Real Estate Litigation Lawyer Tompkins County | SRIS, P.C.
Real Estate Litigation Lawyer in Tompkins County, NY
Real estate disputes in Tompkins County can involve complex property rights, contract breaches, and title issues governed by New York law. A Real Estate Litigation Lawyer Tompkins County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can provide the focused representation needed to protect your investment. Our firm, founded in 1997, offers 24/7 consultations to address urgent property matters.
What Is Real Estate Litigation in New York?
Real estate litigation in New York involves legal disputes over property. These cases are primarily governed by the New York Civil Practice Law and Rules (CPLR) and specific statutes like the Real Property Actions and Proceedings Law (RPAPL). Common issues include breach of contract in a purchase agreement, boundary disputes between neighbors, landlord-tenant conflicts over leases or evictions, and challenges to title or ownership. The process is formal, requiring strict adherence to filing deadlines, discovery rules, and court procedures.
Last verified: April 2026 | Tompkins County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official statutes, refer to the New York Real Property Actions and Proceedings Law (RPAPL). For local court procedures, visit the Tompkins County Supreme Court website.
Handling a Real Estate Case in Tompkins County
Real estate litigation in Tompkins County Supreme Court requires handling specific local rules. The court has unlimited civil jurisdiction over property disputes. Key local procedural facts include filing an index number ($210 fee) and a Request for Judicial Intervention (RJI, $95 fee). The Commercial Division may handle certain high-value business-related property disputes.
- Consult with a Real Estate Litigation Attorney Tompkins County to evaluate your claim and potential defenses.
- File a Summons and Complaint or Answer, paying the required index and RJI fees with the County Clerk.
- Proceed through the discovery phase, exchanging documents, conducting depositions, and potentially engaging property experts.
- Participate in court-ordered settlement conferences or mediation to attempt resolution.
- Prepare for and attend pre-trial conferences, followed by trial if no settlement is reached.
Potential Outcomes in Property Disputes
In Tompkins County, real estate litigation can result in monetary damages, specific performance (forcing a party to fulfill a contract), injunctions to stop or compel an action, or quiet title judgments.
| Issue | Common Legal Theories | Potential Remedies | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breach of Purchase Contract | Breach of Contract, Specific Performance | Damages, Forced Sale, Return of Deposit | 12-24 months |
| Boundary/Title Dispute | Trespass, Ejectment, Quiet Title (RPAPL Article 15) | Injunction, Damages, Corrected Deed | 18-36 months |
| Landlord-Tenant (Commercial) | Breach of Lease, Holdover, Non-Payment | Eviction, Back Rent, Damages | 6-18 months |
| Construction Defects | Breach of Warranty, Negligence | Cost of Repair, Diminution in Value | 18-30 months |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Property Dispute
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our combined legal experience exceeds 120 years. We approach each real estate case with a detailed understanding of both the legal principles and the financial stakes involved for our clients. Mr. Sris’s background in accounting and information systems provides a distinct advantage in analyzing complex financial records often central to property disputes.
Our Approach to Real Estate Litigation
We focus on efficient and strategic resolution. While we prepare every case for trial, we actively pursue settlements that save clients time and expense when possible. Our firm-wide experience of over 4,739 cases informs our approach to evaluating claims, negotiating with opposing parties, and presenting arguments in court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Real Estate Litigation Law Firm Tompkins County
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 | Local: (716) 250-9835
By appointment only.
Our New York location serves clients in Tompkins County. We are accessible via I-90 (NYS Thruway) and I-81. We provide representation for clients in Ithaca, Dryden, Lansing, Trumansburg, Groton, Newfield, Caroline, and Enfield. 24/7 phone consultations are available. Meetings are by appointment only.
Real Estate Litigation FAQs
What is the most common type of real estate litigation?
Breach of contract disputes, often related to residential or commercial purchase agreements, are among the most common. These cases hinge on the specific terms of the contract and whether a party failed to perform as promised.
Can I sue for a property line dispute in Tompkins County?
Yes. Property line disputes are litigated under theories like trespass or through a “quiet title” action under New York’s RPAPL. These cases often require survey evidence and can be complex.
How long does a real estate lawsuit take?
It depends on the complexity and court schedule. A clear breach of contract case may take 12-24 months in Supreme Court. Complex title or construction defect cases can take 2-3 years or more from filing to resolution.
What are “specific performance” damages?
Specific performance is a court order requiring a party to fulfill their contractual obligations, such as completing the sale of a unique property. It is an equitable remedy, not monetary damages, and is not granted in every case.
Do I need a lawyer for a landlord-tenant dispute?
For commercial leases or complex residential disputes, yes. The procedures in New York housing court are technical. A Real Estate Litigation Lawyer Tompkins County can protect your rights, whether you are a landlord seeking possession or a tenant defending against an eviction.
For more information, see our New York Civil Litigation overview. We also assist with related matters like business disputes and contract litigation in Tompkins County.
Page Last verified: 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.