Contract Lawyer in New York County (Manhattan), NY
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced contract dispute representation in New York County (Manhattan). Breach of contract claims are governed by a six-year statute of limitations under N.Y. CPLR § 213 and the Uniform Commercial Code for sales of goods. Our firm, founded in 1997, uses a case-specific approach to handle contract enforcement, drafting, and litigation in Manhattan courts.
In Manhattan, contract disputes may be filed in Small Claims Court (up to $10,000), Civil Court (up to $50,000), or New York County Supreme Court for unlimited amounts, with the Commercial Division handling complex business cases.
New York Contract Law Statutes
New York contract law is primarily based on common law principles and specific statutes. The Uniform Commercial Code (UCC), particularly Article 2 for sales of goods and Article 9 for secured transactions, provides default rules for commercial agreements. The statute of limitations for most written contracts is six years under N.Y. CPLR § 213. The New York General Obligations Law contains additional provisions affecting contract validity and enforcement.
Last verified: March 2026 | New York County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
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Contract Dispute Process in Manhattan Courts
Contract cases in Manhattan follow the New York Civil Practice Law and Rules (CPLR). The New York County Supreme Court’s Commercial Division has specialized procedures for business disputes exceeding $500,000. Mandatory arbitration programs exist in some courts for smaller claims.
- Review the contract and identify the breach: Gather all contract documents, communications, and evidence showing how the other party failed to perform their obligations.
- Calculate your damages: Document all financial losses directly caused by the breach, including any foreseeable consequential damages.
- File a summons and complaint: Initiate the lawsuit in the proper court by filing a summons and complaint, paying the required index number fee ($210 for Supreme Court).
- Proceed through discovery: Exchange relevant documents and information with the other party under New York’s CPLR rules to build your case.
- Attempt settlement or proceed to trial: Many contract cases settle during mediation or pre-trial conferences. If not, your case will proceed to a bench or jury trial.
Contract Breach Penalties and Remedies
In New York County (Manhattan), breach of contract can result in compensatory damages, consequential damages, and specific performance, but generally not punitive damages unless an independent tort is involved.
| Remedy | Legal Basis | Typical Recovery | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compensatory Damages | Direct financial loss | Amount to put party in position if contract performed | Standard remedy |
| Consequential Damages | Foreseeable indirect losses | Lost profits, business interruption | If foreseeable at contract signing |
| Specific Performance | Court order to perform contract | Actual performance of contract terms | When money damages inadequate (e.g., real estate, unique goods) |
| Attorney Fees | Contract clause or statute | Reasonable legal fees | Only if contract provides or statute allows |
Results may vary. The outcome of any contract dispute depends on the specific facts, evidence, and applicable law.
Our Contract Law Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings combined legal experience of over 120 years to contract dispute resolution. We handle business-to-business contracts, service agreements, construction contracts, licensing agreements, and other commercial matters throughout New York.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the statute of limitations for breach of contract in New York?
Six years for most written contracts under N.Y. CPLR § 213. The clock starts when the breach occurs or when you discover it in some cases.
Can I recover attorney fees in a New York contract lawsuit?
Only if your contract has a specific fee-shifting clause. New York follows the ‘American Rule’ where each side pays its own fees unless provided by statute or contract.
What courts handle contract disputes in Manhattan?
Small Claims (up to $10,000), Civil Court (up to $50,000), and New York County Supreme Court (unlimited). The Commercial Division handles complex business disputes.
What damages can I claim for breach of contract?
Compensatory damages to cover your direct losses and, in some cases, consequential damages for foreseeable indirect losses. Punitive damages are rarely awarded.
What is the UCC and how does it affect my contract?
The Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) governs contracts for the sale of goods. Article 2 provides default rules for sales contracts that apply unless your agreement states otherwise.
Contract Lawyer Serving Manhattan
Our New York location represents clients at New York County (Manhattan) courts, accessible via all subway lines, FDR Drive, and West Side Highway. We serve Manhattan 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.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New York Location — Buffalo/NY area
By appointment only
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Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of March 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.