ABA Legal News

Convert Depreciated Apartments to Condominiums for Gen Z

The American Bar Association published an article examining the economic and practical considerations of converting fully depreciated multifamily rental properties into condominium units. The analysis suggests this approach could address housing affordability challenges for Gen Z, seniors, empty nesters, and divorcees while generating improved local tax revenues and upgraded neighborhood communities.

Career Flexibility for Lawyers Moving Between Sectors

The ABA published a career guidance article advising legal professionals on navigating transitions between public service and private practice. The article offers personal anecdotes and practical considerations for lawyers at various career stages, emphasizing that flexibility exists within the profession and that career paths can evolve over time.

Key Supreme Court Cases 2025-26 for Business Lawyers

The ABA Business Law Section announces a CLE program previewing the Supreme Court's October Term 2025, highlighting key cases on presidential removal power over independent agencies, tariff authority, products liability, and state anti-SLAPP protections. The program features two federal judges and two appellate practitioners analyzing how emergency docket rulings and pending decisions may reshape administrative law.

Mental Health in Aviation Act of 2025 Requires FAA Mental Health Regulatory Reform

H.R. 2591, the Mental Health in Aviation Act of 2025, proposes requiring the FAA to update mental health regulations for aviation personnel, hire aviation medical examiners with mental health backgrounds, and fund mental health supportive programs. The bill addresses stigma that discourages pilots and air traffic controllers from seeking care, responding to operational stressors including staffing shortages affecting 41% of controllers working extended hours.

Housing Guidance for People in Their 80s

The ABA Senior Lawyers Division published an educational resource offering general guidance on housing decisions for people in their 80s. The article discusses aging in place, senior housing communities, assisted living, continuing care communities, and memory care options. It includes practical tips on planning, costs, downsizing, healthcare access, and timing of housing transitions.

LinkedIn for Small-Firm Lawyer Business Development

The American Bar Association published guidance for small-firm lawyers on using LinkedIn for business development, recommending profile optimization, strategic content sharing, and network engagement to attract referrals and clients.

Senior Lawyers Guide to Retirement Abroad: Legal Skills for Nomadic Life

The ABA Senior Lawyers Division published a personal guide for retired attorneys considering a nomadic lifestyle abroad. The article discusses practical considerations including visas, healthcare access, housing logistics, and cost management across multiple countries.

Housing options for older adults, affordable care choices

Housing options for older adults, affordable care choices

Cultivating Positive Traits for Legal Career Success

The American Bar Association published an article summarizing research by Dr. Larry Richard on lawyer personality traits and career success. Using the Calper Profile Test on thousands of lawyers, Richard identified seven key traits where lawyers score at statistical extremes: high in abstract thinking, autonomy, urgency, and skepticism; low in sociability, empathy, and resilience. The article suggests law school training in critical thinking may inadvertently condition lawyers to negative thinking patterns with health and relationship consequences.

Solo Lawyers Advised on Starting ADR Practices

The ABA GPSolo publication released an advisory article providing practical guidance for solo and small firm lawyers seeking to establish alternative dispute resolution (ADR) practices. The article covers essential steps including obtaining proper training, developing a business plan, defining a niche, and networking strategies. The guidance emphasizes that building a full-time ADR practice may take several years and requires adequate capital reserves.