News

For many New Yorkers, especially those who live in rural areas, finding and getting to a notary public can be challenging.  That hardship added to the difficulty of submitting documents to New York courts for matters involving divorce, child custody and personal injury lawsuits.  But a pending change in the law will soon ease that burden. On January 1, 2024, a bill recently passed by the New York State Legislature and signed by Governor Kathy Hochul will become law, permitting New [...]

New Yorkers post hundreds of Google reviews every day.  A downstate couple who posted an unfavorable review of an orthodontist after the dentist treated the couple’s child were sued by the orthodontist for defamation.  A claim for defamation requires proof that the defendant made a false statement;  and a defamation claim can be defeated by showing the statement was an opinion and/or criticism (which are generally protected under the First Amendment of the U.S. [...]

Did you know that creation or possession of a falsified COVID-19 vaccination card is now a crime under New York law?  Governor Kathy Hochul has signed what’s called the “Truth in Vaccination” law, which amended the New York Penal Law (Sec. 175) to include vaccine cards within the definition of “written instruments” – meaning a person in possession of a fake COVID-19 vaccination card can be charged with criminal possession of a forged instrument, a crime [...]

Attorney Christopher Lemire presented at the New York State Association of Self-Insured Counties – Fall Conference in Corning, NY.  Mr. Lemire’s topic was “New York Workers’ Compensation – The Injured Worker’s Point of View. How do work related injuries impact injured workers, their families and employers and how providing prompt medical care and payment for lost wage benefits leads to quicker recovery and a successful return to work.”

The First Steps You Should Take After a Car Accident Unfortunately, no matter how experienced a driver is, car accidents are bound to happen. Though emotions are often high immediately following an accident, it is important to remain calm and remember the steps you need to take not only for your health and safety, but for your future financial security, as well. If you plan to file an insurance claim, or a lawsuit for damages, make sure that you: 1)    Remain at the Scene: Even [...]