NJSBA Board of Trustees Report
Feb. 28, 2025
Note: This does not constitute official minutes
NJSBA statement on attacks against the rule of law: In response to a request from the LGBTQ Rights Section and concerns about action being taken against certain judges and law firms, the Board drafted a statement that addresses attacks on the justice system and individuals threatened by recent federal actions. The Board’s final statement reaffirms the Association’s commitment to advancing the rule of law, protecting individual rights under the Constitution and fostering a diverse and inclusive legal community.
Comments on Report of Joint Working Group on Arbitration Rules and Procedures: The Board agreed to provide comments to the Judiciary with the aim of improving the civil arbitration system. The recommendations include supporting issues previously raised by the NJSBA, such as compensation increases for arbitrators, limits on the length of arbitration submissions, and a change in the standard of review for motions seeking an extension of time to file a demand trial de novo. The NJSBA’s approved comments also include requests for additional policies suggested by the NJSBA previously to ensure all parties have sufficient time to prepare for the hearing and adequate opportunity to present their case, including requiring submission of arbitration statements three days before the arbitration, allowing for opt-in for in-person hearings when remote hearings are scheduled, and prohibiting telephonic arbitrations.
Comments on Succession Planning Strategies: The Board voted to offer comments on successor and succession plan strategies for attorneys. The Judiciary sought input on three potential approaches to attorney succession planning – requiring attorneys to designate a successor, requiring attorneys to report whether they have identified a successor, or formally recommend that attorneys strive to designate a successor and develop a succession plan. The Board concluded the best path is to engage in education about the topic and offer resources and best practices to attorneys to encourage them to take action that is appropriate for them. The Board recommended that the question be revisited in two years to determine if further steps are needed.
2025 Environmental Law Retreat: The Board approved a proposed contract to hold the 2025 Environmental Law Forum at the ICONA Diamond Beach Resort in Wildwood Crest. The forum will take place from June 20-22.
Legislation: The Board supported the following legislation pending in the state Legislature:
–S1473 Lagana – a bill that revises personal injury protection coverage for basic automobile insurance policies from $15,000 to $50,000 and requires $50,000 minimum personal injury protection coverage for standard automobile liability insurance policies. The Board supported the bill with amendments.
–S3689 Lagana/McKnight – a measure that allows a limited liability company to terminate its alternate name.