A Solo and Small Firm Guide to Reopening

Originally held on Thursday, September 30, 2021 | 11:00 am – 12:30 pm


Program Chair:
Joan C. Lenihan
Joan C. Lenihan, Attorney at Law

  • The panel will explore the unique challenges Solo and Small Law Firm attorneys are facing as New York opens. Panelists will discuss best practices including accommodations under the ADA and Title VII, mandatory vaccinations, flexible work schedules, and the ethics of continuing to practice remotely.

    Program Fee:
    $89 for Members | $189 for Nonmembers

    Members who are Recent Law Graduates, Newly Admitted Lawyers (admitted for the first time in any state or country 2019-2021), In-House/Corporate Counsel, Judges, and attorney members who practice within the Government, Academic or Not-for-Profit sectors attend this program for free.

  • Brian Heller
    Schwartz Perry & Heller LLP

    Precious Lewis
    Precious Lewis, DC37 AFSCME AFL-CIO

  • 11:00 – 11:05 am Introductions

     

    11:05 – 11:10 am Vaccination and Mask Mandates

    1. The Individual v. The Common Good
    2. A Solo/Small Firm Owner Can Ask if You Are Vaccinated
      1. But not why you are not vaccinated
    3. Your Employer can require you to get vaccinated.
      1. EEO, NYCHRL and NYS Employment at Will

    11:10 – 11:30 am Accommodations

    1. Employment at Will
      1. ADA, Title VII, New York State and City HRL
      2. Numerosity
        1. Categories of Accommodations
          1. Disability, Religious, Pregnancy
          2. Caregiver Status

    11:30 – 11:45 am Interactive Process

    1. Differences among City, State, and Federal Law
    2. Undue Burden for Small Law Firm

    11:45 – 12:05 pm Law Practice Management

    1. Remote Work-Feasible for Small Law Firm?
    2. Staggered Work Schedules
    3. Offering Incentives-Pro and Con
    4. Dealing With Clients
    5. Breakthrough Infections
    6. Office Space Cheaper

     

    12:05 – 12:20 pm Ethics of Remote Practice

    1. Maintaining a Physical Office
    2. Internet Security
      1. Threats to Client Confidentiality
      2. Zoom bombing, Cyber-security
    3. Mediations, Trials, Depositions
    4. Ethical Obligations-Meet with a Client in Person or Not?

    12:20 – 12:30 pm Questions & Answers

  • New York: 1.5 Professional Practice
    New Jersey: 1.8 General
    California: 1.0 General
    Pennsylvania: 1.0 General
    Connecticut: Available to Licensed Attorneys

  • Sponsoring Association Committees:
    Labor & Employment, Tracey Salmon-Smith, Chair
    Small Law Firms, Anne Wolfson, Chair

    Co-Sponsoring Organization:
    Small Law Firm Center

    Sponsorship Opportunities are Available! Please Contact:
    Angie Avila, Manager, Membership Outreach and Sponsorships | (212) 382-6608 | aavila@nycbar.org