What types of cases does your firm handle?
Our firm handles a wide variety of litigation in the New York metropolitan area in both federal and state courts. Our practice areas include complex commercial litigation, breach of contract litigation, business lease disputes, partnership dissolutions, shareholder disputes, and trademark litigation. We also have significant appellate practice and our attorneys appear on a regular basis in the New York and Federal appellate courts.
Who pays the expenses of litigation?
As a general rule, each party is responsible for his own court costs and attorneys’ fees. There are exceptions to this general rule where the parties have entered into a contract that permits the recovery of attorneys’ fees or if a statute authorizes their recovery. Courts may also award attorneys’ fees in cases where a party has pursued a claim that has no merit and has been declared to be frivolous.
How long will the lawsuit take?
This varies upon the complexity of the case, the number of parties involved, whether the parties are willing to make a reasonable settlement and how busy the Court is. A very simple case with few legal or factual issues could take a matter of months whereas a complex case involving pretrial motions and appeals could take years.
Do I have a right to appeal if I am unsatisfied with the result?
An appeal is generally an option in most cases but filing an appeal does not usually mean a second trial.
Is there an alternative to filing a suit?
Mediating disputes are becoming more prevalent as a cost-effective way of settling disputes, especially because of court delays caused by COVID-19. Mediation programs are now in place in New York state and federal courts. In some of these courts, a mediator may be appointed without charge. In other cases, the parties may share the costs of the mediator. If both parties desire mediation and their respective positions are reasonable, this may be an effective option for settling a dispute in private and at a much lower cost than traditional lawsuits.
Do you give free consultations?
Yes. We do not charge for new case evaluations. We give you all of the basic information and tools you need to make an informed decision for yourself – no pressure or sales pitches. We’ll discuss the costs and benefits associated with pursuing legal action, what approach is in your best interest, and what you can expect if you choose to pursue a claim. We devote the utmost attention and care to our existing clients, and we want to do the same for you. If you don’t have a case, we’ll make sure you understand why, and discuss what other options might be available to you.