Best General Litigation Lawyers in New York

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Greenberg Traurig, LLP.
Albany, United States

Founded in 1967
2,300 people in their team
English
Five decades ago, while at lunch in a South Florida deli, attorneys Larry J. Hoffman, Mel Greenberg, and Robert Traurig saw an opportunity to establish a new breed of law firm for South Florida; a firm that mirrored a New York style firm. In 1967, they founded the law firm Greenberg Traurig...
Phillips Lytle LLP
Albany, United States

Founded in 1834
343 people in their team
English
At Phillips Lytle, we know only one approach to client service. It’s practiced by every one of our attorneys in each of our eight offices. It’s why we’ve been doing what we do for more than 185 years. It’s ingrained in who we are. It’s The Phillips Lytle Way.We’re fully dedicated to our...
Verrill Dana LLP.
White Plains, United States

Founded in 1862
213 people in their team
English
Decency, honesty, and judgment. The values that define Verrill as a law firm are the reason our clients trust and choose us time and time again. We don't compromise our values and our clients don't compromise on quality. Our experience and New England roots date back more than 150 years, and today,...
Fenwick & West LLP
New York, United States

Founded in 1972
1,118 people in their team
English
Fenwick & West LLP provides comprehensive legal services to ground-breaking technology and life sciences companies - at every stage of their lifecycle - and the investors that partner with them. We craft innovative, cost-effective and practical solutions on issues ranging from venture capital,...

Founded in 1994
1,000 people in their team
English
WilmerHale is a leading, full-service international law firm with 1,000 lawyers located throughout 13 offices in the United States, Europe and Asia. Our lawyers work at the intersection of government, technology and business, and we remain committed to our guiding principles of:providing...
Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer LLP
New York, United States

Founded in 1946
2,057 people in their team
English
At Arnold & Porter, we are client-driven and industry-focused. Our lawyers practice in more than 40 practice areas across the litigation, regulatory and transactional spectrum to help clients with complex needs stay ahead of the global market, anticipate opportunities and address issues that...
Young Conaway Stargatt & Taylor, LLP.
New York, United States

Founded in 1959
229 people in their team
English
The Delaware legal community works fast and works smart. We have to. Cases come to us from all 50 states, all the time, from companies seeking the sophistication and business-savvy fairness of the Delaware legal system. They need local lawyers who can add value from long experience inside that...
Perkins Coie LLP
New York, United States

Founded in 1912
2,875 people in their team
English
Perkins Coie is a leading international law firm that is known for providing high value, strategic solutions and extraordinary client service on matters vital to our clients' success. With more than 1,200 attorneys in offices across the United States and Asia, we provide a full array of corporate,...
Lippes Mathias LLP
Albany, United States

Founded in 1965
177 people in their team
English
Lippes Mathias LLP is a full-service law firm with more than 135 attorneys serving clients regionally, nationally, and internationally. With offices in Buffalo, N.Y.; Albany, N.Y.; Burlington, Ontario; Chicago, Ill.; New York City; Jacksonville, Fla; and Washington, D.C., the firm represents a wide...
Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP
New York, United States

Founded in 1931
1,100 people in their team
English
Founded in 1931, Weil has provided legal services to the largest public companies, private equity firms and financial institutions for the past 90 years. Widely recognized by those covering the legal profession, Weil’s lawyers regularly advise clients globally on their most complex Litigation,...
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About General Litigation Law in New York, United States

General litigation in New York refers to the broader process of resolving legal disputes between parties through the civil court system. Litigators handle a wide variety of cases, including breach of contract, personal injury, property disputes, employment matters, and more. Rather than focusing on a specific area of law, general litigation encompasses almost any type of legal disagreement that does not fall under criminal prosecution. In New York, the litigation process can include negotiation, mediation, arbitration, court proceedings, and appeals. The state has its own rules and procedures, which can be complex and often require professional guidance to navigate effectively.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

People may require a lawyer in general litigation for many reasons. Common situations include disagreements over business contracts, landlord and tenant disputes, shareholder or partnership disputes, employment issues such as wrongful termination, personal injury claims, defamation, construction disputes, and property boundary arguments. Even if you feel confident about your position, navigating New York's court procedures can be overwhelming. A lawyer can help you evaluate the strength of your case, prepare legal documents, represent you in negotiations or court, and ensure that you do not miss critical deadlines. Having legal counsel often leads to better outcomes, whether you are pursuing a claim or defending against one.

Local Laws Overview

New York civil litigation is governed by a combination of state statutes, local rules, and court practices. The New York Civil Practice Law and Rules (CPLR) sets forth procedures for filing lawsuits, serving documents, and managing cases. There are strict statutes of limitations, which require you to file your case within a set period. New York courts include Supreme Courts in each county for general civil matters, as well as lower courts such as Civil Court and District Court for smaller claims. Discovery rules require the exchange of documents and information. There are rules about how evidence is presented, and all parties must comply with court orders and deadlines. New York also encourages alternative dispute resolution, including mediation and arbitration, to resolve cases before trial. Understanding these rules is critical for anyone involved in general litigation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of cases are considered general litigation in New York?

General litigation covers a wide range of civil disputes such as contract issues, personal injury claims, property and real estate conflicts, partnership or shareholder disagreements, employment law matters, and business torts.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit in New York?

The statute of limitations varies based on the type of case. For example, most contract disputes have a six year limit, while personal injury claims must generally be filed within three years. Consulting with a lawyer is important to determine the precise deadline for your case.

What courts handle civil litigation matters in New York?

The New York State Supreme Court in each county handles larger civil matters. Lower courts, such as Civil Court, District Court, and City Courts, handle claims involving smaller dollar amounts or certain types of disputes.

Do I have to go to trial to resolve a dispute?

Not always. Many cases settle before reaching trial through negotiation, mediation, or arbitration. Courts in New York often encourage alternative dispute resolution to save time and money.

How much does it cost to hire a litigation attorney?

Costs can vary greatly depending on the complexity of the case, the attorney's experience, and whether the case goes to trial. Some attorneys charge by the hour, while others may offer contingency fee arrangements in certain types of cases, such as personal injury.

What happens after I file a lawsuit?

After filing, the defendant is served with papers, and both parties exchange information during "discovery," a period for gathering evidence. The case may settle at any stage, but if not, it will proceed to trial where the judge or jury will decide the outcome.

Can I represent myself in a general litigation case?

You are allowed to represent yourself, but the legal process can be complex and difficult to navigate without legal training. A lawyer can help protect your rights and improve your chances of success.

How is evidence handled in New York civil cases?

Each side must share relevant documents, records, and other information during the discovery process. Evidence must be obtained legally and disclosed according to court rules. The judge decides at trial what evidence can be considered.

What are my options if I lose my case?

You may have the right to appeal the decision to a higher court, but there are strict deadlines and legal grounds for appeals. An attorney can help you determine whether an appeal is possible and worth pursuing.

How can I check the status of my case or court dates?

Public civil case information is often available through online portals provided by the New York State Unified Court System or by contacting the court clerk in the county where your case is filed.

Additional Resources

- New York State Unified Court System: Provides information about court locations, forms, and procedures. - New York City Bar Association: Offers legal referral and educational resources. - LawHelpNY: A platform with guides and resources for individuals representing themselves. - New York State Department of Law (Attorney General's Office): Handles consumer complaints and provides general legal information. - Legal Aid Societies: Offers free or low-cost legal help to qualified individuals facing civil litigation.

Next Steps

If you believe you may be involved in a legal dispute or have received court paperwork, act quickly to protect your rights. Gather all related documents and details about your case. Consider contacting a qualified litigation attorney who can review your situation, advise you of your rights, and explain your options. Many lawyers offer initial consultations, where you can ask about fees, timelines, and strategy. If you cannot afford a private attorney, explore free legal aid resources or contact state or local bar associations for attorney referral services. The earlier you seek legal advice, the better your chances are of achieving a favorable outcome in your case.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in New York through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including General Litigation, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in New York, United States - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.