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News / 11.04.24 /Eric P. Blaha
Join Eric Blaha on Wednesday, December 4th, at 5:00PM, to complete your Fair Housing training requirements!
To All Board Members and Property Managers, If you need to fulfill your mandatory Fair Housing training requirements under the new Westchester County law or other New York State law, please register for free by clicking the link below: CLICK HERE to register for Fair Housing training on Wednesday, December 4th, 2024, at 5:00 pm. Eric will …
News / 10.28.24 /Eric P. BlahaandKenneth R. Jacobs
Join SBJ at New York’s Biggest & Best Co-op, Condo & Apt Expo!
📅 Date: November 19, 2024 🕘 Time: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM 📍 Location: Jacob Javits Convention Center, 655 W 34th St Smith Buss & Jacobs, LLP Session 🕑 Time: 2:15 PM – 3:15 PM 📍 Room 1 🔍 Topic: “Repairs – Who Makes Them, Who Approves Them, & Who Pays?” To register click here: …
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News / 10.08.24 /Eric P. Blaha
Join Eric Blaha on October 28, 2024, at 5:00PM, to complete your Fair Housing training requirements! Alternate Date Available
To All Board Members and Property Managers, If you need to fulfill your mandatory Fair Housing training requirements under the new Westchester County law or other New York State law, please register for free by clicking the link below: CLICK HERE to register for Fair Housing training on Monday, October 28th, 2024, at 5:00 pm. CLICK HERE …
Blog / 10.07.24 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Update On Corporate Transparency Act Filing Requirements for Boards; Lawsuit to Exempt Community Associations Filed in Virginia Federal Court
CTA UPDATE: As we stated in our August 2024 E-Blast, efforts to exempt “homeowners associations” from the Corporate Transparency Act (“CTA”) have so far failed. Therefore, most co-ops, condos and homeowners associations in New York will need to file “Beneficial Ownership Forms” with FinCen (the Treasury Department’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network) by January 1, 2025. …
News / 10.05.24 /Smith Buss & Jacobs LLP
The Smith Buss & Jacobs Team Gives Back at the Native Plant and Butterfly Garden in Yonkers
On Saturday, October 5th, the dedicated Smith Buss & Jacobs team joined forces to volunteer at the Native Plant and Butterfly Garden with the Hudson River Audubon Society in Yonkers. A big thank you goes out to all the amazing volunteers! Together, they made a lasting impact by planting, weeding, and removing invasive plants, contributing …
Blog / 09.02.24 /Nancy Durand
Spending Wisely: Balancing Operational Success and Donor Trust in Nonprofits
In the nonprofit world, every dollar counts. The funds that organizations raise are not just numbers on a balance sheet; they represent the trust and generosity of donors who believe in a mission. But what happens when questions arise about how those dollars are spent? A recent New York Times article titled “A Pattern of …
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News / 08.23.24 /Eric P. Blaha
Join Eric Blaha on September 10, 2024, at 5:00PM, to complete your Fair Housing training requirements! Alternate Date Available
To All Board Members and Property Managers, If you need to fulfill your mandatory Fair Housing training requirements under the new Westchester County law or other New York State law, please register for free by clicking the link below: CLICK HERE to register for Fair Housing training on Tuesday, September 10th, 2024, at 5:00 pm CLICK HERE …
News / 08.22.24 /Smith Buss & Jacobs LLP
SBJ Team Outing at Yankee Stadium!
On August 22, 2024, SBJ enjoyed a fantastic team outing at Yankee Stadium. It was a wonderful opportunity to bond, celebrate and enjoy some great baseball. Events like these remind us of the importance of team spirit. We are grateful for the chance to connect and strengthen our relationships outside of the office. Thank you …
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Blog / 08.14.24 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Legal Update: Corporate Transparency Act, Eviction for Good Cause Law
Corporate Transparency Act Update – Filing Requirements for Co-ops, Condos and HOA’s CTA UPDATE. Unfortunately, it looks like most Co-op’s and HOA’s will not be able to escape filing “Beneficial Ownership Information” under the Corporate Transparency Act (“CTA”). The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network of the Treasury Department (“FinCen”) is responsible for enforcing the CTA. In a …
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Blog / 07.19.24 /Ilene H. Guralnick
Giving Back Can Be Rewarding – Professionally and Personally
Written by Ilene H. Guralnick Being a lawyer is rewarding in and of itself, but many attorneys find themselves wondering what they can do to give back to the communities in which they live and work. One way to make a positive impact is to offer your services pro bono. Working pro bono can be transformative. Pro bono …
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News / 07.11.24 /Emanuela Lupu
Smith Buss & Jacobs, LLP is proud to have been a sponsor and participant at the 2024 Morris-Jumel Mansion George Washington Dinner!
Smith Buss & Jacobs, LLP is proud to have been a sponsor and participant at the 2024 Morris-Jumel Mansion George Washington Dinner! On Sunday, July 14, 2024, we celebrated Liberty, Equality, and Brotherhood. Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité. It was a wonderful evening filled with meaningful conversations and a shared commitment to these timeless values. Thanks to …
Blog / 06.29.24 /Peter Mustalish
Holding Condominium Developers Accountable for Construction Defects
Imagine you bought a condo in a new, or recently constructed, development. The brochures and website described a beautiful lifestyle with plush amenities. After you move in you notice that things aren’t quite right with the common elements. Months and even years go by, and the pool and clubhouse are still not built. Streets are …
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News / 06.18.24 /Eric P. Blaha
Join Eric Blaha on July 23rd, 2024, at 5:00PM, to complete your Fair Housing training requirements! Alternate date available
To All Board Members and Property Managers, If you need to fulfill your mandatory Fair Housing training requirements under the new Westchester County law or other New York State law, please register for free by clicking the link below: CLICK HERE to register for Fair Housing training on Tuesday, July 23rd, 2024, at 5:00 pm CLICK HERE …
News / 06.18.24 /Eric P. BlahaandKenneth R. Jacobs
Thank you to everyone who joined us at New York’s Biggest & Best Co-op, Condo & Apt Expo on Tuesday, June 18th!
Thank you to everyone who joined us at New York’s Biggest & Best Co-op, Condo & Apt Expo! Your participation made the event a tremendous success, and we’re grateful for your attendance. Special thanks to our SBJ speakers, Ken Jacobs, and Eric Blaha, for their insightful presentations on “Resident Rights vs. Board Confidentiality – New …
Blog / 06.11.24 /Jack Malley
Supreme Court Decision Puts Employers on Notice of Increased Risk of Discrimination Claims Based on Job Transfers
Employee dissatisfaction with job transfers is a common difficulty that employers face all the time. A recent Supreme Court decision concerning federal discrimination claims based on job transfers announced an important change in the law that managers and HR professionals must be aware of. The Supreme Court’s decision on April 17, 2024 in Muldrow v. …
News / 06.10.24 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
We are a proud participant at the Real Property Law Section Summer Meeting 2024
We’re excited to share that Kenneth R. Jacobs, a Partner at Smith Buss & Jacobs, LLP, will be attending the three-day NYSBA Real Property Law Section Summer Meeting in Montreal from July 11th- July 14th. Ken Jacobs attendance at this notable event highlights our firm’s commitment to staying at the forefront of real estate law …
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News / 05.29.24 /Eric P. BlahaandKenneth R. Jacobs
You’re invited to attend a Powerful Educational Seminar- Cooperator Events EXPO 2024 New York
Smith Buss & Jacobs, cordially invites you to attend: RESIDENT RIGHTS VS. BOARD CONFIDENTIALITY—NEW STANDARDS FOR ACCESS TO RECORDS & DISCLOSURE OF PRIVATE INFORMATION What rights do individual owners have to inspect their association’s books? What rights do boards have to limit owner review? When can a board restrict what an owner discloses to other …
News / 05.01.24 /Eric P. Blaha
Join Eric Blaha on June 10th, 2024, at 5:00PM, to complete your Fair Housing training requirements! Alternate date available
To All Board Members and Property Managers, If you need to fulfill your mandatory Fair Housing training requirements under the new Westchester County law or other New York State law, please register for free by clicking the link below: CLICK HERE to register for Fair Housing training on Monday, June 10, 2024, at 5:00 pm CLICK HERE …
Blog / 04.29.24 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Corporate Transparency Act Compliance Update; “Good Cause Eviction Law” Signed By Governor
CTA UPDATE. On April 18th, the Treasury Department issued additional guidance affecting whether cooperatives, condominiums and homeowners’ associations will need to report their beneficial owners to FinCen, the government’s financial crimes enforcement agency. The update is framed in question-and-answer format. Question C10 asks, “Are homeowners associations reporting companies?” In response, FinCen states that a HOA …
News / 04.18.24 /Eric P. Blaha
Join Eric Blaha on April 25, 2024, at 5:00PM, to complete your Fair Housing training requirements! Alternate date available.
To All Board Members and Property Managers, If you need to fulfill your mandatory Fair Housing training requirements under the new Westchester County law or other New York State law, please register for free by clicking the link below: CLICK HERE to register for Fair Housing training on Thursday, April 25, 2024, at 5:00 pm CLICK HERE …
News / 04.11.24 /Jack Malley
Severance Agreements CLE Webinar April 18th, 2024, hosted by Jack Malley
Severance Agreements Date: April 18th, 2024 Time: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM EDT Speaker: Jack Malley, Partner Cost: No Charge Credits: 1.5 (NY) Register here Learn about: The fundamentals of severance agreements The newest laws and their impact Typical severance packages in today’s market; and Common negotiation points and tactics
Blog / 04.01.24 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Alabama Federal District Court Declares Corporate Transparency Act Unconstitutional
Earlier this month, a federal court in Alabama ruled that the Corporate Transparency Act (“CTA” – See our January E-blast) was unconstitutional as applied to the plaintiffs, the National Small Business Administration and associated individuals. According to the court, the disclosure requirements for officers and directors in the CTA exceeded the government’s federal powers. The …
Blog / 03.21.24 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Ken Jacobs Featured in Habitat Magazine Addressing the Hard Insurance Market: Strategies for Boards
Rising insurance premiums and dwindling coverage have co-op and condo boards at the mercy of what’s called a “hard insurance market.” This is largely because insurers’ are trying to offset billion-dollar losses with higher premiums, lower coverage and exclusions. In the face of escalating costs, boards are forced to explore different ways to reduce liability …
Blog / 03.11.24 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Congress Likely to Kick “Corporate Transparency Act” Compliance Down the Road
As reported in our January E-Blast, the Corporate Transparency Act (“CTA”) disclosure requirements went into effect on January 1, 2024, compelling most corporations to report personal information about Board members to the Treasury Department. [See E-BlastHere.] Most co-op and HOA attorneys are advising their clients to delay compliance with the CTA until later in the …
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Seeking Review Under CPLR 5704: A Powerful Tool in the Arsenal of Legal Remedies
Navigating the legal landscape often requires a deep understanding of procedural rules, especially when faced with the challenges of obtaining timely relief. CPLR 5704(a) emerges as a valuable provision in the New York Civil Practice Law and Rules, offering a remedy where the trial court refuses to issue a temporary restraining order (TRO) for your …
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Blog / 02.15.24 /Avi Strauss
The Right to Sue for Specific Performance
A potential purchaser is right to invest ample time, money and effort in the due diligence process before signing a real estate contract of sale. Once the contract is signed, the purchaser can finally allow themselves to dream about the tantalizing possibilities presented by the acquisition. It is therefore frustrating – if not downright devastating …
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Blog / 01.26.24 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Co-Ops and HOA’s Caught In “Corporate Transparency Act” Net
In its ongoing effort to limit “money laundering, terrorist financing, corruption, tax fraud, and other illicit activity,” Congress passed the “Corporate Transparency Act” (“CTA”) in 2021 requiring certain business entities to file reports with Treasury identifying the beneficial owners of the entity. In 2022 the “Financial Crimes Enforcement Network” of the Treasury Department (“FinCEN”) passed …
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Blog / 01.08.24 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
New Law Reduces Maximum Construction Retainage To 5%; Time Limit Set For Release After Completion
Governor Kathy Hochul just signed a new law, S.3539/A.4167, intended to address delays in payment after “substantial completion” of a construction contract and to establish a 5% cap on the amount retained from progress payments under the contract. Specifically, Section 1 allows contractors to submit their “final invoice” after substantial completion rather than upon ”performance …
Blog / 12.11.23 /Ryan P. Kaupelis
Providing for the Recovery of Legal “Fees on Fees”
The ability of a party to recover the legal fees and expenses that they incur in connection with a lawsuit can often dramatically change settlement negotiations, the legal strategies a party takes prosecuting a lawsuit, the amount of resources that a party is willing to invest in a lawsuit, and – ultimately – the outcome …
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Blog / 12.04.23 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
New York’s New Flood Insurance Notice Requirements For Co-ops and Other Landlords.
New York State has passed new Real Property Law Section 231-b, requiring landlords to notify tenants of flood insurance risks for their buildings. Co-op corporations, and individual owners who lease or sublease their units, have been swept into the mix. Flood Hazard Lease Notice All residential leases must now specify whether the leased premises is …
Residential Alterations: Don’t Sign That Contract!
Recently, we have seen numerous residential alterations projects go awry because co-op and condo owners are signing bare-bones agreements without any attorney’s review. It is a grave mistake for property owners to focus only on the planning of their renovation, while ignoring the importance of retaining a competent construction law attorney to review their contractor’s or architect’s …
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Blog / 11.16.23 /Jack Malley
New York’s New Law Restricting Employer Access to Employee Social Media Accounts
In response to a trend of employers mandating login credentials for their employees’ social media accounts for the purpose of, among other things, evaluating employees for promotions and investigations of alleged employee misconduct, New York has a new law, effective March 12, 2024, that restricts employers’ access to current and prospective employee social media accounts. …
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Trust Transfers: Considerations for Cooperative Boards
It is becoming increasingly common for shareholders to seek the transfer of their cooperative shares into Trust as part of their estate planning. This allows the shareholder to avoid probate in the future and provides them flexibility in managing their assets. Although a Trust transfer can be very similar to standard share transfers, there are …
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Blog / 10.06.23 /Vanity Muniz
Co-op Board Options for Collecting Arrears in Estate Defaults
A shareholder dies and no one comes forward to claim their apartment. Before long, outstanding monthly rent has accrued and the apartment is now in significant arrears. What are the Board’s options for collecting arrears when a situation like this occurs? When a shareholder dies, the proprietary lease does not die with him/her. In fact, …
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Blog / 10.04.23 /Jennifer L. Stewart
A Primer on the Attorney General’s Power to Enjoin Persistent Fraud
Judge Arthur Engoron’s September 26, 2023, decision in the Letitia James v. Donald J. Trump case is certainly worth a read, and not just for its references to the classic comedies “Groundhog Day” and “Duck Soup.” It provides a useful primer on the powers of the Office of the Attorney General of New York State …
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Blog / 09.28.23 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Habitat Magazine: “Shareholders Must Replace Leaky Jacuzzi with Standard Tub”
What Happened: Ram Avrahami and Andrea Gural purchased a cooperative apartment containing a jacuzzi and used it for several years with no complaints. In 2017, though, the building superintendent (who lived below them) noticed that the tub was sinking; a little later, she also notified them that their toilet was leaking into her apartment. The …
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News / 09.23.23 /Eric P. Blaha,Jeffrey D. Buss,Kenneth R. Jacobs,Thomas W. SmithandMark L. Manewitz
Smith Buss & Jacobs 2023 selections by Super Lawyers
Eric Blaha, Jeffrey Buss, Kenneth Jacobs, Mark Manewitz & Thomas Smith have each been selected to the 2023 New York Metro Super Lawyers list. Each year, no more than five percent of the lawyers in the state are selected by the research team at Super Lawyers to receive this honor. Super Lawyers, a Thomson Reuters business, is a rating service of …
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Blog / 08.30.23 /Jack Malley
Second Circuit Decision Clarifies “Essential Function” Requirement for Employees Seeking Disability Accommodations
Participants in the HR/employment law world are readily familiar with the concept that an employee’s request for a reasonable disability accommodation will only be viable if the employee can perform the “essential functions” of his/her job with the accommodation. An August 18, 2023 decision issued by the Second Circuit in Tafolla v. County of Suffolk, …
Blog / 08.14.23 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Dogs, Dope and Noise
Beginning in 2018, the board of the The Charleston Condominium, a 191-unit, 21-story building at 225 East 34th St., began com-municating (through counsel) with apart-ment owner Judith Zarucki about bylaw and house rule violations. Specifically, the board alleged that Zarucki had been causing offensive odors by smoking marijuana, keeping too many pets and allowing them …
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Blog / 08.14.23 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Habitat Magazine: The Alteration Pass-Along
Building a Better System “Basically, you have to treat alteration and assumption agreements like corporate documents and make sure they’re retained for safekeeping,” says Ken Jacobs, a partner at the law firm Smith, Buss & Jacobs. “And when there is a sale, the board has to make sure that management checks the agreements for that …
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Blog / 06.21.23 /Jack Malley
NYC to Prohibit Discrimination Based on Height and Weight
On May 26, 2023, New York City amended the City’s Human Rights Law to bar employment discrimination on the basis of a person’s height and/or weight, which is effective on November 22, 2023. Exceptions under limited circumstances. There are exceptions in the law which permit employers to make decisions based on applicants’ and employees’ height …
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News / 06.08.23 /Smith Buss & Jacobs LLP
Introduction to Smith, Buss & Jacobs, LLP
Founded in 1991, Smith, Buss & Jacobs, LLP combines superlative legal service with a practical approach to delivering real-world solutions that ensure client value. Our exceptional attorneys deliver enhanced expertise across Real Estate, Cooperative and Condominium, Business, Litigation and Appeals and Government Law. We are proud of our outstanding reputation, impeccable industry rating, and large and prestigious client …
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Blog / 05.11.23 /Eric P. Blaha,Kenneth R. JacobsandRyan P. Houck
PowerPoint: How to Handle Transfers – Current Issues Facing Co-op & Condo Boards
CLICK HERE to view our PowerPoint presentation, “How to Handle Transfers – Current Issues Facing Co-op & Condo Boards.”
Blog / 04.27.23 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Recent Court Cases Void Restrictions on Evictions and Enforcement of Lease Guarantees, But Window is Still Open
NY State and federal courts recently voided some of the more extreme measures taken by New York City and Albany during the COVID emergency. “Eviction for Good Cause” Law Voided in City of Albany. In 2021 the city of Albany passed a law requiring landlords to offer renewal leases to tenants unless the tenants violated …
News / 01.12.23 /Nancy Durand
Join Nancy Durand and Nonprofit Westchester on February 16, 2023 to discuss the top legal and governance issues for nonprofits.
Nancy Durand will be joined by Maurice Segall, the Director of the NY & Fairfield County Program at Pro Bono Partnership. The discussion will be held virtually on February 16th, 2023 from 9:00-10:30 AM. The talk is free for NPW members. Non-NPW members will have to pay $15.00 to register. Click here to register.
Blog / 12.16.22 /Matthew J. Smith
DID YOU KNOW: The ABC’s of An Access Agreement
Matthew J. Smith joins Habitat Magazine to discuss the basics of access agreements. The basics. When a neighbor requests access to your building, you need an access agreement. You want to make sure it describes exactly what work the neighbor plans on doing and where. We recommend that you ask for drawings and specifications if they’re …
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Blog / 12.16.22 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
HOW TO: Pass a Controversial Amendment to the Proprietary Lease
Ken Jacobs joins Habitat Magazine to discuss how to pass a controversial amendment to the proprietary lease. Legally and practically. The way to pass a controversial policy, such as a smoking ban, is to amend the proprietary lease. The proprietary lease is considered a contract under New York law, and therefore the parties to the contract, …
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Blog / 12.02.22 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
E-Bike And E-Scooter Safety – Is It All Or Nothing?
Lithium-Ion batteries (“L-I Batteries”) are used in numerous consumer devices, ranging from cell phones, laptops and tablets to vapes, electric toothbrushes, tools and cameras, and wheelchairs, bicycles and scooters. These batteries have a history of overheating, particularly on E-Bikes and E-Scooters. After several E-bike battery fires this spring, the NYC Housing Authority banned E-bikes and …
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News / 11.14.22 /Eric P. Blaha,Jeffrey D. Buss,Kenneth R. Jacobs,Thomas W. SmithandMark L. Manewitz
Smith Buss & Jacobs 2021 selections by Super Lawyers
Eric Blaha, Jeffrey Buss, Kenneth Jacobs, Mark Manewitz & Thomas Smith have each been selected to the 2020 New York Metro Super Lawyers list. Each year, no more than five percent of the lawyers in the state are selected by the research team at Super Lawyers to receive this honor. Super Lawyers, a Thomson Reuters business, is a rating service of …
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Blog / 09.28.22 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Ripple Effects Of Surfside Condo Collapse – FNMA And Freddie Mac Tighten Oversight Of “Deferred Maintenance” In Condos And Co-Ops
PART I – FINDING EVIDENCE OF “DEFERRED MAINTENANCE” When you take out a personal mortgage or a co-op loan, your bank usually packages it with other mortgages and sells them in bulk to the Federal National Mortgage Association (“FNMA” or “Fannie Mae”) or the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (“Freddie Mac” or simply “Freddie”). (In …
Blog / 05.19.22 /Kenneth R. JacobsandMatthew J. Smith
PowerPoint: “Leaks, Fires, & Construction Damages: Are You and Your Co-op or Condo Ready for the Next Crisis?”
Click Here to view our PowerPoint presentation, “Leaks, Fires, & Construction Damages: Are You and Your Co-op or Condo Ready for the Next Crisis?”
News / 05.17.22 /Jeffrey D. Buss
Westchester Business Journal: Westchester Attorney, Jeffrey Buss, is Instrumental in $621.5M Refinancing
A Westchester attorney whose firm is based in Yonkers was instrumental in coordinating a real estate refinancing so significant that it was announced jointly on April 28 by New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Congressman Jamal Bowman and U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Marcia Fudge. Even without the …
Jacob Amir obtained a favorable decision after trial for his clients, residential homeowners, defending against claims brought by a contractor for wrongful termination and breach of contract.
Following on a four day trial, the Court issued a decision that dismissed the complaint, determined that Jacob’s clients permissibly terminated the contractor, and awarded the clients counterclaim judgment for overpayments made and expenses incurred.
News / 04.28.22 /Jeffrey D. Buss
Partner Jeffrey Buss Coordinates $124,000,000 Co-op City Refinancing with HUD
Governor Hochul, Secretary Fudge, Senator Schumer, and Representative Bowman Announce Approval of Loan Refinancing to Maintain Housing Quality and Affordability for Co-op City Governor Kathy Hochul, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Secretary Marcia Fudge, Senator Charles Schumer, and Representative Jamaal Bowman today announced that Riverbay Corporation, the management company for Co-op City, the …
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Attorney Jacob Amir obtained summary judgment dismissal on behalf of his client, the remaining member of a limited liability company, who was accused of breaching a workout and settlement agreement
The other outgoing member alleged that Jacob’s client agreed to an itemization of income and expenses and make installment payments to the outgoing member in exchange for a transfer of interests. The company was formed as a joint venture to act as general contractor on certain large-scale projects. Jacob used the General Obligations Law to …
Blog / 12.30.21 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Governor Signs Bill Exempting Co-Ops From Some Damaging Provisions Of Housing Stability Act
On June 10th, we notified you that a bill exempting Co-ops from some of the more objectionable provisions of the 2019 Tenant Protection and Housing Stability Act passed the legislature. See our E-Blast HERE. Due in part to the change in the executive branch, the Governor did not sign the bill until last week. To …
Blog / 12.29.21 /Smith Buss & Jacobs LLP
Memorandum Filed With New York Senate Bill 2014
Click HERE to read the Memorandum filed with Senate Bill 2014.
Blog / 12.27.21 /Nancy Durand
Looking Toward 2022: A Legal Year-end Review For Companies And Nonprofits
Nancy Durand encourages organizations to take some time during this last week of 2021 to do a little self-reflection. What did you do well in 2021? What could have been done better or differently? What do you hope to accomplish in 2022? As you undergo this self-reflection process, consider the following legal priorities: CLICK HERE …
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Blog / 12.15.21 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Mayor De Blasio Imposes Vaccination Requirements On Private Businesses
New York City announced today that effective December 27th, all employees at private sector businesses must have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine. According to the New York Times, “There is no testing option as an alternative.” The City expects to publish more detailed rules for implementation and enforcement by December 15th. Mayor …
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Attorney Jacob Amir Obtained The Cancellation Of A Mechanics Lien Filed Against A Condominium Building And 48 Condominium Units.
Attorney Jacob Amir obtained the cancellation of a mechanics lien filed against a condominium building and 48 condominium units. The lienor, a general contractor, needed to pay substantial insurance premiums in order to qualify its bid for a project. When the project was delayed, the contractor filed for recovery of its premium costs. Our firm …
Blog / 11.16.21 /Kenneth R. Jacobsand
A Matter of Trust – Issues for Boards When Owners Transfer Apartments to Trusts, LLCs, & Other Legal Entities
Why Are So Many People Considering Transfers to Trusts and LLC’s? 1. Speed up Estate Transfers – Transfers to trusts avoid delays in probating assets under a will; a Trust is also easier to amend and provides more flexibility in changing beneficiaries than wills do 2. Tax Planning. – Transfers to family managed LLC’s allows …
Blog / 11.10.21 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Electronic Meeting Bill For Co-ops Signed Into Law
At long last, Co-ops are now officially allowed to conduct shareholder meetings electronically, permanently extending the current law that expires on December 31st. As before, the Board of Directors must provide a platform that provides shareholders a reasonable opportunity to participate in the proceedings, to verify that participants are shareholders of record, to vote, and …
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News / 11.10.21 /Kenneth R. Jacobsand
Webinar: A Matter of Trust – When Owners Transfer Apartments to Trusts, LLCs, & Other Legal Entities
Register NOW for our November 16th, Cooperator Town Hall Event at 2:00pm EST. Led by Kenneth R. Jacobs and A.J. Morgenstern. Shareholders and unit owners often seek to transfer ownership of their apartments to Revocable Living Trusts, Medicaid Trusts, Family Limited Liability Companies and other artificial entities in order to avoid probate and reduce their …
Blog / 11.01.21 /Eric P. Blaha
PACE Loans Ease Compliance with the Climate Mobilization Act
Owners of buildings over 25,000 gross square feet should be focused now on compliance with NYC’s Climate Mobilization Act (Local Law 97) that sets increasingly stringent limits on carbon emissions in 2024 and 2030 (and then every 5 years until carbon emissions are reduced by 80% in 2050). Owners should be wary of steep fines …
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Blog / 11.01.21 /Matthew J. Smith
Amendments to NYS Fair Chance Act Grant Further Rights to Job Applicants and Employees with Prior Arrests or Convictions
New York State’s “Fair Chance Act” was amended effective July 29, 2021, further limiting the rights of employers to screen job applicants and employees based on criminal history and background checks. The 2015 Fair Chance Act (the “FCA”), covering most employers with four or more employees, amended the NYC Human Rights Law by prohibiting employers …
Jacob Amir has been appointed Co-Chair of the Construction Law Committee of the Westchester Bar Association.
Jacob Amir has been appointed Co-Chair of the Construction Law Committee of the Westchester Bar Association. The Committee members are engaged in some of the largest and most advanced public and private development projects in the County and around New York State.
Blog / 10.15.21 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
32BJ And RAB Reach Agreement On Implementing Vaccination Policies In Buildings
Local 32BJ and the Realty Advisory Board have entered into a “Memorandum of Understanding” regarding the implementation of vaccine mandates at buildings. Employers may require employees to be vaccinated under the following timetables and protocols: 1. Employers must give employees one week’s notice of their intention to require vaccinations at the building; 2. By the …
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News / 10.15.21 /Eric P. Blaha,Jeffrey D. Buss,Kenneth R. Jacobs,Thomas W. SmithandMark L. Manewitz
Smith Buss & Jacobs 2021 selections by Super Lawyers
Eric Blaha, Jeffrey Buss, Kenneth Jacobs, Mark Manewitz & Thomas Smith have each been selected to the 2020 New York Metro Super Lawyers list. Each year, no more than five percent of the lawyers in the state are selected by the research team at Super Lawyers to receive this honor. Super Lawyers, a Thomson Reuters business, is a rating …
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Blog / 09.16.21 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Our Legislature At Work, Legal News & Updates 9.15.2021
The New York State Legislature has considered the pressing problems affecting community associations and in response, has passed at least four new bills affecting condominiums, cooperatives and homeowners associations that are either awaiting the Governor’s signature or have been signed into law. “PREVAILING WAGE” BILL SIGNED INTO LAW. Governor Hochul has signed into law the …
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Blog / 09.08.21 /Eric P. Blahaand
Cooperative Disclosure Law Now In Effect In Westchester County. Will Other Counties Follow?
The Westchester County Board of Legislators recently amended Local Law 2018-11 to impose new timetables and guidelines on Co-op Boards when developing application forms for potential purchasers, reviewing completed purchase applications, and accepting or denying applicants. The law became effective August 1, 2021, and implementation became mandatory August 16, 2021. Although this law applies only …
Blog / 08.17.21 /Jack Malley
Making Employment Law Simple: Reasonable Accommodation
Watch Jack Malley, Partner at Smith, Buss & Jacobs, LLP break down important employment law topics. Today, he discusses reasonable accommodations.
Jacob Amir obtained dismissal of a complaint brought by a commercial property owner against our client, the principal of a construction company, regarding the principal’s certification on payment requisitions totaling about $700,000 under a $7.5 million construction management contract.
The owner alleged that our client engaged in fraud and misrepresentation when he certified the accuracy of payment requisitions which the owner claimed were false due to non-performance and non-payments to subcontractors. The Court adopted Jacob’s arguments that the principal could not be held personally liable for the claims alleged, and granted dismissal of the …
News / 07.16.21 /Kenneth R. Jacobs,Emanuela LupuandJennifer L. Stewart
Webinar: Legal Updates – New State, Local & Federal Legislation – What Boards Should Know
Register NOW for our June 29th, Cooperator Town Hall Event at 2:00pm EST. Led by Kenneth R. Jacobs, Emanuela Lupu-Ferrante, and Jennifer L. Stewart. Overview: The New York State legislature amended several important laws affecting co-ops and condos in the last two days of its session. Several new federal and local laws will also have …
Blog / 06.15.21 /Jennifer L. Stewart
Up in Smoke? What does the New York Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act (“MRTA”) mean for Condo and Co-op Boards and their employees?
As of March 31, 2021, cannabis is legal for medical and recreational use in New York. Adults 21 and over are permitted to possess up to 3 ounces of cannabis or .8 ounces of concentrated cannabis and generally to smoke anywhere cigarette smoking is permitted. Growing and sales are not legal quite yet, but will …
Blog / 06.11.21 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Legislature Exempts Co-ops From Key Restrictions In “Housing Stability Act”
On June 10th, the State Senate and Assembly removed most cooperative corporations (with one significant exception noted later in this Alert) from the application of key sections of the so-called “Tenant Protection and Housing Stability Act” that had lumped private Co-ops in with for-profit rentals. The changes included the following: 1. (a) Co-ops Can Recover …
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Blog / 05.18.21 /Jack Malley
An Update on Wage Laws that Apply to New York Residential Building Owners and Workers
Jack Malley provides an update on wage laws that apply to New York residential building owners and workers in the Westchester County Business Journal. Read the full article HERE
Blog / 05.14.21 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Covid-19: Can Associations Require COVID Vaccinations?
Everyone finally has access to vaccines! Gyms, playrooms and pools are starting to reopen! Previously Associations worried about requiring COVID testing. Now they must consider whether to require COVID vaccinations as a condition of employment or renewed use of their facilities. Employees. Under current OSHA and EEOC guidelines, Associations do have the right to require …
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Blog / 04.20.21 /Jack Malley
A Summary of New York’s New Recreational Marijuana Use Law
Watch Jack Malley, Partner at Smith, Buss & Jacobs, LLP talk about New York’s recreational marijuana use law.
Blog / 03.24.21 /Eric P. Blaha
Boards and Management: Waiting for “The Other Shoe to Drop” After Mandatory “Reasonable Accommodation” Disclosures
Human rights laws and fair housing laws have been in effect for decades, providing equal access and opportunity for people with disabilities to use and enjoy housing, amenities and services. Yet Co-op and Condo Boards and Management may want to brace themselves for the potential onslaught of requests for reasonable modifications and accommodations from people …
Blog / 02.22.21 /Jack Malley
Court Decision Highlights The Risks Of Poor Handbook Drafting
Earlier this month the Supreme Court of Minnesota issued an interesting decision concerning two questions employment litigators regularly come across: (1) whether a handbook provision creates an employee contractual right, and (2) whether a general disclaimer in a handbook stating that its provisions are not intended to create a contract defeats a handbook contract claim. …
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Blog / 02.22.21 /Eric P. Blaha
State Incentives Reduce Sticker Shock of Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Stations
GM recently announced that it will eliminate fossil fuel vehicles by 2035. It seems inevitable that multifamily property owners, including co-op and condo boards, will need to make arrangements to install electric vehicle charging stations to meet anticipated demand by resident owners long before then. As part of NY’s effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions …
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You Say Delay, I Say Disruption: The Fine Line Separating Owners and Contractors That Should Be Defined in Construction Agreements
The standard AIA construction contract (and typically non-AIA contracts) will have a provision entitled “no damage for delay” that includes language setting forth that if an owner delays or disrupts a project, a contractor may not recover money damages. Rather, the contractor’s remedy is limited to seeking an extension of time for completion of the …
Blog / 02.08.21 /Randi F. Plevy
The Pitfalls Involved in Disposing or Mortgaging Real Property Owned by Religious Corporations
The pastor of a small church in Manhattan contacted me several years ago asking for help. The congregation had outgrown its space and was seeking to sell its building and move to a larger building in the Bronx. In fact, the church was already under contract to sell the building to a developer, but the …
Blog / 02.08.21 /Nancy Durand
New York Appellate Court Recognizes Private Right of Action for Nonprofit Employees Against Employers who Violate Whistleblower Protections Under Section 715-b of the Not-for-Profit Corporation Law
Section 715-b of the Not-for-Profit Corporation Law (the “NPCL”) requires nonprofits with 20 or more employees and annual revenues in excess of one million dollars to adopt an explicit whistleblower policy to protect from retaliation persons who report suspected improper conduct. Nonprofits with fewer than 20 employees or with annual revenues lower than $1,000,000 do …
Blog / 02.03.21 /Eric P. Blaha,Jeffrey D. Buss,Kenneth R. Jacobs,Emanuela Lupu,Thomas W. SmithandDomenick J. Tammaro
Covid-19: DHCR Allows Co-ops to Impose Mask Mandates; Employers May Require Vaccinations from Employees; Condo Lien Foreclosures Not Barred by Latest Moratorium
DHCR Grants Powers to Co-ops to Enforce COVID Rules. DHCR has issued regulations allowing “Limited Profit and Limited Dividend” housing projects (such as Mitchell-Lama co-ops and many HDFC’s) to pass rules requiring residents to wear masks in public areas if they cannot maintain social distancing. Building owners are authorized to [“shall”] deny admittance to any …
Blog / 01.19.21 /Eric P. Blaha,Jeffrey D. Buss,Kenneth R. Jacobs,Emanuela Lupu,Thomas W. SmithandDomenick J. Tammaro
Covid-19: New Rules Evictions and Foreclosures Still Limited News on Insurance Costs and Taxes
PPP UPDATE Co-ops STILL Eligible. Condos and HOA’s May be Challenged. Co-ops are eligible for PPP Loans even as first-time borrowers. Based on the statutory language in the new Stimulus bill, though, Condos and HOA’s do not qualify because (unlike Co-ops) they were not specifically included. Hopefully that omission will be corrected or explained away, …
News / 12.30.20 /Jack Malley
Jack Malley won an appeal on December 29, 2020. The First Department affirmed Supreme Court, New York County’s decision granting a preliminary injunction enjoining a Manhattan co-op from evicting Jack’s client from an apartment he inherited after the co-op board denied his transfer application.
Blog / 12.23.20 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Covid-19: Co-op Boards Need to Act Fast on Paycheck Protection Loans – Habitat Weekly
“Call your lender,” echoes Ken Jacobs, a partner at the law firm Smith Buss & Jacobs. “If they aren’t making the loans themselves, they will know lenders who will make these SBA-backed loans. I’d be shocked if they couldn’t hook you up. And boards should apply quickly, because the money could run out. That’s what happened last …
Blog / 12.23.20 /Eric P. Blaha,Jeffrey D. Buss,Kenneth R. Jacobs,Emanuela Lupu,Thomas W. SmithandDomenick J. Tammaro
Covid-19: Christmas Presents for Co-ops – Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) Amended to Allow Loans to Cooperatives
The Omnibus Spending Bill newly passed by Congress includes a provision specifically making housing cooperatives eligible for PPP loans. No matter what the bill ultimately looks like when it becomes law, we expect that provision to remain. As a result, cooperatives can now apply for PPP loans without fear of rejection. The amendments also apply …
News / 11.30.20 /Smith Buss & Jacobs LLP
Webcast: Trends and Developments in Trade Secrets: What Companies Must Know and Do
Charles Welcome joins a group of panelists on Thursday, December 10th at 3:00 pm to present an in-depth analysis of the recent trends and developments in trade secrets. Speakers will offer the best practices to effectively identify and mitigate potential loopholes and protect trade secrets from risks of theft. They will also provide the audience …
Thinking about the “When” . . . when drafting a dispute resolution provision in construction agreements
The importance of the dispute resolution provision in a construction contract should not be overlooked. This means addressing not only how the parties will resolve disputes between them (e.g., mediation, arbitration or litigation) but also answering the “when?” of that process. New York State’s suspension of filing deadlines in civil cases is coming to an …
Blog / 11.10.20 /Jack Malley
The importance of training for an Employer Sexual Harassment Prevention Policy
Watch Jack Malley share a cautionary tale about the importance of training for a company’s Sexual Harassment Prevention Policy. For more information, please contact: Jack Malley jmalley@sbjlaw.com
Blog / 11.10.20 /Matthew J. Smith
Condo/Co-op Projects and Alterations: Protecting Residents from Illness and Protecting Boards from Potential Liability
As Covid-19 safety procedures and regulations remain in effect, condominium and cooperative boards and their building managers would be wise to take measures to protect building residents (and contractors) from illness and insulate boards and owners from potential liability. On June 8, 2020 non-essential construction projects in NYC were approved to resume after a nearly …
Blog / 11.10.20 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Covid-19: Burdens Facing Co-ops and Condos in 2021 and Beyond
While New York State remains preoccupied with controlling the latest COVID surges, the NYC Council has imposed new burdens on cooperatives and condominium in the name of safety. What are we facing for 2021? 1. NYS Quarantine Rules Change Again. As of November 4th, persons spending more than 24 hours in another state are required …
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Owner questions for a mechanic’s lien filed against their property
Watch Jacob Amir, Partner at Smith Buss & Jacobs, LLP talk about questions an owner might ask if a mechanic’s lien is filed against their property.
Blog / 10.13.20 /Eric P. Blaha
Co-Ops & Condos fitness facilities re-opening questions
Watch Eric Blaha answer some FAQ from Co-Ops & Condos regarding the re-opening of fitness centers. SBJ YouTube FAQ Video October 13, 2020 featuring Eric Blaha
Blog / 10.13.20 /Nancy Durand
Board Governance Series – Part I of V
How to Build an Effective Board of Directors Part I: Know Your Role Congratulations, you are a new member of the board of directors. Now what? Often directors are thrown into the proverbial hot [board] seat without an understanding of their roles and responsibilities. Misunderstanding the board’s role or directors’ duties produces a dysfunctional board, …
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Blog / 10.13.20 /Jack Malley
NY’s New Paid Sick Leave Law Now Effective
New York State’s new Paid Sick Leave Law went into effect Sept. 30, 2020. Employees can start accruing leave now and can start using that accrued leave on Jan. 1, 2021. The new law requires employers to provide time off for employee physical or mental illnesses, family illnesses and preventative care. In addition, the law …
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News / 10.13.20 /Smith Buss & Jacobs LLP
Smith Buss & Jacobs 2020 selections by Super Lawyers
Eric Blaha, Jeffrey Buss, Kenneth Jacobs & Thomas Smith have each been selected to the 2020 New York Metro Super Lawyers list. Each year, no more than five percent of the lawyers in the state are selected by the research team at Super Lawyers to receive this honor. In addition, Associate, Charles Welcome has been …
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News / 10.06.20 /Nancy Durand
Webinar: Best Practices to Avoid Breach of Fiduciary Duty Liability
Register HERE to join Nancy Durand, Special Counsel on Wednesday, October 14, 2020 at 12pm as she presents in the webinar sponsored by New York Council of Nonprofits Inc. “Join NYCON corporate ally, Smith Buss & Jacobs as they guide us through the best practices to avoid fiduciary duty liability. In this webinar they will …
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News / 10.06.20 /Nancy Durand
Upcoming Board Governance Series: How to Build an Effective Board of Directors
Being a board member of a nonprofit entity is an awesome responsibility undertaken by volunteers (often with other full-time commitments) who are driven by a desire to contribute meaningfully to their community, industry, or society at large. Whether you serve on the board of a nonprofit corporation, foundation, or housing entity, you are a fiduciary …
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News / 10.06.20 /Kenneth R. Jacobs,Emanuela LupuandDomenick J. Tammaro
Town Hall: Remote Control – Managing Meetings, Elections & Shareholder Anxiety during COVID
Kenneth R. Jacobs, Domenick J. Tammaro, Emanuela Lupu-Ferrante led a Cooperator Town Hall Event on October 6, 2020. Overview Countless co-op and condo communities postponed their annual meetings this past spring thanks to the pandemic. Not only do those meetings still need to be held, but arrears are higher, sales are slower, and it looks …
Blog / 10.06.20 /Nancy Durand
Board Governance Series How to Build an Effective Board of Directors
Being a board member of a nonprofit entity is an awesome responsibility undertaken by volunteers (often with other full-time commitments) who are driven by a desire to contribute meaningfully to their community, industry, or society at large. Whether you serve on the board of a nonprofit corporation, foundation, or housing entity, you are a fiduciary …
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Socially Distanced Closings
The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly impacted the closing process in the real estate industry. Many offices that used to host typical real estate closings now prohibit or discourage in-person closings, and closing participants are reluctant to spend extended periods in conference rooms that can seem cramped and unventilated. The Covid-19 pandemic has forced the NY …
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Court resolves battle between New York City government bodies and a developer caught in the middle
Municipalities of all sizes have varying agencies whose determinations must be sought in the land use process. However, whether presenting before a planning board, seeking a variance from a zoning board, or satisfying the concerns of a community preservation board, a developer can get caught in the middle when municipal agencies challenge each other’s respective …
Blog / 09.23.20 /Ryan P. Houck
Update: Condo Board Collection of Unpaid Common Charges in the Face of COVID-19 Regulations
With all of the Executive Orders from Governor Cuomo and the Administrative Orders issued by the Chief Administrative Judges of the State and City of New York in response thereto, Condo Boards and Managing Agents are justifiably confused as to what, if anything, a Condominium Board can do to collect unpaid common charges. Currently, no …
Blog / 09.15.20 /Jack Malley
Burlington Coat Factory’s $19 Million “Manager” Overtime Settlement, Another Big Employee Misclassification Hit
Companies of all sizes have taken big lawsuit hits for misclassifying managers as exempt employees – not entitled to overtime pay, merely because they are paid a salary. Under federal and New York law, in order to assert an exemption from paying overtime to its employees an employer must be prepared not only to show …
Blog / 09.14.20 /Mark L. Manewitz
The New Discussion About Remediation — What is Really “CLEAN”?
The phrase “How clean is clean?” used to dominate all environmental remediation. Responsible parties, or as they are often called, “Potentially Responsible Parties (PRP’s) asked, “What are we going to do about the contamination in the soil or water once we test if its toxicity value exceeds the standards set by either the Federal Government …
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Blog / 09.14.20 /Ryan P. Houck
Update: Condo Board Collection of Unpaid Common Charges in the Face of COVID-19 Regulations
With all of the Executive Orders from Governor Cuomo and the Administrative Orders issued by the Chief Administrative Judges of the State and City of New York in response thereto, Condo Boards and Managing Agents are justifiably confused as to what, if anything, a Condominium Board can do to collect unpaid common charges. Currently, no …
Blog / 08.30.20 /Jeffrey D. Buss,Kenneth R. JacobsandThomas W. Smith
Latest Covid-19 Developments: Gyms
NEW YORK STATE AUTHORIZES GYMS TO REOPEN (SORT OF) New York State is allowing gyms to reopen as early as August 24th, unless the locality delays openings (but not later than September 2nd). Sounds like great news, until you read the details. The six-page “summary” of reopening guidelines for gyms and fitness centers appears on …
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Contractor’s delay in bringing legal action proves very costly
by Jacob E. Amir May owners and general contractors agree to shorten New York’s legal time period for bringing legal action to recover contract damages? Yes. And if that time period runs from the date of “construction completion” but a formal notice of completion is never issued, will a contractor be barred from suing under …
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Blog / 08.26.20 /Ryan P. Houck
New COVID-19 Directives Extend Moratorium on NY Eviction Proceedings
by Ryan Houck In response to Executive Order 202.55 signed by Governor Cuomo on August 5, 2020, the Chief Administrative Judges of the State and City of New York recently promulgated a new set of directives addressing pending landlord-tenant cases. Judgments Already Issued. For residential cases commenced prior to March 17, 2020, a Petitioner (Co-op) …
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Blog / 08.26.20 /Nancy Durand
Conducting Internal Investigations: What You Need to Know
by Nancy Durand On Thursday, August 20, 2020, Smith Buss & Jacobs’ attorney, Nancy Durand, presented a webinar entitled “How to Effectively Conduct an Internal Investigation: A Practical Guide.” In case you missed it, here’s what you need to know. An internal investigation can serve as an important tool for responding to incidents of suspected …
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Blog / 08.23.20 /Jeffrey D. Buss
Jeffrey Buss chats with State Supreme Court Justice Linda Jamieson
Jeffrey Buss chats with State Supreme Court Justice Linda Jamieson about the caseload at the Commercial Division of the court in Westchester due to Covid-19 and other subjects. For more information contact: Jeffrey Buss jbuss@sbjlaw.com
News / 08.14.20 /Nancy Durand
Webinar: How to Effectively Conduct an Internal Investigation
On August 20th, Special Counsel, Nancy Durand gave a webinar “How to Effectively Conduct an Internal Investigation” where she will discuss strategies for investigating workplace misconduct and other allegations. This webinar was hosted by The Knowledge Group. For more information contact: Nancy Durand ndurand@sbjlaw.com
News / 08.13.20 /Eric P. BlahaandKenneth R. Jacobs
Webinar: Conducting Online Meetings – should the practice be continued?
Ken Jacobs & Eric Blaha were panelists on the webinar hosted by Hudson Valley CAI “HOAs-Discontinue Online Meetings and Voting?” held August 13th. Review the presentation materials here or watch the webinar recording here: Hudson Valley CAI “HOAs – Discontinue Online Meetings and Voting?” For more information contact: Eric Blaha at eblaha@sbjlaw.com or Ken Jacobs …
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Blog / 08.01.20 /Jeffrey D. Buss
Jeffrey Buss predicts increased litigation from Covid-19
Jeffrey Buss discusses with Westchester Business Journal (Westfair Communications) some legal implications of the Covid-19 pandemic for businesses and how it affected the law firm of Smith Buss & Jacobs LLP. For more information contact: Jeffrey Buss jbuss@sbjlaw.com
News / 07.16.20 /Kenneth R. Jacobs,Emanuela LupuandDomenick J. Tammaro
Webinar: Living in a COVID World – Confronting Real-Life Issues as Associations Reopen
Kenneth R. Jacobs, Domenick J. Tammaro, Emanuela Lupu-Ferrante led a Cooperator Town Hall Event on July 16, 2020. Overview Countless co-op and condo communities postponed their annual meetings this past spring thanks to the pandemic. Not only do those meetings still need to be held, but arrears are higher, sales are slower, and it looks …
Blog / 07.03.20 /Eric P. Blaha,Jeffrey D. Buss,Kenneth R. Jacobs,Emanuela Lupu,Thomas W. SmithandDomenick J. Tammaro
LATEST COVID-19 DEVELOPMENTS: NEW LAWS REGARDING EVICTIONS AND FORECLOSURES; PPP PROGRAM EXTENDED; Q&A ON REOPENING ISSUES
NEW LAWS REGARDING EVICTIONS AND FORECLOSURES; PPP PROGRAM EXTENDED; Q&A ON REOPENING ISSUES MORATORIUM ON RESIDENTIAL NON-PAYMENT EVICTIONS EXTENDED INDEFINITELY. Last night Governor Cuomo signed the “Tenant Safe Harbor Act”, which bans issuance of a warrant of eviction against a residential tenant or other lawful occupant who has suffered a “financial hardship” during the “COVID-19 …
Webinar: Addressing Lien Law 3A claims in and out of Bankruptcy Court
Overview Article 3A of the New York Lien Law sets up a system of trusts to make sure that construction moneys received by owners and contractors are applied to pay for the cost of the improvement. It also provides a mechanism for owners and subcontractors to claim diversion of funds against contractors who fail to …
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Remember Lien Law 3A Payment Obligations with the Shutdown Fading and Construction Projects Resuming
With the nearly three-month construction work stoppage now in the rear view mirror, owners and contractors need to refocus on funding and payment issues under suspended contracts. A recent article in Construction Dive, a trade publication, noted a 40% increase nationwide in the number of mechanic’s lien filings, suggesting that some parties are resorting to …
Blog / 05.28.20 /Eric P. Blaha,Jeffrey D. Buss,Kenneth R. Jacobs,Emanuela Lupu,Thomas W. SmithandDomenick J. Tammaro
COVID-19: Guidelines for Reopening Buildings
Guidelines for Reopening Buildings The pressure to relax the guidelines for access to condominium and cooperative buildings, including their common facilities, has been growing. Boards need to develop a plan for handling the increased risks that come with increased traffic within the premises and social interaction among owners. The following assumes that you have guidelines …
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Blog / 05.26.20 /andKenneth R. Jacobs
COVID-19: Reopening Guidance for Property Owners on Construction Projects; New NYS Small Business Loan Assistance
REOPENING GUIDANCE FOR PROPERTY OWNERS RESTARTING CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS NEW NYS SMALL BUSINESS LOAN ASSISTANCE MID-HUDSON REGION REOPENS MAY 26, 2020; LONG ISLAND TO FOLLOW MAY 27, 2020. The Mid-Hudson Region reopens for Phase One today, and Long Island reopens with Phase 1 tomorrow. Phase 1 means that contractors in these Regions can resume non-essential construction …
COVID-19: Contractors . . . Get Ready to Get Back to Work
Construction is at the top of the list of the group of industries scheduled to reopen first under Governor Cuomo’s four-phase plan. That is good news for contractors, developers and owners. To enable a smooth transition back to work, interested parties should consider how an ongoing project may have been affected by the shutdown, and …
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COVID-19: State Authorizes Phased-in Reopening of Businesses. When Will New York City, LI and Westchester Qualify? Some Reopening Considerations.
New York State has implemented a four-phase plan to reopen businesses across the state based on seven benchmarks. The state is divided into ten regions: New York City and Long Island are each separate regions, and Westchester, Rockland, Orange, Dutchess and Putnam counties are part of the “Mid-Hudson Region.” As of now, none of these …
News / 05.14.20 /Eric P. BlahaandThomas W. Smith
Habitat LIVE: Zoom Annual Meetings
Tom Smith joins Habitat LIVE to discuss the protocol developed by Smith Buss Jacobs to run annual meetings and board elections in the current era of social distancing.
Blog / 05.11.20 /Eric P. Blaha,Jeffrey D. Buss,Kenneth R. Jacobs,Emanuela Lupu,Thomas W. SmithandDomenick J. Tammaro
Coronavirus: EXECUTIVE ORDER RE SECURITY DEPOSITS AND EVICTIONS; PPP SAFE HARBOR EXTENSION; SAFE CONSTRUCTION PRACTICES; ARE YOU PREPARED FOR LOOSENED RESTRICTIONS?
Executive Order Allows Use of Security Deposits for Rent, Extends Moratorium on Evictions and Foreclosures. On May 7th Governor Cuomo issued Executive Order 202.28, which provides in part that (i) residential landlords and tenants can agree with each other to use security deposits to pay rent arrears; (ii) requires landlords to use a security deposit …
Blog / 05.05.20 /Eric P. Blaha,Jeffrey D. Buss,Kenneth R. Jacobs,Emanuela Lupu,Thomas W. SmithandDomenick J. Tammaro
Coronavirus: PPP UPDATE; GLIMMERS OF HOPE FOR “BUSINESS INTERRUPTION” COVERAGE?
More Fun with PPP. The scramble by cooperatives and condominiums for a definitive decision about eligibility for Paycheck Protection Program loans has generated further confusion. The list of Frequently Asked Questions published by the SBA on April 24th included this one: “35. Question: Are agricultural and other forms of cooperatives eligible to receive PPP loans? …
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Blog / 04.27.20 /Kenneth R. Jacobs,Thomas W. Smithand
Coronavirus: Dealing with Commercial Tenants Seeking Rent Abatements
Many commercial tenants are asking their landlords for rent relief due to their business losses during the lockdown. How are landlords responding? Spoiler Alert: No Magic Bullet or Standard Formula. We have consulted with landlords with billion-dollar portfolios and with only a single tenant. All of them have advised us that they are dealing with …
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Blog / 04.23.20 /Eric P. Blaha,Kenneth R. Jacobs,Emanuela Lupu,Thomas W. SmithandDomenick J. Tammaro
Coronavirus: The latest on PPP Eligibility for Co-ops and Condos; Handling Visitation Issues during the Lockdown; Sales and Closings in the Virtual Market
Latest on PPP Eligibility for Co-ops and Condos. The SBA still hasn’t changed its official position under its “Interim Rule” that cooperatives are not eligible for the PPP. However, we have spoken with the managers for at least two cooperatives (one in NYC and one in Virginia, which also treats its co-ops as business corporations) …
Blog / 04.16.20 /Eric P. BlahaandKenneth R. Jacobs
Coronavirus: CONDUCTING EFFECTIVE “VIRTUAL” ANNUAL MEETINGS
Spring Annual Meeting Season is Here! But how can associations run effective meetings without owners being physically present to participate? Even though “social distancing” seems to be slowing the spread of COVID-19, we expect that Governor Cuomo will extend the portions of Executive Order 202.8 that suspend longstanding legal requirements that ownership meetings must be …
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Blog / 04.15.20 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Coronavirus: NEW EXECUTIVE ORDER – ONGOING ISSUES
Cooperatives and condominiums appear to be adjusting to the “new normal” – limited access, leaner staff, frustration at so many halted projects, etc. Below is a status report on current and upcoming issues that we see. Face Coverings for Building Employees. Executive Order No. 202.16, finalized yesterday, requires employers to provide “face coverings,” at employer …
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Blog / 04.13.20 /andKenneth R. Jacobs
Coronavirus: BUSINESS TAX CREDITS, DEFERRALS AND DEDUCTIONS IN THE ‘CARES’ ACT
Although not given as much attention as the Payroll Protection Program, the Federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act also provides new tax credit, deferral and net operating loss deductions which may be beneficial for your business. Section 2301 Employee Retention Credit Section 2301 gives eligible employers a tax credit against the 6.2% …
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Blog / 04.08.20 /Eric P. Blaha,Kenneth R. Jacobs,Emanuela Lupu,Thomas W. SmithandDomenick J. Tammaro
Coronavirus: CO-OP AND CONDO ELIGIBILITY FOR PPP UNDER REVIEW IN WASHINGTON, D.C.
On April 7th, one of our professional colleagues sent a well-worded request to the New York District Office for an “interpretation” of the SBA rules that initially denied eligibility to cooperatives and condominiums for loans under the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”). We are advised that their letter has been “kicked upstairs” to SBA headquarters in …
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Blog / 04.04.20 /Eric P. Blaha,Kenneth R. Jacobs,Emanuela Lupu,Thomas W. SmithandDomenick J. Tammaro
Coronavirus: CO-OP ELIGIBILITY FOR PPP LOANS QUESTIONED BY SBA. DOES A PPP LOAN MAKE SENSE FOR YOU?
A. SBA Questions Co-op Eligibility. In our earlier E-blast, we suggested that the SBA might take the position that Co-ops might not be eligible for PPP loans. So far that appears to be the case. The SBA appears to be basing its position on portions of its “Standard Operating Procedure” handbook for loans to businesses, …
News / 04.03.20 /Jeffrey D. Buss
Smith Buss & Jacobs Closes Historic Financing in the midst of the Pandemic
Co-Op City, New York’s largest affordable housing complex, will stay affordable for another 30 years pursuant to a March 31st, 2020 loan agreement between Co-op City and the City of New York. The Agreement provides One Million Dollars ($1,000,000), at zero percent interest, with the principal forgiven, conditioned upon the Cooperative’s agreement to remain in …
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Blog / 04.03.20 /Eric P. Blaha,Kenneth R. Jacobs,Emanuela Lupu,Thomas W. SmithandDomenick J. Tammaro
Coronavirus: PPP FEVER- NEW APPLICATION FORMS!
PPP applications were made available on Tuesday night. By Wednesday, approved SBA lenders were overwhelmed with requests for assistance. This morning, Treasury issued new application forms that are completely different from the old ones! [CLICK HERE FOR APPLICATION] Meanwhile, we are getting the following feedback from lenders and asset managers: 1. They will give first …
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Blog / 04.01.20 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Coronavirus: Paycheck Protection Program Application Form Out!
PPP APPLICATION FORM OUT! The Treasury Department has just issued the form of Application for Paycheck Protection Program applications. The form of application is attached to this E-Mail, together with guidance from Treasury for prospective Borrowers. Who to Believe? The Borrower’s Guidance accompanying the application states that loans will have a maturity of two years …
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Blog / 03.31.20 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Coronavirus: State & Federal Updates – Who’s “Essential” Now?
STATE UPDATES The list of occupations deemed “essential” – which means that employers don’t have to close, and their employees don’t have to remain at home – is being refined daily. Doormen were excluded, only to be reinstated a day later. Landscapers have now been deemed “essential”, to the relief of many suburban communities. Property Managers are also considered essential to …
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BREAKING NEWS CORONAVIRUS UPDATE
Empire State Development Corporation Issues Guidance On What Businesses Provide an “Essential Function” Under Executive Order 202.6, as Revised Executive Order No. 202.6 directed that all businesses and non-profit entities are required to reduce their in-person workforce by 75%, and Governor Cuomo’s “New York State on PAUSE” Executive Order (the “PAUSE Order” will increase that …
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News / 03.20.20 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
BREAKING NEWS CORONAVIRUS UPDATE
Governor Cuomo Extends Lockdown on “Non-Essential” Businesses to 100% of Employees Governor Cuomo announced today that New York State would take a “pause,” requiring that 100% of employees of “non-essential businesses” cannot go to their place of employment. The “pause” included specific guidelines affecting persons over 70 and vulnerable persons under 70. We are awaiting …
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News / 03.20.20 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
BREAKING NEWS CORONAVIRUS UPDATE
Governor Cuomo Announces Executive Order Imposing 90-day Moratorium on Mortgage Payments and Mortgage Foreclosures Governor Cuomo announced at a press conference this afternoon that he plans to order a 90-day moratorium on all mortgage payments and mortgage foreclosures. Mortgage payments will be suspended for three months based on financial hardship, and mortgage foreclosures will be …
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Governor Cuomo Issues Executive Order Amending the Corporation Law to Permit Board Member Votes by E-mail
Business Corporation Law 708(b) permits corporate boards to take action upon written approval of its members without conducting a meeting, unless such action is prohibited by the entity’s articles of organization or by-laws. NYS Executive Order 202.5 issued on March 18, 2020, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, amends BCL 708(b): “To the extent necessary …
Blog / 03.19.20 /Jack Malley
Governor Cuomo Issues Executive Order Requiring 75% Reduction In On-Site Workforce At All Locations; Union and Real Estate Industry Assert that Building Service Personnel and Managing Agents Provide “Essential Services.”
Governor Cuomo has ordered that all New York businesses, including not-for-profit businesses, shall utilize to the extent possible all telecommuting and work from home procedures. Further, the Governor ordered that every employer in the state shall reduce its in person workforce at all locations by 75% no later than March 20 8 p.m. This Order …
Blog / 03.18.20 /Jack Malley
What Penalties Can Employers Suffer for Denying Coronavirus-Based Paid Sick Leave Requests?
Many of our clients have been consulting us regarding paid leave requests they anticipate related to the coronavirus. Employers should be aware of the penalties for an unlawful denial of such requests under paid sick leave laws enacted by Westchester County and NYC. The penalties include fines, back pay, job reinstatement and the payment of …
News / 03.17.20 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Habitat LIVE: What should co-ops and condos do during the coronavirus pandemic?
Practical advice for co-op and condo board directors about how to conduct themselves and their buildings due to the health crisis.
Blog / 03.12.20 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Legal Issues Dealing with Coronavirus in Condos and Co-ops
Boards face new legal issues in dealing with the coronavirus epidemic, requiring them to balance the interests of the community against the rights of individual residents. What steps can Boards take to protect their residents against the spread of coronavirus in the building while avoiding liability for either acting too invasively or not doing enough? …
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Blog / 03.11.20 /Nancy Durand
Nonprofit Update: The New York SHIELD Act – The Top 5 Things You Need to Know
Nonprofit organizations are reminded that under the New York Stop Hacks and Improve Electronic Data Security (SHIELD) Act, they have until March 21, 2020 to develop and implement a data security program that contains reasonable administrative, technical and physical safeguards for protecting against unauthorized access to private information of New York residents. Here are five …
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News / 03.02.20 /andNancy Durand
WVOX Interview with Jacob Amir & Nancy Durand
Jacob Amir and Nancy Durand discuss the firm and their work in Westchester County with the Business Council of Westchester.
Buyer deemed not “able” to purchase where seller fails to obtain short sale approval from seller’s bank
Buyers seeking to enforce their contractual rights by an action for “specific performance” to compel the sale of real property have to demonstrate that they are “ready, willing and able” to acquire the property. Apparently, the determination whether a buyer is “able” to complete the purchase does not refer simply to the buyer’s capabilities, but …
Blog / 02.25.20 /Eric P. Blaha
NYS’s Latest “Guidance” Raises New Concerns Under the Tenant Protection Act
For real estate owners, managers and brokers seeking to make sense of (and engage in damage control from) the Housing Stability and Tenant Protection Act of 2019 (“TPA”) passed nearly 8 months ago, the clarity provided by the NY Department of State in its latest “Guidance for Real Estate Professionals” issued on January 31, 2020, …
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Tort and contract claims against Coop Board Member survive pre-answer dismissal motion
Members of a cooperative’s board of directors enjoy the protections of both the corporate shield and the business judgment rule, such that they may not be held personally liable for property damage or personal injury when a claim is made in connection with actions taken by directors in their official capacity as board members. But …
In Leasing or Purchasing Real Estate from a Not-for-Profit, the Purchase Money Mortgage is Probably Not an Option
As a New York Times article from last October[1] described, religious institutions strapped for operating funds or wishing to utilize their real property as investment vehicles can enter into sales or long-term lease agreements with developers. However, New York State Religious Corporation Law requires religious institutions to obtain judicial and/or New York State Attorney General …
Blog / 01.21.20 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Are Cooperative Corporations Carrying Enough “Lost Business Income” Insurance?
Imagine that your 30-unit building suffers a catastrophic fire. Maintenance charges (rent) usually abates for the affected tenants after a casualty. How certain are you that your coverage for lost maintenance, known as “Business Income” coverage, will last through the full restoration? Coverage limits are expressed in terms of maximum coverage, time and allowed expenses. …
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Blog / 01.21.20 /Jack Malley
A Three Month Checkup on Important Recent Changes You Need to Know as an Employer
Over the last year or so, New York State has passed significant new legislation on employment issues and labor rights, some of which have been effective since October 2019. Thus, a three month checkup is in order. Have you faced any harassment claims under the New York State Human Rights Law? Since October 2019, claims …
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Firm News
Jacob Amir won a decision after trial declaring his clients’ shareholder interests in a private corporation, voiding a 2015 deed determined to be fraudulent, and restoring ownership of a nearly eight acre residential property to the corporation. The trial in Westchester involved over 100 exhibits, recreating over 30 years of factual history and followed extensive …
News / 01.08.20 /Nancy Durand
Firm News
Nancy Durand won an appeal on behalf of a local municipality in a proceeding pursuant to General Municipal Law § 50-e(5), for leave to serve a late notice of claim. The City appealed from an order of the Supreme Court, Westchester County, which granted a motion to renew a petition for leave to serve a …
Blog / 11.15.19 /Eric P. Blaha
New Law Allowing Remote Shareholder Attendance and Electronic Voting May Change … Everything!
Low attendance at Co-op annual or special shareholder meetings can result in a lack of a quorum and can delay or even prevent boards of directors from taking actions that require shareholder approval. Thus, co-op boards and shareholders alike may welcome a new law authorizing boards to permit remote shareholder attendance and electronic voting at …
Blog / 11.15.19 /Jack Malleyand
Medical Documentation Under the ADA: Consider Now or Pay Later
A client recently presented our firm with an interesting and complex question regarding employers’ rights to request medical documentation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”). The inquiry gave us the opportunity to review the law on this subject and to offer two important points that all employers should consider when addressing ADA-related issues. First, …
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Criminality for Corporate Lien Law Diversion
Lien Law Section 79 criminalizes the diversion of trust funds from the purpose created by the trust. In layman’s terms, that basically means that a contractor who receives payments from a property owner for a project must use the payments for the purposes intended under the project (e.g., labor, subcontractors, vendors, etc.). Diverting those funds …
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New Transfer Tax Requirements for LLC’s
NY State and NYC transfer tax laws were recently amended to require that transfer tax returns filed by limited liability companies (“LLC’s”) for the sale or purchase of residential real property include the names, addresses and taxpayer ID numbers of all of the individual members of both the LLC itself and of its non-natural members. …
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Blog / 10.29.19 /Nancy Durand
The Johnson Amendment Finds Refuge Under New York Law
On October 23, 2019, Governor Cuomo signed legislation that restricts the ability of certain nonprofit corporations to participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of or against a candidate for public office. The new legislation codifies the federal Johnson Amendment, which is a provision in the U.S. tax code that prohibits all 501(c)(3) …
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Blog / 10.23.19 /Jack Malley
Decision in Favor of Nike Highlights Factors that Defeat Retaliation Claims
Although the termination of an employee after he/she has complained to the employer about discrimination is often prohibitively risky, there are common factual scenarios that diminish that risk. Among these scenarios are a clear record of poor performance established prior to an employee’s discrimination complaint and a termination by a manager who is unaware of …
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Blog / 10.17.19 /Eric P. Blaha
Are Boards Always Protected by the “Business Judgment” Rule?
New board members in New York quickly learn that most of their decisions are protected under the “business judgment rule,” which states a court should defer to a co-op [or condo] board’s determination so long as the board is acting “for the purposes of the cooperative, within the scope of its authority, and in good …
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Contractors may have at least one way to sue members of limited liability companies personally for renovation work provided to the LLC
Members of New York State limited liability companies often form their entities with two thoughts in mind: an LLC provides favorable tax structuring and protection from personal liability. To the joy of contractors and chagrin of LLC members, that protection may not shield LLC members from claims of unjust enrichment, as a recent case in …
Are the commercial properties in your municipality keeping PACE with energy efficiency?
New York State General Municipal Law Article 5-L granted authority to municipalities to offer Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing for property owners to fund energy efficiency and renewable energy projects on existing residential and commercial structures through a property owner’s voluntary agreement to have a special assessment or special tax charge placed on their …
Blog / 10.15.19 /Emanuela LupuandJack Malley
Co-op and Condo Boards Must Pay Overtime to Live-In Supers
In our practice, we have seen an uptick in lawsuits by live-in superintendents and other full-time employees against cooperatives, condominiums, homeowners associations (HOAs), and even managing agents (who are defined as employees under federal regulations). These lawsuits are frequently commenced after the employee has been terminated, and they typically allege that the employer failed to pay overtime wages …
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Firm News
Jacob Amir, a member of the New York State Bar Association’s Committee on Youth, Law and Citizenship, participated in the committee’s conference on October 3 and 4, 2019 on how school districts can better address student and faculty mental health and substance abuse issues.
Blog / 09.16.19 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Department of State Issues Guidance Exempting Co-ops from Limits on “Application Fees”
The NYS Department of State has just issued “Guidance for Real Estate Professionals” regarding the Housing Stability Act. One of the Q&A’s reads as follows: “DOES THE ACT RESTRICT APPLICATION FEES FOR RENTALS? “Yes…. Under the Act a ‘landlord, lessor, sub-lessor or grantor’ is now prohibited from collecting an application fee greater than $20.00…[However,] the …
Blog / 09.13.19 /Jack Malley
Why have a well-drafted handbook? Let a federal court answer that question . . .
A Third Circuit decision on August 22, 2019, which upheld FedEx’s termination of two employees, demonstrates the value of well-drafted employee handbook policies.[1] FedEx’s employee handbook included a code of conduct that prohibited workplace violence. Among other things, the code barred “gestures and expressions” and “oral and written statements” that communicate a direct or indirect …
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Subcontractors, Prevailing Wages and the Construction Fair Play Act
Jacob Amir contributed an article in Cornerstone, the semi-annual publication of the Associated General Contractors, New York State, a leading trade association representing contractors and related companies in the building and highway construction industry.
News / 08.02.19 /Jack Malley
Firm News
Jack Malley won a preliminary injunction enjoining a Manhattan co-op from evicting his client from the apartment that he, his wife and their kids have lived in since 1994. The case concerns a provision in many New York City proprietary leases that controls the transfer of co-op apartments from an estate of a deceased shareholder …
Blog / 07.19.19 /Jack Malley
Judge’s Decision Shows Why HR Professionals Must Train Supervisors On FMLA Procedures
Last month, in Moore v. GPS Hospitality Partners [i] , an Alabama judge granted a Burger King restaurant shift supervisor partial summary judgment on her FMLA interference claim. Lashondra Moore prevailed because her supervisors did not recognize that her initial requests for leave triggered her FMLA rights and did not understand how FMLA claims should …
Blog / 07.15.19 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
How the “Tenant Protection Act” Affects Co-ops and Condos: Limits on Late Fees; Recovery of Expenses in Evictions; Timetables to Cure Defaults; Ban on Escrows for Maintenance; Limits on Application Fees Charged by Managing Agents
The newly passed “Housing Stability and Tenant Protection Act of 2019” (the “ TP Act ”) makes sweeping changes expanding tenant rights in rental apartment buildings. However, since Co-op corporations also have a landlord-tenant relationship with their shareholders, many of these changes will significantly affect enforcement of the Cooperative’s rights as well. 1. TP Act …
Blog / 07.12.19 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Legislative Update: “Prevailing Wages” Required to Receive Co-op/Condo Tax Abatements; Mandatory Garage Inspections
Most of our attention has been focused on the effects of the newly passed “Housing Stability and Tenant Protection Act of 2019” (the “ TP Act ”) on rental apartment buildings. However, several other recently enacted state and local laws also affect cooperatives and condominiums in New York City and the surrounding counties. 1. “Prevailing …
Blog / 06.26.19 /Jack Malley
New York State Joins The Trend Prohibiting Salary History Inquiries
Last week the New York State Legislature approved a bill prohibiting employers from soliciting prior salary information from job applicants. Governor Cuomo is expected to sign on. The new law continues a trend in the state as New York City, Albany County, Westchester County and Suffolk County have previously enacted similar laws. The New York …
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News / 06.13.19 /Thomas W. Smithand
Firm News
Tom Smith and Jacob Amir won summary judgment on behalf of a large marina owner in Westchester, obtaining dismissal of claims brought by a commercial tenant seeking money damages and the enforceability of a 99-year ground lease. After extensive discovery, our firm moved to dismiss the complaint because the commercial tenant’s claims, if accepted, would …
Speaking Engagement
In the Spring 2019, Jacob Amir was invited to once again teach a seminar course in the Paralegal Studies program, hosted by Pace Law School, on civil procedure in the New York courts. Jacob has taught this course for the last several years, and has also lectured on corporations and essential legal skills in the program.
Blog / 05.09.19 /Jack Malley
Summer’s Almost Here! Welcome to the Unpaid Intern Conundrum
Summer is approaching and employers are now considering whether to bring on unpaid interns for the season. This article discusses the parameters that employers should follow to properly classify workers as unpaid interns instead of employees entitled to minimum-wage and overtime pay under the Fair Labor Standards Act (“FLSA”) and/or New York Labor Law (“NYLL”). …
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Blog / 03.21.19 /Jack Malley
U.S. Department of Labor Rejects New York Law Regarding Wages Paid To Live-In Superintendents
On March 14, 2019, the U.S. Department of Labor (the “U.S. DOL”) issued an opinion that resolves a conflict between federal law and the New York Department of Labor Building Service Industry Minimum Wage Order (the “NY Wage Order”). Although U.S. DOL opinion letters are not binding law that courts must follow, courts often give great weight to the guidance set forth in them, and employers can rely on such guidance as a good faith defense to a wage claim arising under the Fair Labor Standards Act (the “FLSA”).
Blog / 03.15.19 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Shareholder Meeting Requirements
SO YOU’VE CALLED your annual meeting, sent out proxies, put up reminders, and promised refreshments The big day comes – and you don’t have a quorum. What do you?
Blog / 03.08.19 /Jack Malley
New Employment Laws Alert
Please be aware of the following new laws that are effective this month:
Westchester County Paid Sick Leave Law & NYC Mandates Workplace Lactation Rooms
News / 03.06.19 /Emanuela Lupu
CAI Long Island Chapter Meeting 3.28.19
Emanuela Lupu-Ferrante will be participating in an educational presentation on Delinquency & Foreclosure.
Blog / 02.22.19 /Jack Malley
Tiffany Beats Religious Discrimination Claim
On February 11, 2019, the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York dismissed an employee’s claim for religious discrimination against the world renowned luxury jewelry retailer, Tiffany and Company.
Blog / 01.30.19 /Jack Malley
Jury Awards $21.5 Million To Dishwasher Who Was Fired For Requesting A Religious Accommodation
On January 14, 2019, a Florida federal court jury found a Hilton affiliated hotel liable for retaliation after it terminated the plaintiff dishwasher for seeking a religious accommodation, and awarded her $21,000,000 in punitive damages, $500,000 for emotional pain and mental anguish, and $36,000 in lost wages and benefits.
Blog / 01.03.19 /Jack Malley
Subway Franchisee Called to Task by EEOC for Sexual Harassment of Job Applicants
On November 29, 2018, the EEOC and Draper Development, LLC, a Subway franchisee operating 24 Subway restaurants in the Albany area, entered into a Consent Decree arising from texts sent by a Schenectady store manager seeking sexual favors from two 17-year-old job applicants.
Blog / 11.30.18 /Jack Malley
Ninth Circuit Finds Employer Not Liable For Employee’s Alleged Groping Of Co-Worker
In Robello v. Mandalay Corp. the plaintiff, Deborah Robello, a bartender employed by the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, alleged that a male bartender, Jesse Estrada, groped her breast while Robello handed him several bottles of wine. Estrada denied Robello’s allegation. Robello subsequently sued the casino for creating and tolerating a hostile work environment based on sexual harassment. The U.S. District Court for the District of Nevada dismissed Robello’s claim against the casino and she appealed.
Don’t rely strictly on a title report for disclosure of recorded zoning declarations affecting real property
A recent decision from the Suffolk County Supreme Court reiterated that zoning ordinances are not “defects” in title covered under policies of title insurance. Purchasers and developers are reminded to do their own due diligence, and go beyond the title report, to understand what existing and recorded zoning limitations might affect their prospective property interest.
News / 11.27.18 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Learn More about the Firm’s Cooperative and Condominium Practice with Ken Jacobs!
Blog / 11.15.18 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Shareholder Meeting Requirements
A meeting of shareholders must be held annually for the election of directors and the transaction of other business on a date fixed under the bylaws. Special meetings of the shareholders may be called by the board and by such person or persons as may be so authorized by the certificate of incorporation or the bylaws.
Blog / 10.26.18 /Jack Malley
Deadline For New York State Employers To Provide Sexual Harassment Training Extended To October 9, 2019
Please be advised that the state has announced that the deadline to provide the training has been extended to October 9, 2019.
News / 10.22.18 /Emanuela Lupu
The Smoke Free Air Act
New York City has recently passed regulations requiring all boards of co-ops and condos to pass a policy with respect to smoking and to notify all their residents of that policy and post it in the building.
This should motivate all boards to begin thinking about what they want and what their residents want with respect to smoking and the quality of life in a building. Many boards have passed policies prohibiting smoking within apartments. Those are enforceable only through proprietary-lease amendments, and to amend those requires a shareholder vote.
Blog / 10.05.18 /Jack Malley
Judge Dismisses Warner Wolf’s Age Discrimination Claim Against Imus
On September 27, 2018, Hon. James E. d’Auguste dismissed the age discrimination lawsuit that Warner Wolf commenced against Don Imus earlier this year in Supreme Court, New York County.
News / 09.28.18 /Kenneth R. Jacobs,Emanuela LupuandDomenick J. Tammaro
The Cooperator Expo 10.11.18
Partners Ken Jacobs, Domenick Tammaro & Emanuela Lupu-Ferrante are teaming up to discuss the unique challenges of co-op and condo governance.
Community Conflicts and Capital Plans – Two Top Issues Boards Must Face
Blog / 09.20.18 /Jack Malley
New York Employers Required To Provide Sexual Harassment Training By January 1, 2019
As we previously reported, the New York State Sexual Harassment Law passed in April 2018 required all employers to:
Adopt the policy prohibiting sexual harassment in the form promulgated by the New York State Department of Labor (the “NYSDOL”) in consultation with the New York State Division of Human Rights, or adopt another policy that equals or exceeds the standards set by NYSDOL; and
Provide annual sexual harassment training for all their employees.
Blog / 08.10.18 /Jack Malley
Columbia U. Professor Awarded $1.25 Million For Retaliation After Her Report Of Sexual Harassment
On July 27, 2018, former Columbia University finance professor, Enrichetta Ravina, was awarded $750,000 by a SDNY jury to be paid by the University and Geert Bekaert, the professor who allegedly harassed her, and $500,000 in punitive damages to be paid by Bekaert only.
Defining “Substantial Completion” for Lien Law and Contract Purposes
Jacob Amir contributed an article in Cornerstone, the semi-annual publication of the Associated General Contractors, New York State, a leading trade association representing contractors and related companies in the building and highway construction industry. Jacob’s article addresses the importance of defining “substantial completion” for purposes of Lien Law and general contract claims brought on behalf of contractors.
News / 07.31.18 /Emanuela Lupu
Demystifying Housing 2018 Conference
Emanuela Lupu-Ferrante, Esq. will be presenting at the 2018 Demystifying Housing Conference along with other members of the HDFC Coalition.
Blog / 07.20.18 /Jack Malley
Third Circuit Decision Sustaining Sexual Harassment Claim Influenced By Impact Of #MeToo Movement
On July 3, 2018, the Third Circuit issued a decision indicating that the #MeToo Movement has caused judges to be more cognizant of the fear of retaliation that victims of sexual harassment frequently feel.
Expiration of tenant’s license issued under the New York Conservation Law permits owner to remove tenant for engaging in “illegal activity” under the Real Property Law
Lease agreements typically contain a provision whereby the agreement is deemed breached and the tenant may be evicted for engaging in “illegal activities.” Eviction based upon an illegal activity is also codified in New York Real Property Law § 231(1), which sets forth that a lease agreement becomes void where an occupant or lessee uses a premises for any “illegal trade, manufacture or other business”, thereupon permitting the owner to seek an eviction.
Blog / 07.02.18 /Jack Malley
Wal-Mart Prevails Against Sympathetic Reasonable Accommodation Plaintiff
Sophisticated employers are well-schooled in their obligations to engage in an interactive process to determine if a reasonable accommodation can be provided to an employee with a disability. And some employers will err on the side of providing an accommodation even if the employee cannot perform an essential function of the job.
Blog / 06.08.18 /Jack Malley
Supreme Court Opens Door For Employers To Require Employee Class Action Waivers
In a long awaited and hotly contested case, the United States Supreme Court has upheld an employer’s right to require employees to waive their right to commence or join class and collective action lawsuits against their employer. This decision, in Epic Systems Corp. v. Lewis, provides a powerful mechanism for an employer to reduce the risk of costly and time-consuming multi-plaintiff litigation.
Blog / 05.30.18 /Jack Malley
Employment Law Update
All employers should be concerned about the recently passed New York State Sexual Harassment Law. The law requires all employers to comply with the following new requirements by October 9, 2018…
News / 05.23.18 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Join Ken Jacobs & the CAI on March 28th for a Session in Hot Topics Affecting Cooperatives & Condominiums
Click the link below to review our event flyer.
Tenant deemed successful party in landlord’s “action to recover possession” seeking to reform lease to exclude tenant’s use of backyard of demised premises
Standard lease agreements include a provision that the successful party is entitled to recover attorneys’ fees and costs incurred on any action or proceeding brought for non-payment of rent or recovery of possession of the subject premises. Where the contract limits the attorneys’ fees provision for the benefit of the landlord (e.g., that landlord is entitled to recover), the law gives the tenant a reciprocal right to recovery of attorneys’ fees and costs if the tenant is successful in the action.
Court Rules that Non-Participating Brokers Do Not Owe a Fiduciary Duty to a Brokerage Firm’s Client
It is well-established that real estate brokers owe a fiduciary duty of loyalty and to act in the best interest of their clients. Where the brokerage firm is comprised of several brokers, the client may naturally assume that both the listing broker, and the firm at large, will work in the best interest of the client’s needs and desires. A recent decision from the Westchester County Supreme Court warns clients against making this assumption.
Blog / 04.09.18 /Jack Malley
Jury Awards Age Discrimination Claimant $200,000 For Retaliation
The verdict last month in Konsavage v. Mondalez Global, LLC, Case No. 3:15-cv-01155 (M.D. Pa.) provides another example of the difficulty in predicting the outcome of a retaliation claim – even where the underlying discrimination claims appear to be weak.
Blog / 04.01.18 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Fine Alert!
Everybody’s talking about the new smoking regulation, Local Law 147. Ken Jacobs tackles the subject in Habitat Magazine’s April Toolkit.
Blog / 03.13.18 /Jack Malley
Jury Hits Hospital With $3.8 Million Verdict For Failing To Protect Employee From Harassment
On March 2, 2018 a Hawaii jury awarded a nurse $3.8 million on her claim that her employer, a hospital, ignored her reports of racial discrimination and harassment. The incidents occurred after the nurse reported a coworker for failing to safely care for patients in the intensive care unit. The nurse received a retaliatory note that contained racially charged language, including the “N” word. After the two people suspected of planting the note were interviewed by the hospital, a picture of a noose was taped to the nurse’s locker.
News / 02.20.18 /Kenneth R. Jacobs
Ken Jacobs Presents a Lesson in Habitat U’s Latest Course
Dealing with a casualty: What do your bylaws require?
Attorney’s fees, an offer for liquidated damages and the “prevailing party” under a commercial lease dispute
Lease agreements may contain an attorneys’ fee provision whereby the “prevailing party” is entitled to recover attorney’s fees. When owner and tenant settle their disputes before trial, that provision is waived or factored into the terms of settlement. Additionally, the civil rules allow a defendant to offer a liquidated amount as damages in the event plaintiff prevails on liability (i.e., all plaintiff has to do is prove liability). If plaintiff rejects the offer and recovers an amount less than what defendant offered, the defendant is entitled to recover attorney’s fees for the damages portion of trial.
Blog / 02.15.18 /Jack Malley
Spotlight on Hon. Robert A. Spolzino
The Westchester County Bar Association features Hon. Robert A. Spolzino in it’s February Member Spotlight.
Blog / 02.01.18 /Jack Malley
Who Pays For Repairs?
A small Manhattan co-op was struggling with a question: “Who’s responsible for replacing an air-conditioner sleeve? The sleeve was in place when the unit was sold by the sponsor to the current owner. The owner is happy to split the replacement cost with the board, but the board wants the owner to pay the entire amount.”
Blog / 02.01.18 /Jack Malley
The Money Vanishes
And Queens co-ops and condos are suing one another to get it back.
Blog / 12.27.17 /Jack Malley
NLRB Announces New Standard Governing Workplace Rules
On December 14, 2017, the NLRB reversed the portion of an Administrative Law Judge’s 2014 decision that barred The Boeing Company’s rule prohibiting the use of cell phones to capture images or take video on company grounds. [1] In doing so, the NLRB overruled the standard set forth in the 2004 Lutheran Heritage decision [2], namely that a workplace rule is unlawful even if it does not explicitly restrict activity protected by Section 7 of the NLRA ( i.e. , employees’ right to self-organize), if “employees would reasonably construe the language to prohibit Section 7 activity.”
Blog / 12.06.17 /Jack Malley
Spotlight on Jacob Amir
The Westchester County Bar Association features Jacob Amir in it’s November Member Spotlight.
Blog / 11.21.17 /Jack Malley
Board Recoups Legal Costs After Evicting Smoker
Some co-op and condo boards are penny wise pound foolish. And then there’s the board at an 80-unit co-op in Wheatley Heights, Long Island, which decided to spare no expense when it set out to evict a shareholder who repeatedly flouted the co-op’s smoking ban. It was a gamble that came with no guarantees and could have cost the co-op a bundle in legal fees.
Blog / 11.17.17 /Jack Malley
Effective Anti-Harassment Policies Must Start At The Top Of The Organization
The continuing public exposure of sexual harassment by powerful executives and celebrities has shed light on the need for effective policies to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace.
Blog / 11.08.17 /Jack Malley
House of Representatives Passes Bill Narrowing Joint-Employer Definition
On November 7, 2017, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill narrowing the definition of “joint employer” issued in 2015 by the National Labor Relations Board in the well-publicized Brown-Ferris Industries matter.
Blog / 10.31.17 /Jack Malley
Employers Beware: New York City’s New Salary History Law Is Effective As Of October 31
On October 31, 2017 New York City’s new salary history law goes into effect. The law, which applies to private employers of any size, bars employers from inquiring about a job applicant’s salary history, but permits employers to request an applicant’s compensation demands. The law also bars employers from seeking salary history information from an applicant’s current or former employers. New York City employers should review all job application forms to exclude questions about salary history, and train all interviewers to assure compliance with the law.
Blog / 10.10.17 /Jack Malley
The Cooperator Expo 2017
Please join us at this year’s Co-op Expo on November 2, 2017. Partners Ken Jacobs & Domenick Tammaro are teaming up for a seminar at 2:30 to speak on the do’s and dont’s of dealing with problem residents.
Blog / 10.10.17 /Jack Malley
Hon. Sylvia G. Ash Enforces Purchase Contract Executed by Attorney Only
In Yerushalmi Holdings, LLC v. Olumo Real Estate Corp., 2017 Slip Op. 30855(U) (Kings Cty. Sup. Ct.), Kings County Supreme Court recently enforced a contract signed by a party’s attorney that contained un-initialed handwritten changes.
Blog / 09.14.17 /Jack Malley
Should I Get an Employment Attorney?
When it comes to your job, do you need the services of an employment attorney? There is a fine line when it comes to hiring legal guidance, but if you are still not sure after reading this article then it cannot hurt to consult an attorney. They will ultimately be able to give you the best information pertaining to your legal matters. While not every lawyer is created equal and not every lawyer you see is going to be on the same level, it is important to find a lawyer you can rely on and work with them when discussing employment issues. Read on to find out whether you should get an employment lawyer or at the very least go in for a consultation.
Blog / 08.22.17 /Jack Malley
Consulting a Commercial Real Estate Attorney About Real Estate
The world of real estate can be complicated and even be intimidating for people who are new to it. Breaking down what’s going on in the field often involves figuring out where you stand in it. Zoning in on what type of real estate you would like to buy or sell will help you figure out where you’re going. Whether you’re going into residential real estate or commercial, real estate involves legal intricacies and details. When it comes to this, real estate lawyers might be very helpful.
Blog / 07.12.17 /Jack Malley
Do You Need a Business Lawyer?
Do you need an experienced business lawyer on your side?
For many people, it can be tough to know when you need to call an attorney. However, just like with a medical issue, if you think that you might need a business attorney then you probably do. It’s better to consult with a lawyer and know for sure than to potentially face negative consequences because you needed one and didn’t get it.
Blog / 06.16.17 /Jack Malley
Second Department Rejects Yellowstone Application where Tenant’s Default was not Curable
Real estate veterans are well familiar with the court order known as a Yellowstone injunction, which is sought by a commercial tenant to stop a landlord’s termination of its lease. In order to obtain the injunction, a tenant must demonstrate that: (1) it holds a lease, (2) its landlord served a notice to cure, (3) the tenant sought the Yellowstone injunction prior to the expiration of the cure period, and (4) the tenant has the ability and desire to cure the alleged default.
Blog / 06.01.17 /Jack Malley
Appellate Division Rejects Finder’s Fee Claim
The recent decision issued by the First Department in Multi-Capital Group LLC v. Karasick, et al, 149 A.D.3d 437 (1st Dep’t April 6, 2017) provides a good set of facts to comprehend when a finder’s fee claim is viable. That case concerned the sale of the U.S. Steel Tower Building in Pittsburgh. The plaintiff submitted the winning bid to purchase the building via a letter of intent that included a $348 million purchase price. However, the plaintiff’s principal never actually intended to purchase the building. Rather, he intended to procure investors who would do so.
Blog / 06.01.17 /Jack Malley
First Department Blesses Customary Rent Prove-Up Practice Utilized by Commercial Landlords
The recent decision in Moon 170 Mercer, Inc. v. Vella, 146 A.D.3d 537, 45 N.Y.S.2d 415 (1st Dep’t 2017) blesses the practice commercial landlords customarily utilize to prove-up the rent for which a tenant or guarantor is liable. In this case, the First Department granted summary judgment to the commercial landlord against the guarantor and held: “[t]he damages calculation spreadsheet on which plaintiff relies in its motion for summary judgment is a ledger maintained in the ordinary course of business…and plaintiff’s vice president’s affidavit explaining the calculations and the spreadsheet suffices to authenticate the document.”
Blog / 06.01.17 /Jack Malley
Commercial Division Rejects Landlord’s Application to Vacate Arbitration Award Establishing Fair Market Rent to be Paid by McDonald’s Restaurant
The recent decision by Hon. Shirley Werner Kornreich in Broadway Retail Owner, LLC vs. McDonald’s Corp., No. 651884/2014, 2017 N.Y. Slip. Op. 50011(U), 54 Misc.3d 1206(A) (Supreme Court, New York County, Jan. 9, 2017) concerned a very common provision in commercial leases, which established future rent based upon a percentage of the fair market rent (“FMV”), and provided that if the parties could not agree on the FMV, the issue would be resolved by a binding arbitration. The FMV percentage amount in McDonald’s was 90%.
Blog / 06.01.17 /Jack Malley
Hon. Sabrina B. Kraus Orders Seller to Return Purchaser’s Down Payment
The recent decision in Gonzalez v. Char & Herzberg, LLP, 2017 WL 1031941 (Bronx County Mar. 13, 2017) concerned a dispute that frequently arises after a deal blows up – whether or not the purchaser has the right to recover her down payment. The purchaser agreed to purchase a single-family home located in Bronx County and delivered a $20,000 down payment to the escrowee. The contract of sale included a mortgage commitment contingency, which conditioned the purchaser’s obligation to close on a lender’s commitment to issue a $495,000 loan for a term of at least 30 years within 45 days.
Blog / 06.01.17 /Jack Malley
Appellate Division Kills Commercial Lease Guaranty Claim for Failure to Submit Original Agreement at Trial
In 76-82 St. Mark’s, LLC v. Gluck (Supreme Court, Kings County) a commercial tenant sought to recover damages for breach of a guaranty agreement. At trial, the landlord’s counsel attempted to enter into evidence a faxed copy of the agreement that was missing two lines on the second page. The trial judge denied admission of the copy and granted the tenant’s motion to dismiss the case on the ground that the landlord failed to meet its burden of proof.
Blog / 05.18.17 /Jack Malley
3 Ways a Commercial Litigation Attorney Can Help Your Firm
When it comes to litigation, this area is growing by the day. This specialty of law is really beginning to drive not only revenue at law firms but their legal hiring as well. A survey by Robert Half Legal found that up to thirty percent of the hiring that legal departments and law firms do is in this area, filling crucial positions for commercial litigation.
Blog / 04.17.17 /Jack Malley
Condos and Co-Ops: Taking on the Secondhand Issue?
When it comes to your housing, is prohibiting smoking in place? Many residential co-op and condo boards are finding that cigarette smoking regulations are a hot button issue. Whether they are able to impose bans on what residents are allowed to do in the privacy of their own home, and whether they should do so or pursue other ways to cut back on secondhand smoke affecting residents is another matter.
Blog / 03.30.17 /Jack Malley
Civil Litigation Cases 101
When it comes to civil litigation cases, are you up to date? A civil litigation is the result of two or more parties that are involved in a legal dispute and are seeking something other than criminal sanctions, such as money. In these types of cases, they must be tried in a courtroom and a judge or jury will weigh in on the matter and ultimately decide the result. Read on to find out more about these types of cases.
Blog / 03.20.17 /Jack Malley
The Implications of Trump Administration in Wage and Hour Litigation: What You Need to Know
Michael Mauro will be participating in a live webcast regarding The Implications of Trump Administration in Wage and Hour Litigation on March 27, 2017 from 3 pm – 4 pm.
Blog / 02.28.17 /Jack Malley
All About Intellectual Property Law
When it comes to Intellectual Property Law, do you know your stuff? This is a law that outlines the rules when it comes to getting and enforcing the legal right to a variety of things such as art, design, inventions, and more. That’s because laws protect personal property, real estate, and also intangible assets and their control.
Blog / 01.26.17 /Jack Malley
5 Real Estate Laws That Real Estate Owners Need to Know
When it comes to commercial real estate law, there’s a lot to take in. With so many laws that exist on the books for federal, state, and local laws, it can be pretty confusing. Commercial real estate laws can be so befuddling and complicated that at the end of the day, you really require a lawyer to help you sort through everything. The average person isn’t going to know the ins and outs of the laws on real estate, and when it comes to real estate, when you’ve got money and time invested you really don’t want to get it wrong.
Blog / 01.05.17 /Jack Malley
Board Business Through a Legal Lens
Watch Ken Jacobs give a lesson on Sexual Harassment featured in the HabitatU course Board Business Through a Legal Lens.
Blog / 01.04.17 /Jack Malley
Court of Appeals Upholds Contractual Limitation on Co-op Board’s Power to Deny Transfer Applications
In most instances, decisions of a cooperative board are reviewed by courts under the business judgment rule. The business judgment rule provides that a court should defer to a cooperative board’s determination so long as the board acts for the purposes of the cooperative, within the scope of its authority and in good faith.
Blog / 01.04.17 /Jack Malley
SBJ And Jack Malley Obtain Unanimous First Impression Decision From The Court of Appeals Regarding A Co-op Board’s Duty To Act Reasonably Where The Proprietary Lease So Provides
In most instances, decisions of a cooperative board are reviewed by courts under the business judgment rule. The business judgment rule provides that a court should defer to a cooperative board’s determination so long as the board acts for the purposes of the cooperative, within the scope of its authority and in good faith.
Blog / 12.15.16 /Jack Malley
What to Do When You Need a Lawyer as an Employer
Employment law is always changing. Unfortunately, that means that you’re going to have a harder time trying to understand laws on your own. Governments and courts constantly interpret the laws in different ways, so even when you think you have a good grasp of the law there is usually a precedent that has been set that makes everything more difficult. When you start to understand that even a weak case that is made strongly can result in damages awards and potentially bankrupt you, you see why taking legal action and hiring good defensive help is so necessary.
Blog / 12.12.16 /Jack Malley
The Yellowstone Injunction, a Practical Application
Many commercial landlords and tenants are readily familiar with the term “Yellowstone injunction,” which enjoins a landlord’s termination of the subject lease until a lawsuit commenced by the tenant determines the merits of the alleged default. To obtain a Yellowstone injunction, a tenant must demonstrate that: (1) it holds a lease, (2) the landlord served a notice to cure, (3) the tenant sought the Yellowstone injunction prior to the expiration of the cure period, and (4) the tenant has the ability and desire to cure the alleged default.
Blog / 12.12.16 /Jack Malley
Commercial Landlord Can Waive “No-Waiver” Clause In Lease
Commercial leases typically contain a “no-waiver” clause that provides, among other things, that no payment by the tenant of less than the full monthly rent shall constitute a waiver of the right of the landlord to collect the full rent amount, and that the receipt by the landlord of rent with knowledge of the tenant’s breach of any covenant within the lease shall not be deemed a waiver of such breach. However, landlords should be aware that the rights that are set forth in such “no-waiver” clauses can be waived. TSS-Seedman’s Inc. v. Elota Realty Company, 72 N.Y.2d 1024, 1027, 531 N.E.2d 646, 648, 534 N.Y.S.2d 925, 927 (1988).
Blog / 10.13.16 /Jack Malley
Appellate Division Reinforces The Risks Of Filing A Defective Notice Of Pendency
Under CPLR § 6501, a party to an action may file a notice of pendency if the judgment she demands “would affect the title to, or the possession, use or enjoyment of, real property.” The filing of the notice constitutes constructive notice to future purchasers and lenders who are “bound by all proceedings taken in the action after [the] filing to the same extent as a party.” Pursuant to CPLR § 6514(b), a court may grant a motion cancelling a notice of pendency upon the application of an aggrieved defendant who demonstrates that the plaintiff did not commence or prosecute the action in good faith. A court may issue an order awarding a defendant her attorneys’ fees and costs where the court finds that the plaintiff frivolously clouded the defendant’s title or did so in bad faith.
Blog / 10.06.16 /Jack Malley
Propose a “No Smoking” Amendment
Secondhand smoke has been deemed by the courts to create an automatic nuisance. Many co-op and condo boards have already passed regulations barring smoking within the common areas of the building (such as lobby and hallways). However, boards continue to have a hard time dealing with complaints about smoke escaping from individual units into hallways or infiltrating into other apartments.
Blog / 10.05.16 /Jack Malley
SBJ And Jack Malley Obtain Impactful Decision In Hot Franchisor Liability Area
In Ocampo, et al v. 455 Hospitality LLC , Doubletree Franchise LLC, et al, SBJ represents approximately 100 plaintiffs who are current or former employees of a Doubletree franchise hotel located in Tarrytown, New York who allege that the franchisee and Doubletree Franchise LLC, the Doubletree franchisor entity, failed to pay plaintiffs minimum wage, overtime pay, gratuities and tips in violation of federal and state law.
Blog / 10.04.16 /Jack Malley
Do You Need a Social Media Policy?
David Menken Interviewed in Habitat Magazine on a Coop’s Need for a Social Media Policy.
Blog / 10.03.16 /Jack Malley
Navigating the Transition to Independent Owner Control
Ken Jacobs contributes to Community Association Institute article regarding transitioning condominiums from developer control to independent owner control.
Blog / 10.01.16 /Jack Malley
David Menken Speaks To Fire Commissioners On Legal Implication of Fire Department Use of Social Media
David Menken spoke to the Westchester County Association of Fire Districts on August 26, 2015 on legal issues involving fire department use of social media.
Blog / 05.25.16 /Jack Malley
Unveiling The Changes to Federal Overtime Exemption Rules
Michael Mauro will be participating in a live webcast regarding The Changes to Federal Overtime Exemption on May 25, 2016 from 3 pm – 5 pm.
Blog / 05.12.16 /Jack Malley
David Menken To Present on Cyber Security for Lawyers and Law Firms
David Menken will be participating Thursday, May 12th in a seminar sponsored by the Westchester County Bar Association on “Cyber Security: How Confidential Is Your Confidential Information; Threats, Exposures & Solutions.” Information on the seminar, for which CLE credit will be offered, is at the Bar Association’s web site.
Blog / 11.06.15 /Jack Malley
Enforce a Smoking Ban
Kenneth Jacobs explains how a condominium associations can enforce a smoking ban in the November 2015 issue of Habitat Magazine.
Blog / 06.02.15 /Jack Malley
David Menken Presents in Albany on Legal Issues Involving Government Use of Social Media
David Menken gave a presentation on legal issues involving use of social media by local governments in Albany, New York on June 2, 2015 to government officials and information technology specialists at the New York State Office of Information Technology Services Cyber Security Conference His talk centered on two of the most important issues facing local governments which utilize social media: first amendment considerations and compliance with record retention, open meetings and freedom of information laws.
Blog / 04.13.15 /Jack Malley
Welcome to the Firm!
Smith, Buss & Jacobs, LLP is proud to announce that Michael Mauro, who focuses his practice on labor and employment law, is now Of Counsel to the Firm. Michael has been recognized as a Super Lawyer in the field of Labor and Employment law in recognition of his accomplishments.
Blog / 03.13.15 /Jack Malley
David Menken Joins the Board of the Hudson River Museum
David Menken has joined the Board of Trustees of the Hudson River Museum, one of the premiere art museums in the New York metropolitan area and Westchester County’s largest museum.
Blog / 03.13.15 /Jack Malley
David Menken Presents on Data Security Awareness
David Menken, who specializes in information technology, privacy and data security at SBJ, today gave a seminar in data security awareness to the staff of a New York not-for-profit corporation which has access to private information of New York State residents.
Blog / 02.13.15 /Jack Malley
SBJ Sponsors Habitat’s February Issue
Habitat Magazine’s February Issue features our new Smith, Buss & Jacobs, LLP video.
Blog / 02.13.15 /Jack Malley
Becoming Proactive about Law Firm Cyber Security By David Menken
“During the early morning hours of June 27, 2014 a hard drive containing backup files for one of the firm’s servers was stolen from the locked trunk of an employee’s vehicle…. We have confirmed that the hard drive may have contained your name, birthday, Social Security number, driver’s license and contact information, such as your home address, email and phone number.”
Blog / 01.13.15 /Jack Malley
Tarrytown Doubletree workers claim wage abuse
Smith, Buss & Jacobs partner Jack Malley commences $2 million lawsuit against Doubletree Hotel for failure to pay banquet waiters minimum wage, overtime wages, tips and gratuities.
Blog / 01.13.15 /Jack Malley
Ryan Kaupelis joins SBJ
Ryan P. Kaupelis has joined the firm as an associate in the litigation department. Ryan’s practice focuses on commercial and real estate litigation.
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