On Thursday, July 16, 2026, the AABANY Solo & Small Firm Practice Committee hosted another popular virtual networking event for solo and small firm practitioners to connect. The meeting, intentionally informal and freeform, gave attendees an opportunity to discuss any topics at hand. After brief introductions and a couple of minutes for colleagues to catch up with one another, the topic of office practicalities was brought up.
Yen-Yi Anderson, Principal at Anderson and Associates Law, PC and Co-Chair of the Solo & Small Firm Practice Committee, asked attendees about what printers, time management systems, and invoice systems they used in the office. Many of the attorneys in the call described their printers to be fault-prone, often requiring costly repairs. Recognizing that most clients prefer an electronic copy of documents, most attendees recommended a leased Brother printer for any hard copy needs.
From there, the conversation moved on to invoicing systems. Programs like Bill4Time, MyCase, Clio, and PracticePanther were described as relatively reliable systems, but attendees described each program having its own issues. However, this judgement could only be made after fully investing into one system, making inefficient invoicing systems a large inconvenience for small firms. Additionally, small or solo firms often lack the staff to delegate invoicing tasks to associates or paralegals, leaving less time to manage these systems effectively.
This topic then transitioned into billing. Methods such as Zelle, Stripe, or direct wiring were most commonly used. Given that various fields of law have different retainers and billing rates, there was no consensus on which billing method was the most efficient. Attendees also described using various bank accounts to receive and access funds. Although there were quite a few differences in the actual billing process, most attendees agreed that tracking billable hours manually was far better than any automatic tracking software. Despite rapid developments in technology, “old-fashioned” methods were often the most reliable.
The virtual networking hour concluded with many more topics being suggested for discussion at the next event. The vibrant community among the members of the Solo and Small Firm Practice Committee was evident, with each member helping to uplift the other through practical tips about how to run a law firm. To learn more about the Committee and get involved, visit the Solo & Small Firm Practice Committee page.
On May 19, 2026, AABANY hosted its monthly book club meeting, where a dedicated group of members gathered at Anderson & Associates‘ new office at 347 W 36th St., Suite 1003, to share their thoughts on this month’s book. In honor of Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage (AAPI) month, the group decided to read Nobel Prize-winning South Korean author Han Kang’s We Do Not Part. The meeting was hosted by Yen-Yi Anderson, Co-Chair of the Solo & Small Firm Practice Committee, and S. Yan Sin, AABANY’s Board Secretary for the 2027 fiscal year. While they shared their insights, the attendees enjoyed a delicious dinner of dumplings, green beans, and fried rice.
The conversation centered on a moving story of friendship set against the tragic backdrop of the 1948 Jeju massacre in South Korea. Throughout the evening, the participants explored complex themes of memory, trauma, and human connection. Kang’s novel is widely celebrated, having earned a place as a New York Times bestseller and winning the National Book Critics Circle Award.
The group also discussed recent news regarding the dismissal of the CEO of Starbucks in South Korea following a controversial marketing campaign that touched on historical state-sponsored suppression. As The Guardian reported, the chief executive was dismissed after the company ran a promotional event using slogans that evoked a massacre of pro-democracy protesters during the country’s dictatorship era, which subsequently sparked public outrage and boycott calls. The coffee chain had launched a “Tank Day” campaign on May 18 for its “Tank” tumbler series. The date coincided with one of the most politically sensitive days in the South Korean calendar, when citizens commemorate the 1980 democratization movement in Gwangju. By pairing the date “5/18” with the slogan “Tank Day,” the online campaign inadvertently evoked the armored vehicles used by the military regime to crush the uprising.
This successful gathering set a thoughtful and engaging tone for many meetings to come. Whether you’re a speed reader or someone who lingers on every sentence, we’d love to have you join the conversation. See you in June!
Written by Eva Lee, Intern at Anderson & Associates
On March 19, 2026, AABANY hosted its inaugural book club meeting where a dedicated group of members gathered at Anderson & Associates‘ new office at 347 W 36th St., Suite 1003, to share their favorite reads and literary interests. The meeting was hosted by Yen-Yi Anderson, Co-Chair of the Solo & Small Firm Practice Committee, and S. Yan Sin, now AABANY’s Board Secretary for the 2027 fiscal year which started on April 1. Attendees included Jaehee Yoo, Hannah Lee, Wendy Zeng, Eva Lee, and Regina Chiem. The group enjoyed delicious Korean corndogs and boba teas while they talked about their favorite books.
The discussion began with a deep dive into what truly defines a “great book” in the eyes of a reader. Some attendees suggested that a great book is one that fundamentally changes your outlook on life or features a blurb on the cover so captivating that it demands to be read. Others argued that beautiful prose is essential to the experience, while some noted that a book is worthwhile if it is a classic, even if the reading process is difficult rather than traditionally enjoyable. The group agreed that the best books are those you return to over the years to measure how you have personally evolved since your last reading.
The book club attendees shared an extensive and diverse list of recommendations of books spanning many genres and styles. Among the suggested titles are classics like The Brothers Karamazov, contemporary fiction hits like Severance, The Daughters of Afong Moy, and Disorientation, nonfiction reads like Breaking Rank, and even memoirs like the touching Tuesdays with Morrie.
To conclude the evening, the book club attendees selected No. 10 Doyer Street as the first official book for the club to read during the month of April.
This successful first gathering set a thoughtful and engaging tone for many meetings to come. Whether you’re a speed reader or someone who lingers on every sentence, we’d love to have you join the conversation. To register for the next meeting, see this link here. A huge thank you to everyone who made our first meeting so memorable. See you in April!
On Thursday, October 16, Fordham College at Lincoln Center’s United Student Government, Asian Pacific American Coalition, and Immigration Advocacy Coalition hosted a panel titled “Immigration Rights & Immigration Law Today.” The panelists were practicing attorneys from AABANY: Zhixian Liu and Susan Song (Co-Chairs of AABANY’s Immigration Law Committee) and Yen-Yi Anderson (Co-Chair of AABANY’s Solo and Small Firm Practice Committee). Additionally, two of the three student hosts, Daphne Mei and Juliet Romero, were former AABANY Legal Interns.
Fifty undergraduate students eagerly listened as the speakers shared their personal journeys into immigration law, each being an immigrant themselves. Anderson, who immigrated from Taiwan, discussed her non-linear career path and how she unexpectedly entered the non-profit sector before transitioning to the field of immigration law. Setting the context for today’s challenges, Song described the increasingly complex environment of practicing law under an administration that aggressively enforces immigration policies. Liu, speaking about the daily life of an immigration attorney, highlighted the importance of prioritizing mental health, especially when working under political conditions that may seem discouraging.
The panelists stressed the importance of client preparedness, highlighting that proactive measures are crucial for individuals facing potential ICE enforcement actions. They recommended that clients secure legal counsel, establish emergency plans, and organize their legal and financial documents to ensure they are ready for any situation.
The panelists also talked about student safety, especially for individuals and families who do not have legal permanent status. They emphasized that knowing one’s rights during encounters with authorities is vital, and carrying a readily accessible “Know Your Rights” card can provide valuable information in an emergency.
Lastly, the panelists encouraged permanent residents to leverage their status to support those who are undocumented. They urged these allies to actively engage in community efforts by connecting undocumented persons with legal aid and emergency support networks, fostering a sense of solidarity and assistance within the community.
The session concluded with a lively Q&A where students sought actionable advice on both career preparation and community advocacy. The audience asked the speakers about effective pathways into immigration law, suggestions for volunteer opportunities, and what an undergraduate should know before pursuing a legal career. Students also inquired about how local communities could collaborate with legal professionals to address ICE’s actions during the Trump administration.
The speakers shared several insightful takeaways. Anderson encouraged students to engage in meaningful volunteer work at AABANY’s Pro Bono Clinic, an invaluable resource that offers free legal assistance and is open to all members of the community. This opportunity not only allows students to gain practical experience but also to make a positive impact in the lives of those affected. Liu passionately emphasized the necessity of confronting political challenges with courage and determination, inspiring aspiring immigration law professionals to pursue their careers without fear.
Students left the panel filled with courage and hope, inspired by the speakers who shared uplifting messages about the vital importance of working in the immigration field today. The event was made even more enjoyable with delicious boba tea, Korean fried chicken, and bulgogi fried rice.
AABANY thanks the Fordham undergraduate student leaders for hosting this timely panel discussion. –written by Eva Lee, President of Immigration Advocacy Coalition (IAC), Fordham University
On August 14, 2025, AABANY’s LGBTQ, Solo and Small Firm Practice, and Student Outreach Committees hosted a Popcorn Chicken and Bubble Tea Social event at Anderson & Associates in Lower Manhattan. AABANY members, attorneys, law students, interns, and all participants were able to enjoy a variety of snacks from popcorn chicken, takoyaki, and buns to tea and traditional boba. Everyone enjoyed the opportunity to meet both new and familiar faces, and all attendees made good use of the time to network and chat.
The Chairs and Co-Chairs of each co-sponsoring Committee, Gregory Hom, Yen-Yi Anderson, and Albert Tong shared their upcoming events and encouraged everyone to continue attending similar events in the future by checking AABANY’s calendar. Thanks to everyone who came out. To learn more about the LGBTQ Committee, click here. To learn more about the Solo and Small Firm Practice Committee, click here. To learn more about the Student Outreach Committee, click here.
With the end of the holiday season and the start of a New Year, we want to give our gratitude and admiration for all the working parents in the legal professions who balance their demanding schedule at work and at home.
On November 12, 2024, the Solo and Small Firm Practice Committee hosted the “Mothers-in-(Practicing) Law” Panel, which was moderated by Yen-Yi Anderson, Co-Chair of Solo and Small Firm Practice Committee and Managing Principal at Anderson & Associates Law P.C., and invited speakers: Hon. Lillian Wan, Associate Justice of Appellate Division, Second Department; Ada Wang, IP Litigation & Antitrust Senior Associate at Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati; Michelle Li, Director at Perella Weinberg Partners, and Megan Rha, Partner at Rha Kim Grossman & McIlwain LLP. The engaging discourse allowed panelists and the audience to discuss the challenges of a demanding legal profession for women and the added responsibilities of child-rearing.
The burden of child-rearing affects working parents in the legal profession emotionally, mentally, and physically. To follow up, on November 13, 2024, the Professional Development Committee hosted the “Fathers-in-(Practicing) Law” Panel with moderator Willow Liu, Esq, and featured speakers Benjamin Hsing, AABANY’s President-Elect and Partner at Venable, LLP., and Kwok Ng, Co-Chair of the Pro Bono & Community Services Committee and Associate Court Attorney in NYC Civil Court. The speakers talked about how legal employers viewed paternity leave in the past versus now, how paid family leave creates equity for both mothers and fathers to care for newborns, and how to set life balance needs and boundaries to protect their family time.
Being a lawyer is already an incredibly challenging profession, and adding the responsibility of parenting requires extraordinary strength, endurance, and time management. To excel both in legal careers and as loving parents, our speakers emphasized being tolerant (remember to breathe, and it’s ok even when it’s not ok), practicing self-care, such as getting adequate rest (if possible) and taking walks, and working as a team with your work colleagues, family, and significant other. In the end, all can agree that family comes first!
To working parents in the legal profession, don’t be too harsh on yourselves. You are not alone! Please consider joining the Parents Committee (in formation) to share parenting advice. For more information about that Committee email us at main@aabany.org.
Yen-Yi Anderson, Esq., founder of Anderson & Associates Law, has forged a remarkable legal career grounded in integrity, a commitment to the Asian Pacific American (APA) community, and faith. Her firm was honored with the NAPABA (National Asian Pacific American Bar Association) 2024 Award for APA-Minority-Owned Law Firm which was presented at the NAPABA Convention during the Gala on Saturday, Nov. 9. During this time of recognition and achievement, Yen-Yi reflects on her journey, achievements, and hopes for the future.
Reaction to Winning the NAPABA 2024 Award
Receiving the NAPABA award was both a surprise and an honor for Yen-Yi. NAPABA annually recognizes an APA-owned law firm that has achieved prominence and distinction while maintaining the highest ethical and legal standards, and has demonstrated strong commitment to advancing the APA community. Initially, Yen-Yi hesitated, unsure if she was deserving compared to giants like Hugh Mo, whom she admires. However, she thought about her journey in the legal field and her growing passion for helping others, which led her to see the award as a recognition of her relentless dedication and growth.
Yen-Yi’s humble reaction underscores her belief that “everything in law is practice,” a constant process of refining one’s skills and building relationships. Her commitment to serving the community is evident through her collaboration with New York State Senator Iwen Chu, with whom she opened a Special Needs Trust Fund for a 9-month baby suffering from a rare brain tumor. Together with Senator Chu, they were able to raise enough money to help the family afford necessary surgeries and lifelong care. In her involvement with AABANY, she would accept any referrals for pro bono work “without hesitation.” Yen-Yi reflects that she wants to be remembered as someone who made herself available. She gave her time, resources, and energy to those who needed it, including a family who suffered a vicious and brutal attack which left two young survivors in need of funding for daily medical needs. Yen-Yi’s firm assisted the victim’s family by setting up a special needs trust, submitting a safety deposit box petition through an administrative proceeding in Surrogate’s Court, and providing immigration services for an extended family member abroad so that she could come to the United States to take care of the helpless father with two young survivors.
The Role of Faith in Her Career
Yen-Yi’s faith plays a central role in her personal and professional life. Raised in Taiwan, she did not grow up religious, but her journey of faith began at NYU Law School, where she faced immense academic pressure. Her encounter with Christianity transformed her, providing her with a sense of community and purpose. Yen-Yi cites Bible study and the parable of the mustard seed as pivotal in helping her embrace a life of faith and service.
Her faith continues to guide her legal practice. She strives to emulate God’s love by helping others, remaining grounded, and offering her services to those in need. “God is love,” she reflects, and this belief fuels her desire to serve with humility and compassion.
Inspirational Figures and Key Influences
Yen-Yi is the first lawyer in her family, so she had no immediate role model to guide her into the profession. Rather, her inspiration came from figures like Robert Pennoyer, a WWII veteran and attorney at Davis Polk and later at Patterson Belknap Webb & Tyler. Pennoyer was the great-grandson of John Pierpont Morgan, and in his memoir As It Was, he offers a seemingly obvious yet deeply profound quote that struck Anderson as an aspiring attorney: “Every lawyer would be a better lawyer if he only knew he had to begin at the beginning.” This quote would stick and resonate with Yen-Yi for the rest of her life, as she admired how, for Pennoyer, everyday seemed like a new day – a new beginning – and his excitement and passion showed even at the age of 94, when he would still go to work enthusiastically. His lifelong passion for law deeply influenced her approach to the profession, showing her that learning and curiosity should never cease, and every day is an opportunity and a new beginning.
Yen-Yi also expresses gratitude for the support of her peers at AABANY (Asian American Bar Association of New York), who have fostered a culture of mutual support rooted in Asian heritage.
Winning the Epiq Women Award and Her Legacy
In addition to the NAPABA Award, Anderson won the 2024 Epiq Women Award for Justice and Advocacyback in the spring, which acknowledges women’s achievements and the role of legal professionals in supporting women and their rights. “I am the least deserving,” she says, but her peers see her as a leader who has demonstrated tenacity and passion throughout her career.
Looking ahead, Yen-Yi hopes to expand her firm’s impact, particularly in the areas of immigration and commercial litigation. She envisions her firm as a beacon for immigrant communities, a place where people can find trust and support. Her ultimate goal is to be remembered as someone who never gave up and who continually worked to help more people. She describes herself as someone who “always strove to do better” and always “strove to help more and more people”; certainly, her story inspires us all to strive to do the same.
To learn more about Yen-Yi and the APA-Owned Law Firm award, click here, and be sure to watch this honoree video played at the NAPABA Gala.
From Nov. 7 through 9, NAPABA held its National Convention in Seattle at the Hyatt Regency, for three days of programming, meetings, plenary sessions and the 36th Anniversary Gala capping things off on Saturday night.
AABANY members and friends once again came out in large numbers, with nearly 150 people signed up for AABANY’s WhatsApp group. The group’s members updated each other on programs they planned to attend, made lunch and dinner plans, and connected with each other about various receptions, parties and events around Seattle.
The AABANY Trial Reenactment Team presented its latest production, “AAPIs and Education: Tape v. Hurley and Gong Lum v. Rice” on Friday afternoon, Nov. 8, to a capacity audience. The program told the stories of Mamie Tape and Martha Lum and their efforts to fight discrimination in public education, through narration, reenactment of court proceedings and historic photographs. This was the sixteenth in a series of historic reenactments presented by the Asian American Bar Association of New York. For more information about AABANY’s trial reenactments, visit reenactments.aabany.org.
We congratulate all the awardees and honorees recognized at the Convention, with special shout-outs to the following AABANY member honorees:
We also congratulate Sapna Palla, past AABANY President, and Anushree Bagrodia, current Co-Chair of AABANY’s In-House Counsel Committee, for joining the NAPABA Board as At-Large Members!
Thanks to all the outgoing NAPABA Board members for their service, and congratulations to AABANY member and past Board officer, Anna Mercado Clark, on her highly successful year as President.
We congratulate Muhammad Faridi, AABANY Member and President of the New York City Bar Association, on receiving the Pro Bono Service Award.
Thanks and congratulations to the many AABANY members who organized a panel or spoke at one. We know that it is not easy to get a program selected for the NAPABA Convention and that much hard work goes into putting on a quality program for the many attendees who come from across the continent to learn from you all. Please send us your photos and, if possible, a short recap about your program. You can send it to main@aabany.org.
Many bonds were made and strengthened among AABANY attendees over the course of the Convention, and many new connections were made with the approximately 3400 registered attendees from across North America. Judging by many social media posts from those who attended, a great time was had by all. We hope everyone got back to New York City safe and sound, and we are looking forward to another inspiring NAPABA Convention when it moves to Denver, Colorado, Nov. 6-9, 2025.
When it comes to bringing people together for a weekend afternoon of fun, networking, and friendly competition, the Asian American Bar Association of New York (AABANY) knows how to serve up an ace. On Saturday, October 7, AABANY’s Solo and Small Firm Practice, Young Lawyers, and Immigration Law Committees organized an exciting Ping Pong social event at PingPod on the Lower East Side, and it was an afternoon filled with excitement, camaraderie, and impressive rallies.
Ping Pong enthusiasts from various legal backgrounds gathered at PingPod, each armed with a paddle and ready to showcase their skills. From beginners to seasoned pros, the event welcomed players of all levels. It was a fantastic opportunity for lawyers from both private and public sectors and recent law school graduates to let off some steam and engage in some friendly competition.
Participants also found themselves forging new connections, discussing legal topics, and even making potential career moves between rallies. Ping Pong truly served as the icebreaker, and the event demonstrated how professional connections can be made in the most unexpected settings.
Thank you to everyone for spending their Saturday afternoon with AABANY. Here’s to more exciting events and unforgettable moments brought by AABANY! Special thanks to Yen-Yi Anderson, Co-Chair of the Solo and Small Firm Practice Committee, Ada Wang, Co-Chair of the Young Lawyers Committee, and Susan Song, Co-Chair of the Immigration Law Committee, for their hard work planning and organizing this event.
NYC Department of Small Business Services (SBS) joined the AABANY Solo and Small Firm Practice Committee on June 28 for an information session on how to utilize SBS services. The event took place at the SBS offices at One Liberty Plaza in the Financial District. The Department of SBS’s current commissioner is Kevin Kim, a former Board Officer of AABANY. The twenty AABANY participants in attendance were impressed by SBS programs targeted towards small business owners, which include law firm owners, and could help lawyers assist their small business clients.
“We spent over $20 billion in contracts with minority and women-owned businesses last year,” shared Kitty Chan, Deputy Commissioner of the Division of Small Business Services. Ms. Chan encouraged all AABANY participants to sign up for M/WBE certification to receive opportunities for contracts directly with the city. “The team at SBS is here to help you set up your profile and identify opportunities that work for you or your clients,” added Anna Yakubova, Assistant Commissioner of M/WBE Recruitment and Eligibility.
Other programs discussed by Ms. Chan, Ms. Yakubova, and Michael Fong, Executive Director of Government Navigation, were NYC Business Express Service Team (BEST), NYC Small Business Month, Commercial Lease Assistance, Workforce1 Career Centers, and other programs to help businesses with training, financing, and legal assistance.
“SBS is an amazing resource for solo and small law firms and we look forward to our AABANY members actively engaging with SBS going forward,” said Yen-Yi Anderson, Co-Chair of the AABANY Solo and Small Firm Practice Committee, after the event.
“We are all very grateful that SBS spent their valuable time educating us about the many benefits of their programs,” added committee Co-Chair Vishal Chander.
After the event, the speakers and participants networked and enjoyed a spread of samosas and chai provided by East Village’s Desi Galli restaurant.
Thank you to the speakers, participants, and the Solo and Small Firm Practice Committee for a fruitful discussion and an engaging event. Click here to learn more about the Solo and Small Firm Practice Committee and how to get involved.
