Law new refers to new ways of practicing law that are aimed at improving client satisfaction and creating value. Typically, this includes using technology, focusing on process, and utilizing non-traditional fee structures. While this type of law practice can be a challenge, it can also be very rewarding for those that take the time to understand how it works and what it means for their clients.
As the 2024-2023 legislative session winds down, hundreds of new laws are set to go into effect for Californians. From changing the minimum wage to expanding access to child care, lawmakers are taking action on a variety of issues that affect everyday life.
State and local governments also have their own laws that impact residents. For example, the City of Los Angeles is implementing laws that will help reduce homelessness and ensure that public buildings are safe for tenants. In addition, several bills are being passed that aim to protect tenants in apartment complexes. For instance, one bill requires NYCHA to notify tenants within 24 hours about whether their water is safe for cooking and drinking. Another bill prevents landlords from installing keyless security devices that can unlock the door of a building without giving residents notice.
New York state laws include the Constitution, laws passed by the Legislature and periodically codified in the New York Consolidated Laws, and decisions by courts that interpret the laws. The City of New York also has its own laws, including the Charter and regulations passed by the City Council.
The city’s laws are available online for viewing and searching by subject matter or keyword. These laws are organized by topic, and you can also use the site to view a list of recently enacted legislation. Enacted bills and joint resolutions appear on this list after NARA assigns public law (PL) numbers. PL numbers link to slip law texts once they have been published by GPO.
Government transparency is an essential part of our democracy, and the law protects the people’s right to know how governmental decisions are made. The public has a right to review the records and statistics that lead to these decisions, and this right cannot be thwarted by shrouding them in confidentiality or obscurity.
The Open Meetings Law covers all meetings of “public bodies.” These include entities that conduct public business and perform a governmental function for New York State, or for a city, town, village, or school district; and committees and subcommittees of those entities.
The law states that the public has the right to access the records of any agency, unless they fall under an exception outlined in the statute. These exceptions are very broad and cover a wide range of information, including criminal records, medical treatment, and private communications. When an agency denies access to a record under this section, it must provide the reasons for the denial in writing to the person who requested the record.