Contract Lawyer in New York County (Manhattan), NY
Contract Law in New York
New York contract law is primarily governed by common law principles and the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) for sales of goods. The statute of limitations for most written contracts is six years under N.Y. CPLR § 213. The court will enforce a contract if there was an offer, acceptance, consideration, and mutual intent to be bound. New York courts generally do not award punitive damages for simple breach of contract; remedies are designed to compensate the non-breaching party for their actual losses.
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 – Court procedures and forms.
Handling a Contract Case in Manhattan
Contract disputes in Manhattan are heard in different courts based on the amount in controversy. Small Claims Court handles matters up to $10,000, Civil Court up to $50,000, and the New York County Supreme Court has unlimited jurisdiction. The Commercial Division of the Supreme Court specializes in complex business disputes.
- 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 with the New York County Supreme Court clerk and paying the $210 index number fee.
- Complete discovery: Exchange documents, answer interrogatories, and conduct depositions as required under the CPLR rules.
- Attend settlement conferences: Participate in court-mandated settlement discussions, which are common in New York contract cases.
- Proceed to trial if necessary: Present your case before a judge or jury if a settlement cannot be reached.
Potential Outcomes in a Contract Case
In New York County (Manhattan), a breach of contract case can result in an award of compensatory damages, specific performance, or contract rescission, but generally not punitive damages.
| Remedy | Description | Commonly Awarded For |
|---|---|---|
| Compensatory Damages | Money to cover direct financial losses from the breach. | Lost profits, cost of replacement. |
| Consequential Damages | Money for foreseeable indirect losses. | Lost business opportunities caused by the breach. |
| Specific Performance | Court order forcing the party to fulfill the contract. | Unique goods or real estate transactions. |
| Rescission | Contract is canceled, and parties are returned to their pre-contract positions. | Fraud, mistake, or material breach. |
Results may vary. The outcome of any legal matter depends on the specific facts and circumstances.
Firm Credentials
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience handling contract and business disputes. We focus on providing full representation case-specific to the details of your case.
Contract Lawyer Near New York County (Manhattan)
Our New York location serves clients at the New York County (Manhattan) courts. We represent clients from 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.
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 for most written contracts under N.Y. CPLR § 213. The clock starts when the breach occurs or when you discover it, whichever is later.
Can I recover attorney’s fees if I win a contract lawsuit in New York?
Only if your contract has a specific clause providing for attorney’s fees. New York follows the ‘American Rule,’ where each side pays its own legal costs unless a statute or contract says otherwise.
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 seek for a 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 for simple breach.
What is the UCC and how does it affect my contract?
The Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) governs contracts for the sale of goods. It provides default rules on warranties, delivery, and remedies that apply unless your contract states otherwise.
Related Legal Services
- New York Contract Lawyer – State hub page.
- Albany County Contract Lawyer – Serving a sibling locality.
- Business Lawyer in New York County (Manhattan) – Related practice area.
- Mr. Sris Attorney Profile
Last verified: March 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.