New York City Bar Association Podcasts -NYC Bar

Scott Sholder is co-chair of the Litigation Group at Cowan, DeBaets, Abrahams & Sheppard LLP, one of the premier law firms in media and entertainment. A frequent writer and speaker on copyright and trademark issues, Scott has been recognized by Variety as “a thought leader in the artificial intelligence space as it relates to entertainment.” He was also featured in The Hollywood Reporter's 2024 “Power Lawyers” list. In addition to litigating on behalf of clients across the entertainment and media industries on copyright matters, Scott is representing world famous authors in a copyright class action litigation concerning the unauthorized use of literary works for generative AI “training.” He is the chair of the Copyright & Literary Property Committee A.I. Subcommittee whose mission is to keep tabs and stay current on the latest developments at the intersection of copyright law and generative A.I. Presented by the New York City Bar Copyright and Literary Property Committee and hosted by Theodora Fleurant and Jose Landivar, we discuss the latest developments in copyright law and artificial intelligence, discuss how taekwondo and power metal have shaped Scott's practice, and what it takes to be a high-performing litigator in 2025. (The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this podcast belong solely to the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations, employers, or affiliates they may be associated with. This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to provide legal or professional advice.) Selected Links from the Episode: New York City Copyright & Literary Property Committee: https://www.nycbar.org/committees/copyright-literary-property-committee Copyright Claims Board: https://ccb.gov/ Red Rising by Pierce Brown: https://www.amazon.com/Red-Rising-Pierce-Brown/dp/034553980X Ghost, “Mary On A Cross”: https://open.spotify.com/track/2wBnZdVWa5jVpvYRfGU7rP?si=511c7ba7d3df4e21 Unleash the Archers,”Northwest Passage” https://open.spotify.com/track/3Fiz4tFoVBosOUm2uMgdlL?si=8af4660100604e89

The Mindfulness and Wellbeing in the Law Committee returns to the airwaves to give you the lawyer's perspective on the healing power of music. Scott Mason, Nancy Batterman and Kathryn Schneider explore the mindfulness practices inherent to musical artistry, and the way that those practices can inform a life in the law. Nancy and Kathy share their personal journeys in the City Bar Chorus and the strong sense of community they have built there. The episode gives a new framing for some of the challenging aspects of the legal profession, like performing under pressure and navigating a proclivity for perfectionism. We close with a guided meditation and a poem by Rumi, emphasizing the spiritual and emotional dimensions of engaging with music. Kathryn Schneider is the Musical Director of the New York City Bar Chorus, which is giving two public concerts (with identical setlists) in June 2025 at the House of the Association showcasing musical theater and film selections, including from Sweeney Todd, Encanto, Kinky Boots, The Greatest Showman and Wicked, as well as inventive arrangements of songs by artists ranging from Billy Joel to Bruno Mars, Billie Eilish to Beyoncé, and more. Donations at the door will benefit the City Bar Fund and the Chorus. RSVP for the concerts at: June 26, 2025: https://services.nycbar.org/EventDetail?EventKey=CHOR062625 June 27, 2025: https://services.nycbar.org/EventDetail?EventKey=CHOR062725 02:29 Mindfulness and Music: The Connection 04:03 The Impact of Singing and Music on Wellbeing 08:13 The Role of Community in Music and Law 13:57 The New York City Bar Chorus: History and Personal Journeys 19:26 The Healing Power of Music and Performance 35:08 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts 38:36 Guided Meditation for Performance Preparation

A new City Bar report (https://bit.ly/3FURuAi) from the Presidential Task Force on Artificial Intelligence and Digital Technology highlights the harmful effects of artificial intelligence (AI) on people with disabilities, and the harm likely to occur for them in the future. The Task Force's  Subcommittee on the Impact of Artificial Intelligence on People with Disabilities and Underserved Communities continues the conversation in this podcast episode featuring attorneys, researchers, and technology leaders. They talk about the current challenges and opportunities AI presents for people with disabilities, emphasizing the importance of inclusive design and representation. Want to be part of the discussion? Register for the City Bar's Artificial Intelligence Institute on June 16 (available on-demand thereafter): https://services.nycbar.org/AIInstitute/ Visit nycbar.org/events to find all of the most up-to-date information about our upcoming CLE programs and events as well as on-demand CLE content. 03:06 Overview of AI's Impact on Disabilities 04:44 Building a Disability Inclusive AI Ecosystem 09:08 Generative AI and Representational Harms 15:54 AI in Digital Accessibility: Test Party's Mission 19:39 Challenges and Legal Perspectives on AI and Disabilities 35:26 Inclusive Design and Evaluation in AI 44:54 Final Thoughts and Future Directions

The City Bar Presidential Task Force on AI and digital technologies hosts this discussion on AI governance in the financial sector. Azish Filabi (American College McGuire Center for Ethics and Financial Services) moderates with Muyiwa Odeniyide (Nasdaq), Adam Marchuck (Citi), Jordan Romanoff (BNY Mellon), Stuart Levi (Skadden Arps), and Corey Goldstein (Paul Weiss). They share best practices for integrating AI governance and the specific risks associated with third-party AI vendors, underscoring the importance of cross-functional collaboration and continuous learning for lawyers navigating the rapidly changing AI environment. Want to learn more about AI governance in the financial sector? Register for the City Bar's Artificial Intelligence Institute on June 16 (available on-demand thereafter): https://services.nycbar.org/AIInstitute/ Visit nycbar.org/events to find all of the most up-to-date information about our upcoming CLE programs and events as well as on-demand CLE content. 01:08 AI Ethics and Financial Services 02:37 Current State of AI Law and Regulation 13:33 AI Use Cases in Financial Companies 16:50 AI Risk and Governance Considerations 18:45 Legal Perspectives on AI Risk 28:44 AI Governance in Financial Services 37:28 The Role of AI Lawyers 42:56 Balancing Innovation and Risk

Every day, New Yorkers are involuntarily committed to hospitals and mental health facilities for psychiatric treatment. But what happens when a patient wishes to be released from a hospital or refuses medication? In this podcast, we are joined by Hon. W. Frank Perry to discuss Mental Hygiene Proceedings, a little-known area of the law designed to resolve disputes between mental health patients and the facilities responsible for treating them. In this discussion, Judge Perry describes his transition from a Supreme Court Justice in the General Assignment Part to his current role as the sole Judge presiding over Mental Hygiene Proceedings throughout New York County. This open and honest conversation explores Judge Perry's experience with helping people at their most vulnerable moments, the tension between protecting individual rights of patients and ensuring that they are not a threat to themselves or others, and the procedure for carrying this out. We hope that this discussion can shed some light on a legal process that affects thousands of New Yorkers every year. Want to learn more about practice in New York's mental hygiene courts? You can access the City Bar's on-demand CLE program "Better Served by Treatment": Practicing in the Mental Health Courts 101: https://bit.ly/452oUXY Visit nycbar.org/events to find all of the most up-to-date information about our upcoming CLE programs and events as well as on-demand CLE content.

Sara Walsh and Elizabeth Pyjov discuss the critical role of compassion in the legal field. Elizabeth shares her extensive background in compassion training, her experiences living in diverse cultures, and how these shaped her understanding of human suffering. Together, they delve into the definitions and science of compassion, the eternal role of the arts in processing suffering, and practical ways to cultivate compassion. They emphasize that a compassionate approach can significantly improve lawyers' well-being and their professional interactions, ultimately leading to a more just and thriving society. If you're interested in incorporating mindfulness and well-being into your practice, join the Mindfulness and Well-Being in Law Committee for a Mindfulness Break, Yoga for Lawyers, or its next Book Club. More information about the committee and its upcoming events is available here. 02:09 Elizabeth's Journey: From Literature to Law 07:16 Defining Compassion in the Legal Profession 07:32 The Science Behind Compassion 14:12 Compassion vs. Common Misconceptions 17:24 The Role of Compassion in Legal Practice 19:15 Cultivating Compassion and Self-Compassion 27:12 The Impact of Compassion on Lawyers and Society 28:41 Final Thoughts and Call to Action 34:18 Closing Remarks and Additional Resources

Today the City Bar Podcast brings you an episode from its sister show, Building Belonging, a podcast of the City Bar's Office for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging. Building Belonging is launching a new season that brings listeners into the heartfelt, uncertain, messy, hopeful discussions that capture the work of DEIB on the ground as the landscape shifts and changes. In the first episode of Building Belonging season two, ODIEB dives deep into the fundamental question: What is DEI really? With the haters circling and pushback in full force, a lot of people are returning to this question to understand how to move justice forward. The team explores their individual journeys into DEI and what it means to them. As Eli puts it, this conversation seeks to address 'what DEI is, what it is not, where it is going, and who our allies are,' clearing up misconceptions and providing a nuanced understanding of essential concepts. Tanya highlights the innate human essence of DEI, saying, 'At its core, it is one of the most innate and human things that we have.' Angie drives home the practical importance of DEI: 'It's everything that makes the world more accessible to everyone.' By offering their personal insights and discussing the broader significance of DEI, the team aims to inspire listeners to open their eyes to new opportunities and get involved in this transformative work. PLEASE SUBSCRIBE TO THE BUILDING BELONGING PODCAST IF YOU ENJOYED THIS EPISODE!!!!

Microsoft is mobilizing generative artificial intelligence technology to address the access to justice gap in the United States. In partnership with the Northwest Immigrants Rights Project (NWIRP), they have built a collaborative initiative, ‘LUZ,' to streamline and scale the DACA renewal process for Dreamers. The City Bar Presidential Task Force on AI and Digital Technology's Ray Brescia hosts Malou Chávez, Executive Director of the Northwest Immigrants Rights Project (NWIRP), and Microsoft's Global Pro Bono Manager Adrian Palma and UX/UI designer Amae Kurre to talk about the access to justice gap that inspired the project, the role of tech in making legal services more efficient, and the essential nature of human oversight in AI-driven legal processes. Want to learn more about how AI and digital technology are being mobilized to close the digital divide in access to justice? You can access the City Bar's Artificial Intelligence Institute on demand: https://bit.ly/4j3lCYQ Visit nycbar.org/events to find all of the most up-to-date information about our upcoming CLE programs and events as well as on-demand CLE content. 01:19 The Evolution of Legal Technology 01:55 Introduction of ChatGPT and Generative AI 03:17 The Impact of AI on Legal Services 03:45 Microsoft's Pro Bono Initiative: LUZ 05:02 Challenges Faced by NWIRP 07:50 The Role of Technology in Legal Clinics 13:28 The Development and Design of LUZ 24:48 Human Oversight and AI Integration 26:26 Scaling the Initiative and Future Prospects 42:48 Addressing Concerns and Ensuring Security 48:28 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

In this episode of Mindful Lawyering we explore the emotional, mental, and physical toll of caregiver roles, particularly in the legal profession, and share practical strategies for managing stress — including seeking support, realigning priorities, and practicing self-compassion. Jordana Confino, a former practicing attorney and founder of JC Coaching and Consulting, is joined by Robbie Margolius, Director of Wellbeing at Arnold and Porter. The episode concludes with a self-compassion meditation led by Nancy Batterman, Deputy General Counsel at NYC's Department of Housing, Preservation, and Development. Sneak Peak: “41 percent of parents say that most days they're so stressed they can't function. And 48 percent say that their stress is completely overwhelming. But compared to other adults, that level is at 20%.” “I think so many of us, especially lawyers, believe that if it doesn't hurt, it's not working. If we're not burning the candle at both ends, we're not being productive. If we're not pushing ourselves to our breaking point, we're not doing enough. Because that's how we've been doing it. That's how we've been operating for so long.” “ We're talking about getting help from others and helping other people, but it's really also important to think about the connection between our self care and the care that we can provide for others. So it's that oxygen mask scenario. You've got to put on your oxygen mask first in order to help other people.” Resource: Parents Under Pressure – The U.S. Surgeon General's Advisory on the Mental Health & Well-Being of Parents: https://bit.ly/41CkWSC If you're interested in incorporating mindfulness and well-being into your practice, join the Mindfulness and Well-Being in Law Committee for a Mindfulness Break, Yoga for Lawyers, or its next Book Club. More information about the committee and its upcoming events is available here: https://www.nycbar.org/committees/mindfulness-well-being-in-law-committee/ Outline: 00:00 Introduction to Mindful Lawyering 00:33 Meet the Hosts: Jordana and Robbie 01:20 Personal Caregiving Stories 03:48 Understanding Caregiver Fatigue 09:15 The Legal Profession's Unique Challenges 14:13 Strategies for Managing Caregiver Fatigue 23:24 Seeking Help and Building Support Systems 30:48 Practical Self-Care Tips 34:18 Final Thoughts and Self-Compassion Exercise

Our latest episode is brought to you by the City Bar's Mass Incarceration Task Force. Tess Cohen, Chair of Task Force, discusses the Treatment Court Expansion Act, formerly known as the Treatment Not Jail Act, with guests Jeffrey Berman, a mental health attorney with the Legal Aid Society of Manhattan, and Mark Graham, founder and executive director of the Redemption Center. They explore the legislation's goal to expand treatment-based alternatives to incarceration for individuals with mental health issues, substance use disorders, and other disabilities. The discussion covers the bill's potential to reduce recidivism, the role of diversion courts, and the broader societal impact of addressing mental health and substance use issues within the community. Join the coalition at treatmentnotjail.com and advocate for change in our community. If you want to learn more about sensible legislative solutions to the treatment of people who are incarcerated in New York, read the Mass Incarceration Task Force's reports on the Treatment Court Expansion Act (https://bit.ly/43ETNRw) and the Communities Not Cages Act (https://bit.ly/4htf57U) and view the City Bar's Legislative Agenda (https://bit.ly/3DuhGAL) to learn more about how you can participate in advocacy that supports passage of these proposals in the New York State Legislature. 00:00 Overview of the Treatment Court Expansion Act 00:39 Meet the Experts: Jeffrey Berman and Mark Graham 01:29 Understanding the Legislation 02:39 Existing Criminal Justice Framework and Challenges 05:26 Expanding the Treatment Court System 06:47 The Importance of Removing Guilty Plea Requirements 11:53 Personal Stories and Advocacy 19:12 The Impact of Incarceration on Mental Health 22:12 Public Safety and Mental Health 26:07 The Cost and Benefits of Treatment Courts 28:33 Current Status and Future of the Treatment Courts Expansion Act 30:56 How Listeners Can Help 37:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Jerome Walker, co-chair of the Presidential Task Force on Artificial Intelligence and Digital Technologies, leads a discussion on President Trump's January 23, 2025 executive order: Removing Barriers to American Leadership in Artificial Intelligence. The episode features insights from Nikhil Aggarwal, Harut Minasian, and Nichole Sterling on the implications of reversing President Biden's AI policies. Key discussions include the roles of federal and state regulations, the balance between innovation and safety, and the international landscape of AI regulations. Nikhil, Harut and Nichole also explain foundational principles like explainability, transparency, and fairness in AI models, and assess how stakeholders should navigate these regulatory changes. Additionally, the episode delves into practical examples of AI applications in national security and offers strategic advice for market participants over the next four years. If you're interested in learning more about cryptocurrency and regulatory treatment of digital financial technology, join us for the City Bar's Crypto Institute on March 11 (https://services.nycbar.org/Institute/ and available thereafter on-demand). Visit nycbar.org/events to find all of the most up-to-date information about our upcoming programs and events. Removing Barriers to American Leadership in Artificial Intelligence: https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/removing-barriers-to-american-leadership-in-artificial-intelligence/ 00:22 Overview of President Trump's Executive Order on AI 02:34 Panelist Introductions 05:47 Understanding AI Models 08:01 AI in National Security 10:13 Impact of Executive Orders on AI Stakeholders 14:24 Legal Advice for AI Stakeholders 30:59 State Responses to Federal AI Policies 35:00 International AI Regulations and US Leadership 56:11 AI Action Plan and Key Principles 01:00:48 Conclusion and Closing Remarks

In this episode of the New York City Bar Association podcast, moderated by Jerome Walker, two legal experts, Tiffany Smith from WilmerHale and Stuart Levy from Skadden Arps, analyze President Trump's January 23rd, 2025 Executive Order on Strengthening American Leadership in Digital Financial Technology. They compare it with President Biden's previous executive order, discussing the balance between innovation and risk, potential impacts on the digital assets industry, regulatory clarifications, and international competition. The experts also emphasize the need for balanced, cautious optimism while engaging with both federal and state regulators. If you're interested in learning more about cryptocurrency and regulatory treatment of digital financial technology, join us for the City Bar's Crypto Institute on March 11 (https://services.nycbar.org/Institute/ and available thereafter on-demand). Visit nycbar.org/events to find all of the most up-to-date information about our upcoming programs and events. 00:29 Overview of President Trump's Executive Order 06:36 Discussion on Regulatory Environment 09:47 Advice for Stakeholders and Lawyers 22:24 State-Level Responses to Executive Order 28:28 International Perspective on Digital Assets 33:17 Policy Debate on Digital Asset Laws 37:23 Comparing Biden and Trump Administration Approaches 40:17 Future of Digital Asset Regulation 51:46 Conclusion and Closing Remarks

This episode of the New York City Bar Association comes to you from the Mindfulness and Well-Being in Law Committee. Host Scott Mason and committee Chair Aimee Latorre delve into the dimensions of wellbeing, Aimee's personal journey with mindfulness, and the profession's current crisis of mental health, attrition, and substance abuse. They also discuss the six dimensions of wellbeing defined by the ABA, and the additional two by the New York State Bar Association. Aimee highlights practical steps individuals and organizations can take to foster a culture of wellbeing and the positive impact it has on ethical and competent legal practice. If you're interested in incorporating mindfulness and well-being into your practice, join the Mindfulness and Well-Being in Law Committee for a Mindfulness Break, Yoga for Lawyers, or its next Book Club. More information about the committee and its upcoming events is available here: https://www.nycbar.org/committees/mindfulness-well-being-in-law-committee/ Visit nycbar.org/events to find all the most up-to-date information about our upcoming programs and events. 01:14 Personal Stories and Mindfulness Practices 03:10 Challenges in the Legal Profession 07:55 Defining Wellbeing and Mindfulness 08:56 Dimensions of Attorney Wellbeing 21:51 Practical Steps for Improving Wellbeing 25:21 Upcoming Events and Getting Involved 28:44 Conclusion and Meditation

Our latest episode from the Presidential Task Force on Artificial Intelligence and Digital Technologies surveys an emerging landscape of legislation around AI liabilities and remedies. David Lisson (Davis Polk), Clint Morrison (Patterson Belknap), Shayne O'Reilly (Meta), Matt Bacal (Davis Polk), and Rama Elluru ( Special Competitive Studies Project) unpack regulations from state, federal and international bodies covering topics such as disclosure and transparency, kids' safety, deep fakes, non-consensual intimate imagery, and intellectual property. They also touch upon the significant penalties under the EU AI Act and the broader themes emerging from these legislative efforts, emphasizing the balance between innovation and regulation. If you're interested in learning more about how artificial intelligence will affect the legal world, check out the City Bar's Artificial Intelligence Institute, available on-demand. Visit nycbar.org/events to find all of the most up-to-date information about our upcoming programs and events. 01:20 Federal AI Laws and Regulations 03:06 Pending AI Bills in the U.S. 14:35 State-Level AI Legislation 32:21 International AI Regulations: The EU AI Act 41:06 Closing Thoughts and Future Outlook 45:15 Outro and Additional Resources

Salahuddin Ahmed, a constitutional lawyer and expert from Pakistan, visited the City Bar Middle East and North African Affairs Committee to discuss the 26th Amendment to the Constitution of Pakistan and its impact on the independence of the Supreme Court and the Rule of Law. For a brief background on how the 26th Amendment attempts to subjugate the judiciary to the present regime in Pakistan, read the statement of the International Commission of Jurists. https://www.icj.org/pakistan-26th-constitutional-amendment-is-a-blow-to-the-independence-of-the-judiciary/ At least two Senators said in television interviews that they were compelled to vote for the Amendment after being kidnapped and having their family members kidnapped. The inducements and coercion adopted during the process were widely reported in Pakistani media and even raised in Parliament. For example, see: https://www.nation.com.pk/18-Oct-2024/senators-seek-end-to-coercion-to-get-vote-on-judicial-reforms The preliminary problem with this legal challenge will be - who hears this petition? Will it be the Supreme Court as it existed prior to the Amendment or can it now only be the Constitutional Bench of the Supreme Court specially selected for this purpose by the post-Amendment Judicial Commission (which, post-Amendment, has a majority of political appointees and a minority of judges)? The subsequent challenge is whether courts should ever be involved in determining the validity of constitutional amendments (even if clearly aimed at undermining democracy or the rule of law) or whether it must always be left to the political process? In the past, the judiciary in Pakistan, India and Bangladesh have declared they have the power to strike down constitutional amendments if Parliament attempts to subvert the democratic essence of the Constitution by eliminating fundamental rights or the independence of judiciary. If you enjoyed this podcast, watch Hon. Athar Minallah, Justice of the Supreme Court of Pakistan, address the City Bar alongside City Bar President Muhammad U. Faridi, Kabir Hashmi of Patterson Belknap Webb & Tyler LLP, and special guest Hon. Rowan Wilson, Chief Judge of the State of New York. Justice Minallah spoke about the role of the judiciary in ensuring accountability and promotion of the rule of law, and the dangers of judicial overreach and activism. Video of the event is available here: https://www.nycbar.org/videos/the-independence-of-the-judiciary-and-rule-of-law-in-pakistan/?back=1&ref=media

The City Bar's Environmental Law Committee hosted a discussion on NYSDEC's Brownfield Cleanup Program (BCP) and New York City's Voluntary Cleanup Program (VCP) which encourage private-sector cleanups of contaminated sites and promotes the redevelopment of the sites through economic incentives. We discussed the potential impact these programs may have on environmental justice communities in New York City and also look at various case studies across New York City and their differing perspectives on the topic. Moderator: Heather Leibowitz, Senior Attorney, NYSDEC Region 2 Speakers: George Duke, Vice President, NYC Brownfields Partnership Rebecca Bratspies, Professor of Environmental and Public International Law, CUNY School of Law; Director of the Center of Urban Environmental Reform, CUNY Melissa Checker, Professor of Urban Studies, Queens College; Professor of Earth and Environmental Sciences, CUNY Graduate Center Barry Hersh, Professor, NYPU SPS Schack Institute of Real Estate

To many of us, the answer seems obvious as the AI wave continues to crest. The City Bar Presidential Task Force on Artificial Intelligence and Digital Technologies hosts Hon. Xavier Rodriguez, U.S. District Judge for the Western District of Texas, and Maura Grossman, a lawyer and scholar specializing in technology assisted review, to join Task Force member David Zaslowsky in giving that question a closer look. With lawyers filing in court, perhaps we're leaping to conclusions that don't match our experience. After all, lawyers once worried that tech like email would be the end of confidentiality. Then again, when it comes to judges, the risks may be just as high as we think. Research and fact-finding may be one thing, but what about when a judge asks an AI tool to render a legal decision?  Judge Rodriguez and Professor Grossman consider many cases and court rules from the past year as we pull apart the surprising nuances of the question: should lawyers and judges be required to disclose their use of AI? If you're interested in learning more about how artificial intelligence will affect the legal world, check out the City Bar's Artificial Intelligence Institute, available on-demand (https://services.nycbar.org/EventDetail?EventKey=OND061024). Visit nycbar.org/events to find all of the most up-to-date information about our upcoming programs and events.  04:06 The Infamous Mata vs. Avianca Case 04:47 Debating AI Disclosure Requirements 06:12 Challenges with Broad AI Regulations 09:13 Judicial Reactions to AI in Legal Practice 11:12 Proposed AI Certification in the Fifth Circuit 19:10 Legislative Overreach in AI Regulation 26:00 Judges Using AI: Ethical and Practical Considerations 34:05 AI in Judicial Decision-Making: Disclosure Dilemma 34:22 A Personal Experience with AI Dispute Resolution 35:52 The Role of AI in Low-Value Claims 36:49 Psychological Anchoring and AI in Courts 37:41 Judicial Canons and AI Usage 39:06 Global Examples of AI in Judicial Decisions 40:17 The Debate on AI's Role in Legal Interpretation 44:40 Judge Newsom's AI Journey 48:56 Concerns and Considerations with AI in Courts 57:30 Encouraging AI Experimentation in the Judiciary 59:40 Conclusion and Future Discussions

Muhammad Faridi, City Bar President, interviews Jethro Eisenstein, a key figure in the creation of the NYC's Handschu Committee in response to NYPD "Red Squad" activities in the 1970s and 80s. Jethro shares the history of the Handschu litigation, a landmark case initiated in 1971 that imposed significant oversight on the NYPD's investigation of political groups. Jethro recounts the origins of the case, the challenges that the Committee has faced through the years, and the evolution of legal oversight mechanisms over decades, including a post-9/11 revival. He reflects on his career and the impact of the Handschu guidelines on civil rights and police accountability. 01:37 Meet Jethro Eisenstein: A Legal Luminary 02:25 The Handschu Litigation: Origins and Impact 02:50 Jethro's Journey to Law and Early Career 08:14 The Red Squad and Political Surveillance 09:56 The Panther 21 Trial and Its Aftermath 12:29 Drafting the Handschu Complaint 25:57 Litigation Challenges and Class Action Certification 29:03 Settlement and the Handschu Authority 40:50 Post-9/11 Changes and Legal Battles 47:12 Revelations and the Role of the Civilian 53:20 Jethro's Legacy and Final Thoughts

In this podcast hosted by the City Bar Presidential Task Force on Artificial Intelligence and Digital Technologies, Alona Katz, Chief of the Virtual Currency Unit at the Brooklyn District Attorney's Office, alongside a panel of experts, discusses the growing issue of cryptocurrency investment scams, specifically 'pig butchering,' which one guest describes as “ a confidence scam and a romance scam and an investment scam all wrapped into one.” The panel includes Inspector Osvaldo Nunez from the New York City Police Department; Kristen Spaeth, Manager on the Global Intelligence Team at Coinbase; Jonathan Scharf, Deputy Chief of Major Economic Crimes at the Queens County District Attorney's Office; and Adrian Cheek, a disruption expert. They share insights on current trends, investigation techniques, and strategies for effective disruption and seizure of assets. The group emphasizes education as a key tool for inoculating the public to these scams, the importance of public-private sector collaboration, and proactive measures to prevent scams and protect victims. If you're interested in learning more about cryptocurrency and law enforcement trends, join us for the City Bar's Crypto Institute on March 11 (https://services.nycbar.org/EventDetail?EventKey=INS031125). Visit nycbar.org/events to find all of the most up-to-date information about our upcoming programs and events. 00:00 Introduction and Host's Welcome 00:38 Meet the Experts: Introductions 05:37 Understanding Pig Butchering Scams 12:45 Law Enforcement's Perspective 22:52 Local vs. Federal Response 29:22 Private Sector Insights: Coinbase's Role 31:53 Transaction and Blockchain Analysis 32:54 Law Enforcement Collaboration 33:42 Coinbase's Protective Measures 34:35 Scam Detection Techniques 36:35 Tech Against Scams Coalition 37:28 Disruption Strategies in Investigations 40:12 Domain and Wallet Analysis 43:34 Advice for Law Enforcement 54:04 Future of Cryptocurrency Crime Units 55:45 Final Thoughts and Collaboration

In this special episode we hear the Hon. Jed S. Rakoff – Senior Judge, United States District Court, Southern District of New York – deliver a speech to the Association entitled "The U.S. Supreme Court's History as a Regressive Institution." Judge Rakoff's speech is part of City Bar's Benjamin N. Cardozo Lecture Series, which is inspired by the legacy of Benjamin N. Cardozo "and his love for the law, passion for justice and sympathy for humanity." First presented in 1941, previous speakers in the series have included Robert H. Jackson, Felix Frankfurter, William O. Douglas, Earl Warren, William J. Brennan, Jr., Marian Wright Edelman, and Ruth Bader Ginsburg, among many others. Judge Rakoff was introduced by Judge Raymond Lohier, of the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, after a welcome from City Bar President Muhammad Faridi.

Presidential Task Force on AI and Digital Technologies members Wendy Butler Curtis and Robert Mahari are joined by Cai GoGwilt, founder of Ironclad, to discuss the power and potential of Agentic AI. Their conversation explores the definitions, capabilities, and notable limitations of the emerging Large Language Models. Building on Forbes' “intern” analogy, the co-hosts highlight the ways in which Agentic AI can enhance productivity across several fields with its hyperintelligence and adaptability to complex tasks. Curtis, Mahari and GoGwilt conclude with thoughts on its future development, ethical considerations of its usage, and anecdotes of their most interesting encounters with these tools. If you're interested in learning more about artificial intelligence, join us for related programs at the City Bar, including the UN Summit of the Future: International Regulation of AI on November 4 (https://services.nycbar.org/EventDetail?EventKey=TFDT110424) and the Artificial Intelligence in Health Care: An Overview of Laws, Policy, and Practices webinar CLE on November 6 (https://services.nycbar.org/EventDetail?EventKey=_WEB110624). Visit nycbar.org/events to find all of the most up-to-date information about our upcoming programs and events. 00:00 Introduction to Agentic AI 05:14 Defining Agentic AI 08:11 Rapid Fire Q&A 09:07 Capabilities and Limitations of Agentic AI 13:55 Open Source and Future Prospects 21:26 AI's Limitations in Legal Contexts 22:01 Debating AI's Reasoning Capabilities 26:02 Practical Applications of AI in Various Industries 28:24 AI in Legal Practice: Current and Future Uses 31:47 Ethical Considerations and Professional Responsibility 32:34 Optimism and Concerns About AI's Future 40:10 Engaging with Generative AI: Practical Tips 41:56 Best and Worst Uses of Generative AI 45:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

An increasing number of states are enacting policies hostile to LGBTQ youth, like book bans and restrictions on participation in sports. Even in states like New York where there is greater state-level support for LGBTQ rights, similar policies aimed at stifling those rights have emerged at the local level. Amy Leipziger (Project Director, Free to Be Youth Project), Ashton Hessee (Legal Fellow, Free to Be Youth Project) and Gabriella Larios (Staff Attorney, NYCLU) of the City Bar's LGBTQ Rights Committee unpack the damage to psychological and physical health that these bans and the anti-LGBTQ culture that they promote can have on LGBTQ youth – kids who are navigating the same developmental challenges as their peers while being saddled with these additional burdens. Amy, Ashton and Gabriella also speak to how queer and trans youth – and their parents and caregivers – can understand their rights and understand how to advocate for their rights in school. All three share stories from the frontlines of litigating against these bans, and share insights on the most effective strategies for pairing litigation with grassroots community organizing. Access a transcript of this episode here: https://bit.ly/3zp9tfd Access NYCLU's “Your Rights as an LGBTQ Student” resource here: https://bit.ly/4euK6aC Want to learn more about the changing state of the law governing transgender athletes' participation in sports? View the City Bar's on-demand CLE program “Transgender Athletes: Title IX and the Dynamic Legal Landscape” (https://bit.ly/4gITn0v). Visit nycbar.org/events to find all of the most up-to-date information about our upcoming programs and events. 00:00 Introduction and Back-to-School Reflections 02:27 Challenges Faced by Students and Schools 04:06 Transgender Rights and School Policies 16:14 Impact of Discrimination on Mental Health 19:15 Statistics on LGBTQ+ Student Experiences 33:08 Community Support and Advocacy 46:35 Conclusion and Call to Action

The Presidential Task Force on AI and Digital Technologies' Bob Schwinger hosts a discussion with fellow Task Force members Don Irwin and Tyler Yagman. They identify the key takeaways from the House Financial Services Committee's June 5th congressional hearing about the tokenization of real-world assets, its relation to cryptocurrency, and its potential to improve market efficiency and transparency. Bob, Don, and Tyler also discuss the importance of regulatory compliance, the differences between permissioned and permissionless blockchains, and tokenization's implications for future financial inclusion. Access a transcript of this episode here: https://bit.ly/3ZxikWG Want to learn more about emerging digital technologies and their development? Join us at the City Bar's upcoming program: Guidelines for Users and Developers of AI Powered Technologies on October 10 (https://bit.ly/GUDAI) and view our catalogue of similar on-demand CLEs (https://bit.ly/BarCTFDT). Visit nycbar.org/events to find all of the most up-to-date information about our upcoming programs and events. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Today's Topic 01:21 Overview of Tokenization and Congressional Hearing 02:21 Detailed Explanation of Tokenization 05:09 Legislative Proposals and Industry Perspectives 07:33 Distinguishing Tokenization from Cryptocurrency 10:26 Goals and Benefits of Tokenization 16:41 Use Cases and Practical Applications 24:30 Fundamental Principles and Regulatory Concerns 33:38 Permissioned vs. Permissionless Blockchains 39:31 Tokenizing Securities and Technological Challenges 43:22 Stable Coins, CBDCs, and Financial Inclusion 48:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

President Muhammad Faridi hosts Rich Miller (former Chief of Energy Policy for New York City and former Vice President of Energy and Environmental Law at Con Edison) and Robie Craig (Senior Energy Council at the New York City Department of Citywide Administrative Services), Co-Chairs of the City Bar Energy Law Committee. The conversation touches on various aspects of energy policy and its relevance to New York City, including historical perspectives on power generation, the current shift towards clean energy, and the implementation of regulatory mandates such as the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA) and the Build Public Renewables Act. Muhammad, Rich and Robie also explore the city's efforts to balance environmental justice with the need for reliable energy supply, the role of Con Edison, challenges posed by intermittent renewable sources, and the steps New York City is taking to support electric vehicle adoption. Access a transcript of this episode here: https://bit.ly/3XhBhtK Want to learn more about the impact of energy decisions and environmental justice? Join us at the City Bar's upcoming programs: The Professional Duty of Lawyers and Bar Associations in Action on Climate on September 23 (https://bit.ly/3XsQhFh) and Economic and Environmental Impacts of State and City Funded Remediation Programs on Environmental Justice Communities in NYC on October 29 (https://bit.ly/3XrirQL). Visit nycbar.org/events to find all of the most up-to-date information about our upcoming programs and events. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 03:46 Understanding DCAS and Con Edison 11:15 New York City's Energy Landscape 16:58 Historical Perspective: The Birth of Electricity in NYC 23:52 Regulatory Framework and Environmental Justice 35:49 Future of Clean Energy and Transportation in NYC 49:03 Committee Focus and Closing Remarks

In this episode of the New York City Bar Association podcast, hosted by Sarah Chekroun and sponsored by the Animal Law Committee, the spotlight is on Steven Wise's pioneering legal career and his legacy with the Non-Human Rights Project (NHRP). Guests Courtney Fern and Elizabeth Stein, both attorneys with NHRP, delve into Wise's groundbreaking legal strategies that fundamentally altered the framework for animal advocacy. They discuss the application of writs of habeas corpus for non-human animals, emphasizing the importance of scientific evidence in advancing animal rights cases. The conversation also covers current legislative efforts to secure bodily liberty for elephants and other animals, underscoring the impact Wise's work has had on public and judicial perceptions of animal rights. The episode pays tribute to Steven Wise's enduring influence in the realm of animal law. Access a transcript of this episode here: https://bit.ly/479Ng17 Read the City Bar Animal Law Committee's recent report supporting an NYC local law regarding the keeping of elephants: https://bit.ly/46Mqwnm Read the City Bar's Report in Support of the Elephant Protection Act: https://bit.ly/3YzV7CE 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests 00:36 Remembering Steven Wise's Legacy 03:17 Understanding Habeas Corpus for Non-Human Animals 09:33 The Case of Happy the Elephant 23:59 Legislative Efforts for Animal Rights 27:46 Personal Memories of Steven Wise 31:31 The Evolution of Animal Rights Law 41:17 Conclusion and Call to Action

The metaverse isn't just the future, it's already here and growing in every direction. But with so many players and users expanding in the space, the boundaries between metaverse platforms are becoming more cumbersome and complex. Flora Lau and Terry Dugan of the New York City Bar Association Digital Technologies Task Force host Larry Goldberg, a pioneer in media accessibility, and Debbie Rosenbaum, a leading attorney at Meta with extensive experience in Oculus and immersive spaces. They share their thoughts on developing cross-platform standards for the metaverse, discuss the role of avatars and digital identity, and explore the challenges of making the metaverse inclusive for people with disabilities. The episode explores technical challenges, policy considerations, and the importance of social norms within virtual environments. Key topics include interoperability, the economics of digital assets, and the potential for innovative applications in extended reality. Access a transcript of this episode here: https://bit.ly/3AFroym Listen to our first podcast episode on the metaverse: What Is the Metaverse, Really? https://bit.ly/3AE39AK Want to learn more about developing standards and best-practices for emerging technologies? Join us at the City Bar's upcoming CLE program on October 10: Guidelines for Users and Developers of AI Powered Technologies (https://bit.ly/4dSBYAA). (This program will be available on-demand thereafter.) Visit nycbar.org/events to find all of the most up-to-date information about our upcoming programs and events. 00:00 Welcome to the Podcast 00:39 Introducing the Guests: Larry Goldberg and Debbie Rosenbaum 02:35 Larry Goldberg's Journey in Accessibility 03:54 Debbie Rosenbaum's Metaverse Experience 06:39 Meta's Vision for the Metaverse 07:41 Challenges and Innovations in Cross-Platform Standards 11:26 The Role of AR Glasses and Accessibility 25:21 The Future of Avatars and Digital Identity 29:05 Challenges of Avatar Customization 29:30 Avatar Rights and Legal Issues 32:36 Social Norms in the Metaverse 37:29 Early Days of the Metaverse 43:38 Interoperability and Business Drivers 46:11 Decentralization and Future Prospects 49:33 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

Muhammad Faridi, President of the New York City Bar Association, is joined by Boaz Morag, a Counsel at Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton and one of the lead drafters of a recent City Bar report analyzing for the Office of the Legal Advisor in the U.S. Department of State three private international law treaties: the Hague Convention on Choice of Courts Agreements (COCA), the Hague Convention on the Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Judgments in Civil and Commercial Matters (Judgments Convention), and the UN Convention on International Settlement Agreements Resulting from Mediation (Singapore Convention). These treaties deal with the cross-border recognition and enforcement of court judgments and mediated settlement agreements. We investigate the purpose and impact of these treaties on current practice in this country and on U.S. litigants who seek to enforce U.S. courts judgments abroad, the status of the treaties, and the detailed recommendations provided in the City Bar report. The episode provides an in-depth exploration of the potential benefits of these conventions for litigants seeking to have their judgments and settlements enforced internationally as well as the intricacies involved in implementing these treaties in the United States. Access a transcript of this episode here: https://bit.ly/3zWnD7b Read the City Bar Report on Three Private International Law Treaties here: https://bit.ly/4c5NQO2 00:00 Introduction to the Discussion 00:56 Meet Boaz Morag: Background and Career 03:54 The Role of the State Department and the City Bar 06:14 Introduction to the Three Treaties 07:56 Deep Dive into COCA and the Judgments Convention 12:12 Understanding the Judgments Convention 17:53 Criticisms and Concerns about COCA 29:28 The Singapore Convention on Mediation 34:49 Implementation Challenges in the U.S. 48:14 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections

Hayley Gorenberg, co-chair of the LGBTQ Rights Committee, and Mary-Ellen La Rosa, Manager of Pipeline Initiatives and Education, discuss creating inclusive environments and understanding the broader social forces that contribute to inclusivity or lack thereof. They emphasize the importance of training oneself to recognize and dismantle exclusion dynamics, using respectful language, and embracing allyship. The discussion covers challenges such as deadnaming, the significance of pronoun use, and the legal implications of persistent workplace discrimination. The episode also highlights the evolving language around LGBTQ+ identities and the critical role of allies in building supportive spaces. Want to continue your learning about inclusivity? Check out the City Bar's on-demand program: Being Seen in Dialogue for Diversity: A Discussion on Intersectional Feminism in the Legal Profession https://bit.ly/3xD90oy Access a transcript of this episode here: https://bit.ly/3W15opI 00:00 Introduction to Inclusive Environments 01:46 Meet the Experts: Hayley Gorenberg and Mary-Ellen La Rosa 02:32 Understanding Workplace Dynamics and Systems 03:32 Challenges Faced by LGBTQ Individuals in the Workplace 11:47 The Importance of Pronouns and Respectful Language 15:09 Legal Implications of Inclusivity in the Workplace 23:19 The Role of Allyship and Privilege 34:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Karyn A. Temple is the Senior Executive Vice President and Global General Counsel for the Motion Picture Association (MPA) and one of the world's leading authorities on copyright and anti-piracy. Karyn oversees the MPA's legal affairs and content protection efforts worldwide. Before joining the MPA, Karyn served more than eight years in the U.S. Copyright Office as the Register of Copyrights, where she led the 400-person agency and its eight divisions. Karyn previously served as Vice President of Litigation and Legal Affairs for the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), spent several years as a litigation associate at the law firm, Williams & Connolly LLP, and received her J.D. from Columbia University School of Law, where she was Senior Editor of the Columbia Law Review, and served as Chairperson of the Columbia Black Law Students' Association. Karyn recently joined the Board of the Institute for Intellectual Property and Social Justice and has served in several prominent volunteer positions in the copyright community. Presented by the New York City Bar Copyright and Literary Property Committee and hosted by members Theodora Fleurant and Jose Landivar, Ms. Temple reflects on her storied career and the MPA's ongoing battle against online piracy. Access a transcript of this episode here: https://bit.ly/4b4z4GO Selected Links from the Episode: Motion Picture Association: https://www.motionpictures.org/ Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment: https://www.alliance4creativity.com/ Institute for Intellectual Property and Social Justice: https://www.linkedin.com/company/iipsj/ New York City Bar Copyright & Literary Property Committee: https://www.nycbar.org/committees/copyright-literary-property-committee/

On today's podcast the City Bar's Lawyer Assistance Program (LAP) hosts a discussion with Lara Gregory, an attorney, activist and community leader. Together with LAP Clinical Coordinator Michele Cuevas (JD, LCSW), Ms. Gregory talks about her roots in the Philippines and in the legal community as well as her experience as an AAPI woman lawyer. Ms. Gregory shared about the activism in support of the AAPI community and against AAPI hate which she has led and participated in, and gave her perspective on the impact of hate crimes on broader communities. She also spoke about the need to speak candidly and openly about women's health both in the legal profession and beyond. Lara Gregory is an attorney with over twenty years of experience; recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Office of the President of the United States and AmeriCorps; a member of the Hate Crimes Task Force of the National Federation of Filipino Association and Filipino Americans for Racial Action; a member of the AAPI Advisory Board of the Queens district attorney's office, and much more. Access a transcript of this episode here: https://bit.ly/3XcnC8M 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:08 Meet Lara Gregory: Attorney and Community Leader 03:22 Lara Gregory's Motivation to Practice Law 04:40 Involvement with the New York City Bar Association 05:11 Impact of the Pandemic and Anti-Asian Hate 08:01 Overcoming Adversity 11:01 Challenges Faced by Women in Law 16:04 The Importance of Women's Health 16:51 Addressing Hate Crimes and Community Support 20:34 Conclusion and Acknowledgements

The New York City Bar Association is proud to welcome its next President, Muhammad U. Faridi. Besides being a longstanding, active member of the New York City Bar Association, Mr. Faridi is a Litigation Partner at Patterson, Belknap, Webb and Tyler. He serves as the independent civilian representative to the New York City Police Department's Handschu Committee, which regulates NYPD policies and practices regarding investigations of political activity in compliance with a consent decree. He previously served on the New York City Mayor's Advisory Committee on the Judiciary. He is the first Muslim-American to serve as President of the City Bar. Here, addressing the 2024 annual meeting of the City Bar on May 21st, is New York City Bar Association President Muhammad U. Faridi. Access a transcript of this episode here: https://bit.ly/3R2k459

The City Bar Task Force on Digital Technologies dives into the complex landscape of artificial intelligence (AI) in the insurance sector, highlighting the unique regulatory environment in the United States where insurance is state regulated. It discusses the role of key states such as New York and Colorado and the national guidance provided by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) on the use of AI in insurance in a range of areas. The podcast features expert insights from Jerome Walker, Sophia Duffy, Azish Filabi, and Corey Goldstein, who discuss and compare the transformative effects of AI in insurance, focusing on actions by the New York State Department of Financial Services, the Colorado Division of Insurance and NAIC on ethical implications, the challenges of managing third-party algorithm developers, and recommendations for a national framework to ensure AI's ethical use in insurance. They elaborate on the roles of governance, testing, and third-party vendor management in complying with regulatory standards and the importance of audits and certifications for AI systems to prevent unfair discrimination and promote transparency and accountability. Tune in to learn more about: • What existing insurance regulations and guidance apply to artificial intelligence? • What is the role of NAIC on AI in insurance? • What data sources are underwriters using for their AI tools and how are they combatting bias in the data? • A comparison of regulatory approaches in New York, Colorado and elsewhere. • Insights on third-party vendor management. Want to learn more about innovations in digital technologies for the legal world? Join us at the City Bar's upcoming Artificial Intelligence Institute on June 10. (This program will be available on-demand thereafter.) Visit nycbar.org/events to find all of the most up-to-date information about our upcoming programs and events. Access a transcript of this episode here: https://bit.ly/4b9CWHv Related articles: The NYDFS Plans to Impose Significant Obligations on Insurers Using AI or External Data (https://bit.ly/3wrY10S) AI-Enabled Underwriting Brings New Challenges for Life Insurance: Policy and Regulatory Considerations (https://bit.ly/3WI2OGe) Colorado Governance and Risk Management Framework Requirements for Life Insurers' Use of External Consumer Data and Information Sources, Algorithms, and Predictive Models (https://bit.ly/3UGwwbO) NAIC Guidance on Artificial Intelligence (https://bit.ly/3K3XNjA)

Artificial intelligence tools are already changing the legal landscape, so how will lawyers know how to use them while complying with existing ethics rules? David Keyko and Tyler Maulsby – current and former chairs of the City Bar Professional Ethics Committee – join Azish Filabi, Executive Director of the American College of Financial Services Center for Ethics, on the latest podcast from the Digital Technologies Task Force to talk about the current landscape of ethics rules in relation to emerging digital technologies. They dig into the implications for the duties of confidentiality, disclosure and transparency while examining whether past leaps in technology – think cell phones and email – can inform the technological revolution that is happening underfoot today. Tune in to learn more about: • How do current legal ethics rules address digital technology? • What legal ethics rules exist addressing artificial intelligence? • What legal ethics considerations should lawyers have when advising clients on new technologies? • How can legal ethics inform the choice between using a tool from a third party vendor and managing a tool in-house? • How should lawyers think about disclosure to clients if they're using generative AI systems? Want to learn more about innovations in digital technologies for the legal world? Join us at our upcoming City Bar Programs: Technology Innovations and the Law on May 16 (https://bit.ly/3wkjtom) and the Artificial Intelligence Institute on June 10 (https://bit.ly/3JLCbrW). (These programs are available on-demand thereafter.) Visit nycbar.org/events to find all of the most up-to-date information about our upcoming programs and events. Access a transcript of this episode here: https://bit.ly/3UqERAr

The judiciary is poised for transformation in the AI era. From the courtroom to chambers, judges will likely need to address AI. Are current tools accurate enough for judicial work? How will judges be able to verify appropriate uses of these tools? What new opportunities and new headaches are going to crop up in courtrooms? Harut Minasian of the City Bar Working Group on Judicial Administration and Artificial Intelligence takes on those questions and more with two former federal judges: Hon. Katherine Forrest (S.D.N.Y.) and Hon. Paul Grimm (D. Md.). Tune in to learn more about:  • What are the challenges at the intersection of AI and evidence?  • How are professional responsibility rules changing to account for the use of AI in legal practice?  • Will AI democratize legal services and access to justice?  • What is the future of AI in the courtroom?   Use this link to access a transcript of this episode: https://bit.ly/43PZslY

The City Bar Digital Technologies Task Force teams up today with the Financial Technology Association for a deep dive into the State of Fintech. Angelena Bradfield (FTA), Adam VanWagner (MoneyLion), Matt Cameron (Remitly), Meredith Fuchs (Plaid), and Parris Sanz (WebBank) unpack the current legal and regulatory environment, especially with regard to recent moves toward an open banking rule. Our guests discuss the significant impact of fintech on financial inclusion, consumer benefits, and the evolving landscape of digital financial services. The conversation highlights the crucial role of regulatory flexibility and the potential of technologies like AI in fostering innovation while ensuring robust consumer protection. The discussion also touches on the significant implications of regulatory actions at both federal and state levels on the fintech ecosystem. The experts call for a balanced approach to regulation that encourages innovation and ensures consumer trust in the fintech industry. Tune in to hear more about: • How will a forthcoming open-banking rule from the CFPB change the banking industry? • What is the potential for fintechs to expand inclusion in the financial system? • How will the use of AI affect future partnerships between fintechs and traditional banks? • How friendly to innovation is the current regulatory regime? How has the balance shifted over time? Access a transcript of this episode here: https://bit.ly/3xmNDYex

Committee member Aimee Latorre speaks with Craig Dobson, a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach. They focused on healthy eating practices as well as how lawyers can use mindful approaches to eating that support their personal and professional well-being. Craig is a practicing ethics attorney with a vivid personal journey into the world of nutrition and coaching. He shared some common-sense framing devices when approaching nutrition. Craig also spoke about forming habits and building new practices. Tune in to learn more about: • How mindful eating can contribute to attorney well-being • How wellness coaches can support clients in making informed choices on their personal wellness journeys • Different forms of misinformation around diet and nutrition • Craig's tips for starting a mindfulness practice based on his own experience starting from step one Access a transcript of this episode here: https://bit.ly/49TTjr7

Bad actors have been some of the earliest and most skillful adopters of new financial digital technologies. They are using those technologies to move money and finance their operations in ways that present a raft of new challenges for law enforcement agents and financial regulatory agencies. The justice and financial systems are speedily reacting and learning to enforce financial laws in the digital world. It's uncharted territory, and the laws and regulations enforced by various agencies often overlap. So the City Bar Digital Technology Task Force invited five of its members (all current and former law enforcement and compliance chiefs) to start the discussion about how market participants and other stakeholders can understand the actions of law enforcement and regulatory agencies in the digital technologies arena. Tune in to learn more about: • How the US at the federal, state, and local levels fight narcotics, trafficking and money laundering in the digital world. • The ins and outs of public private partnership in crypto investigations for various government agencies. • Why market participants and other stakeholders should help prevent illicit activities by terrorist groups like Hamas, North Korea and Iran. • Tools to help prevent illicit activity from infiltrating the financial system. Access a transcript of this episode here: https://bit.ly/3Tfb11g

Flying cars and vertipads. Electric cars filling the streets with a charging station on every block. That's the not-so-distant future and the experts are getting serious about preparing for it. How will the grid accommodate all of these new draws on electricity? How will this army of new devices communicate with each other? What business models will govern our new technologies? Who will own the galaxy of new data that results? Matthew Daus, Margaret Barry, Elizabeth Stein and Lorraine McGowen from the Electronic Mobility Subcommittee of the Digital Technology Task Force tackle these and more pressing questions in this episode of the New York City Bar Podcast. Stay tuned to hear more about: • What are emerging transportation technologies? • What's next for the proliferation of electric vehicles? • How will we need to adapt the electrical grid to accommodate all of these new technologies, and how can we ensure they are deployed equitably? • What new challenges in product liability are going to come with new electronic mobility technologies? Access a transcript of this episode here: https://bit.ly/3SReLFJ

Governor Hochul has proposed transferring one hundred million dollars from the state's IOLA account into the State General Fund. That could have cascading consequences for the State's legal services community and the hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers that it serves. We're here today to help you understand what IOLA is, the stakes in the governor's budget proposal, and what lawyers and others can do to stand up for IOLA. View a transcript of this episode here: https://bit.ly/3OFrYjX Google this episode for links to the resources below. IOLA Press Release linking to Community Letter urging Governor Hochul to undo $100 million IOLA transfer.  The signatories represent leading social service agencies, veterans groups, health care providers, legal organizations, and concerned citizens from across the state. IOLA Letter to Governor Hochul IOLA Board Statement New York State Bar Association Press Release NY Legal Services Coalition Testimony Network of Bar Leaders Statement New York City Bar Association Statement New York County Lawyers Association Statement

Almost everyone has heard of the metaverse and seen that word in a splashy headline. But what is it, really, and what could it become in the future? In some sense, the answer is simple and very broad: the metaverse is a new environment for people to interact, shop, play and learn, and a new environment for companies to advertise, market and sell. But the metaverse today is a new Wild West where potential for innovation is matched by potential risk factors in terms of ownership, liability, trademark and intellectual property, and much more. Jerome Walker, Flora Lau and Terry Dugan from the City Bar Digital Technology Task Force dive into the innovations and the risks that are emerging today. And they ask, with creators and companies galloping into the new frontier, where are they going and who will be in charge? Tune in to hear more about: • What is the metaverse? Why was it created? And what is the metaverse experience like? • Who are some of the leading companies in the metaverse? • Why should lawyers for example, even care about the metaverse? • New vocabulary and concepts from the metaverse. • What are the legal issues for influencers in the metaverse? How do you deal with the concept of ownership in the metaverse? Who owns the content of the metaverse? • What are the trademark and IP issues in the metaverse? • What are the product liability issues in the metaverse? • What's next for the metaverse? Who will lead the charge to Web 3.0 and how soon will we get there? Access a transcript of this episode here: https://bit.ly/3vKCUWC

The Digital Technology Task Force explores the crisis of unequal access to digital technologies. Robert A. Marchman and Jolevette Mitchell talk about how this huge issue can hide in plain sight, and they go over some of the existing efforts to close the gap as well as existing challenges. This episode also covers some of the pitfalls that even well-intentioned reforms must be careful to avoid. Tune in to hear more about: • What is the digital divide? Who are the communities that are affected? • What is being done at the local, state and federal level to close the digital divide? • How can existing programs be expanded, and how can existing programs better work together? • How can reform efforts avoid the possible harms implicit in the use of many technologies? Access a transcript of this episode here: https://bit.ly/48wlqvo Related Resources (NYS ConnectALL) Five-Year Action Plan - Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program: https://on.ny.gov/3tCipLf (GAO) Broadband - National Strategy Needed to Guide Federal Efforts to Reduce Digital Divide: https://bit.ly/3vvjfK7 (City Bar) Support for Legislation Providing Internet Access to Individuals Living in Temporary Housing Throughout New York State: https://bit.ly/41S4eOL (City Bar) Help Ensure Internet Access for New Yorkers Experiencing Homelessness: https://bit.ly/3vnKhDv

The City Bar Task Force on Digital Technologies explores the implications of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)'s proposed rule on digital wallets and payment apps. After a review of the CFPB's authoritative reach, its enforcement authority, and its coordination with other regulatory agencies, we dig into the proposed rule – what its key provisions are, how its comment period was decided upon, and how it determines which entities will be affected. The group, which includes former senior CFPB officials, also discuss how attorneys could advise their clients about the CFPB entry into this space. Tune in to hear more about: • The role and power of the CFPB • The CFPB's rulemaking, supervision and enforcement authorities • Implications of the CFPB's proposed rule on digital wallets and payment apps • Lessons from previous CFPB supervision of larger participants Access a transcript of this episode here: https://bityl.co/N6zc

Lawyer. Leader. Public Servant. Trailblazer. Friend. Marybeth Peters, the second-longest serving Register of Copyrights (1994 - 2010), died on September 29, 2022, in Washington, D.C., at the age of 83. With her passing, Register Peters left behind a lasting and far-reaching legacy in her storied 40-plus year career as a distinguished attorney, respected copyright law expert, and the director of the U.S. Copyright Office, where she helped shape and implement critical new laws, including the 1998 Digital Millennium Copyright Act, the Sonny Bono Copyright Term Extension Act, and the Uruguay Round Agreements Act among others. In addition, Register Peters was remembered as a mentor, teacher, and friend who touched the lives of everyone around her with grace and her unforgettable laugh. Presented by the New York City Bar Copyright and Literary Property Committee, committee members Theodora Fleurant, a trademark attorney based in New York City, and Jose Landivar, an Associate at Coates IP, lead an unforgettable series of conversations with some of the people closest to Register Peters to look back on her life and legacy, including: • Shira Perlmutter, the current Register of Copyrights and Director of the U.S. Copyright Office • Maria Pallante, President and CEO of the Association of American Publishers who formerly served as the 12th Register of Copyrights • Richard Dannay, Counsel at Cowan, Liebowitz & Latman, P.C. • Eric Schwartz, Partner at Mitchell Silberberg & Knupp LLP, and former Acting General Counsel and Senior Legal Advisor to the Register of Copyrights • David Carson, current Copyright Office Claims Officer who, formerly served as head of the Copyright Policy Team in the Office of Policy and International Affairs at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and as General Counsel of the U.S. Copyright Office This podcast paints a fascinating portrait of a leading U.S. and international copyright law expert. It seeks to inspire listeners with lessons in leadership, courage, innovation, and dedicated public service. This podcast would not have been possible without the support of the U.S. Copyright Office (https://www.copyright.gov/) and audio provided by the Copyright Clearance Center. Photo: Courtesy of the U.S. Copyright Office. Access a transcript of this episode here: https://bityl.co/MvSf

The City Bar's Working Group on Judicial Administration and Artificial Intelligence is back to get into a recent headline-making case of AI allegedly misused in the courtroom. Harut Minasian, Stuart Levi, Richard Hong and David Zaslowsky break down the recent news about the US v. Michel: bad use of AI, or just plain bad lawyering? They discuss how AI can be used as a valuable tool in the legal toolkit for some tasks, but highlight the need for understanding the functionality, reliability, and limitations of AI technology. But whether or not AI can be reliably used today in some limited ways, the real question is: is AI ready for primetime? Tune in to hear more about: • Is the ineffective assistance of counsel claim in US v. Michel likely to succeed? • How should lawyers disclose to clients the AI tools that they do use? • Is using AI really so different from using other ‘new' technologies like Lexis and Westlaw? Is it different from asking a Partner with specialized knowledge for input? • Will it ever be the case that NOT using AI will be grounds for professional misconduct? Access a transcript of this episode here: https://bityl.co/MfRf

In this episode of the New York City Bar Association podcast, members of the United Nations Committee – Shubha Chandra, Yveline Dalmacy, Karl Fisher and Sophia Murashkovsky Romma – discuss the Association's recent membership in the UN Global Compact. The conversation touches upon the Global Compact's mission, its fundamental principles, and the broader implications of the partnership for the Bar Association and its members. Ensuring respect for justice, human rights, corporate sustainability, and adhering to the rule of law are important aspects underlined in the discussion. The episode also elaborates on the potential benefits for members such as access to diverse training on corporate sustainability. Access a transcript of this episode here: https://bityl.co/MSo7

Five members of the City Bar Digitial Technology Task Force explain the New York Uniform Commercial Code (“UCC”) amendments and their potential impact on digital assets, trade finance and electronic commerce. Sandra Rocks, Ed Smith, Eric Marcus, Neil Cohen and Lorraine McGowen explain how adopting the amendments will benefit New York and will ensure that New York remains the preferred jurisdiction for parties transacting business. Access a transcript of this recording here: https://bityl.co/MLKD

Why do you have to take the LSAT to get into law school? Is the modern Bar Exam the best way to protect the public and sort bar admission applicants? Why is the law school curriculum designed the way that it is? What does it mean to have the character and fitness to be a lawyer? Many lawyers take for granted that the answers to these questions are settled. The assumption is that these institutions help us select only the best and the brightest to enter the legal profession. In this episode of the City Bar Podcast, two academic experts help us probe those assumptions. They unpack the history, structure and outcomes of these institutions of selection. And they tease out the many interconnected ways in which the status quo functionally excludes people from underrepresented communities from entering the legal profession. Tune in to learn about: • How standardized tests that claim to predict law school success sort significantly based on economic class and race. • How the Bar Exam still in use today has historical roots in purposeful exclusion. • How Black and Latinx students get less financial aid and more debt on their paths through law school. • How legal education is largely set up to benefit people who come in knowing something about the law and “legal culture,” to the detriment of first-generation lawyers. • How character and fitness standards have historically largely reflected the bigotry and biases of the era. • How the legal profession can begin to reverse course and make these institutions work to include more people with the motivation, intelligence, skills, talent and commitment to becoming a lawyer. Resources: Sealing the Leaks: Recommendations to Diversify and Strengthen the Pipeline to the Legal Profession: https://bit.ly/3I1eNFS The Diversity Gap: Black and Latinx Representation Disparities in the Legal Pipeline: https://bit.ly/3ssibFP Building Belonging Podcast: https://apple.co/3SAgnp6 Radical Reformation: Diverse Pathways to Attorney Licensure Will Yield a More Diverse Profession: https://bit.ly/460jNEw Professor Carla Pratt's Book – The End of the Pipeline: A Journey of Recognition for African Americans Entering the Legal Profession: https://bityl.co/LqhD Professor Joan Howarth's Book – Shaping the Bar: The Future of Attorney Licensing: https://bityl.co/LqhC College Admissions Tests and Socioeconomic/Racial Discrimination: https://bityl.co/Lqf4 Robert J. Steinberg's Study of Admissions Testing Efficacy: https://bit.ly/3u7nATc Examining the California Cut Score: An Empirical Analysis of Minimum Competency, Public Protection, Disparate Impact, and National Standards: https://bityl.co/Lqf6 Building a Better Bar: The Twelve Building Blocks of Minimum Competence: https://bit.ly/40xrd15 Final Report of the Testing Task Force for the NexGen Bar Exam: https://bit.ly/3QPNZ0B Lawyer Licensing Resources: Exploring Ways to License Lawyers Now and in the Future: https://bit.ly/469xb9p Access a transcript of this episode here: https://bit.ly/40wHKCa

Robert Schwinger and Hector Ivan Velez are Co-Chairs of the Distributed Ledger Technology and Blockchain Subcommittee of the City Bar Task Force on Digital Technologies. They unpacked four key use cases for asset tokenization – real estate, art, commodities and carbon credits – in order to cover the basics of tokenization, the potential for democratizing access to investment opportunity, and the barriers to adoption. Tune in to hear about:  • How tokenization could open global markets in some assets • How courts have treated tokenized assets • The risks presented by the tokenization of assets • The legal and regulatory challenges to adoption of asset tokenization

Adrienne Woods, a member of the City Bar's Social Networking and Events Committee, sat down with Bruce Libman, a master business-development strategist, to unpack the fundamentals of effective networking that will generate business for lawyers. Tune in to hear about: • How effective networking is the process of opening yourself up to authentically engage others • Practical examples of effective networking questions, planning and followup strategies • Tips for developing and honing networking techniques Register here for the Social Networking and Events Committee program at the City Bar on September 30, at which Bruce Libman will be the featured speaker: https://bityl.co/L8Nv

Beth Haddock and Lewis Cohen are Co-Chairs of the Web3 Subcommittee of the City Bar Task Force on Digital Technologies, and they're experts in the world of Web3, decentralized finance (DeFi), blockchain and cryptocurrency technologies. They helped us understand how the world of decentralized technologies is taking shape, what problems are being discussed and discovered by innovators, and where we stand to benefit from future breakthroughs. Tune in to hear about: • Takeaways for lawyers from two recent, major reports of the international Financial Stability Board. What lawyers could use in their practice and what they should think about when they think of developments in Web3. • What is DeFi (decentralized finance) and what are DAOs (decentralized autonomous organizations)? How do we know when a project truly fits into these spaces? • What are the incentives and differences between traditional finance and decentralized finance? • What are the potential benefits of decentralized finance? • What are reliable and reputable resources for people who want to learn more about decentralized finance? Resources FSB Report - https://bityl.co/KOlC US Treasury illicit finance report - https://bityl.co/KOlA DeFi Alliance - https://bityl.co/KOl9 DeFi Education Fund - https://bityl.co/KOl8 Ethereum Foundation - https://bityl.co/KOl7 Vitalik Buterin blog - https://bityl.co/KOl5 Beth and Lewis' Twitters - @HaddockBeth; @NYcryptolawyer

A story of artificial intelligence, fabricated precedent, and a litigation gone awry that made cringeworthy headlines even outside the legal world. In Mata v. Avianca a lawyer submitted a brief in federal court citing precedent that ChatGPT had spun out of thin air. Three members of the City Bar Working Group on Judicial Administration and Artificial Intelligence break down how it happened and what we can learn about the use of artificial intelligence in courts. Tune in to hear Harut Minasian, Richard Hong and Stuart Levi discuss: • How did the judge in the case deal with the fact pattern that emerged and how were the lawyers in question held accountable for their actions? • Is there now a greater duty of oversight for lawyers in the new AI context? • When is AI-generated material an aid for human work and when is it a source? • How should lawyers responsibly disclose their use of AI tools to the court? • What rules are judges around the country making about the disclosure of AI tools used in their courtrooms?