Accounting Malpractice Lawyer Queens County, NY
When a certified public accountant, auditor, or tax preparer makes an error that causes a client to suffer financial harm, the injured party may have a claim for accounting malpractice. These claims fall under New York civil litigation and are typically heard in the New York Supreme Court, the state’s trial court of general jurisdiction. For matters arising in Queens County, the relevant venue is the Supreme Court, Queens County, located at 88‑11 Sutphin Boulevard in Jamaica, part of the 11th Judicial District. Accounting malpractice cases demand careful analysis of professional standards, financial records, and the specific obligations owed by the professional to the client. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Concentrates its practice on civil litigation, including professional‑negligence claims brought against accountants. To discuss your matter, reach our location at (888) 437‑7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
In New York civil actions, prejudgment interest accrues at a statutory rate of 9% per annum on the principal sum recovered from the date of the breach or injury.
Source: CPLR § 5004. N.Y. C.P.L.R. § 5004
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
What Accounting Malpractice Means in Queens County, New York
Accounting malpractice generally refers to a breach of the professional duty of care owed by an accountant to a client. To prevail on such a claim, the plaintiff must show that the accountant failed to exercise the degree of skill and learning ordinarily possessed by members of the accounting profession in the community, that the failure caused injury, and that the plaintiff suffered actual damages. In Queens County, these cases are governed by the New York Civil Practice Law and Rules, and they are filed in the Supreme Court, which has unlimited monetary jurisdiction. Because accounting‑malpractice claims often involve complex financial transactions and require expert testimony, they are litigated through extensive discovery and motion practice.
Queens County is one of the most active commercial and professional‑services hubs in New York City. From the small‑business corridors of Flushing and Jamaica to the professional offices in Forest Hills and Astoria, individuals and entities routinely rely on accountants for tax preparation, audit services, and financial advice. When an accountant’s work falls below the accepted professional standard, the consequences can include tax penalties, lost business opportunities, or undetected fraud. The New York Supreme Court, Queens County, hears these matters as part of its general civil calendar. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. understands the procedural landscape of the 11th Judicial District, including the requirement to file a Note of Issue and the availability of summary‑judgment motions. While every case is fact‑specific, our location works with clients throughout the borough, from Long Island City to the Rockaways.
The damages recoverable in an accounting malpractice action include compensatory damages for the actual financial loss caused by the professional’s error, as well as consequential damages that were a foreseeable result of the malpractice. In egregious cases, punitive damages may be available. Additionally, under 22 NYCRR Part 130‑1.1, a court may impose sanctions for frivolous conduct, and prevailing parties may recover costs. Our firm approaches each case with an eye toward the economic realities of the client and the burden of proof required to establish both liability and damages.
The New York Supreme Court in Queens County exercises unlimited original civil jurisdiction, meaning there is no monetary cap on the claims it may hear.
Source: N.Y. Const. Art. VI § 7. N.Y. Constitution, Art. VI § 7
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Accounting Malpractice Cases
Our approach to an accounting‑malpractice claim begins with a thorough review of the engagement agreement, the accountant’s work product, and the alleged financial harm. We consult with forensic accounting professionals who can evaluate whether the accountant’s conduct deviated from the applicable standard of care. Once the factual record is developed, we communicate with the accountant’s errors‑and‑omissions insurer to explore pre‑litigation resolution. If a negotiated outcome is not possible, we prepare and file a complaint in the New York Supreme Court, Queens County, and proceed through discovery.
During discovery, both sides exchange financial records, tax returns, and internal firm documentation. Depositions of the accountant and client representatives are typically taken. Our location works to develop a record that supports the elements of duty, breach, causation, and damages. After discovery, we may move for summary judgment or prepare the case for trial. Throughout the process, we keep the client informed of the timetable—which is set by the court’s calendar and the complexity of the matter—and we pursue a resolution that aligns with the client’s objectives. Because New York procedural rules are intricate, our experience in the Supreme Court for Queens County allows us to navigate motion practice efficiently.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced law since 1997. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris began his career as a prosecutor, and the analytical skills developed in that role inform his approach to civil litigation. He testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience and 4,739+ documented firm-wide results to matters involving professional negligence and other complex civil disputes. Results may vary.
The Of Counsel attorneys who work with Mr. Sris are engaged through Excella and contribute broad experience to the firm’s civil‑litigation practice. Together, we handle cases on behalf of clients in Queens County and across New York State. Every client relationship is governed by a signed engagement agreement, and we provide consultations by appointment. To request a consultation, call (888) 437‑7747.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is accounting malpractice?
Accounting malpractice is a claim that an accountant breached the professional duty of care owed to a client by failing to perform accounting services competently, resulting in financial harm. It falls under the broader area of professional negligence. The plaintiff must show that the accountant’s conduct fell below the accepted standard and that this breach caused actual damages.
How long do I have to file an accounting malpractice claim in New York?
The time to bring a professional‑malpractice claim is governed by the statute of limitations in the CPLR. Because the specific limitations period depends on the nature of the claim and the date the injury was discovered, it is important to consult an attorney promptly to preserve your rights. Do not delay—speak with counsel as soon as you suspect an error.
Do I need a lawyer for an accounting malpractice claim?
While you are not legally required to have a lawyer, accounting malpractice claims are fact‑intensive and procedurally demanding. An experienced civil‑litigation attorney can evaluate whether the accountant’s conduct meets the negligence standard, consult with forensic experts, and present your case effectively in the New York Supreme Court. Legal guidance helps ensure that your claim is properly developed and timely filed.
What damages can I recover in an accounting malpractice case in Queens County?
You may recover compensatory damages for the financial loss directly caused by the accountant’s negligence, as well as foreseeable consequential damages. Under CPLR § 5004, prejudgment interest accrues at 9% per annum. In cases involving egregious misconduct, punitive damages may be available. Each case is unique, so the recoverable amount depends on the specific facts.
How does an accounting malpractice case proceed in New York Supreme Court?
After thorough pre‑suit investigation, the case begins with the filing of a complaint. The parties then engage in discovery—exchanging documents, interrogatories, and depositions. Once discovery is complete, either side may file a motion for summary judgment. If a trial is necessary, the case is placed on the court’s calendar. The timeline from filing to resolution depends on the court’s schedule and the complexity of the matter.
What should I look for in an accounting malpractice lawyer?
Look for an attorney with experience in professional‑negligence litigation and a working knowledge of the accounting standards at issue. The lawyer should be able to coordinate with forensic accountants and navigate the procedural rules of New York Supreme Court. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Concentrates its practice on civil litigation, including professional‑malpractice cases, and provides consultations by appointment.
Also serving clients in these New York civil‑litigation matters:
New York County Civil Litigation Lawyer ·
Kings County Civil Litigation Lawyer ·
Richmond County Civil Litigation Lawyer ·
Nassau County Civil Litigation Lawyer
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.
Results may vary.