All attorneys in New York must pass a bar exam that includes multiple choice questions and essay questions. Upon passing the bar, one must apply to the Court of Appeals to apply for entry to the bar, and after passing the interview with the Committee of Character and Fitness, one may practice law in New York. It is essential that a New York-based attorney be familiar with the Disciplinary Rule of the Code of Professional Responsibility. Under New York law, an attorney who knowingly engages in or gives false, perjured, or fraudulent testimony is subject to the Rule of Discipline. Every lawyer has a duty to uphold the honor and integrity of her profession.

There are many lawyers in New York. Some attorneys specialize in just one type of law or a particular category, while other attorneys handle a wide range of cases, such as personal injury cases, bankruptcy cases, real estate cases, insurance cases, family cases ( adoption, divorce, alimony) and many more. It is the duty of a New York attorney to represent their clients zealously, ethically, and with due respect for the law. In a state like New York, it can be very difficult for a person to find an attorney who is dedicated to a client’s needs and works in an ethical and respectful manner. The easiest way to find a lawyer is to get referrals from family and friends, or look in the yellow pages or an online directory, or contact the New York State Bar. According to the New York City Bar Association, if a person consults an attorney because he or a member of his family is injured, there is no consultation fee.

According to a survey, the top law firms in New York are Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen and Katz, Cravath, Swaine and Moore, and Sullivan and Cromwell.