What is Law New?

The legal business world often feels like a rotating set of buzzwords. New practice areas are cleverly named, director and leader titles are pointedly given and strategy shifts are frequently framed in “innovative” or “cutting-edge” terms. But, with all the jargon, some ideas may get lost in translation. That’s certainly true when it comes to law new, a concept that has emerged in recent years to refer to an area of the practice that can be difficult to define. In a nutshell, it’s about finding new ways to help clients in an increasingly complex and rapidly changing environment.

The Center makes New York City and State government more transparent, understandable and effective through a variety of news and explainer articles; research and analysis; public events with expert guests; and in-depth podcast conversations. The Center’s founding Director and NYLS Samuel Seabury Professor of Law Ross Sandler has described its mission as making “city and state law more accessible to all.”

How do bills become laws?

The legislative process is vital to creating new laws that reflect the needs and priorities of citizens and respond to changing social issues. Bills are proposed by elected representatives and go through a series of steps, including committee review, floor debate, and voting. The legislation created through this process serves as the foundation for our country’s laws, policies, and regulations.

New laws are also created in response to significant events or social movements, such as civil rights advancements or economic crises. The enactment of new laws demonstrates Congress’s role in shaping policy and reflects democratic principles of representation and accountability.

Congressional committees play a critical role in the legislative process by providing a structured environment for research, discussion, and modification of bills before they reach the full chamber for consideration. This allows members of Congress to develop informed recommendations that address specific issues more comprehensively than would be possible in a broader discussion on the floor. The process also demonstrates the importance of bipartisan support for successful legislation.