The New York City Bar Association has issued a white paper calling for New York State to prohibit debt settlement services that charge a fee that is more than nominal, as well as for other restrictions that would protect debtors from debt settlement companies that prey on consumers.

The New York City Bar Association will present its 2012 Diversity & Inclusion Champion Awards at a ceremony and luncheon on June 5, 2012.

The shocking and unacceptable treatment of Chen Guangcheng, a well-known legal advocate, and his family by Chinese authorities reflects the broader problem of harassment of dozens of lawyers in China who represent unpopular clients and causes disfavored by the government.