November 2021

Exploring the Evolution of Legal System in New York

New York has a rich history when it comes to the legal system. From the early days of the Dutch colony of New Amsterdam to the present day, the state’s legal system has undergone several transformations.

The Dutch settlers who arrived in New York in the early 1600s brought with them their legal traditions. The Dutch legal system was based on the Roman law, and this tradition was continued by the English who took over the colony in 1664. However, the English introduced the common law system, which was based on the decisions made by judges in previous cases.

In 1846, the state adopted a new constitution that established a new court system. This system introduced the concept of “trial by jury,” which gave citizens the right to be tried by a jury of their peers. The new constitution also established a Supreme Court and a Court of Appeals.

In the 20th century, the legal system in New York continued to evolve. In the 1930s, the state established the New York State Bar Association, which helped to improve the quality of legal services in the state. In the 1950s, the state adopted a new civil practice law that standardized the rules for civil litigation.

The 1960s saw the introduction of new legal rights for citizens, including the right to a public defender and the right to sue for damages in cases of discrimination. The state also established several new courts, including the Surrogate’s Court and the Family Court.

In the last few decades, the legal system in New York has continued to change. In the 1990s, the state established specialized courts to deal with specific types of cases, such as drug courts and domestic violence courts. In 2011, the state passed the Marriage Equality Act, which legalized same-sex marriage.

Today, the legal system in New York is one of the most advanced in the country. The state has a strong tradition of protecting the rights of citizens, and its courts are respected for their fairness and impartiality. As the state continues to grow and change, it is likely that the legal system will continue to evolve to meet the needs of its residents.…

November 30, 2021 by Legal Advice

Championing Justice: The Role of Attorneys in NY Law

As the saying goes, “Justice delayed is justice denied.” In a world that’s increasingly becoming complex and uncertain, legal representation has become more important than ever. Attorneys play an essential role in ensuring justice is served in New York law.

First and foremost, attorneys are advocates for their clients. They represent clients in both criminal and civil cases in court. Their primary responsibility is to provide legal advice and guidance that’s essential in ensuring their clients’ rights and interests are protected. Whether it’s a small dispute or a complicated legal battle, an attorney is always there to safeguard the client’s interests.

Beyond that, a good attorney helps their client understand the law and its complexities. This way, the client is equipped with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their case. Attorneys are trained to analyze cases, identify pertinent issues and provide legal guidance that’ll help clients achieve their goals. They help clients navigate the legal system with ease and make informed decisions about their case.

In addition to representing clients, attorneys play a crucial role in the administration of justice. They serve as officers of the court and work to uphold the integrity of the legal system. Without attorneys, the courts would struggle to function effectively. Their contributions to the administration of justice range from arguing motions before the court, preparing legal briefs, and negotiating settlements. They provide the necessary legal expertise to help judges arrive at fair and equitable decisions.

Attorneys are also advocates for social justice. Many attorneys in New York law work pro bono or provide legal assistance to low-income individuals, immigrants, and other marginalized communities. They help people who are unable to afford legal representation or access to legal services. This work goes a long way in promoting access to justice and helps ensure that the legal system is equitable for all.

In conclusion, attorneys play an essential role in championing justice and upholding the rule of law. Their advocacy for clients, commitment to upholding the integrity of the legal system, and commitment to social justice helps make New York law fair and equitable for all. It’s no wonder that attorneys are often referred to as “guardians of justice.”…

November 24, 2021 by Litigation

Insights into Family Law in New York State

Family law in New York State encompasses a broad range of issues that impact families. From divorce and child support to adoption and domestic violence, the legal system offers a framework for resolving disputes and protecting the well-being of all family members. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the insights that can help you navigate the family law landscape in New York State.

Divorce

In New York State, a divorce can either be contested or uncontested. An uncontested divorce means that both spouses agree on all terms relating to the division of property, assets, and liabilities, as well as child custody and support, spousal support, and any other issues that may arise. A contested divorce, on the other hand, means that the spouses are not able to agree on terms and the court may need to intervene.

Child Custody

When it comes to child custody, New York State laws establish guidelines that prioritize the best interests of the child. Factors that may influence child custody decisions include the child’s relationship with each parent, each parent’s ability to care for the child, the stability of the child’s home, and the child’s needs and preferences. The court may award various types of custody, including legal custody (the right to make decisions about the child’s wellness, education, and medical care) and physical custody (where the child lives).

Child Support

State laws in New York require parents to financially support their children until they reach legal adulthood. The amount of child support is determined based on guidelines that take into account the income of each parent, the number of children involved, and other relevant factors. Child support may cover the cost of housing, food, clothing, and other necessities, as well as educational and medical expenses.

Adoption

Adoption is another legal issue that falls under the umbrella of family law in New York State. Those interested in adopting a child must comply with state requirements, including background checks, home studies, and other screening measures. The process can take several months, and in some cases, even years.

Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is a serious concern in New York State, and the legal system offers protections for victims. This may include orders of protection, which prevent the abuser from contacting or approaching the victim, as well as referrals to social services or mental health providers. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, it’s important to seek help immediately.

Conclusion

Family law in New York State is a complex and ever-evolving landscape that can impact families in a variety of ways. By understanding the core issues surrounding divorce, child custody, support, adoption, and domestic violence, you can make informed decisions and ensure the best possible outcome for your family. If you need legal assistance or representation, it’s essential to enlist the services of a qualified attorney who can guide you through the process and protect your interests.…

November 18, 2021 by Lawyer

New York Law: Understanding the State’s Legal Landscape

The state of New York has a unique legal landscape that can be challenging to navigate, whether you are a resident, business owner or visitor. With state laws differing from federal laws in certain areas, it is important to understand the legal system in New York.

One area where New York’s laws differ from federal laws is in employment law. For example, in New York, non-compete agreements are much harder to enforce than in other states. This means that if you are considering entering into an employment contract that contains a non-compete clause, it is wise to seek the advice of a lawyer to ensure that the clause is enforceable.

Another area where state law in New York differs from federal law is tort law. Tort law covers a wide range of civil wrongs, including negligence, defamation, and intentional harm. In New York, the laws governing torts are more stringent than in other states. This means that if you are considering bringing a lawsuit against someone for damages, it is important to work with a lawyer who is experienced in New York’s tort laws.

New York is also unique in its laws regarding domestic violence. Under New York’s Family Court Act, a domestic violence victim can obtain an order of protection against their abuser without the aid of the police. This order of protection can prevent the abuser from contacting the victim, coming near them, or entering their home or workplace.

Finally, New York state law is unique in its treatment of real estate transactions. For example, New York requires that all real estate transactions be conducted through an attorney. This helps to ensure that both the buyer and the seller are protected throughout the transaction.

Overall, New York’s legal landscape presents some unique challenges for those who live, work or visit the state. However, by working with experienced lawyers and staying informed about New York law, you can successfully navigate the legal system in this state.…

November 12, 2021 by Lawsuit

Real vs. Reel Life: The Truth Behind Law Movies

Law movies have always been a popular genre in the film industry, offering viewers a glimpse into the inner workings of the legal system. From blockbuster hits like “A Few Good Men” to classics like “To Kill a Mockingbird,” legal dramas have been at the forefront of cinema for decades. But the question remains: how accurately do these movies portray the legal system in real life?

It’s important to remember that movies are meant to be entertaining, and as a result, dramatic license is often taken in terms of the storyline and characters. In many cases, the courtroom scenes are designed to heighten the tension and drama, leading to a feeling of nail-biting suspense for the audience. While this makes for great entertainment, it’s not a completely accurate depiction of real-life court proceedings.

One of the main differences between real and reel life in law movies is the time frame. In movies, court proceedings tend to be rapid-fire and swift, with lawyers delivering impassioned speeches in mere minutes. In reality, trials can take months or even years, with countless motions, hearings, and appeals before a verdict is reached. Additionally, in movies, witnesses often break down and reveal crucial evidence under cross-examination, but in real life, it’s much more rare.

Another aspect where real-life court proceedings differ significantly from those portrayed in movies is the role of the judge. In movies, judges often actively participate in the case, making speeches and expressing opinions. In real life, the judge’s role is more passive, as they are required to remain impartial and not show preference for either party.

Similarly, the portrayal of lawyers in movies is often exaggerated. In movies, they’re brilliant, eloquent, and persuasive, but in real life, they’re simply people who have studied the law extensively and work hard to represent their clients. Lawyers in real life do not always have such dramatic showdowns with their opponents, nor are they often able to outsmart them with a last-minute revelation.

One of the most blatant differences between real and reel life in law movies is the way in which cases are resolved. In movies, the hero often finds the evidence they need to sway the jury and win the case at the last minute. However, this is not often the case in real life, where lawyers must rely on extensive pre-trial discovery and negotiation with opposing counsel to reach a settlement.

In conclusion, while law movies can be thrilling and entertaining, they do not always present an accurate portrayal of the legal system. Court proceedings in real life are much more complex and time-consuming, with judges playing a different role and lawyers not always the superstars they’re portrayed as in films. That said, legal dramas can still be enjoyable to watch, as long as viewers keep in mind that they do not always depict objective realities.…

November 6, 2021 by Harvard Law School

Calendar

November 2021
M T W T F S S
1234567
891011121314
15161718192021
22232425262728
2930