Practices & Industries

Education

  • City University of New York School of Law (J.D.)
  • St. Xavier's College (B.A.) Kolkata, India

Bar/Court Admissions

  • U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York
  • New York
  • Connecticut, (retired)

Foreign Languages

  • Bengali
  • Hindi
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Devika Kewalramani

Devika Kewalramani

Partner

Contact Me

T(212) 554-7832

F(917) 206-4332

Devika Kewalramani is a partner and chair of Moses & Singer's Legal Ethics & Law Firm Practice which advises law firms, lawyers and legal departments on ethical and legal aspects of law practice. She also currently serves as the firm's general counsel. Devika represents law firms and attorneys in legal ethics, professional discipline, law firm risk management, lawyer licensing and admissions matters, including escrow issues, conflicts of interest, structuring arrangements with non-lawyers, multijurisdictional practice, disqualification, lateral transition, law firm mergers and break-ups, partner disputes, ethics in alternate dispute resolution, reporting/disclosure issues, attorney advertising, law firm cyber security issues, social media use, legal fee disputes, and other professional responsibility issues.  She conducts ethics and risk management audits for clients.

A frequent lecturer, panelist and author on legal ethics, Devika speaks to law firms, corporate legal departments, bar associations and professional groups on a variety of legal ethics matters. The editor of New York State Bar Association’s Journal magazine recognized Devika as author of one of the best articles of 2010: “Up Close and Professional With New York’s Engagement Letter Rules” (September 2010). Her articles, "Trading Client Trust: A Glimpse Into Insider Trading Within the Legal Profession" and “Demystifying ESQrow Ethics” were featured on the front page of the New York State Bar Association Journal’s May 2018 and May 2013 editions.  Another article of Devika's, "Confidentiality and Whistleblowing: Where In-House Counsel's Competing Interests Collide" was published on the front cover of The Lexis Practice Advisor Journal™ Summer Edition 2018.  She is a faculty member of the Practising Law Institute and of Lawline.com.

Devika has been appointed by the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, as a member of the Attorney Grievance Committee for the First Judicial Department.

Devika also serves as Secretary of the Board of Directors of the New York City Bar Association.

She is a member of the New York State Bar Association’s Restarting the Economy Work Group which worked with the administration of Governor Cuomo to develop a plan for re-opening law firms in New York State.

Devika is the past co-chair of the Council on the Profession of the New York City Bar Association (2017-2019).

She is the past Chair of the Committee on Professional Discipline of the New York City Bar Association.

Devika was appointed a member of the New York Commission on Statewide Attorney Discipline in 2015 and served as a co-chair of its Subcommittee on Transparency and Access.

In 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020 she achieved Super Lawyer status in the Metro Edition of New York Super Lawyers®.

Presentations [View All]
  • Top Ten Ways to Minimize Risk While You Manage Your Growth, panelist, New York City Bar 17th Annual Small Law Firm Symposium, November 2020
  • COVID-19’s Ethical and Legal Practice Implications, panelist, New-York Historical Society’s Planned Giving Advisory Council, October 2020
  • Lawyers Under the Microscope: A Close Look at the Structure and Process of Attorney Discipline in New York, guest speaker, CUNY School of Law, August 2020
  • Global Legal Practitioners’ Colloquium on the Future of Litigation and Court Practice in India & U.S.A., Speaker, Jindal Global Law School Webinar, May 2020
  • Staying Up-to-Date and Out-of-Trouble: The Mantra for Meeting Professional Challenges with Ethical Compliance, Panel Co-Chair, New York City Bar Professional Development Workshop Series 2020, May 2020
  • Essential Ethics for Lockdown Lawyers, Speaker, Celesq, West LegalEdcenter, Thomson Reuters Webinar, May 2020
  • "Ethics-in-Place for Sheltered Lawyers," Speaker, South Asian Bar Association of New York Webinar, April 2020
  • "Staying Out of Trouble 2019: Hot Topics in Ethics and Avoiding Professional Discipline Conflicts Of Interest: Navigating those Sticky Situations", PLI, December 2019
  • The Trusted Advisor in the Age of Artificial Intelligence, Speaker, Oppenheimer & Co., Inc. Seminar, October 2019
  • "Hard Legal Ethics Questions: How to Resolve Them or, Even Better, Avoid Them," Panelist, New York City Bar Professional Development Workshop Series 2019, May 2019.
  • "The Wheel of Fortune: Hot Topics in Ethics for Entertainment Lawyers," Entertainment, Arts and Sports Law Section (EASL), New York State Bar Association 2019 Annual Meeting, January 2019
  • "Wire Fraud, BEC Attacks, Cybersecurity & Your Ethical Duties," Speaker, Moses & Singer/TitleVest CLE, November 2018.
  • "Ethics Inside/Out: In-House Counsel's Role As The Client's Lawyer And As Outside Counsel's Client," Speaker, CHUBB CLE Program, October 2018.
  • "Ethical Obligations in Cyber Security: The Risks You Must Know, The Responsibilities You Cannot Avoid," Speaker, New York State Bar Association Elder Law and Special Needs Section Summer Meeting, July 2018.
  • "Promoting & Protecting Our Law Firms: Demystifying ADA Web Accessibility Compliance and the New York Attorney Advertising Rules," Speaker, Legal Marketing Association NY Small Firm SIG Lunch Program, June 2018.
  • "In-House Counsel Ethics: Strategic Roles, Complex Duties," Speaker, Mitsubishi Chemical Holdings America, Inc., April 2018.
  • "Practical Ethical Issues Facing Entertainment Attorneys," Speaker, New York City Bar Association, March 2018.
  • "Cyber Ethics: Shielding Your Clients' Data," Speaker, Oppenheimer & Co. Inc., January 2018.
  • "Law Firm Cyber Security: A Matter of Ethics", Speaker, Kaplan Fox & Kilsheimer LLP, December 2017.
  • "Conflicts of Interest: Defining, Identifying, Preventing and Addressing," Speaker, LexisNexis CLE Webinar, November 2017.
  • "Managing Ethical Challenges in Conflicts of Interest, Compliance and Risk Management," Speaker, Kobre & Kim LLP, October 2017.
  • "Ethics & Cybersecurity: Duty to Protect Client Data," Speaker, New York American Inn of Court, September 2017.
  • "Crossing the Line: When Ethics Problems Can Become Disciplinary Sanctions," Speaker, New York City Trusts & Estates Discussion Group, September 2017.
  • "Cyber Ethics: Understanding Your Ethical Obligations in a Cybersecurity Breach," Speaker, American Bar Association, August 2017.
  • "Construction Dispute Resolution: Strategic Approaches and Navigating Ethical Dilemmas," Speaker, Moses & Singer LLP/John E. Osborn P.C. CLE Program, June 2017.
  • "Ethics in Real Estate Transactions," Speaker, Practising Law Institute - Negotiating Real Estate Deals 2017, June 2017.
  • "When Things Go Wrong, Don't Go With Them: What To Do If the Grievance Committee Comes Calling," Moderator, New York City Bar, May 2017.
  • "Ethics & Professionalism: Best Practices for Attorneys 2017," Moderator, City Bar Center for CLE, March 2017.
  • "Ethical Issues in Representing Real Estate Joint Ventures," Keynote Speaker, Strafford Publications Seminar, March 2017.
  • “Unscrambling the Ethics Rules, the Thin Line Between Professional Conduct and Personal Behavior, and More," Guest Lecturer, CUNY School of Law, November 2016.
  • "Addressing Conflicts of Interest: Essential Duties for Every Lawyer," Rheem Bell & Mermelstein LLP, November 2016.
  • "Bagels, Lox and a Side of Ethics," Anti-Defamation League, November 2016.
  • "Managing Ethical Challenges in Conflicts of Interest, Compliance and Risk Management," Thomson Reuters' Legal Executive Institute Risk, Ethics and Compliance Forum, November 2016.
  • "Ethics & Cybersecurity: Duty to Protect Client Data," Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., October 2016.
  • "Out With the Old, In With the New: An Introduction to New York's Statewide Rules for Attorney Disciplinary Matters," Panel Chair, New York City Bar Bridge-the-Gap Program, September 2016.
  • "Getting Admitted to the First or Second Departments," New York City Bar Association's New Lawyer Institute, September 2016
  • "Bridge-the-Gap Orientation Program for Newly Admitted Attorneys," organized by New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Department's Character and Fitness Committee, held at the New York County Lawyer's Association, January 2017, July 2016, February and November 2015, September 2014
  • "Legal Ethics for Real Estate Finance Lawyers," Practising Law Institute, Commercial Real Estate Financing 2016, April 2016
  • "Ethical Issues for Mediators and Attorneys," New York State Bar Association Dispute Resolution Section Diversity Committee CLE Program, April 2016
  • "Ethical Implications of a Cyber Breach at a Law Firm," St. John's University School of Law, Cyber Law Symposium, February 2016
  • "Answers to Everyday Ethics Questions," New York City Bar Association, February 2016
  • "Ethics and Professional Responsibility In The Indian Legal Profession," Jindal Global Law School, October 2015
  • "Current Developments in Elder Law 2015: Ethical Implications in Considering Alternatives to Guardianship," New York City Bar Association, October 2015
  • "Hot Button Issues in Employment Law: Ethical Issues, Social Media, and Beyond," New York County Lawyers' Association, October 2015
  • "Attorney Discipline in New York: Structure, Process & Trends," New York City Bar Association, October 2015
  • "Getting Admitted to the First and Second Departments," New York City Bar's New Lawyers Institute, September 2015 and October 2014
  • "Setting Up and Maintaining Client Relationships to Avoid Ethical Dilemmas," New York State Bar Association, June 2015
  • "Ethics & Professionalism: Best Practices for Attorneys 2015," New York City Bar Association, May 2015
  • "Ethical Issues in FCPA Compliance & Investigations: Practical Advice from the Front Lines," Stein Center for Law and Ethics, Fordham Law School, May 2015
  • "Negotiation Ethics: Pitfalls and Rules," Eleventh Annual Edith I. Spivack Symposium, New York State Bar Association, Committee on Women in the Law, May 2015 
  • "Is It All Good? The Legal and Ethical Implications of Legalizing Marijuana in America," American Bar Association, Labor and Employment Law Section, Ethics and Professional Responsibility Committee, Midwinter Meeting 2015, March 2015
  • “A Guided Tour of Special Ethics Problems Facing Trust & Estates Lawyers,” American Friends of Israel Museum, November 2014
  • “The Rules of Engagement: A Simulated Arbitration Ethics Hotline, Winning with ADR: Strategies to Successfully Leverage the Tools in the ADR Toolbox,” New York State Bar Association's Dispute Resolution Section Fall Meeting, October 2014
  • “Ethical Issues Facing the Trust & Estates Attorney,” New York City Trusts & Estates Discussion Group, October 2014
  • "Introduction to New York's Rules & Professional Conduct and the System of Lawyer Discipline," Jindal Global Law School, August 2014.
  • “Attorney Discipline in New York: Structure, Process and Trends, 16-Hour Bridge-The-Gap: Practical Skills, Ethics & More,” New York City Bar Association, July 2014
  • “Answers to Everyday Ethical Questions,” New York City Bar Association, June 2014
  •  “Top Five Ethical Challenges for Lawyers,” Constantine Cannon LLP, June 2014
  • “Law Firm Ethics: Key Issues and Practice Tips,” Barton LLP, May 2014
  • “Attorney Disciplinary Process in New York: How It Works," Moses & Singer LLP, April 2014
  • “Professionalism,” CUNY School of Law, April 2014
  • “Ethical Clicks to Avoid Technology Risks in Your Practice,” South Asian Women Attorneys Network, April 2014
  • “Ethics for In-House Counsel: New Developments and Future Challenges," Fordham Law School, Stein Center for Law and Ethics, March 2014
  • "Ethics Issues in Legal Process Outsourcing and Cloud Computing," UBS Legal Department, January 2014
  • "Protecting Confidentiality, Reducing Risk and Avoiding Liability," hosted by Augustine Conroy & Schoppmann at their Trusted Advisors Networking Event, January 2014
  • "Ethical Issues Facing Real Estate Attorneys," Practising Law Institute, Annual Commercial Real Estate Institute, 2008-2013
  • "The Disciplinary Process: How it Works," New York City Bar Association, July 2013
  • "Cyber Security & Ethics: Risks & Best Practices for Law Firms," Moses & Singer CLE Program, June 2013
  • "Ethical Arrhythmias in Trusts & Estates Practice", American Heart Association’s, 13th Annual Invitational Conference on Estate Planning and Administration, April 2013
  • "Ethics for Corporate Lawyers: Multijurisdictional Practice And Other Current Issues 2013," Practising Law Institute, February 2013
  • "Be Careful Who You 'Like': Legal and Ethical Implications of Social Media Use in the Workplace and Employment and Labor Litigation," Seton Hall University School of Law Circuit Review Symposium, February 2013
  • "To Click or Not to Click: That is the Ethical Question?" New York Chapter of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA), January 2013
  • "Ethical Gaps, Mishaps and Traps in Real Estate Practice," Practising Law Institute, November 2012
  • "High Tech, High Risk, High Stakes: Key Strategies to Protect You & Your Client," Citrin Cooperman Cyberliability and Ethics Seminar, October 2012
  • "How to Balance E-Discovery Requirements and Cloud Computing Challenges with Ethical Compliance," New York County Lawyers' Association, October 2012
  • "Ethics Challenges For Law Firms," Kern Augustine Conroy & Schoppmann, P.C. Attorney Conference, June 2012
  • "Hi-Tech Ethics Lowdown for Downtown Lawyers," Downtown Lawyers Organization, May 2012
  • "Ethics in Elder Law," Practising Law Institute’s (PLI) 24th Annual Elder Law Institute, April 2012
  • "Ethics for Inhouse Lawyers: Emerging Issues, Evolving Duties," Barclays Capital, April 2012
  • "Dealing with Ethical Issues Facing Intellectual Property Practitioners," New York County Lawyers’ Association, February 2012
  • "Hot Topics in Legal Ethics: Current Issues, New Risks and Recent Developments," Esquire Bank, Ultimate Abstract of New York and Citrin Cooperman, December 2011
  • "Ethical Considerations for the Real Estate Leasing Attorney," Analysis of Case Study by Devika Kewalramani, Practising Law Institute, November 2009, November 2010 and November 2011
  • "Ethics for Real Estate Attorneys," Analysis of Case Study by Devika Kewalramani, Practising Law Institute 10th, 11th and 12th Annual Commercial Real Estate Institute, December 2008 (New York), November 2008 (Chicago), December 2009 (New York), December 2010 (New York) and November 2011 (New York)
  • "In-House Counsel Ethics: Risks, Trends And Real-World Challenges," Moses & Singer CLE Program to Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., September 2011
  • "Cloud Computing: Balancing Privacy and Data Mobility," Moses & Singer CLE Webinar to FriendFinder Networks Inc., August 2011
  • "Latest Trends and Insights Impacting Law Practice in a Turnaround Economy," New York City Bar Association, July 2011
  • "Ethics, Technology and Solos,"  Business Lawyers Group, July 2011
  • 2nd Annual USA India Business Summit, participant, June 2011
  • "Cloud Computing:  Thunderstorms or Silver Lining?," Co-Sponsored by New York County Lawyers’ Association and its Cyberspace Committee, June 2011
  • "From Outsourced to Cloudsourced:  The Next Level of Risks," Moses & Singer’s In-House Counsel CLE Program, June 2011
  • "Ethics for New Lawyers," Lawline.com CLE Seminar, April 2011
  • "Women's Leadership That Inspires Global Change," The 55th Annual United Nations Conference on Women's Empowerment, March 2011
  • "Ethical Issues in Client Representation Agreements," WebCredenza National Teleseminar, February 2011
  • "Fees, Retainer Agreements, and Letters of Engagement," New York State Bar Association, November and December 2010
  • "Attorney Advertising via Blogs, Websites and Social Networks: Ethical Risks," Strafford National CLE Webinar, November 2010
  • "Everyday Ethics Issues Facing Your Law Practice," Moses & Singer Women’s Initiative Program, November 2010
  • "Best Practices for Protecting Your Law Practice from Ethical Violations," Esquire Bank and Ultimate Abstract of New York, October 2010
  • "Navigating the Attorney Advertising Maze: Recent Rules, Cases and Ethics Opinions," New York County Lawyers’ Association, September 2010
  • "Minimize Risks, Manage Challenges and Avert Ethical Pitfalls," Esquire Bank and Ultimate Abstract of New York, July 2010
  • "Indian Businesses Go Green," host, Citi-Anchin Indian Initiative, June 2010
  • "Ethics of Going Green At Home And Abroad," The Institute of International Social Development and Forum 21, April 2010
  • "The New NY Ethics Rules: An Inside View for In-House Counsel," Legal Department of Deutsche Bank AG, April 2010; and JPMorgan Chase & Co., February 2010; and Moses & Singer’s In-House Counsel CLE Program,  May 2010
  • "Getting Engaged and Serving Your Client Under New York’s Engagement Letter Rules," the Judicial Title Insurance Agency LLC, March 2010
  • "Essentials of Setting Up A New Law Practice: Formation Issues, Ethics And Other Key Considerations," Chair, New York City Bar Association, Small Law Firm Center, March 2010
  • "Ethics in Commercial Mortgage Practice: Analysis of Case Study by Devika Kewalramani," Practising Law Institute, March 2008 (Chicago), February (2008) (New York) and March 2010 (New York)
  • "Attention In-House Counsel: New York’s New Ethics Rules Apply To You," Fidelity National Financial, Inc., December 2009
  • "What Every Lawyer Needs to Know About New York’s Engagement Letter Rules," Hudson Valley Bank and Lawline.com CLE Seminar, November 2009; Rivkin Radler LLP, January 2009; Asian American Bar Association of New York, December 2008; New York City Bar Associaton, May 2007; and Moses & Singer In-House Counsel CLE Program, March 2006
  • "The Rules, They Are A-Changin’," The Copyright Society of the U.S.A., September 2009
  • "How New York's New Ethics Rules Impact Subordinate Lawyers," New York County Lawyers' Association, September 2009
  • "New York's New Ethics Rules: What's New, What's Not, and What Changed?" Quinn Emanuel, October 2009, Citibank/Corporate Solutions New York, August 2009 and Moses & Singer's Law Firm Managing Partners Forum, July 2009
  • "Highlights of New York’s New Rules of Professional Conduct," Advantage Title, 2009 CLE Seminar Series, June 2009
  • "New York Adopts New Rules of Professional Conduct: Are You Ready?" Moses & Singer’s In-House Counsel CLE Program, March 2009; and Lawline.com, May 2009
  • "Seven Risk Management Tips for Law Firms," Lawline.com, May 2009
  • "Law Firms and In-House Counsel," MSI Global Alliance North America and Latin America Local Members' Meeting, January 2009 (Miami)
  • "Legal Ethics: Solutions to the Most Common Challenges," National Business Institute, September 2008
  • "Law Firm Blogs: Legal and Ethical Concerns," Moses & Singer’s In-House Counsel CLE Program, November 2007
  • "Ethical Duties of Supervisory and Subordinate Lawyers," Moses & Singer’s In-House Counsel CLE Program, October 2008; New York City Bar Association, October 2007
  • "Conflicts of Interest, Engagement Letters and Attorney Advertising Rules," National Business Institute, September 2007
  • "What You Need to Know About Legal Opinions," Moses & Singer’s In-House Counsel CLE Program, January 2007
  • "What Every Lawyer Needs to Know About Conflicts of Interest," New York City Bar Association, June 2006
  • "Law Firm Conflicts Management," Moses & Singer’s In-House Counsel CLE Program, December 2004
Articles [View All]
  • How to Combat Money Laundering: Avoiding the Dirty Green, New York State Bar Association, November 2020
  • Social Distance Lawyering – How Close is Your Ethical Compliance? New York State Bar Association Journal, August, 2020
  • "Pandemics and Ethics: How To Sustain Lawyer Quality and Client Service", New York Law Journal, April 3, 2020
  • "Privilege, Discovery and Digital Technology: Remembering Other Warnings From 'Upjohn'", New York Law Journal, December 27, 2019
  • "New Tools for Old Rules: How Technology is Transforming the Lawyer's Tool Kit", New York Law Journal, February 2019.
  • "In-House Counsel's Role As Whistleblower," Law360, December 2018.
  • "Two Sides of the Same Coin: Bitcoin and Ethics," New York Law Journal, July 2018.
  • "Confidentiality & Whistleblowing: Where In-House Counsel's Competing Interests Collide," The Lexis Nexis Practice Advisor Journal, Summer 2018 Edition.
  • "Trading Client Trust: A Glimpse Into Insider Trading Within the Legal Profession," New York State Bar Association Journal, May 2018.
  • "New Rules for Electronic Device Border Searches: Are Attorneys and Clients Prepared?," Moses & Singer Client Alert, January 2018.
  • "Issues to Consider Regarding In-House Counsel Disqualification," The Lexis Practice Advisor Journal, Winter 2017 Edition.
  • "In-House Counsel Ethics: Fee Sharing Implications," The Lexis Practice Advisor Journal, Corporate Counsel Special Edition 2017.
  • "In-House Counsel Sanctions: Recent Trends," Lexis Practice Advisor Journal, Summer 2017 Edition.
  • "How Privilege Applies to Multinationals' In-House Counsel," Law 360, April 2017.
  • "Brick and Motar Offices for Non-Resident New York Lawyers: U.S. Supreme Court Denies Review of New York's In-State Office Rule," Moses & Singer Client Alert, April 2017.
  • "Preserving Privilege and Maintaining Client Confidences When Dealing with Third-Party Consultants During a Crisis,"  NY Litigator, A Journal of the Commercial & Federal Litigation Section of the New York State Bar Association, Fall 2016.
  • "In-House Counsel: Avoid Stretching Your License Beyond It's Legal and Ethical Limits" Lexis Practice Advisor, Summer 2016 Edition.
  • "In-State Office Rule For Out-Of-State Lawyers Upheld," Moses & Singer Client Alert, May 2016.
  • "Ex-Files: Retainor Return a Former Client's Files?" Moses & Singer Client Alert, December 2015.
  • "Taking Down Your Shingle in New York: Ethics Rule Sets Forth Duties" New York Law Journal, December 2015.
  • "New York Rule 8.5: Choice of Law or Law of Choice?" New York State Bar Association Journal, September 2015.
  • "Is the 'Unfinished Business Rule' Really Finished?" The Practical Lawyer, June 2015.
  • "Lawyers & Marijuana: If It's Legal, Can It Be Ethical?," Submitted for panel, "Is It All Good? The Legal and Ethical Implications of Legalizing Marijuana in America," at American Bar Association, Labor and Employment Law Section, Ethics and Professional Responsibility Committee, Midwinter Meeting, March 2015.
  • "Too Close for Comfort: Client - Lawyer Relations," New York State Bar Journal, October 2014.
  • “Deal-of-the-Day Coupons: The Ethics of Discount Marketing by Lawyers,“ New York State Bar Journal, May 2014.
  • “Close Encounters With Non-Clients: Bridging the Communication Gap, Ethically,“ New York Law Journal, January 2014.
  • “Lawyer-Nonlawyer Business Ventures: A Limited Affair,“ New York Law Journal, October 2013.
  • “Out-of-State Law Firms in a New York State of Mind,“ The Practical Lawyer, October 2013.
  • “Private Practice, Public Office: Drawing the Line, Ethically,“ New York Law Journal, July 2013.
  • “Cybersecurity Ethics and Risks Takes Center Stage at a Presentation to be Given by Devika Kewalramani and Amyt Eckstein, Attorneys at Moses & Singer LLP,“ PRWeb, May 2013.
  • "Demystifying ESQrow Ethics," New York State Bar Association Journal, May 2013.
  • "Advance Payment Retainers: Whose Property? What Account?" New York Law Journal, February 2013.
  • "Non-Lawyers Beware: New Law Will Make Unauthorized Practice a Felony," Moses & Singer Client Alert, January 2013.
  • "Ethical Wrinkles in Elder Law," The Practical Lawyer, October 2012.
  • "Risk Management Audit & Ethics Manual: A CFO's Due Dilligence Tool Kit," Institute of Management Accountants Newsletter, September 2012.
  • "Audits & Manuals: Essential Tool Kits In Legal Risk Management," Moses & Singer Client Alert, August 2012.
  • "Virtual Law Offices:  A New and Lasting Frontier?" New York Law Journal, July 2012.
  • "Are You Being Greenwashed?," cover story of New York State Bar Association Journal, June 2012.
  • "Client-to-Client Conflicts: New Look at Overlooked Rule Change," New York Law Journal, May 2012.
  • "Save E-Mails, Avoid Sanctions: Court Creates New Duty To Preserve E-Mails During A Transaction," Moses & Singer Client Alert, April 2012.
  • "Greenwashing: Deceptive Business Claims of Eco-Friendliness," Forbes.com, March 2012.
  • "Second Circuit Topples Some NY Rules on Certified Specialists," Moses & Singer Client Alert, March 2012.
  • "The Greenwashing Domino Effect," Thomson Reuters News & Insight; Canadian Competition & Antitrust Law; Canadian Advertising & Marketing Law, February 2012.
  • "Lawyers’ Titles and Law Firm Names in the Hi-Tech Era," New York Law Journal, February 2012
  • "Ethical Screens: Building Electronic Barriers," Law360, August 2011; New York State Bar Association Journal, February 2012.
  • "Lawyers: Know Your Clients: Unsolicited Emails – Fake Checks – Vanishing Clients," Moses & Singer Client Alert, October 2011.
  • "No Office, No Practice? No! Requirement of New York Office for Non-resident Attorneys Ruled Unconstitutional," Moses & Singer Client Alert, September 2011.
  • "How to Outsource Legal Work—Ethically: Authorities Weigh In," New York Law Journal, August 2011.
  • "Are Law Firm Loss Prevention Communications Discoverable," Moses & Singer Client Alert, May 2011.
  • "New York Resolves In-House Counsel Bar Admission Problem," Moses & Singer Client Alert, April 2011.
  • "Women’s Empowerment Conference Held at United Nations," featured, The India Tribune, April 2011.
  • "Conference on Women’s Empowerment Held at the United Nations," featured, News India Times, April 2011.
  • "Flying High in April," cited, Law Technology News (LTN), March 2011.
  • "Cloud Computing: Ethical Shades of Gray," New York Law Journal, March 2011.
  • "Privilege Invoked If Company Reasonably Believes In-house Counsel is a Lawyer," Moses & Singer Client Alert, February 2011.
  • "URLs for ESQs: How to Choose and Use Ethical Domain Names," New York Law Journal, January 2011.
  • "Lawyers Spared From Red Flags Rule," Moses & Singer Client Alert, December 2010.
  • "Unwritten Vows Break Up Law Firm Partnership," Moses & Singer Client Alert, September 2010.
  • "Up Close and Professional with New York’s Engagement Letter Rules," New York State Bar Association Journal, September 2010.
  • "No License, No Privilege: Says Magistrate Judge in Gucci v. Guess," Moses & Singer Client Alert, July 2010.
  • "You Can Tweet But You Can’t Hide: Social Networking for Lawyers, " New York Law Journal, June 2010.
  • "Report on Bill A8697 to Amend New York’s Lien Law of the Ethics Institute of the New York County Lawyers’ Association," author, June 2010.
  • "Gucci v. Guess: A Lesson on Lapsed Licenses," Law 360, June 2010.
  • "EEOC v. Kelley Drye & Warren LLP: The Sequel," Moses & Singer Client Alert, April 2010.
  • "Lawyer’s Failure to Maintain License Triggers Battle Over Attorney-Client Privilege," Moses & Singer Client Alert, April 2010.
  • "EEOC Attacks Law Firm Retirement Again," Moses & Singer Client Alert, February 2010.
  • "Tips to Avoid the Pitfalls of Legal Opinion Practice," Moses & Singer Client Alert, January 2010.
  • "Beware of New Scams Targeting Law Firms," Moses & Singer Client Alert, November 2009.
  • "Report on Engagement Letters of the Professional Responsibility Committee of the Association of the Bar of The City of New York," co-author, August 2008.
  • "New Lawyer Ad Rules Restrict Client Testimonials, Names," New York Law Journal, December 2006.
Professional Affiliations [View All]
  • Secretary, Board of Directors, New York City Bar Association
  • Past Co-Chair, Council on the Profession, New York City Bar Association (2017-2019)
  • Past Chair, Committee on Professional Discipline, New York City Bar Association (2013-2017)
  • Past Member, Committee on Professional Ethics, New York City Bar Association
  • Member, New York Commission on Statewide Attorney Discipline, Co-Chair, Subcommittee on Transparency and Access (2015)
  • Member, Committee on Continuing Legal Education, New York State Bar Association (2015-2019)
  • Member, Advisory Board of the Ethics Institute, New York County Lawyer's Association
  • Member, Editorial Board of The Practical Lawyer, published by ALI CLE
  • Member, Foundation Board of The City University of New York School of Law (2017-2020), chair of its Audit Committee (2019-2020)
  • Member, International Board of Advisors, Jindal Global Law School, Sonipat, Haryana, India
  • Past Chair, Subcommittee on Engagement Letters, Professional Responsibility Committee, New York City Bar Association
  • Past Member, Committee on Professional Ethics, New York State Bar Association
Publications
Devika Kewalramani
Rated by Super Lawyers


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Representative Matters

  • Acted as outside ethics and professional responsibility counsel for firms.
  • Counseled lawyers on professional discipline, licensing and admissions matters.
  • Defended lawyers in disciplinary investigations alleging professional misconduct.
  • Represented firms and lawyers on ethics matters relating to partner disputes, departures, mergers and break-ups.
  • Advised firms and lawyers on handling escrow accounts and developed best practices.
  • Counseled attorneys on attorney-client privilege issues.
  • Advised law firms on conflicts of interest issues.
  • Counseled attorneys on fee-sharing arrangements with other lawyers.
  • Represented lawyers in matters initiated by the Lawyers Fund for Client Protection.
  • Counseled firms on ethics matters relating to lawyer-nonlawyer business structures.
  • Advised start-up firms on ethics, professional responsibility and risk management.
  • Acted as ethics counsel for multi-state firms opening New York offices.
  • Represented firms as targets of internal investigations by clients.
  • Advised in-house legal departments regarding ethics and professional responsibility matters.
  • Counseled firms on ethical risks of evolving technology in law practice.
  • Counseled firms on attorney advertising rules relating to firm websites and promotional materials.
  • Conducted ethics audits for firms and developed law firm ethics manuals.

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Biography

Devika Kewalramani is a partner and chair of Moses & Singer's Legal Ethics & Law Firm Practice which advises law firms, lawyers and legal departments on ethical and legal aspects of law practice. She also currently serves as the firm's general counsel. Devika represents law firms and attorneys in legal ethics, professional discipline, law firm risk management, lawyer licensing and admissions matters, including escrow issues, conflicts of interest, structuring arrangements with non-lawyers, multijurisdictional practice, disqualification, lateral transition, law firm mergers and break-ups, partner disputes, ethics in alternate dispute resolution, reporting/disclosure issues, attorney advertising, law firm cyber security issues, social media use, legal fee disputes, and other professional responsibility issues.  She conducts ethics and risk management audits for clients.

A frequent lecturer, panelist and author on legal ethics, Devika speaks to law firms, corporate legal departments, bar associations and professional groups on a variety of legal ethics matters. The editor of New York State Bar Association’s Journal magazine recognized Devika as author of one of the best articles of 2010: “Up Close and Professional With New York’s Engagement Letter Rules” (September 2010). Her articles, "Trading Client Trust: A Glimpse Into Insider Trading Within the Legal Profession" and “Demystifying ESQrow Ethics” were featured on the front page of the New York State Bar Association Journal’s May 2018 and May 2013 editions.  Another article of Devika's, "Confidentiality and Whistleblowing: Where In-House Counsel's Competing Interests Collide" was published on the front cover of The Lexis Practice Advisor Journal™ Summer Edition 2018.  She is a faculty member of the Practising Law Institute and of Lawline.com.

Devika has been appointed by the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, as a member of the Attorney Grievance Committee for the First Judicial Department.

Devika also serves as Secretary of the Board of Directors of the New York City Bar Association.

She is a member of the New York State Bar Association’s Restarting the Economy Work Group which worked with the administration of Governor Cuomo to develop a plan for re-opening law firms in New York State.

Devika is the past co-chair of the Council on the Profession of the New York City Bar Association (2017-2019).

She is the past Chair of the Committee on Professional Discipline of the New York City Bar Association.

Devika was appointed a member of the New York Commission on Statewide Attorney Discipline in 2015 and served as a co-chair of its Subcommittee on Transparency and Access.

In 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020 she achieved Super Lawyer status in the Metro Edition of New York Super Lawyers®.

Presentations [View All]
  • Top Ten Ways to Minimize Risk While You Manage Your Growth, panelist, New York City Bar 17th Annual Small Law Firm Symposium, November 2020
  • COVID-19’s Ethical and Legal Practice Implications, panelist, New-York Historical Society’s Planned Giving Advisory Council, October 2020
  • Lawyers Under the Microscope: A Close Look at the Structure and Process of Attorney Discipline in New York, guest speaker, CUNY School of Law, August 2020
  • Global Legal Practitioners’ Colloquium on the Future of Litigation and Court Practice in India & U.S.A., Speaker, Jindal Global Law School Webinar, May 2020
  • Staying Up-to-Date and Out-of-Trouble: The Mantra for Meeting Professional Challenges with Ethical Compliance, Panel Co-Chair, New York City Bar Professional Development Workshop Series 2020, May 2020
  • Essential Ethics for Lockdown Lawyers, Speaker, Celesq, West LegalEdcenter, Thomson Reuters Webinar, May 2020
  • "Ethics-in-Place for Sheltered Lawyers," Speaker, South Asian Bar Association of New York Webinar, April 2020
  • "Staying Out of Trouble 2019: Hot Topics in Ethics and Avoiding Professional Discipline Conflicts Of Interest: Navigating those Sticky Situations", PLI, December 2019
  • The Trusted Advisor in the Age of Artificial Intelligence, Speaker, Oppenheimer & Co., Inc. Seminar, October 2019
  • "Hard Legal Ethics Questions: How to Resolve Them or, Even Better, Avoid Them," Panelist, New York City Bar Professional Development Workshop Series 2019, May 2019.
  • "The Wheel of Fortune: Hot Topics in Ethics for Entertainment Lawyers," Entertainment, Arts and Sports Law Section (EASL), New York State Bar Association 2019 Annual Meeting, January 2019
  • "Wire Fraud, BEC Attacks, Cybersecurity & Your Ethical Duties," Speaker, Moses & Singer/TitleVest CLE, November 2018.
  • "Ethics Inside/Out: In-House Counsel's Role As The Client's Lawyer And As Outside Counsel's Client," Speaker, CHUBB CLE Program, October 2018.
  • "Ethical Obligations in Cyber Security: The Risks You Must Know, The Responsibilities You Cannot Avoid," Speaker, New York State Bar Association Elder Law and Special Needs Section Summer Meeting, July 2018.
  • "Promoting & Protecting Our Law Firms: Demystifying ADA Web Accessibility Compliance and the New York Attorney Advertising Rules," Speaker, Legal Marketing Association NY Small Firm SIG Lunch Program, June 2018.
  • "In-House Counsel Ethics: Strategic Roles, Complex Duties," Speaker, Mitsubishi Chemical Holdings America, Inc., April 2018.
  • "Practical Ethical Issues Facing Entertainment Attorneys," Speaker, New York City Bar Association, March 2018.
  • "Cyber Ethics: Shielding Your Clients' Data," Speaker, Oppenheimer & Co. Inc., January 2018.
  • "Law Firm Cyber Security: A Matter of Ethics", Speaker, Kaplan Fox & Kilsheimer LLP, December 2017.
  • "Conflicts of Interest: Defining, Identifying, Preventing and Addressing," Speaker, LexisNexis CLE Webinar, November 2017.
  • "Managing Ethical Challenges in Conflicts of Interest, Compliance and Risk Management," Speaker, Kobre & Kim LLP, October 2017.
  • "Ethics & Cybersecurity: Duty to Protect Client Data," Speaker, New York American Inn of Court, September 2017.
  • "Crossing the Line: When Ethics Problems Can Become Disciplinary Sanctions," Speaker, New York City Trusts & Estates Discussion Group, September 2017.
  • "Cyber Ethics: Understanding Your Ethical Obligations in a Cybersecurity Breach," Speaker, American Bar Association, August 2017.
  • "Construction Dispute Resolution: Strategic Approaches and Navigating Ethical Dilemmas," Speaker, Moses & Singer LLP/John E. Osborn P.C. CLE Program, June 2017.
  • "Ethics in Real Estate Transactions," Speaker, Practising Law Institute - Negotiating Real Estate Deals 2017, June 2017.
  • "When Things Go Wrong, Don't Go With Them: What To Do If the Grievance Committee Comes Calling," Moderator, New York City Bar, May 2017.
  • "Ethics & Professionalism: Best Practices for Attorneys 2017," Moderator, City Bar Center for CLE, March 2017.
  • "Ethical Issues in Representing Real Estate Joint Ventures," Keynote Speaker, Strafford Publications Seminar, March 2017.
  • “Unscrambling the Ethics Rules, the Thin Line Between Professional Conduct and Personal Behavior, and More," Guest Lecturer, CUNY School of Law, November 2016.
  • "Addressing Conflicts of Interest: Essential Duties for Every Lawyer," Rheem Bell & Mermelstein LLP, November 2016.
  • "Bagels, Lox and a Side of Ethics," Anti-Defamation League, November 2016.
  • "Managing Ethical Challenges in Conflicts of Interest, Compliance and Risk Management," Thomson Reuters' Legal Executive Institute Risk, Ethics and Compliance Forum, November 2016.
  • "Ethics & Cybersecurity: Duty to Protect Client Data," Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., October 2016.
  • "Out With the Old, In With the New: An Introduction to New York's Statewide Rules for Attorney Disciplinary Matters," Panel Chair, New York City Bar Bridge-the-Gap Program, September 2016.
  • "Getting Admitted to the First or Second Departments," New York City Bar Association's New Lawyer Institute, September 2016
  • "Bridge-the-Gap Orientation Program for Newly Admitted Attorneys," organized by New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Department's Character and Fitness Committee, held at the New York County Lawyer's Association, January 2017, July 2016, February and November 2015, September 2014
  • "Legal Ethics for Real Estate Finance Lawyers," Practising Law Institute, Commercial Real Estate Financing 2016, April 2016
  • "Ethical Issues for Mediators and Attorneys," New York State Bar Association Dispute Resolution Section Diversity Committee CLE Program, April 2016
  • "Ethical Implications of a Cyber Breach at a Law Firm," St. John's University School of Law, Cyber Law Symposium, February 2016
  • "Answers to Everyday Ethics Questions," New York City Bar Association, February 2016
  • "Ethics and Professional Responsibility In The Indian Legal Profession," Jindal Global Law School, October 2015
  • "Current Developments in Elder Law 2015: Ethical Implications in Considering Alternatives to Guardianship," New York City Bar Association, October 2015
  • "Hot Button Issues in Employment Law: Ethical Issues, Social Media, and Beyond," New York County Lawyers' Association, October 2015
  • "Attorney Discipline in New York: Structure, Process & Trends," New York City Bar Association, October 2015
  • "Getting Admitted to the First and Second Departments," New York City Bar's New Lawyers Institute, September 2015 and October 2014
  • "Setting Up and Maintaining Client Relationships to Avoid Ethical Dilemmas," New York State Bar Association, June 2015
  • "Ethics & Professionalism: Best Practices for Attorneys 2015," New York City Bar Association, May 2015
  • "Ethical Issues in FCPA Compliance & Investigations: Practical Advice from the Front Lines," Stein Center for Law and Ethics, Fordham Law School, May 2015
  • "Negotiation Ethics: Pitfalls and Rules," Eleventh Annual Edith I. Spivack Symposium, New York State Bar Association, Committee on Women in the Law, May 2015 
  • "Is It All Good? The Legal and Ethical Implications of Legalizing Marijuana in America," American Bar Association, Labor and Employment Law Section, Ethics and Professional Responsibility Committee, Midwinter Meeting 2015, March 2015
  • “A Guided Tour of Special Ethics Problems Facing Trust & Estates Lawyers,” American Friends of Israel Museum, November 2014
  • “The Rules of Engagement: A Simulated Arbitration Ethics Hotline, Winning with ADR: Strategies to Successfully Leverage the Tools in the ADR Toolbox,” New York State Bar Association's Dispute Resolution Section Fall Meeting, October 2014
  • “Ethical Issues Facing the Trust & Estates Attorney,” New York City Trusts & Estates Discussion Group, October 2014
  • "Introduction to New York's Rules & Professional Conduct and the System of Lawyer Discipline," Jindal Global Law School, August 2014.
  • “Attorney Discipline in New York: Structure, Process and Trends, 16-Hour Bridge-The-Gap: Practical Skills, Ethics & More,” New York City Bar Association, July 2014
  • “Answers to Everyday Ethical Questions,” New York City Bar Association, June 2014
  •  “Top Five Ethical Challenges for Lawyers,” Constantine Cannon LLP, June 2014
  • “Law Firm Ethics: Key Issues and Practice Tips,” Barton LLP, May 2014
  • “Attorney Disciplinary Process in New York: How It Works," Moses & Singer LLP, April 2014
  • “Professionalism,” CUNY School of Law, April 2014
  • “Ethical Clicks to Avoid Technology Risks in Your Practice,” South Asian Women Attorneys Network, April 2014
  • “Ethics for In-House Counsel: New Developments and Future Challenges," Fordham Law School, Stein Center for Law and Ethics, March 2014
  • "Ethics Issues in Legal Process Outsourcing and Cloud Computing," UBS Legal Department, January 2014
  • "Protecting Confidentiality, Reducing Risk and Avoiding Liability," hosted by Augustine Conroy & Schoppmann at their Trusted Advisors Networking Event, January 2014
  • "Ethical Issues Facing Real Estate Attorneys," Practising Law Institute, Annual Commercial Real Estate Institute, 2008-2013
  • "The Disciplinary Process: How it Works," New York City Bar Association, July 2013
  • "Cyber Security & Ethics: Risks & Best Practices for Law Firms," Moses & Singer CLE Program, June 2013
  • "Ethical Arrhythmias in Trusts & Estates Practice", American Heart Association’s, 13th Annual Invitational Conference on Estate Planning and Administration, April 2013
  • "Ethics for Corporate Lawyers: Multijurisdictional Practice And Other Current Issues 2013," Practising Law Institute, February 2013
  • "Be Careful Who You 'Like': Legal and Ethical Implications of Social Media Use in the Workplace and Employment and Labor Litigation," Seton Hall University School of Law Circuit Review Symposium, February 2013
  • "To Click or Not to Click: That is the Ethical Question?" New York Chapter of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA), January 2013
  • "Ethical Gaps, Mishaps and Traps in Real Estate Practice," Practising Law Institute, November 2012
  • "High Tech, High Risk, High Stakes: Key Strategies to Protect You & Your Client," Citrin Cooperman Cyberliability and Ethics Seminar, October 2012
  • "How to Balance E-Discovery Requirements and Cloud Computing Challenges with Ethical Compliance," New York County Lawyers' Association, October 2012
  • "Ethics Challenges For Law Firms," Kern Augustine Conroy & Schoppmann, P.C. Attorney Conference, June 2012
  • "Hi-Tech Ethics Lowdown for Downtown Lawyers," Downtown Lawyers Organization, May 2012
  • "Ethics in Elder Law," Practising Law Institute’s (PLI) 24th Annual Elder Law Institute, April 2012
  • "Ethics for Inhouse Lawyers: Emerging Issues, Evolving Duties," Barclays Capital, April 2012
  • "Dealing with Ethical Issues Facing Intellectual Property Practitioners," New York County Lawyers’ Association, February 2012
  • "Hot Topics in Legal Ethics: Current Issues, New Risks and Recent Developments," Esquire Bank, Ultimate Abstract of New York and Citrin Cooperman, December 2011
  • "Ethical Considerations for the Real Estate Leasing Attorney," Analysis of Case Study by Devika Kewalramani, Practising Law Institute, November 2009, November 2010 and November 2011
  • "Ethics for Real Estate Attorneys," Analysis of Case Study by Devika Kewalramani, Practising Law Institute 10th, 11th and 12th Annual Commercial Real Estate Institute, December 2008 (New York), November 2008 (Chicago), December 2009 (New York), December 2010 (New York) and November 2011 (New York)
  • "In-House Counsel Ethics: Risks, Trends And Real-World Challenges," Moses & Singer CLE Program to Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., September 2011
  • "Cloud Computing: Balancing Privacy and Data Mobility," Moses & Singer CLE Webinar to FriendFinder Networks Inc., August 2011
  • "Latest Trends and Insights Impacting Law Practice in a Turnaround Economy," New York City Bar Association, July 2011
  • "Ethics, Technology and Solos,"  Business Lawyers Group, July 2011
  • 2nd Annual USA India Business Summit, participant, June 2011
  • "Cloud Computing:  Thunderstorms or Silver Lining?," Co-Sponsored by New York County Lawyers’ Association and its Cyberspace Committee, June 2011
  • "From Outsourced to Cloudsourced:  The Next Level of Risks," Moses & Singer’s In-House Counsel CLE Program, June 2011
  • "Ethics for New Lawyers," Lawline.com CLE Seminar, April 2011
  • "Women's Leadership That Inspires Global Change," The 55th Annual United Nations Conference on Women's Empowerment, March 2011
  • "Ethical Issues in Client Representation Agreements," WebCredenza National Teleseminar, February 2011
  • "Fees, Retainer Agreements, and Letters of Engagement," New York State Bar Association, November and December 2010
  • "Attorney Advertising via Blogs, Websites and Social Networks: Ethical Risks," Strafford National CLE Webinar, November 2010
  • "Everyday Ethics Issues Facing Your Law Practice," Moses & Singer Women’s Initiative Program, November 2010
  • "Best Practices for Protecting Your Law Practice from Ethical Violations," Esquire Bank and Ultimate Abstract of New York, October 2010
  • "Navigating the Attorney Advertising Maze: Recent Rules, Cases and Ethics Opinions," New York County Lawyers’ Association, September 2010
  • "Minimize Risks, Manage Challenges and Avert Ethical Pitfalls," Esquire Bank and Ultimate Abstract of New York, July 2010
  • "Indian Businesses Go Green," host, Citi-Anchin Indian Initiative, June 2010
  • "Ethics of Going Green At Home And Abroad," The Institute of International Social Development and Forum 21, April 2010
  • "The New NY Ethics Rules: An Inside View for In-House Counsel," Legal Department of Deutsche Bank AG, April 2010; and JPMorgan Chase & Co., February 2010; and Moses & Singer’s In-House Counsel CLE Program,  May 2010
  • "Getting Engaged and Serving Your Client Under New York’s Engagement Letter Rules," the Judicial Title Insurance Agency LLC, March 2010
  • "Essentials of Setting Up A New Law Practice: Formation Issues, Ethics And Other Key Considerations," Chair, New York City Bar Association, Small Law Firm Center, March 2010
  • "Ethics in Commercial Mortgage Practice: Analysis of Case Study by Devika Kewalramani," Practising Law Institute, March 2008 (Chicago), February (2008) (New York) and March 2010 (New York)
  • "Attention In-House Counsel: New York’s New Ethics Rules Apply To You," Fidelity National Financial, Inc., December 2009
  • "What Every Lawyer Needs to Know About New York’s Engagement Letter Rules," Hudson Valley Bank and Lawline.com CLE Seminar, November 2009; Rivkin Radler LLP, January 2009; Asian American Bar Association of New York, December 2008; New York City Bar Associaton, May 2007; and Moses & Singer In-House Counsel CLE Program, March 2006
  • "The Rules, They Are A-Changin’," The Copyright Society of the U.S.A., September 2009
  • "How New York's New Ethics Rules Impact Subordinate Lawyers," New York County Lawyers' Association, September 2009
  • "New York's New Ethics Rules: What's New, What's Not, and What Changed?" Quinn Emanuel, October 2009, Citibank/Corporate Solutions New York, August 2009 and Moses & Singer's Law Firm Managing Partners Forum, July 2009
  • "Highlights of New York’s New Rules of Professional Conduct," Advantage Title, 2009 CLE Seminar Series, June 2009
  • "New York Adopts New Rules of Professional Conduct: Are You Ready?" Moses & Singer’s In-House Counsel CLE Program, March 2009; and Lawline.com, May 2009
  • "Seven Risk Management Tips for Law Firms," Lawline.com, May 2009
  • "Law Firms and In-House Counsel," MSI Global Alliance North America and Latin America Local Members' Meeting, January 2009 (Miami)
  • "Legal Ethics: Solutions to the Most Common Challenges," National Business Institute, September 2008
  • "Law Firm Blogs: Legal and Ethical Concerns," Moses & Singer’s In-House Counsel CLE Program, November 2007
  • "Ethical Duties of Supervisory and Subordinate Lawyers," Moses & Singer’s In-House Counsel CLE Program, October 2008; New York City Bar Association, October 2007
  • "Conflicts of Interest, Engagement Letters and Attorney Advertising Rules," National Business Institute, September 2007
  • "What You Need to Know About Legal Opinions," Moses & Singer’s In-House Counsel CLE Program, January 2007
  • "What Every Lawyer Needs to Know About Conflicts of Interest," New York City Bar Association, June 2006
  • "Law Firm Conflicts Management," Moses & Singer’s In-House Counsel CLE Program, December 2004
Articles [View All]
  • How to Combat Money Laundering: Avoiding the Dirty Green, New York State Bar Association, November 2020
  • Social Distance Lawyering – How Close is Your Ethical Compliance? New York State Bar Association Journal, August, 2020
  • "Pandemics and Ethics: How To Sustain Lawyer Quality and Client Service", New York Law Journal, April 3, 2020
  • "Privilege, Discovery and Digital Technology: Remembering Other Warnings From 'Upjohn'", New York Law Journal, December 27, 2019
  • "New Tools for Old Rules: How Technology is Transforming the Lawyer's Tool Kit", New York Law Journal, February 2019.
  • "In-House Counsel's Role As Whistleblower," Law360, December 2018.
  • "Two Sides of the Same Coin: Bitcoin and Ethics," New York Law Journal, July 2018.
  • "Confidentiality & Whistleblowing: Where In-House Counsel's Competing Interests Collide," The Lexis Nexis Practice Advisor Journal, Summer 2018 Edition.
  • "Trading Client Trust: A Glimpse Into Insider Trading Within the Legal Profession," New York State Bar Association Journal, May 2018.
  • "New Rules for Electronic Device Border Searches: Are Attorneys and Clients Prepared?," Moses & Singer Client Alert, January 2018.
  • "Issues to Consider Regarding In-House Counsel Disqualification," The Lexis Practice Advisor Journal, Winter 2017 Edition.
  • "In-House Counsel Ethics: Fee Sharing Implications," The Lexis Practice Advisor Journal, Corporate Counsel Special Edition 2017.
  • "In-House Counsel Sanctions: Recent Trends," Lexis Practice Advisor Journal, Summer 2017 Edition.
  • "How Privilege Applies to Multinationals' In-House Counsel," Law 360, April 2017.
  • "Brick and Motar Offices for Non-Resident New York Lawyers: U.S. Supreme Court Denies Review of New York's In-State Office Rule," Moses & Singer Client Alert, April 2017.
  • "Preserving Privilege and Maintaining Client Confidences When Dealing with Third-Party Consultants During a Crisis,"  NY Litigator, A Journal of the Commercial & Federal Litigation Section of the New York State Bar Association, Fall 2016.
  • "In-House Counsel: Avoid Stretching Your License Beyond It's Legal and Ethical Limits" Lexis Practice Advisor, Summer 2016 Edition.
  • "In-State Office Rule For Out-Of-State Lawyers Upheld," Moses & Singer Client Alert, May 2016.
  • "Ex-Files: Retainor Return a Former Client's Files?" Moses & Singer Client Alert, December 2015.
  • "Taking Down Your Shingle in New York: Ethics Rule Sets Forth Duties" New York Law Journal, December 2015.
  • "New York Rule 8.5: Choice of Law or Law of Choice?" New York State Bar Association Journal, September 2015.
  • "Is the 'Unfinished Business Rule' Really Finished?" The Practical Lawyer, June 2015.
  • "Lawyers & Marijuana: If It's Legal, Can It Be Ethical?," Submitted for panel, "Is It All Good? The Legal and Ethical Implications of Legalizing Marijuana in America," at American Bar Association, Labor and Employment Law Section, Ethics and Professional Responsibility Committee, Midwinter Meeting, March 2015.
  • "Too Close for Comfort: Client - Lawyer Relations," New York State Bar Journal, October 2014.
  • “Deal-of-the-Day Coupons: The Ethics of Discount Marketing by Lawyers,“ New York State Bar Journal, May 2014.
  • “Close Encounters With Non-Clients: Bridging the Communication Gap, Ethically,“ New York Law Journal, January 2014.
  • “Lawyer-Nonlawyer Business Ventures: A Limited Affair,“ New York Law Journal, October 2013.
  • “Out-of-State Law Firms in a New York State of Mind,“ The Practical Lawyer, October 2013.
  • “Private Practice, Public Office: Drawing the Line, Ethically,“ New York Law Journal, July 2013.
  • “Cybersecurity Ethics and Risks Takes Center Stage at a Presentation to be Given by Devika Kewalramani and Amyt Eckstein, Attorneys at Moses & Singer LLP,“ PRWeb, May 2013.
  • "Demystifying ESQrow Ethics," New York State Bar Association Journal, May 2013.
  • "Advance Payment Retainers: Whose Property? What Account?" New York Law Journal, February 2013.
  • "Non-Lawyers Beware: New Law Will Make Unauthorized Practice a Felony," Moses & Singer Client Alert, January 2013.
  • "Ethical Wrinkles in Elder Law," The Practical Lawyer, October 2012.
  • "Risk Management Audit & Ethics Manual: A CFO's Due Dilligence Tool Kit," Institute of Management Accountants Newsletter, September 2012.
  • "Audits & Manuals: Essential Tool Kits In Legal Risk Management," Moses & Singer Client Alert, August 2012.
  • "Virtual Law Offices:  A New and Lasting Frontier?" New York Law Journal, July 2012.
  • "Are You Being Greenwashed?," cover story of New York State Bar Association Journal, June 2012.
  • "Client-to-Client Conflicts: New Look at Overlooked Rule Change," New York Law Journal, May 2012.
  • "Save E-Mails, Avoid Sanctions: Court Creates New Duty To Preserve E-Mails During A Transaction," Moses & Singer Client Alert, April 2012.
  • "Greenwashing: Deceptive Business Claims of Eco-Friendliness," Forbes.com, March 2012.
  • "Second Circuit Topples Some NY Rules on Certified Specialists," Moses & Singer Client Alert, March 2012.
  • "The Greenwashing Domino Effect," Thomson Reuters News & Insight; Canadian Competition & Antitrust Law; Canadian Advertising & Marketing Law, February 2012.
  • "Lawyers’ Titles and Law Firm Names in the Hi-Tech Era," New York Law Journal, February 2012
  • "Ethical Screens: Building Electronic Barriers," Law360, August 2011; New York State Bar Association Journal, February 2012.
  • "Lawyers: Know Your Clients: Unsolicited Emails – Fake Checks – Vanishing Clients," Moses & Singer Client Alert, October 2011.
  • "No Office, No Practice? No! Requirement of New York Office for Non-resident Attorneys Ruled Unconstitutional," Moses & Singer Client Alert, September 2011.
  • "How to Outsource Legal Work—Ethically: Authorities Weigh In," New York Law Journal, August 2011.
  • "Are Law Firm Loss Prevention Communications Discoverable," Moses & Singer Client Alert, May 2011.
  • "New York Resolves In-House Counsel Bar Admission Problem," Moses & Singer Client Alert, April 2011.
  • "Women’s Empowerment Conference Held at United Nations," featured, The India Tribune, April 2011.
  • "Conference on Women’s Empowerment Held at the United Nations," featured, News India Times, April 2011.
  • "Flying High in April," cited, Law Technology News (LTN), March 2011.
  • "Cloud Computing: Ethical Shades of Gray," New York Law Journal, March 2011.
  • "Privilege Invoked If Company Reasonably Believes In-house Counsel is a Lawyer," Moses & Singer Client Alert, February 2011.
  • "URLs for ESQs: How to Choose and Use Ethical Domain Names," New York Law Journal, January 2011.
  • "Lawyers Spared From Red Flags Rule," Moses & Singer Client Alert, December 2010.
  • "Unwritten Vows Break Up Law Firm Partnership," Moses & Singer Client Alert, September 2010.
  • "Up Close and Professional with New York’s Engagement Letter Rules," New York State Bar Association Journal, September 2010.
  • "No License, No Privilege: Says Magistrate Judge in Gucci v. Guess," Moses & Singer Client Alert, July 2010.
  • "You Can Tweet But You Can’t Hide: Social Networking for Lawyers, " New York Law Journal, June 2010.
  • "Report on Bill A8697 to Amend New York’s Lien Law of the Ethics Institute of the New York County Lawyers’ Association," author, June 2010.
  • "Gucci v. Guess: A Lesson on Lapsed Licenses," Law 360, June 2010.
  • "EEOC v. Kelley Drye & Warren LLP: The Sequel," Moses & Singer Client Alert, April 2010.
  • "Lawyer’s Failure to Maintain License Triggers Battle Over Attorney-Client Privilege," Moses & Singer Client Alert, April 2010.
  • "EEOC Attacks Law Firm Retirement Again," Moses & Singer Client Alert, February 2010.
  • "Tips to Avoid the Pitfalls of Legal Opinion Practice," Moses & Singer Client Alert, January 2010.
  • "Beware of New Scams Targeting Law Firms," Moses & Singer Client Alert, November 2009.
  • "Report on Engagement Letters of the Professional Responsibility Committee of the Association of the Bar of The City of New York," co-author, August 2008.
  • "New Lawyer Ad Rules Restrict Client Testimonials, Names," New York Law Journal, December 2006.
Professional Affiliations [View All]
  • Secretary, Board of Directors, New York City Bar Association
  • Past Co-Chair, Council on the Profession, New York City Bar Association (2017-2019)
  • Past Chair, Committee on Professional Discipline, New York City Bar Association (2013-2017)
  • Past Member, Committee on Professional Ethics, New York City Bar Association
  • Member, New York Commission on Statewide Attorney Discipline, Co-Chair, Subcommittee on Transparency and Access (2015)
  • Member, Committee on Continuing Legal Education, New York State Bar Association (2015-2019)
  • Member, Advisory Board of the Ethics Institute, New York County Lawyer's Association
  • Member, Editorial Board of The Practical Lawyer, published by ALI CLE
  • Member, Foundation Board of The City University of New York School of Law (2017-2020), chair of its Audit Committee (2019-2020)
  • Member, International Board of Advisors, Jindal Global Law School, Sonipat, Haryana, India
  • Past Chair, Subcommittee on Engagement Letters, Professional Responsibility Committee, New York City Bar Association
  • Past Member, Committee on Professional Ethics, New York State Bar Association
Publications
Devika Kewalramani
Rated by Super Lawyers


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Practices & Industries
Education
  • City University of New York School of Law (J.D.)
  • St. Xavier's College (B.A.) Kolkata, India
Bar/Court Admissions
  • U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York
  • New York
  • Connecticut, (retired)
Foreign Languages
  • Bengali
  • Hindi
Representative Matters
  • Acted as outside ethics and professional responsibility counsel for firms.
  • Counseled lawyers on professional discipline, licensing and admissions matters.
  • Defended lawyers in disciplinary investigations alleging professional misconduct.
  • Represented firms and lawyers on ethics matters relating to partner disputes, departures, mergers and break-ups.
  • Advised firms and lawyers on handling escrow accounts and developed best practices.
  • Counseled attorneys on attorney-client privilege issues.
  • Advised law firms on conflicts of interest issues.
  • Counseled attorneys on fee-sharing arrangements with other lawyers.
  • Represented lawyers in matters initiated by the Lawyers Fund for Client Protection.
  • Counseled firms on ethics matters relating to lawyer-nonlawyer business structures.
  • Advised start-up firms on ethics, professional responsibility and risk management.
  • Acted as ethics counsel for multi-state firms opening New York offices.
  • Represented firms as targets of internal investigations by clients.
  • Advised in-house legal departments regarding ethics and professional responsibility matters.
  • Counseled firms on ethical risks of evolving technology in law practice.
  • Counseled firms on attorney advertising rules relating to firm websites and promotional materials.
  • Conducted ethics audits for firms and developed law firm ethics manuals.
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