As the legal profession continues to evolve, many lawyers are looking for ways to expand their services and generate new sources of income. One idea that has gained popularity is the concept of “law new.” This term is not always easy to define but generally entails a number of different ideas that can be used to benefit clients in unique and exciting ways.
For example, law new can include helping those who cannot afford traditional legal services and creating strategies that take advantage of technology and a focus on process. It can also mean partnering with organizations that have not traditionally been part of the legal community to provide legal assistance or working with clients in remote locations to help them navigate the complex legal system.
A number of these ideas are already taking effect in the New Year. For instance, the minimum wage in New York City, Westchester and Long Island went up to $16 per hour as of Jan. 1. Another new law, called Matthew’s Law, allows local pharmacies and health care providers to offer free fentanyl and other drug adulterant testing supplies for those who need them.
Several bills that deal with security issues are also now in effect. For instance, Assembly Bill A7273 requires NYCHA to notify residents when the water in their building has been contaminated and it also ensures that those contracted by NYCHA to test water quality are properly trained. Another security measure, Local Law 151 of 2023, requires NYC agencies to disclose data breaches involving private identifying information.
Using the idea of law new can be beneficial for all types of firms. Creating a well thought out plan that makes use of this concept can allow any firm to offer the kind of legal help its clients need without impacting other areas of practice that might be the primary focus. The key to success with this approach is understanding that it is not a replacement for the practice of law but rather a way to augment it and give its practitioners a chance to grow in exciting and new ways. This is a strategy that every lawyer should consider using for their own advantage.
