Product Liability Lawyer Manhattan, NY

In Manhattan, the dense concentration of retailers, manufacturers, and consumers means that defective products can cause serious harm to residents and visitors alike. Whether a design flaw in a common household appliance, a manufacturing defect in an electronic device, or a failure to warn about known risks, an injury caused by a dangerous product can upend your life. In New York County, product liability claims are filed in the New York Supreme Court, located at 60 Centre Street. The court is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. To 5 p.m., and it handles a significant volume of civil litigation. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys concentrate on personal injury law and can explain how New York’s product liability framework applies to your situation. To schedule a consultation, call Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

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What Product Liability Means in Manhattan

Product liability is the area of law that holds manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, and retailers accountable for injuries caused by defective or unreasonably dangerous products. In New York, a plaintiff may pursue a product liability claim under theories of strict liability, negligence, or breach of warranty. Strict liability requires proof that the product was defective and that the defect caused injury, without the need to show the defendant was careless. Negligence requires proving a failure to exercise reasonable care in design, manufacturing, or marketing. A breach of warranty claim asserts that the product failed to conform to express or implied promises about its quality or safety.

Manhattan’s status as a commercial hub means that product liability cases here often involve complex distribution chains and multiple potentially responsible parties. For example, a defective product sold at a chain retailer in Midtown may have been designed by an out-of-state corporation, assembled overseas, and distributed by several intermediaries. New York’s long-arm statute and commercial presence in the county give the New York Supreme Court broad jurisdiction over out-of-state defendants, making Manhattan a practical forum for injured consumers to seek compensation.

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in New York, including product liability, is three years from the date of injury under N.Y. C.P.L.R. § 214(5). For claims involving death, the wrongful death limitations period is two years. Because evidence can fade and witnesses can become unavailable over time, it is important to act promptly. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents clients in communities across Manhattan, including Midtown, Lower Manhattan, the Upper East Side, the Upper West Side, Harlem, Greenwich Village, SoHo, Tribeca, Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen, the East Village, the Financial District, Chinatown, Washington Heights, and Inwood.

How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle Product Liability Cases

Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys approach product liability matters by first developing a thorough understanding of how the defect occurred and how the resulting injury affects your life. The firm works with qualified attorneys—such as engineers, product-safety attorney, and medical professionals—to evaluate design specifications, manufacturing records, and the mechanism of failure. This early investigation helps identify all potentially liable parties and preserves critical evidence before it is lost.

Once liability is understood, the firm prepares the complaint and files it in the appropriate New York court, typically the Supreme Court of New York County. Because New York applies a pure comparative fault rule under CPLR Article 14‑A, a plaintiff’s recovery is reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to the plaintiff, but a plaintiff is not barred from recovery even if mostly at fault. This rule underscores the importance of presenting a strong case that minimizes any defense argument that the plaintiff contributed to the injury. The firm handles discovery, including interrogatories, document requests, and depositions, and negotiates with manufacturers’ insurers while keeping trial preparation on track. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys are prepared to try the case in Manhattan.

About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys

Mr. Sris is the Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. A former prosecutor, he founded the firm in 1997 and is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. He has testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). Mr. Sris maintains a focused practice that includes complex civil litigation such as product liability matters.

The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience. Results may vary. Together, Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys represent clients in Manhattan with an approach that combines thorough preparation, careful analysis of experienced attorney evidence, and experience in the New York Supreme Court.

Last reviewed: July 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What is product liability?

Product liability is the legal responsibility of manufacturers, distributors, and sellers for injuries caused by defective products. Claims may be based on strict liability, negligence, or breach of warranty and can arise from design defects, manufacturing defects, or inadequate warnings. In New York, these cases are heard in the Supreme Court. An experienced personal injury attorney can explain which theory best fits your situation.

How long do I have to file a product liability claim in Manhattan?

In New York, the statute of limitations for product liability claims is three years from the date of injury (N.Y. C.P.L.R. § 214(5)). For wrongful death claims, the period is two years. Failing to file within the applicable period can permanently bar recovery. If a government entity is involved, shorter notice-of-claim deadlines may apply. Contact our firm promptly to protect your rights.

What types of damages can I recover in a New York product liability case?

You may recover economic damages such as medical expenses and lost wages, as well as non-economic damages for pain and suffering. New York does not cap compensatory damages in personal injury cases. Under New York’s pure comparative fault rule, your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault, if any. Punitive damages may be available in cases of egregious misconduct. An attorney can evaluate what damages your case may support.

Do I need a lawyer for a product liability claim in Manhattan?

While not mandatory, retaining an experienced product liability lawyer in Manhattan significantly improves your ability to navigate New York’s procedural rules and build a persuasive case. The firm can identify all liable parties, preserve evidence, and work with attorneys to establish the defect. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can discuss your options during a consultation.

How does New York’s comparative fault rule affect product liability claims?

New York follows pure comparative fault, meaning your compensation is reduced by the percentage of fault the court assigns to you, but you are not barred from recovery even if you are mostly at fault. For example, if a jury finds you 30 percent responsible for your injury, you can still recover 70 percent of your total damages. This rule makes it important to present a well-supported case that minimizes any argument of your own negligence.

What should I do if I have been injured by a defective product?

Seek medical attention immediately and, if possible, preserve the product in its post-incident condition, along with any packaging, instructions, and receipts. Document your injuries and losses. Do not discuss the incident with the manufacturer’s representatives or insurers without first consulting a lawyer. Prompt legal guidance helps protect evidence and ensures important deadlines are met.

How much does a product liability lawyer cost in Manhattan?

Most product liability attorneys in Manhattan handle these cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no legal fees unless you obtain a recovery. The fee is a percentage of the settlement or judgment, and the firm advances costs such as experienced attorney fees and filing fees. During your consultation, our firm can explain the fee arrangement that applies to your case.

How long does a product liability case take in New York?

The duration varies based on case complexity, the number of parties, and the court’s calendar. Some claims resolve through settlement within months; others that go to trial may take longer. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys work to move cases forward efficiently while developing the strongest possible presentation.

Can I sue for a defective product if I wasn’t the original buyer?

Yes, product liability claims in New York are not limited to the original purchaser. Anyone who is injured by a defective product—such as a family member, a guest, or a bystander—may bring a claim. The key issue is whether the defect caused the injury, not the ownership of the product.

What evidence is important in a product liability case?

Critical evidence includes the defective product itself, photographs, medical records, purchase documentation, and any communications with the manufacturer or retailer. experienced attorney analysis by engineers or product‑safety attorney can demonstrate how the defect caused the injury. Early preservation of this evidence is essential, and an attorney can help secure it before it is lost or altered.

Where can I find a product liability lawyer near Manhattan?

Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents clients in Manhattan and throughout New York County. Our New York location is in Buffalo, and we serve all five boroughs. To speak with Mr. Sris or one of the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys about a possible defective product claim, call (888) 437-7747.

Additional Product Liability Resources

For complementary information, visit these pages for product liability representation in nearby counties:

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The firm’s New York location is at 50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142, Buffalo, NY 14202. By appointment only; call (888) 437-7747 to schedule.