Contract Lawyer in New York County (Manhattan), NY
New York County (Manhattan) contract disputes are governed by NY UCC Article 2 and CPLR § 213 with a six-year statute of limitations; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for breach of contract, business agreements, and commercial litigation matters. Our firm, founded in 1997, brings direct experience to your case. We handle contract drafting, negotiation, and enforcement across Manhattan courts.
New York Contract Law Statutes
New York contract law primarily follows the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) for sales of goods (Article 2) and secured transactions (Article 9), along with common law principles for service contracts. The statute of limitations for breach of a written contract is six years under N.Y. CPLR § 213. New York courts generally award compensatory damages to put the non-breaching party in the position they would have been in had the contract been performed.
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, forms, and contact information.
Contract Litigation Process in Manhattan
Manhattan courts have specific procedures for contract cases. The New York County Supreme Court handles unlimited claims, while Civil Court handles matters up to $50,000. The Commercial Division provides specialized handling for complex business disputes.
- Review the contract and identify the breach: Gather all contract documents, communications, and evidence of performance or non-performance.
- Send a formal demand letter: A detailed letter outlining the breach and demanded remedy can sometimes resolve the dispute without litigation.
- File a summons and complaint: If negotiation fails, file in the appropriate court with the required $210 index number fee for Supreme Court.
- Complete discovery: Exchange documents, conduct depositions, and serve interrogatories under New York’s CPLR rules.
- Attend settlement conferences: Many New York courts require mandatory settlement conferences before trial.
- Proceed to trial if necessary: Present your case before a judge or jury at the New York County Supreme Court.
Contract Breach Consequences in New York
In New York County (Manhattan), breach of contract can lead to compensatory and consequential damages, with attorney fees recoverable only if contractually provided.
| Remedy | Legal Basis | Typical Award | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compensatory Damages | NY Common Law / UCC | Value of promised performance | Puts non-breaching party in position if contract performed |
| Consequential Damages | Hadley v. Baxendale rule | Foreseeable losses from breach | Must be within contemplation of parties at contract formation |
| Attorney Fees | Contract clause or statute | Varies | Not awarded unless contract or specific statute provides |
| Specific Performance | Equitable remedy | Court order to perform | Available when monetary damages are inadequate |
Results may vary. The outcome of any contract case 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 over 120 years of combined legal experience to contract disputes and business litigation. We understand both the legal principles and practical business implications of contract enforcement.
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, whichever is later.
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,’ meaning each side pays its own fees 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 breach of contract in NY?
Compensatory damages to put you in the position you’d be in if the contract was performed. Consequential damages may be available if they were foreseeable.
How long does a contract case take in Manhattan courts?
Small Claims: 1-3 months. Supreme Court: 18-36 months. Commercial Division: 12-24 months. Timelines vary based on case complexity and court backlog.
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
Related Legal Services
- New York Contract Lawyer – State-wide hub page
- Albany County Contract Lawyer – Serving nearby locality
- Business Lawyer in New York County (Manhattan) – Related practice area
- Mr. Sris Attorney Profile
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.