Legal Malpractice Lawyer Tompkins County | SRIS, P.C.
Legal Malpractice Lawyer in Tompkins County, NY — What Are Your Rights?
Legal malpractice in Tompkins County involves an attorney’s failure to meet the professional standard of care, causing you harm. Under New York law, this can form the basis of a professional malpractice claim. If you suspect your lawyer was negligent, a legal malpractice lawyer Tompkins County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can evaluate your case. We provide 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747.
Understanding Legal Malpractice in New York
Legal malpractice is a civil cause of action where a client sues their former attorney for professional negligence. To succeed, you must prove: (1) the existence of an attorney-client relationship, (2) the attorney’s negligence or breach of duty, (3) that the negligence was the proximate cause of your loss, and (4) actual, quantifiable damages. The standard is whether the attorney failed to exercise the ordinary reasonable skill and knowledge commonly possessed by a member of the legal profession.
Last verified: April 2026 | Tompkins County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official rules governing attorney conduct in New York, refer to the New York Rules of Professional Conduct. For civil procedure, consult the Tompkins County Supreme Court website.
Handling a Legal Malpractice Claim in Tompkins County
Pursuing a legal malpractice claim requires specific steps. The statute of limitations is three years from the date of the malpractice, though discovery rules can apply. You will need to obtain your complete case file from the former attorney and likely secure an experienced affidavit to establish the standard of care and breach.
- Gather all documents and communications from your prior legal matter.
- Consult with a legal malpractice lawyer Tompkins County to assess the viability of your claim.
- Your new attorney will obtain your complete file from the prior counsel.
- An experienced affidavit is typically secured to support the claim of negligence.
- A lawsuit is filed in the appropriate New York court, often Supreme Court.
- The case proceeds through discovery, potential motions, and possibly trial.
Potential Consequences and Damages
In Tompkins County, a successful legal malpractice lawsuit can recover compensatory damages for the financial loss caused by the attorney’s negligence.
| Claim Element | Legal Standard | Potential Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Breach of Duty | Failure to meet standard of care | Liability established |
| Causation | “But-for” the attorney’s error | Link to damages proven |
| Damages | Quantifiable financial loss | Compensatory award |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Claim
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex civil litigation matters like legal malpractice. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the detailed proof required to win a negligence lawsuit lawyer Tompkins County clients can trust.
Our Approach to Legal Malpractice Cases
We approach each legal malpractice claim with a focus on the specific duty breached and the clear calculation of damages. Our team meticulously reviews the underlying case to establish the direct link between the attorney’s error and your loss. We have handled matters involving missed deadlines, faulty advice, and conflicts of interest.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Legal Malpractice Lawyer Near Tompkins County
Our New York location serves clients in Tompkins County and the surrounding Finger Lakes region. We represent individuals in Ithaca, Dryden, Lansing, Trumansburg, Groton, Newfield, Caroline, and Enfield.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Legal Malpractice FAQs for Tompkins County
What is the statute of limitations for legal malpractice in New York?
Three years. The clock generally starts from the date the malpractice was committed. However, under the “continuous representation” doctrine, the time may be tolled while the attorney continues to represent you on the same matter.
Do I need another lawyer to sue my former lawyer?
Yes. You must hire a new legal malpractice lawyer Tompkins County to bring a claim against your former attorney. The new lawyer will assess the merits, handle the conflict, and file the necessary lawsuit.
What are the most common types of legal malpractice?
Common types include missing a statute of limitations, failing to file a lawsuit, providing erroneous legal advice, violating conflict of interest rules, and improperly settling a case without client consent.
What damages can I recover in a legal malpractice case?
You can recover the financial value of what you lost in the underlying case due to the attorney’s error. This may include a lost judgment, settlement value, or additional costs incurred. Punitive damages are rare and require egregious conduct.
How long does a legal malpractice lawsuit take?
It depends on complexity. A professional malpractice claim lawyer Tompkins County handles may take 18 to 36 months from filing to resolution, depending on court schedules, discovery disputes, and whether the case goes to trial.
Related Legal Services in Tompkins County
If you are dealing with other civil disputes, our firm also assists with business law, contract disputes, and federal criminal defense. For more on civil litigation statewide, visit our New York civil litigation hub. We also serve neighboring areas like Albany County and Broome County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance regarding your specific situation.
Under N.Y. Bus. Corp. Law § 101, state law governs this practice area.