The legal profession is one that changes at a fast pace. New legislation, court decisions and pending cases make for exciting and challenging times for lawyers. It’s important for us to keep up with these developments and adapt to them, in order to continue providing the highest quality service to our clients. One way to do this is by keeping up with “law new,” a term used to describe innovations in the practice of law. This may mean working with different types of clients, focusing on process and taking advantage of new technology. It can also mean new ways of managing and overseeing staff, such as by offering more flexible schedules and using non-traditional fee structures.
Amid a global economic crisis, legal firms are seeking to cut costs and remain competitive. This can result in a focus on finding cheaper operating locations and cutting salaries for some employees. However, for a few law firms, this can be an opportunity to do something more: Become a pioneer in the field of “law new,” a concept that involves practicing law through innovative methods and developing strategies to provide clients with legal services that are more cost efficient than what has been historically available.
Practicing law in this manner is not just about saving money; it is about benefiting the client and addressing their needs in the most effective, efficient manner possible. This can be done by embracing technology, exploring alternative methods of delivery and incorporating other aspects that were previously considered outside the scope of legal practice. It is a field that may be difficult to pin down in terms of what exactly it encompasses, but is generally considered a separate and distinct form of legal practice from the traditional model.
New attorneys in the Division work with senior staff members and City officials on a variety of municipal law matters, including pending federal and state legislation, policy initiatives, local laws, and other matters related to governmental operations and functions. In addition, they research, analyze and advise on a broad range of municipal issues, including education, health, civil rights, the environment, transportation and land use.
This bill would require City agencies to provide employees and job applicants with notice of student loan forgiveness programs. It also would require DCWP to prepare a model notice for private employers to use in their own workplaces. The bill would add an additional requirement to the existing laws that require City agencies to notify affected persons following a data breach. These laws would be amended to make them consistent with State data breach notification requirements.