LAWS AND PRACTICES COMMITTEE

I recently accepted an appointment to Chair the Laws and Practices Committee.   I am excited by the opportunity to take an active role in shaping the way in which we practice law in New York.  The Executive Committee of TICL met in July to discuss a strategic plan for the section, including the role of this committee.  It is the responsibility of this committee to ensure that the proposed legislation in thoroughly reviewed and vetted.  This includes the solicitation of comment from the membership and leaders of our section.  We are also charged with the responsibility of proposing new legislation that will assist lawyers in representing the interests of their clients.  A diverse committee and section will permit us to analyze proposed legislation from the viewpoint of many different types of practices.  We depend on the active involvement of the membership to be able to assist in developing and recommending laws and practice changes.  We have recently been asked to review issues related to Electronic Discovery, a Proposal to Amend Uniform Rules for Jury Selection and Deliberation, and a report prepared by the Bar of the City of New York entitled “En Banc Review in New York Courts”.   These are significant issues that impact the way in which we all practice law.

It is our goal to work closely with all of the substantive committees of the TICL section to coordinate an appropriate response and recommendations relating to legislation.  These proposals are circulated to the members of the committee with a request for comments.  It is an opportunity to take a first look at the proposed legislation and comment on any deficiencies.  These comments are then passed along to the Executive Committee of TICL with our recommendation.  Through the active participation by the members that of the committee, a well-reasoned law or new procedure can be properly presented and adopted. 

This committee provides the members with an opportunity to be heard.  We encourage all members with an interest in shaping the way we practice to join this committee and participate in the initiatives.  Your ideas, thoughts and practical approaches are welcomed.  You have a voice and a forum to be heard.  If you are interested in joining the committee or have questions about how you can become involved, feel free to email me at cunningham@ruppbaase.com

CHAIRPERSON
Thomas P. Cunningham, Esq.
cunningham@ruppbaase.com
1600 Liberty Building Buffalo, NY 14202

Related Links:

En Banc Proposal