Global Law Experts top search results to help tackle law in New York

In New York, the divorce process begins with filing a Summons and Complaint in Supreme Court, followed by serving the other spouse. If contested, issues like property division, custody, and support are litigated or mediated. If uncontested, spouses agree on terms and submit them for court approval. Global Law Experts notes that New York is an equitable distribution state, meaning assets are divided fairly, not always equally.

New York’s “no-fault” insurance law requires your own auto insurer to cover medical bills, lost wages, and basic expenses after a car accident, regardless of who caused it. This system speeds up compensation but limits your ability to sue unless you suffer a “serious injury” as defined by law. Global Law Experts highlights that while no-fault protects drivers from lengthy disputes, it also narrows litigation rights.

In New York, you cannot fully “expunge” a criminal record, but you may be eligible to have certain convictions sealed under Criminal Procedure Law §160.59. Generally, up to two convictions (only one felony) may be sealed if at least 10 years have passed since your sentence ended. Serious crimes like sex offenses and violent felonies are excluded. A lawyer can help assess eligibility, file a motion with the court, and argue for sealing, giving you a chance to move forward without your record limiting employment, housing, or opportunities.

New York follows the at-will employment rule, meaning employers can terminate employees at any time without cause, unless protected by a contract, union agreement, or law. However, firing someone for unlawful reasons—such as discrimination (race, gender, age, religion, disability), retaliation for whistleblowing, or exercising legal rights (like filing a workers’ compensation claim)—is considered wrongful termination. Global Law Experts emphasize that employees facing such situations should seek legal advice promptly, as strict deadlines apply for filing claims.

To protect your business name or logo in New York, you can register a trademark with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), which grants nationwide protection, or file at the New York State Department of State for state-level rights. A trademark safeguards your brand from unauthorized use and strengthens your legal standing in disputes. Global Law Experts recommend consulting an intellectual property lawyer to ensure your filing is accurate and enforceable.

In New York, Chapter 7 bankruptcy is a liquidation process where most unsecured debts, like credit cards or medical bills, are discharged, though some assets may be sold to repay creditors. Chapter 13 bankruptcy allows individuals with steady income to reorganize debts and repay them over three to five years while keeping their assets. Global Law Experts advise choosing based on income, assets, and long-term financial goals.

New York is an equitable distribution state, not a community property state. This means that in a divorce, marital assets and debts are divided fairly, but not always equally, based on factors like the length of the marriage, each spouse’s financial and non-financial contributions, and future needs. Global Law Experts highlight that “fair” does not always mean a 50/50 split, but rather what the court deems just.

In New York, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is three years from the date of the accident or injury. This applies to cases such as car accidents, slip and falls, and other negligence claims. However, certain claims have shorter time limits—such as medical malpractice (2 years and 6 months) or claims against government entities, which often require a notice of claim within 90 days. Global Law Experts advise acting quickly to preserve your rights.

A real estate attorney in New York plays a vital role for buyers by reviewing and negotiating the purchase contract, conducting a thorough title search, ensuring there are no liens or legal issues, and coordinating with lenders, brokers, and the seller’s attorney. They also handle closing, prepare necessary documents, and make sure funds and ownership are transferred securely, protecting the buyer’s legal and financial interests.