Contract Lawyer in New York County (Manhattan), NY
New York Contract Law Statutes
In New York, contract disputes are primarily governed by the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) for sales of goods and the common law for services and other agreements. The statute of limitations for breach of a written contract is six years under N.Y. C.P.L.R. § 213. The New York Court of Appeals has established that the fundamental principle of contract law is to protect the reasonable expectations of the parties.
Last verified: March 2026 | New York County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
Contract Case Process in Manhattan Courts
Manhattan’s court system has specific pathways for contract disputes based on the amount in controversy. Small Claims Court handles matters up to $10,000 with simplified rules. The Civil Court of the City of New York has jurisdiction up to $50,000. For larger or more complex disputes, the New York County Supreme Court, including its Commercial Division, is the proper venue.
- 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: File your lawsuit in the appropriate court (Small Claims, Civil Court, or Supreme Court) and pay the required filing fee.
- Serve the defendant: Have the defendant formally served with the lawsuit papers according to New York C.P.L.R. rules.
- Proceed through discovery and motion practice: Exchange evidence, take depositions, and file any necessary pre-trial motions to shape the case for trial or settlement.
Potential Outcomes in a Contract Dispute
In New York County (Manhattan), a breach of contract case can result in an award of compensatory damages, and in limited cases, consequential damages, but generally not punitive damages.
| Remedy | Legal Basis | Typical Recovery | Attorney’s Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compensatory Damages | Direct losses from breach | Value of promised performance | Only if contract allows |
| Consequential Damages | Foreseeable indirect losses | Lost profits, extra costs | Only if contract allows |
| Specific Performance | Unique goods/land | Court order to perform | Court discretion |
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 business and contract matters. We maintain a focus on clear communication and a case-specific approach for each client in Manhattan.
Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved 4,739+ favorable case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. Our firm-wide favorable outcome rate is 93%+.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Contract Lawyer Near 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, the Upper East and West Sides, Harlem, Greenwich Village, SoHo, Tribeca, Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen, the East Village, the 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.
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. C.P.L.R. § 213. The clock starts when the breach occurs or is discovered.
Can I recover attorney’s 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 a statute or contract says otherwise.
What courts handle contract cases 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. Consequential damages for foreseeable indirect losses may be available if specified in the contract.
How long does a contract lawsuit take in Manhattan?
Small Claims: 1-3 months. Supreme Court: 18-36 months. Commercial Division: 12-24 months. Timelines vary based on case complexity and court calendar.
Related Legal Services
Page information verified as of February 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your specific situation.