Best Space Law Lawyers in New York

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Potomac Law Group, PLLC.
New York, United States

125 people in their team
English
Innovation, Excellence, and ProfessionalismPotomac Law is committed to innovation, excellence, and professionalism. Our value stems directly from the talent and commitment of our attorneys who practice law throughout the United States. Our attorneys have outstanding academic credentials and...
Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani, LLP.
Buffalo, United States

Founded in 1974
1,688 people in their team
English
As the only law firm with offices and attorneys in all 50 states, we deliver maximum value to our clients by combining the resources of a full-service national firm with the local knowledge of a regional firm. Featuring more than 1,000 lawyers nationwide, we provide comprehensive litigation and...
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...

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...
Jones Day
New York, United States

Founded in 1893
2,500 people in their team
English
Jones Day has a history of more than 125 years and a culture of client service and professionalism based on explicit shared values. These values include providing pro bono legal services, building diversity in our profession, and supporting outreach efforts around the world.Jones Day has a long...
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...

Founded in 1948
1,700 people in their team
English
The traits that fueled Skadden’s rise from a New York startup to a global powerhouse - collaborative, innovative, persistent - continue to define our firm culture. We remain intensely focused on the simple formula of developing an inclusive complement of extraordinary attorneys, working together...
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...
Stabit Advocates
New York, United States

Founded in 2000
173 people in their team
English
Spanish
Stabit Advocates LLP (https://www.stabitadvocates.com) is one of the top law firms in the world and stands as a beacon of legal excellence, recognized as one of the top law firms in East Africa, Africa and Globally with over 75 practice areas. Our firm is synonymous with top-tier legal expertise,...
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...
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About Space Law in New York, United States

Space Law is an emerging field that deals with the complex legal frameworks governing activities that occur in outer space or impact space commerce and research. In New York, United States, attorneys specializing in space law often deal with international regulations, national legislation, and state-specific laws that can affect anyone involved in the space industry. From satellite operators and aerospace companies to research institutions and entrepreneurs, understanding your legal obligations and protections under space law is essential. New York, as a leading financial and business hub, plays a significant role in aerospace finance, insurance, intellectual property, and contract law, all of which are connected to the broader field of space law.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Space law is highly technical and continually evolving. You may require legal guidance if you are:

  • Launching satellites or other objects into orbit from the United States
  • Seeking licenses or permits for commercial space activities
  • Engaged in financing or insuring aerospace ventures
  • Developing space-related intellectual property
  • Participating in international collaborations regarding space exploration or research
  • Negotiating commercial contracts related to space assets
  • Handling disputes over space debris, liability, or property rights in outer space
  • Complying with export controls or federal regulations for space technology
  • Operating or investing in New York-based space companies
  • Addressing environmental or privacy concerns arising from space-based activities

Given the overlap between international treaties, federal statutes, and New York state business laws, consulting with a lawyer ensures compliance, risk management, and protection of your interests.

Local Laws Overview

While space law is largely governed by international treaties and federal statutes such as the Outer Space Treaty, the Commercial Space Launch Act, and FCC regulations, several local aspects apply in New York. Here are key points relevant to those in the state:

  • New York's General Business laws may govern contract formation and liability for commercial space activities operating within or from the state.
  • Intellectual property developed in New York, including patents, trademarks, and trade secrets associated with space technologies, will be subject to state and federal IP protections.
  • Financial transactions and insurance agreements for space launches or satellite operations are often governed by New York state laws, due to the state's status as a financial capital.
  • Environmental laws and regulations at the state level may apply if space activities have terrestrial components that affect the local ecosystem.
  • Export controls and compliance with US International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR) are crucial for New York entities involved in space hardware or software.

Although New York does not have standalone space law statutes, state business, contract, property, and liability laws will frequently apply in conjunction with federal and international regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is space law and how does it apply in New York?

Space law covers the legal principles that govern human activities in outer space, including satellite operations, launches, and research. In New York, space law usually involves applying federal, international, and state commercial laws to space-related activities conducted by individuals or businesses based in the state.

Do I need a special license or permit to launch a satellite from New York?

Any party intending to launch a satellite from the United States must obtain licenses from federal agencies, such as the Federal Aviation Administration and the Federal Communications Commission. While the launch itself may not take place in New York, entities headquartered or operating here must comply with both federal and applicable state business requirements.

How does intellectual property law intersect with space law?

Innovations in space technology developed by New York companies or individuals can be protected by state and federal intellectual property laws. These protections are essential for securing patents, trademarks, and copyrights on space-related inventions or branding.

Are there liability concerns if something goes wrong during a space mission?

Yes, liability is a critical aspect of space law. Both international treaties and US law establish frameworks for handling damages caused by space activities. New York businesses may also face additional obligations or protections under state contract and tort law.

What regulations cover commercial space activities in New York?

Commercial space activities are primarily regulated by federal agencies, but New York’s business, insurance, and financial laws may also apply, especially to companies based in the state or conducting related businesses here.

Do New York environmental laws impact space projects?

They can. If a space project has local components, such as manufacturing or launch support facilities, state environmental regulations may apply regarding waste, emissions, or land use.

How is data privacy addressed with space-based services in New York?

Data collected by satellites often falls under federal privacy and communications laws, but New York also enforces strict state privacy and cybersecurity regulations that may apply to space companies handling resident data.

Can I operate a space startup or invest in space ventures from New York?

Yes, New York is a leading center for aerospace finance and venture capital. State business laws will apply to the formation and operation of such businesses, in addition to space-specific laws at the federal and international level.

How do international treaties affect companies in New York?

International treaties, like the Outer Space Treaty, are implemented through US federal law and apply to all US persons and companies, including those in New York. Businesses need to ensure compliance to avoid international liability or sanctions.

Where should I start if I need legal help with space law issues in New York?

Begin by consulting a legal professional with experience in both space law and New York business law. Your situation may require knowledge of multiple legal regimes, and professional guidance can help you navigate these complexities.

Additional Resources

If you are seeking more information or assistance regarding space law in New York, consider contacting these resources:

  • New York State Bar Association - offers directories of attorneys with specialties in science and technology law, including space law
  • Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Office of Commercial Space Transportation - regulates commercial space launches
  • Federal Communications Commission (FCC) International Bureau - manages satellite communications licensing
  • United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) - for questions about intellectual property protection in space technologies
  • International Institute of Space Law (IISL) - provides education and resources on global space law
  • New York City Economic Development Corporation - supports aerospace and technology ventures in New York
  • Local universities with space law programs, such as Columbia University or New York University, for academic resources and legal clinics

Next Steps

If you believe you need legal assistance related to space law in New York, begin by:

  • Identifying the specific nature of your space law issue, such as licensing, intellectual property, business formation, or regulatory compliance
  • Gathering all relevant documents, permits, and contracts connected to your space activity or business
  • Consulting a qualified attorney with experience in space law and familiarity with New York’s legal landscape
  • Staying informed about changes in federal, international, and local laws that could impact your operations
  • Utilizing available resources and professional organizations for additional support and guidance

Proactive legal counsel helps avoid complications and ensures your activities are compliant, secure, and positioned for growth in the fast-evolving space sector.

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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.