November 7th, 2008

Trial Court Rejects Attempt by Corporate Counsel to Gain Tactical Advantage Through Unethical Solicitation

Posted by Matthew F. Belanger, Partner, Faraci Lange

A central principle that governs pre-trial investigation or discovery in civil litigation is that much of it can be done informally through private interviews rather than through the formal discovery practices outlined in Article 31 of New York’s Civil Practice Law and Rules. In fact, the New York Court of Appeals, in a case called Nieseg v. Team I, 76 NY2d 363 (1990), expressed the public policy preference that such informal discovery be available to all litigants: 

Costly formal depositions that may deter litigants with limited resources, or even somewhat less formal and costly interviews attended by adversary counsel, are no substitute for such off-the-record private efforts to learn and assemble, rather than perpetuate, information. More…

May 21st, 2008

What should you do when you have an automobile accident?

Posted by Stephen G. Schwarz, Managing Partner, Faraci Lange

Being involved in a serious motor vehicle accident is for most people one of the most traumatic experiences in their lives. Obviously, of first importance is taking care of any physical injuries you or your family members have suffered in the accident.

But once the initial injuries have been addressed, it is important to understand your rights, duties, and responsibilities under New York law because failure to do so could result in the loss of benefits under your insurance policy that you have paid premiums for and are entitled to receive. There is another document on this website that outlines in detail the New York No-Fault law; this article details the steps you need to take to protect yourself and your family. 

More…