Wade Clark Mulcahy LLP

<p style="text-align: justify;">With the current state of New York amidst COVID-19, and the wheels of justice always spinning, one major question every attorney is asking, is when will their office re-open? The New York State Bar Association (“NYSBA”) wants an answer that question sooner rather than later.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">On March 20, 2020, Governor Andrew Cuomo issued the "New York State on Pause" Executive Order (EO 202.8). Under Gov. Cuomo's March 20th order, non-essential workers, including lawyers, are required to work from home. However, with recent reports of infections dropping, the governor has talked about a phased re-opening of specific sectors of the economy.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">On April 29, 2020, The New York State Bar Association announced the creation of "Restarting the Economy Working Group," which will be tasked with making recommendations on how to bring lawyers and staff back to their offices as soon as possible. Members of the new group are comprised of prominent attorneys from some of the biggest law firms in the world. The state group will consult with a wide range of officials, from law firm managers to health and labor experts, to help guide law firms and policymakers with the most efficient way for law firms to re-open while keeping everyone's health a top priority.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The creation of the advocacy group tells us one thing during these uncertain times – the New York State Bar Association is cognizant of the unprecedented issues the legal profession is facing and has taken a step forward to address the myriad concerns involving the health and safety of those employed by law firms. We look forward to hearing the recommendations made by the NYSBA as they become available.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Thanks to Irving Fayman for his contribution to this post. Please email <a href="mailto:Haquino@wcmlaw.com">Heather Aquino</a> with any questions.</p>