Contract Lawyer in New York County (Manhattan), NY
Contract Law in New York
Contract law in New York is primarily governed by the New York Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) for sales of goods and secured transactions, and common law for other agreements. The statute of limitations for most written contracts is six years from the date of breach (N.Y. CPLR § 213).
Last verified: March 2026 | New York County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
- N.Y. CPLR § 213 (official New York State Legislature) – Statute of limitations for contracts.
- New York County Supreme Court website (nycourts.gov) – Court information and procedures.
Handling a Contract Case in Manhattan
Contract disputes in Manhattan can be heard in Small Claims Court (up to $10,000), Civil Court (up to $50,000), or New York County Supreme Court (unlimited jurisdiction). The Supreme Court requires full discovery under the CPLR, which can be a lengthy process.
- 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 by filing the required documents with the New York County Supreme Court clerk and paying the filing fee.
- Proceed through discovery: Exchange relevant documents and information with the other side under the New York Civil Practice Law and Rules (CPLR).
- Attempt settlement or proceed to trial: Many contract cases settle during mediation or pre-trial conferences. If not, your case will be presented to a judge or jury.
Potential Outcomes in a Contract Case
In New York County (Manhattan), a breach of contract case can result in an award of compensatory damages, and sometimes consequential damages, but punitive damages are rarely awarded for a simple breach.
| Remedy | Description | Legal Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Compensatory Damages | Money to cover direct financial loss from the breach. | Goal is to put injured party in position they would have been in if contract was performed. |
| Consequential Damages | Compensation for indirect, foreseeable losses. | Must be within contemplation of both parties at contract signing. |
| Specific Performance | Court order requiring party to fulfill contract terms. | Granted only when monetary damages are inadequate (e.g., unique property). |
| Attorney’s Fees | Recovery of legal costs. | Only awarded if contract specifically provides for it or a statute allows. |
Results may vary. The outcome of any legal matter depends on the specific facts and circumstances.
Our Experience in Contract Law
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. We focus on providing full representation for contract disputes, from review and drafting to litigation and enforcement.
Contract Lawyer Near New York County (Manhattan)
Our New York location serves clients at New York County (Manhattan) courts, accessible via FDR Drive, West Side Highway, and all subway lines. We represent clients throughout Manhattan, 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.
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the statute of limitations for a breach of contract in New York?
Six years. Under N.Y. CPLR § 213, you have six years from the date of breach to file a lawsuit for most written contracts in New York.
Can I recover attorney’s fees if I win my contract case?
Only if your contract specifically allows it. New York follows the ‘American Rule,’ meaning each side pays its own legal fees unless a contract, statute, or court rule says otherwise.
What court hears contract cases in Manhattan?
It depends on the amount. Small Claims (up to $10,000), Civil Court (up to $50,000), and New York County Supreme Court (unlimited) all handle contract disputes in Manhattan.
What damages can I get for a breach of contract?
Compensatory damages to cover your direct losses. Consequential damages for foreseeable indirect losses may also be available. Punitive damages are rarely awarded for simple breach.
What is the difference between a material and minor breach?
A material breach goes to the contract’s core, allowing you to end the agreement and sue. A minor breach is less significant, usually only allowing a claim for the specific harm caused.
Related Legal Services
- New York Contract Lawyer – Our state hub page.
- Albany County Contract Lawyer – Serving a sibling locality.
- Business Lawyer in New York County (Manhattan) – A related practice area.
- Civil Litigation Lawyer in New York County (Manhattan) – A related practice area.
- Mr. Sris Attorney Profile
- Our New York Law Location
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.