Contract Litigation Lawyer New York | SRIS, P.C.
Contract Litigation Lawyer in New York County (Manhattan), NY
A contract dispute in New York County can disrupt your business and finances. Under New York law, a breach of contract claim requires proving the existence of a valid agreement, performance by the plaintiff, breach by the defendant, and resulting damages. As a Contract Litigation Lawyer New York, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New York Contract Law and Your Case
Contract litigation in New York is governed by a combination of statutory and common law. For transactions involving the sale of goods, Article 2 of the New York Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) provides the primary legal framework, setting rules for formation, performance, and remedies. For other contracts, including those for services, real estate, and employment, New York common law principles apply. The statute of limitations for most breach of contract actions in New York is six years.
Last verified: April 2026 | New York County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings a strategic perspective to contract disputes, understanding how to build a compelling case from the evidence.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of New York’s commercial statutes, refer to the New York Uniform Commercial Code on the state legislature’s website. For court procedures and filing information in Manhattan, visit the New York County Supreme Court website.
Handling a Contract Case in Manhattan
Contract litigation in the New York County Supreme Court, including its Commercial Division, follows specific procedures. The key local procedural fact is that the Supreme Court’s Commercial Division is streamlined for business disputes, with a minimum amount in controversy of $500,000 for cases filed in Manhattan. The process is designed for efficiency but requires precise adherence to court rules and deadlines.
- Case Evaluation and Demand: We review the contract, correspondence, and facts to assess the strengths of your claim or defense and typically begin with a formal demand letter.
- Pleadings: If resolution is not reached, we file a summons and complaint (or an answer with counterclaims) to initiate or respond to the lawsuit in the proper venue.
- Discovery: We conduct the exchange of relevant documents, depositions, and written interrogatories to gather evidence supporting your position.
- Motion Practice: We may file pre-trial motions, such as a motion for summary judgment, to seek a ruling from the court on key legal issues before trial.
- Trial or Settlement: We prepare for and present your case at trial or negotiate a favorable settlement based on the developed evidence and legal arguments.
Potential Outcomes in Contract Disputes
In New York County, a successful breach of contract claim can lead to an award of monetary damages intended to place the injured party in the position they would have been in had the contract been performed.
| Remedy | Legal Basis | Typical Form | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compensatory Damages | UCC § 2-708, § 2-709; Common Law | Monetary award | To cover direct losses from the breach (e.g., lost profits, cost of cover). |
| Consequential Damages | UCC § 2-715; Common Law | Monetary award | To cover indirect, foreseeable losses resulting from the breach. |
| Specific Performance | Equitable Remedy | Court order | To compel the breaching party to perform their contractual duties (rare, for unique items). |
| Rescission | Equitable Remedy | Contract cancellation | To void the contract and return parties to their pre-contract positions. |
| Attorney’s Fees | Contract Provision or Statute | Monetary award | To recover legal costs if provided for in the contract or by specific law. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Approach to Contract Litigation
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. We approach each contract dispute with a focus on our client’s business objectives, whether that means aggressively litigating to trial or seeking an efficient, negotiated resolution. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, maintains a selective caseload to provide direct, strategic involvement in complex commercial matters.
Representing Clients in Manhattan
Our firm represents clients in contract disputes throughout New York County. While we maintain a physical presence in New York to serve clients, all meetings are held by appointment. We offer 24/7 phone consultations to discuss your contract issue.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New York Location — Buffalo/NY area
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only.
Our New York location serves clients with matters at New York County (Manhattan) courts, accessible via FDR Drive, West Side Highway, and all subway lines. We provide representation for clients in neighborhoods including Midtown, Lower Manhattan, Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Harlem, Greenwich Village, SoHo, Tribeca, Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen, East Village, Financial District, Chinatown, Washington Heights, and Inwood.
Contract Litigation Lawyer FAQs
What is the statute of limitations for breach of contract in New York?
It depends on the type of contract. Most written contracts have a six-year statute of limitations in New York. For oral contracts, it is typically six years as well, but proving the terms is more challenging. Actions under the Uniform Commercial Code for sale of goods have a four-year limit.
Can I recover attorney’s fees if I win my contract lawsuit?
It depends. New York follows the “American Rule,” meaning each party pays its own fees unless a specific statute or a provision within the contract itself allows for fee recovery. A well-drafted contract often includes an attorney’s fees clause for the prevailing party.
What is the difference between the Supreme Court and the Commercial Division?
The Supreme Court is New York’s general trial court. The Commercial Division is a specialized part of the Supreme Court in certain counties, including New York County, that handles complex business cases. It has specific rules and judges with experience in commercial law, designed for more efficient resolution of business disputes.
What are consequential damages in a breach of contract case?
Consequential damages are indirect losses that result from a breach of contract, such as lost profits on other contracts or business opportunities. They are recoverable only if they were foreseeable to the parties at the time the contract was made and can be proven with reasonable certainty.
Should I hire a Contract Litigation Attorney New York for a small dispute?
Yes. Even smaller contract disputes can involve complex legal issues and procedural rules. An attorney can help you understand your rights, assess the strength of your case, handle the court system, and work towards a resolution that protects your interests, potentially saving you time and money.
What should I look for in a Contract Litigation Law Firm New York?
Look for a firm with specific experience in commercial and contract law, familiarity with New York County courts and procedures, and a clear strategy for handling disputes. You want attorneys who can both litigate effectively and advise on the business implications of your legal choices.
Related Legal Information
If you are dealing with a business formation issue in Manhattan, see our page on Business Lawyer in New York County (Manhattan). For other civil litigation matters, visit our Civil Litigation Lawyer page. For a broader view of our commercial law services in New York, our New York Commercial Lawyer hub provides an overview.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance regarding your specific situation.