New York Senate Bill S09793

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/6/26
• Refer: 4/6/26
• Engrossed: 5/28/26
• Refer: 5/28/26

Caption

Repeals provisions relating to allowing attorneys having offices in the state to reside in an adjoining state.

Impact

The repeal of section 470 may have significant implications for the legal profession in New York. By removing the ability for attorneys to reside outside of New York State while practicing there, the bill aims to ensure that legal practitioners are more closely tied to the community they serve. This could lead to an increase in the number of attorneys residing in New York, thus strengthening the connection between legal professionals and their clients, as well as potentially fostering local legal expertise and community involvement among lawyers.

Summary

Bill S09793, introduced by Senator Sepulveda, seeks to repeal section 470 of the Judiciary Law in New York. This section currently allows attorneys with offices in New York State to reside in an adjoining state. The repeal of this provision effectively changes the requirements regarding where attorneys can live in relation to their practice, potentially impacting attorneys who have established their offices in New York while maintaining residence across state lines.

Contention

However, the repeal of such a provision may raise concerns among attorneys who have established practices under the current law. Some may view this bill as an unnecessary restriction, especially for those who have maintained successful legal careers while living in adjoining states. The lack of flexibility may disproportionately affect those attorneys who commute to their offices, thereby impacting their professional arrangements and personal lives. These changes could spark debates about the balance between professional regulation and the personal freedoms of legal practitioners.