The start of a new year can bring many resolutions, and it also usually brings new laws. So far, 2020 has seen numerous legal changes across the United States. Updated laws and amendments have gone into effect in several states, affecting a wide variety of criminal offenses, family law cases, and other legal matters. Law reform is a reflection of societal changes, and updates to the laws are meant to address the ever-changing values and needs of our communities. Some laws are created and passed at the federal level, while others are made by the states. The laws often differ significantly between one state and another, meaning that different laws may apply to people within a single geographical area. It is important to keep abreast of any changes to legislation that might affect you as a citizen or an attorney defending a client. 

States Enact Different Legislation 

Many bills that were signed into law last year went into effect on January 1, 2020. One notable change is the minimum wage for workers, which was increased in 21 states and 26 cities and counties throughout the United States. In more than 12 of these locations, the rate will now be at or above $15 per hour, which many call a true “living wage.”

A few more notable changes to U.S. laws include: 

• Illinois: As of January 1, 2020, recreational marijuana is legal for people over the age of 21. Users can now possess up to 30 grams of the drug. 
• New York: After the first of the year, judges in New York are no longer setting money bail for most misdemeanors and nonviolent offenses, including some drug charges. According to a report by The New York Times, that means thousands of individuals who are in jail awaiting trial will be released. 
• Colorado, Nevada, Hawaii: New “red flag” laws mean family members, police, and others can petition a court to have a person temporarily blocked from owning or possessing firearms if a judge determines that person is a threat to themselves or others.
• California: A new privacy law allows consumers to find out what information companies have gathered on them, ask them to delete the data, and request not to have it sold to third parties. Another new law hopes to reduce or eliminate the number of deadly police shootings by enforcing a higher standard by which officers can use deadly force. Formerly, this type of force could be used “whenever reasonable” but is now to be used “only when necessary.”

Contact Elite Lawyer Today

At certain times, laws can change if they become outdated or inappropriate for the citizens they are meant to protect. As a legal professional, it is imperative to keep up with new legislation as well as any changes to existing laws in your state. At Elite Lawyer, we recognize attorneys from all over the country who excel in different practice areas. We are dedicated to providing a comprehensive directory of the nation’s most distinguished attorneys. To learn more about how to become an Elite Lawyer or to nominate an attorney for the Elite Lawyer award, contact us or call 833-40-ELITE (833-403-5483) today.

 

Sources:

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/new-laws-2020-in-effect_n_5e0bd83ce4b0843d360cbdd3

 

Statistics show that in 2019, there were more than 1.3 million attorneys in the United States. It may be difficult to distinguish between firms when they provide legal counsel for the same practice areas. Some people may think that award programs and ratings for attorneys are simply based on a popularity contest. However, potential clients may want to know if a certain law firm has more awards than another firm that practices in the same area. In many cases, this can make or break a client's decision as to whom he or she wants to hire to represent him or her in a legal matter. For instance, being recognized as an Elite Lawyer can greatly benefit an attorney's law practice.

Advantages to Being Recognized By One's Peers

Credibility can be a very persuasive tool in any line of work. If someone goes to see a doctor or dentist for the first time, seeing framed degrees or certificates on the wall can put a nervous patient instantly at ease. Likewise, when a person needs legal advice, he or she will be looking for the most qualified law firm.

The Elite Lawyer award recognizes exceptional attorneys across the United States in various practice areas. Elite Lawyer has a multi-tiered selection process, beginning with peer nominations. This is followed by a review and evaluation process based on each attorney's professional achievements, reputation, commitment to community, and legal competence.

Industry awards can build instant trust with prospective clients or customers. When a person is looking for a lawyer, one of the first things he or she sees when searching online may be a designation such as “Elite Lawyer” or “Super Lawyer.” This badge of honor may help a potential client trust an attorney to represent them, whether this means clearing one's name of criminal charges, pursuing damages in a personal injury case, assisting with family law matters, or providing legal help with a wide variety of other cases.

The Importance of an Online Presence

A high rating or recognition is ideal for marketing purposes. With the prevalence of the Internet today, most companies in all types of industries have websites. This is often how people find a business, by performing a simple Google search online. A law firm's website will typically have information on their specific practice areas, attorney bios or profiles, testimonials, contact forms, and more.

A law firm can enhance their online presence by also creating Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter accounts. For example, a law firm can publicize their awards by posting them online in a wide variety of mediums. Displaying printed certificates can also be a useful public relations tool. Some other ways of showcasing special recognitions include:

• Website
• Social media
• Press releases
• Plaques and/or trophies
• Law directories
• Contact Elite Lawyer Today

Attorney ratings and award programs are important ways to recognize lawyers who are doing outstanding work in the field of law. Referrals from peers in the same practice area can go a long way in recommending a certain firm to potential clients. A distinguished award can help an attorney stand out from the crowd. To learn more about how to become an Elite Lawyer or to nominate an attorney for the Elite Lawyer award, please contact us or call 833-40-ELITE (833-403-5483) today.

Source:
https://www.statista.com/statistics/740222/number-of-lawyers-us/