Law Library

ABA book provides platform for investment in renewable energy in the U.S. and ­worldwide


The Paris Agreement signed in December 2015 by 195 countries is seen as the cornerstone of a global approach to fighting climate change and is designed to spur the growth of renewable energy to provide for a low carbon future. A new book published by the American Bar Association Business Law Section, “Financing Renewable Energy Projects: A Global Analysis and Review of Related Power Purchase Agreements,” provides a platform for investment in renewable energy in the United States and 59 jurisdictions worldwide.

This comprehensive, three-volume set provides two essential components of investment in renewable energy:  analysis of the regulatory framework for renewable energy in a particular jurisdiction and analysis of related power purchase agreements, which can be tailored to meet the requirements of a participating jurisdiction. The book facilitates investment by providing an investor with the basic information needed in reviewing a potential investment in each participating jurisdiction. Each analysis includes a snapshot of financial and other background information that provides for a better understanding of each jurisdiction.

Included are sample Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), the critical document required to finance renewable energy projects. These standard form PPAs will serve as a checklist of the provisions needed to ensure finance ability and bank ability that investors and their counsel can develop for use in their own jurisdictions.

The book was edited by Kaamil Ansar, a partner and founder of The Ansar Law Firm, a cross-border law firm based in New York. He has over 36 years’ experience in executing and closing complex cross-border transactions in different practice areas in a number of jurisdictions. Ansar is a specialist in energy, renewable energy, infrastructure and project finance, cross-border mergers and acquisitions including private equity, privatizations and restructurings, and complex financings. He also has extensive experience in Islamic and structured finance.

The three-volume set is authored by lawyers from each U.S. region and international jurisdiction.

 

New ABA book serves as a personal legal technology ­consultant for the solo, small firm lawyer
 

 Just published by the ABA, “The 2019 Solo and Small Firm Legal Technology Guide” helps lawyers find the leading and most cost-effective equipment for their practice. Authors and industry experts Sharon Nelson, John Simek and Mike Maschke continue to provide reliable recommendations and up-to-date suggestions with the 12th edition of this well-established handbook.

Attorneys need to keep pace with the latest in legal technology, but many solo or small firm lawyers cannot afford the luxury of a tech consultant. “The 2019 Solo and Small Firm Legal Technology Guide” provides a quick, easy read of all the information lawyers need to know, allowing attorneys to ensure the firm can capitalize on technology to enhance productivity and client service. The authors keep this new volume streamlined with thoroughly vetted, vendor-neutral product selections that change annually with the best of legal tech, along with details of how and when to upgrade.

Nelson, Simek and Maschke are the co-authors of the 11 previous editions of this book (2008–18). They are the president, vice president and CEO of Sensei Enterprises, Inc., respectively. Nelson and Simek co-host Legal Talk Network’s “Digital Detectives” podcast, and Nelson is also a co-host of Legal Talk Network’s “Digital Edge: Lawyers and Technology” podcast. All three authors are frequent speakers on legal technology topics.

 

ABA book teaches lawyers how to develop a ­comfortable, effective ­networking technique
 

The American Bar Association has published a new book, “Strategic Networking for Introverts, Extroverts, and Everyone in Between,” which presents the keys to networking by encouraging lawyers to make significant, authentic connections with colleagues and prospects. Author Carol Schiro Greenwald, a professional services trainer and coach, draws on her experience along with the expertise of 35 attorneys, finance professionals and industry leaders who excel at networking.

Professional mingling presents challenges not only for the introvert — who may feel reluctant to pitch their business at a cocktail party or meeting — but also for the “hyper-extrovert,” who may enjoy casual conversations so much that they fail to forge deeper business relationships. “Strategic Networking for Introverts, Extroverts, and Everyone in Between” provides a nuts-and-bolts guide for turning socializing into business development opportunities. By detailing first-hand accounts alongside visuals, charts and checklists, the author introduces a high-level approach to making connections, and offers helpful tips and tricks that any lawyer can use to grow their client base.

Greenwald works with professional firms, practice groups and individuals as a strategist and coach to help them develop business more effectively and efficiently. She has spent the last two decades working with law firms to create client-centric cultures and focus on developing the business development potential of all the members of a firm. Greenwald works in three main areas: strategic networking, marketing techniques and leadership strategy. She is also the co-author of “Build Your Practice the Logical Way: Maximize Your Client Relationships” with Steven Skyles-Mulligan.