Breach of Contract Cases

Breach of Contract Attorneys: Protecting Your Business and Legal Rights in New York

Contracts are the foundation of most business and personal agreements. When one party fails to uphold their end of the bargain, it can cause financial and legal hardship. If you’re dealing with a breach of contract in New York, the experienced attorneys at Held & Hines LLP are here to evaluate your case and aggressively pursue the remedy or compensation you deserve. Time is of the essence when it comes to contract disputes, early legal intervention can be the key to resolving your issue favorably.

What is a Breach of Contract?

A breach of contract occurs when one party to a legally binding agreement fails to perform their obligations under the terms of the contract. In New York, to succeed in a breach of contract claim, the plaintiff must prove four essential elements:

A valid contract existed between the parties
The plaintiff performed their contractual obligations
The defendant failed to perform or violated the terms
The plaintiff suffered damages as a result

Breach of contract claims can arise from a wide range of agreements, including commercial leases, employment contracts, sales contracts, service agreements, and partnership deals.

Common Types of Contract Breaches

Not all breaches are the same. Courts in New York recognize several types of breaches:

Material Breach

A significant failure that defeats the purpose of the agreement. This often justifies the non-breaching party's right to terminate the contract and sue for damages.

Minor (Partial) Breach

A less serious violation that allows for damages but may not allow for full termination of the contract.

Anticipatory Breach

When one party makes it clear—either through words or actions—that they do not intend to fulfill their contractual obligations in the future.

Actual Breach

When the agreed-upon performance is not delivered by the deadline or is delivered improperly.

Our attorneys at Held & Hines LLP can help determine the nature and severity of the breach and advise you on the best legal strategy moving forward.

Common Breach of Contract Scenarios

Contract disputes can arise in nearly any industry. Some common examples of breach of contract cases in New York include:

A vendor fails to deliver goods as promised
An employer breaches an employment contract or severance agreement
A tenant violates the terms of a commercial lease
A contractor does substandard work or abandons a construction project
A business partner fails to contribute agreed capital or labor

We work with clients in a variety of sectors to resolve disputes quickly and effectively, both in and out of court.

Legal Remedies Available for Breach of Contract

New York contract law provides several remedies for victims of a breach:

Compensatory Damages

Financial compensation for the losses caused by the breach, including loss of income, additional expenses, or lost business opportunities.

Consequential Damages

These cover foreseeable damages resulting from the breach, such as lost profits.

Specific Performance

A court order requiring the breaching party to perform their contractual duty, typically used when monetary damages are insufficient.

Rescission

Cancellation of the contract, with both parties released from further obligations.

Restitution

Repayment for any benefit already given under the contract, ensuring the non-breaching party is not unfairly disadvantaged.

At Held & Hines LLP, we fight for the remedy that best protects your rights and interests.

Statute of Limitations for Breach of Contract in New York

In New York, the statute of limitations for filing a breach of contract claim is six years from the date the breach occurred. Failing to file within this timeframe may result in losing your legal right to pursue compensation. If your contract was verbal and not in writing, different time limits may apply. Speak with an attorney as soon as possible to protect your claim.

Speak with a New York Breach of Contract Attorney Today

Whether you’re an individual, a small business, or a corporate entity, the legal team at Held & Hines LLP is ready to help you resolve your breach of contract matter. We bring a strategic and aggressive approach to protecting your interests. With offices in Manhattan and Brooklyn, we serve clients throughout New York City and beyond.

FAQ: Breach of Contract in New York

What qualifies as a breach of contract in New York?

A breach occurs when one party fails to fulfill the agreed terms, whether by missing deadlines, providing substandard work, or refusing to perform.

Can I still sue if the contract was not in writing?

Some oral contracts are enforceable under New York law, but they can be harder to prove. Certain contracts, such as those involving real estate or that take more than a year to perform, must be in writing under the Statute of Frauds.

How much compensation can I recover in a breach of contract case?

The amount varies based on the losses you’ve suffered, but compensation can include direct losses, lost profits, and sometimes legal fees, depending on the contract’s terms.

Do I need to try mediation or arbitration before going to court?

It depends on the contract. Many agreements contain a clause requiring mediation or arbitration before litigation. We’ll review your contract and advise you on the correct course of action.

What if the contract had a termination clause or waiver?

Termination clauses, waivers, or limitation of liability clauses may affect your ability to sue. Our attorneys can help you interpret these provisions and determine your options.

Contact Held & Hines LLP for a Free Consultation

If you believe a contract has been breached, don’t wait. Contact Held & Hines LLP for a free consultation. Our experienced contract attorneys are here to review your agreement, assess your damages, and fight for the compensation or performance you deserve under New York law.

855.HELD.HINES