are also looking at expanding marijuana laws in the state, imposing a ban on smoking in public spaces and changing how landlords treat renters. The proposals will be discussed at a committee hearing later this month.
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New York City Law Department
The New York City Law Department is suing a former partner for breach of fiduciary duty over a disputed bonus payment. The lawsuit alleges that the partner misappropriated funds meant for staffers and clients, including those working on pro bono projects. It is also seeking unspecified damages. The Law Department’s complaint was filed in Manhattan federal court on January 31. Read the full story on Law360.
