February 4, 2015: Metro-North Explosion: Statement by New York State Bar Association President

February 4, 2015: Metro-North Explosion: Statement by New York State Bar Association President

2.4.2015

By Communications Department

“We extend our heartfelt thoughts and prayers to the victims of this horrific event as well as to their families and friends,” New York State Bar Association President Glenn Lau-Kee said today.

“The State Bar’s Committee on Mass Disaster Response is ready to assist as required by this incident,” he added.

“It is important for all of us in the legal community to recognize the importance of respecting the privacy of the victims and their families,” he said. “The decision to retain counsel is an important one and should not be made under pressure.”

Federal law prohibits attorneys from soliciting potential clients within 45 days of an air or rail passenger disaster.

In addition, the New York Rules of Professional Conduct prohibit attorneys from soliciting potential clients in personal injury or wrongful death matters for 30 days following the date of the incident—unless a filing is required within 30 days, in which case, solicitation is prohibited for 15 days.

The New York State Bar Association with 74,000 members is the largest voluntary state bar association in the nation. It was founded in 1876.

Contact: Lise Bang-Jensen 

Director, Media Services and Public Affairs

[email protected]

518-487-5530