NY Daily Laws publishes plain-English guides to New York law. This page explains how we research, write, check and update them.
Sources we rely on
We build every guide on primary sources: the Consolidated Laws of New York, the New York Codes, Rules and Regulations (NYCRR), the New York City Administrative Code and Rules of the City of New York, court decisions, and official guidance from state and city agencies such as the Office of Cannabis Management, the Department of Motor Vehicles, the Department of Labor and the State Gaming Commission. When we state a rule, we name the section it comes from, for example Penal Law § 265.01.
How a guide is written
- We identify the question readers are asking and the law that answers it.
- We read the current text of the law and any regulation or agency guidance that applies.
- We write a short, direct answer first, then the details: limits, exceptions, penalties, and any New York City rules that differ.
- A second review checks every number, date, age limit and section reference against the source.
- We publish with a visible date and review the guide again when the law changes.
Independence
Our editorial decisions are our own. No business, campaign or government office reviews or approves our guides before they are published.
Updates
New York amends its laws every legislative session, and new rules often take effect on a delayed date. When a change affects a guide, we update it and note the change. If a law has passed but is not yet in effect, we say when it starts.
Corrections
If we get something wrong, we fix it quickly. Read our corrections policy or tell us about an error.
Not legal advice
Our guides are general information. They are not a substitute for advice from a licensed New York attorney about your own facts. See our legal disclaimer.