Author: Susan

Commission on Judicial Nomination Seeks Applicants for Chief Judge

The Commission on Judicial Nomination will be accepting applicants for chief judge until March 7. The clerk of the Court of Appeals informed the commission that there continues to be a vacancy in the position of chief judge given the state Senate’s rejection Wednesday of Presiding Justice Hector LaSalle, Appellate Division, Second Department. The vacancy … Continued

Remote Notarization: What Lawyers and Notaries Need to Know

The New York State Bar Association has formed a task force to study the state’s new rules on notarization, which are having a significant impact on lawyers handling real estate transactions, wills and trusts and all other legal matters that require signing documents. While the task force members deliberate, the association is doing everything it … Continued

NYSBA President Says Justice Acosta Inspired Attorneys To Reach for the Highest Echelons of the Profession

Sherry Levin Wallach, president of the New York State Bar Association, issued the following statement about the retirement of Presiding Justice Rolando Acosta, Appellate Division, First Department: “Justice Rolando Acosta is a well-respected jurist who gave back to the legal profession in so many ways. He always took the time to mentor young attorneys, share … Continued

New York State Bar Association Is Studying the Impact of Facial Recognition Software on Individual Freedom

The New York State Bar Association is examining the legal and ethical implications and the impact on personal freedom of corporations employing facial recognition software to ban their adversaries – and every lawyer who works for a firm that represents them — from entering sports and entertainment venues. The association’s Executive Committee on Wednesday launched … Continued

NYSBA Calls for Statewide Equity for the Increase in State-Funded Compensation for Assigned Counsel

Sherry Levin Wallach, president of the New York State Bar Association, issued the following statement today following the release of Gov. Kathy Hochul’s 2023-24 executive budget proposal: “Gov. Kathy Hochul recognized the need for increased pay for assigned counsel in New York State. But her proposal calling for lower rates upstate relative to downstate is … Continued

New York State Bar Association Supports Key Investments in Governor’s Budget Proposal

The New York State Bar Association supports the key investments important to the association’s membership  that Gov. Hochul has included in her preliminary budget proposal. In particular, the association favors  the expansion and protection of reproductive health care, landmark investment in mental health care, significant criminal justice initiatives and improvements to the housing stock. The … Continued

Law on Electronic Notary Services Goes Into Effect Feb. 1

A new law, NY Executive Law Section 135-c, authorizes notaries to perform electronic notarial acts by registering with the Department of State and complying with new rules. Notaries wishing to provide electronic notary services will be able to register with the Department of State starting on Feb. 1. After Jan. 31, New York State will no … Continued