Category: Latest News

NYSBA Joins the 18th Annual Caren Aronowitz Unity in Diversity Program

On Sept. 19, 2025, the New York State Bar Association Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee co-sponsored the 18th Annual Caren Aronowitz Unity Diversity Program. Chialu (Gisele) Brown, Lina Maria Diaz, Judge Helena Heath, Albert Feuer, and Duane Frankson represented the DEI Committee as volunteers. This event was presented by several organizations, including: The Gender Fairness … Continued

The Elusive Rule of Law

As we approach the semi-quincentennial anniversary of our nation during a time of heightened political polarization, it is an appropriate time to discuss where the United States stands today with respect to the rule of law. That principle of American democracy has played a crucial role from our nation’s birth in ensuring that our country … Continued

Divorce Brings Complications for Same-Sex Couples

Same-sex couples have a lot to consider when separating – especially if they started their relationship before states enacted marriage equality laws. The New York State Bar Association recently hosted a Continuing Legal Education course on the challenges facing same-sex couples as they try to end relationships and figure out dividing property and child custody. … Continued

Burden of Proof: Court Can’t ‘Just Say No’

Inherent Power of Courts It is well settled that a court in New York State has the inherent power to control its own calendar. As the Court of Appeals stated in Headley v. Noto,[1] in the context of multiple actions: “It is well recognized that the power to control its calendar is a vital consideration … Continued

Trap for the Unwary: How Pleadings and Collateral Contracts Can Unintentionally Forfeit the Right to a Jury Trial

Whether by pleading or contractual provisions, New York practitioners face the risk of surrendering a client’s right to a jury trial with unsettling ease. This article exposes these procedural snares by: first, introducing the statutory mechanism found in CPLR 4101 that is central to jury waiver by pleading and explores how merely asserting equitable or … Continued