Overview
Chris Paparella, Justin Ben-Asher, and Kirsten Bickelman, co-authored a chapter in an International Comparative Legal Guides book titled Litigation & Dispute Resolution 2026 (19thEdition), published by Global Legal Group. The "USA – New York" chapter covers the structure, procedures, and key features of civil litigation in New York. It explains the state’s common law system, the hierarchy of courts, and the main stages of proceedings, from pleadings and extensive discovery to motions, trial, and appeal.
The chapter outlines strict service requirements, numerous statutes of limitations, and available pre‑action remedies such as attachment and injunctions. It details how defendants may respond to claims, including motions to dismiss, counterclaims, and third‑party actions, as well as consequences for default. New York's courts exercise robust case‑management powers, including remote hearings, sanctions, and summary judgment. It also describes disclosure obligations, privilege rules, witness and expert evidence standards, and the types of judgments and remedies courts may grant, including enforcement of domestic and foreign judgments. Finally, the chapter highlights settlement mechanisms and New York’s strong support for mediation, arbitration, and other forms of ADR.
Visit the International Comparative Legal Guides website to view the chapter in full.