Business Litigation in New York

We represent businesses and stakeholders across a variety of industries, including finance, technology, media, sports, entertainment, fashion, real estate, and professional services.

Clients include:

• Business owners
• Entrepreneurs
• Corporate officers and directors
• Shareholders
• LLC members
• Partners
• Investors

Whether the dispute involves a closely held business or a larger organization, our focus remains the same: protecting our clients’ interests and helping them reach effective resolutions.

​Not every dispute requires a lawsuit. In many cases, an effective demand letter, strategic negotiation, or mediation can resolve a conflict before litigation becomes necessary.

When informal resolution is not possible, we represent clients in state and federal courts, arbitration proceedings, and other dispute resolution forums throughout the United States.

Our approach begins with understanding the facts, assessing risks, and identifying the most efficient path toward resolution.

Mediation is a voluntary dispute resolution process that allows parties to negotiate a settlement with the assistance of a neutral third party known as a mediator.

Unlike a judge or arbitrator, a mediator does not decide the outcome of the dispute. Instead, the mediator helps facilitate discussions and identify potential areas of compromise.

Mediation can offer several advantages, including:

• Lower costs than litigation
• Faster resolution
• Greater confidentiality
• More control over the outcome
• Creative solutions not often available in litigation

Many business agreements require mediation before arbitration or litigation can begin. Even when mediation is not required, it can be an effective tool for resolving disputes while preserving business relationships.

When settlement discussions occur, we help clients evaluate risks, negotiate strategically, and make informed decisions regarding potential resolutions.

Arbitration is a private dispute resolution process that resembles litigation but generally offers greater flexibility and confidentiality.

Many commercial contracts contain arbitration clauses requiring disputes to be resolved outside of court. Unlike mediation, arbitration results in a binding decision issued by an arbitrator.

Arbitration often involves:

• Discovery and document exchange
• Witness testimony
• Legal briefing
• Evidentiary hearings
• Binding awards

Our representation has included matters before organizations such as:

• American Arbitration Association (AAA)
• Judicial Arbitration and Mediation Services (JAMS)
• Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA)
• Independent Film and Television Alliance (IFTA)

We also advise clients involved in international arbitration matters administered by organizations such as the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and the London Court of International Arbitration (LCIA).

When a dispute cannot be resolved through negotiation or alternative dispute resolution, litigation may become necessary.

Commercial litigation often involves complex factual and legal issues that require careful planning and strategic decision-making. Cases may involve extensive document discovery, motion practice, expert witnesses, trial preparation, and appeals.

Business litigation matters commonly include:

• Breach of contract claims
• Partnership disputes
• Shareholder disputes
• Business torts
• Fraud claims
• Fiduciary duty claims
• Intellectual property disputes
• Defamation claims

Every stage of litigation requires compliance with procedural rules and court deadlines. A well-planned strategy can significantly affect the outcome of a case.

Contracts form the foundation of most business relationships. When one party fails to perform its obligations, the resulting dispute can have serious financial consequences.

To establish a breach of contract claim under New York law, a plaintiff generally must prove:

• a valid contract existed;
• the plaintiff performed its obligations;
• the defendant breached the agreement; and
• the plaintiff suffered damages as a result.

Contract disputes may involve:

• Failure to pay
• Failure to deliver goods or services
• Breach of confidentiality provisions
• Non-compete violations
• Vendor and supplier disputes
• Employment-related agreements

Available remedies may include monetary damages, specific performance (rarely), rescission, or other equitable relief depending on the circumstances.

A company’s reputation can be one of its most valuable assets.

Defamation occurs when a false statement of fact is communicated to a third party and causes harm to an individual’s or business’s reputation. In New York, written statements are generally referred to as libel, while spoken statements are considered slander.

Defamation claims often arise from:

• Online reviews
• Social media posts
• Public statements
• Business communications
• Professional allegations

Because New York law imposes specific pleading requirements and a relatively short statute of limitations, early evaluation by an experienced defamation attorney is often critical.

The widespread availability of digital content has increased the risk of copyright disputes.

Copyright infringement occurs when protected creative works are copied, distributed, displayed, or used without authorization.

Common disputes involve:

• Photographs
• Videos
• Music
• Written content
• Website materials
• Marketing assets

Whether pursuing infringement claims or defending against allegations, it is important to evaluate ownership rights, licensing agreements, fair use defenses, and potential damages early in the process.

A trademark helps consumers identify the source of goods and services. When another party uses a confusingly similar mark, it can create consumer confusion and harm a business’s brand.

Trademark disputes frequently involve:

• Business names
• Logos
• Product names
• Service marks
• Online branding

We assist clients with enforcement efforts, cease-and-desist demands, litigation, and defense of infringement claims under both federal and state law.

Business relationships can become strained when owners disagree about management, finances, growth strategies, or operational decisions.

Common partnership and LLC disputes include:

• Breach of fiduciary duty
• Misappropriation of company assets
• Deadlock among owners
• Profit distribution disputes
• Buyout disagreements
• Dissolution actions

When conflicts threaten the viability of a business, swift legal action may be necessary to protect ownership interests and preserve company value.

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Disputes among shareholders can significantly affect a company’s operations and long-term success.

These matters frequently involve:

• Minority shareholder rights
• Oppression claims
• Corporate governance disputes
• Dilution of ownership interests
• Executive misconduct
• Mismanagement allegations

Effective resolution often requires balancing legal rights with practical business considerations.