The practice of law is changing rapidly. Lawyers and law firms are seeking new ways to provide legal services that are able to meet the needs of clients with ever more diverse problems. This is often referred to as “new law,” though the nomenclature for this practice can differ from firm to firm. A firm that adopts this approach may do so through the creation of a distinct division within its existing practice or as part of a separate start-up. Whatever the case, a well thought out plan that makes use of new law techniques can help a law firm grow and expand its reach without impacting other areas of the practice.

New laws are pieces of legislation enacted to address specific issues, update existing policies, or respond to the changing needs of society. The process of creating a new law includes various steps, such as drafting, committee review, and floor debate. The final result is a law that has been passed and can be enforced by government agencies. This process of creating a law reflects democratic principles of representation and accountability by enabling citizens to directly influence policy through their elected representatives.

A bill becomes a law once it is signed into effect by the Mayor. After the Council passes a bill into law, the Mayor has 30 days to sign the bill into effect, veto the bill or take no action on the bill. If the Mayor vetoes the bill, it is returned to Council, which can override the Mayor’s veto with a 2/3 majority vote. This bill would require City agencies to notify employees and job applicants of student loan forgiveness programs. It would also make certain definitions of personal information in City law more consistent with state law. Read Local Law 53 of 2024.