It has become apparent that lawyers must keep informed of changes in the law, including the benefits and risks associated with relevant technology. And, relevant technology is not limited to electronic dockets (i.e., NYSCEF, and ECF) and preserving text messages a client sends about his/her representation. Rather, relevant technology includes today’s world of social media including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and
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Ethics
Ethical Information Gathering When Using Social Media
The American Bar Association Ethics 20/20 Commission and Rule 1.1 provide that a lawyer’s duty of competence “[t]o maintain the requisite knowledge and skill, [requires] a lawyer [to] keep abreast of changes in law and its practice, including the benefits and risks associated with relevant technology.” The New York County Lawyers’ Association Professional Ethics Committee Formal Opinion 749 (Feb. 21,…
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An Attorney Acting ‘With a Pure Heart and An Empty Head’ is Sanctioned for Spoliating Emails
According to the Complaint filed in Michael Distefano and Nicole Distefano v Law Offices of Barbara H. Katsos, PC and Barbara H. Katsos, Michael DiStefano and a non-party were owners of a limited liability company that was the franchisee of three Cold Stone Creamery Inc. ice cream parlors. In 2006, the three stores suffered financial difficulties due to an extended…