Author: Brandon

New York State Bar Association President Calls Retirement of Judge Paul Feinman ‘A Tremendous Loss’

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The New York State Court of Appeals suffered a tremendous loss today with the sudden and unexpected retirement of Judge Paul Feinman — an exceptional judge, magnificent human being, and a champion of the LGBTQ community. He has been a wonderful colleague to so many of us at the New York State Bar Association, and we are saddened that his tenure on the state’s highest court will be so brief. I join with his family, friends and admirers throughout the state in wishing him a speedy recovery.

If 90 Percent of Cases Settle, Make Your Virtual Deposition Count: Best Practices for Today and After COVID-19

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Pandemic or not, depositions potentially pose your one and only opportunity to assess the witness’ credibility so that you can guide your client or cases accordingly. With approximately 90 percent of cases settling, depositions remain the most important discovery tool. They breed candor, whether the witness likes it or not. Depositions also are critical to … Continued

Court Memo Urges Proper Etiquette & Decorum

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Good afternoon Members, Two top state court officials have issued a memorandum emphasizing appropriate decorum and etiquette for all virtual court proceedings. The memorandum was sent to all administrative judges statewide by Hon. Vito C. Caruso, deputy chief administrative judge for the courts outside New York City, and Hon. George J. Silver, deputy chief administrative … Continued

New York State Bar Association President Condemns Wave of Asian-American Hate Crimes

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These brutal murders in Georgia, targeting members of the Asian-American community, should outrage all who believe in inclusiveness – a bedrock American ideal. Regardless of whether authorities determine that these abhorrent attacks were hate crimes, they were without a doubt senseless acts of violence that have robbed Asian-Americans of their right to feel safe and secure in their homes, workplaces and neighborhoods.

Judges To Be Vaccinated, Trials Begin Next Monday

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Chief Judge Janet DiFiore said in her weekly coronavirus update today that state court system judges and justices will become eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccination beginning Wednesday, March 17 as part of the allowed “public facing essential government officials and employees.”