New York City Litigation Lawyer

For over 30 years, Woods Lonergan has been a leading litigation firm in New York, partnering with clients on their most important and complex legal issues. Our client-focused law firm tailors our approach to the specific characteristics of each matter, drawing on our team of seasoned litigators and trial attorneys to match the industry, claims, subject matter, client goals, and venue at play. 

A Business-Focused Approach to Complex Litigation

Woods Lonergan’s Litigation practice group represents clients in disputes arising out of the operation of a wide variety of enterprises. We expertly litigate complex commercial litigation, business torts, contract and joint venture disputes, allegations of fraud, breach of fiduciary duty, and derivative and class action claims. Our services also extend to real estate litigation, insurance disputes, employment disputes, and trade secrets cases across a diverse range of industries and venues. We represent clients at every stage of proceedings, from initial negotiations through motion practice, discovery, trial, and appeals. Beyond litigation, we are adept in arbitration and mediation services across various sectors, ensuring comprehensive solutions for our clients. This breadth of practice provides us with unique insights into litigation strategies that consistently yield success for our clients. Whether representing companies in either pursuit or defense of claims or aiding individuals and multi-claimants in damage recovery, our results are unmatched. 

Our lawyers seek to resolve, and when possible, prevent complex disputes by providing clients with practical, creative legal advice that prioritizes their strategic and commercial objectives.

As a client-focused law firm, we prioritize your needs, striving for the best outcomes in every case. Our team is well-versed in all facets of complex litigation, from business disputes and corporate matters to intellectual property and real estate conflicts. We have a strong track record in the areas of complex commercial litigation, employment litigation, consumer protection, and data privacy litigation. Our expertise extends to specialized sectors such as e-commerce litigation, cannabis, and hospitality matters. 

We have a distinguished record of winning trials, arbitrations, and appeals for clients across industries and practice areas.

By developing case strategies early, focusing our discovery efforts on the key issues, and demonstrating the ability and drive to take the case to trial, we strategically position our clients for success—whether through a verdict, a dispositive motion, or a negotiated resolution. Woods Lonergan’s Litigation Practice Group also provides strategic legal counseling throughout the lifespan of our clients’ controversies, helping to achieve litigation and business objectives while mitigating legal risk. Members of our practice actively engage in complex commercial claims and class action lawsuits before, during, and after trial. We help our clients assess whether litigation is advisable and provide strategic counseling regarding threatened and ongoing litigation. That depth of experience empowers our litigators to consistently serve as invaluable advisers and advocates.

Broad Spectrum Expertise 

Our attorneys are adept at managing a broad spectrum of complex commercial claims, such as contract disputes, fraud, breach of fiduciary duty, tortious interference claims, non-compete litigation, merger and restructuring-related issues, joint venture, and partnership disputes across a wide range of practice areas and industries:

Corporate Litigation

We provide comprehensive support for client’s corporate litigation matters, relating to failed mergers and acquisitions, challenges to corporate governance, contested commercial transactions, business divestitures, and dissolution. Woods Lonergan’s attorneys possess extensive experience in a wide range of business disputes and litigation. Whether you’re a well-established corporation handling complex claims or a startup confronted with corporate or intellectual property litigation, we have the expertise to support every phase of your business journey. 

Our Corporate Litigation Services Include:

  • Shareholder Derivative Actions: Representing shareholders in a corporation or members in a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in actions brought on behalf of the corporation against officers or directors.
  • Breach of Fiduciary Duty by Officer or Board: Representing shareholders or members bringing claims of breach of fiduciary duties by officers or directors on the Board.
  • Internal Corporate Governance Disputes: Specializing in conflicts within corporate boards or between shareholders and management, focusing on issues like governance practices and directorial responsibilities. 
  • Business Judgment Rule Litigation: Addressing disputes regarding the business judgment rule and its application in decision-making processes.
  • Minority Shareholder Rights and Oppression Claims: Focusing on the rights of minority shareholders and litigating against oppressive actions by majority shareholders or the company.
  • Corporate Dissolution Proceedings: Handling legal aspects of voluntarily or involuntarily dissolving a corporation, including disputes related to the process. 
  • Mergers and Acquisitions Litigation (Beyond Merger-Related Disputes): Handling litigation arising from representations, warranties, and indemnification issues in M&A transactions.
  • Complex Financial Transactions Litigation: Litigating disputes arising from complex financial transactions that are distinct from regular banking or financial services disputes.

Woods Lonergan’s expertise in New York corporate litigation is integral to our broad spectrum of corporate legal services, ensuring that our clients are expertly guided through the complexities of the corporate landscape, from routine governance to high-stakes litigation. Learn more about our Business and Corporate Law Practice…

Commercial Litigation and Dispute Resolution

At Woods Lonergan, our team of New York Commercial Litigation attorneys handles every facet of litigation – from the courtroom trials, mediation, and arbitration. We tackle complex matters with business-critical outcomes on the line. We ask our clients what they need, and we work diligently to deliver success. Our attorneys have significant experience litigating a wide range of complex commercial claims, including:

  • Contract Disputes: Navigating issues around contract breaches, enforcement and attempts to negotiate a resolution.
  • Fraud and Breach of Fiduciary Duty: Addressing cases involving fraudulent activities and breaches of trust.
  • Business Divorce: Managing disputes in business separations or dissolutions.
  • Disputes in Family-Owned Companies: Representing individuals or trusts when there are disputes or litigation concerning business, corporate or real estate matters. 
  • Tortious Interference and Non-Compete Litigation: Handling disputes over business interference and enforcement of non-compete clauses.
  • Merger-Related Litigation: Dealing with conflicts arising from mergers and acquisitions.
  • Control, Joint Venture, and Partnership Disputes: Resolving conflicts within business partnerships and joint ventures.
  • Restructuring-Related Issues: Assisting with disputes during business restructuring processes.
  • Statutory Claims: Addressing claims arising under specific statutes.

Our expertise in trial and various dispute forums for these and other intricate litigation claims spans numerous industries and practice areas. We have a strong presence in sectors such as: 


Whether navigating complex corporate disputes, leading class action plaintiff actions, or providing strategic counsel for potential appeals, our team is uniquely equipped to guide clients through today’s business landscape challenges. With a dual focus on preventive advice and robust courtroom advocacy, we stand ready to support our clients’ broader business objectives at every stage of the litigation process. Learn more about our Commercial Litigation and Dispute Resolution Practice…

Real Estate Litigation

For over 30 years, Woods Lonergan has been at the forefront of complex real estate litigation in New York, offering innovative and cost-effective legal solutions across various sectors and industries. Our Real Estate Practice Group works closely with corporate owners, boards, investors, and developers, to understand their legal and financial goals. We specialize in:

Our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive legal support, ensuring successful outcomes in all aspects of commercial real estate transactions and disputes. Learn more about our Real Estate Law Services in New York and Metro Area…

Employment and Wage Claim Litigation

Today’s workplace is rapidly evolving, presenting a host of new challenges in our work environment. From navigating remote and hybrid work arrangements, the gig economy, and adapting to the complexity of artificial intelligence, the nature of how and where work has changed dramatically. In response to these significant shifts, our employment law practice not only brings decades of experience but also stays continuously updated on the latest developments in employment law. We represent individuals, multi-plaintiff groups, and class actions in a range of matters, including:

We also represent individuals and businesses relating to:

Our law partner litigators possess a well-deserved reputation for adeptly handling novel, complex, and high-stakes disputes, achieving success from the investigative phase through to victories in trial and appellate courts, as well as in arbitration forums. Woods Lonergan’s employment practice is unique in its balanced approach. While we predominantly advocate for employees, our expertise also extends to counseling and defending emerging and medium-sized companies against claims. We provide strategic advice to employers on preventing potential legal issues, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of both sides of employment law.

At Woods Lonergan, we combine this expertise with close client collaboration, guiding them through crucial decisions – be it filing a case, seeking out-of-court settlements, or advancing to trial.  Leveraging our deep knowledge and strategic insight, honed from years of specializing in labor and employment law, each case we undertake is approached with a tailored, client-focused strategy.
Our mission is to stand with you. Our lawyers, known for their experience, vigorous advocacy, and compassion, are dedicated to representing your interests and ensuring justice and accountability in your employment dispute. Learn more about our Employment Law Services in New York and Metro Area…

Intellectual Property Litigation

We partner with leaders and innovators across a range of industries—technology, consumer products, entertainment, luxury goods, and apparel —to address all aspects of brand protection and enforcement. Our experienced New York Intellectual Property attorneys litigate and counsel on all aspects of Intellectual Property Law for clients in key, economically vibrant industries where cutting-edge IP protection and brand integrity are critical.

Our areas of focus include:

We represent clients on both the enforcement and defense sides in various aspects of intellectual property litigation, including trademark litigation, ITC/Section 337 disputes and investigations, UDRP proceedings, copyright litigation, and trade secret disputes. Our New York trade secret attorneys protect our clients’ most valuable business information, tackling misappropriation and ensuring the integrity of trade secrets is maintained. Additionally, Woods Lonergan brings specialized experience in litigating and counseling on copyright matters. From songs to software, we assist clients with the complex legal and business challenges that arise. Our New York trademark attorneys specialize in comprehensive trademark and design protection. They skillfully manage cases involving unfair competition, infringement, and other brand enforcement issues. Additionally, our attorneys possess extensive experience in tackling anti-counterfeiting and grey goods issues. Our experience in counseling on and litigating trademark, false advertising, and unfair competition matters allows us to partner with clients to plan and execute comprehensive registration and enforcement strategies and effectively handle disputes on an expedited basis. Learn more about our Intellectual Property Litigation Services…

Class Action Litigation

At Woods Lonergan, we recognize the distinct nature and profound impact of class action lawsuits. Unlike typical civil litigation, class actions provide a powerful mechanism to hold large corporations and employers accountable for their actions, offering justice and compensation to those affected by widespread harm. To navigate these complex legal waters effectively, it is essential to have attorneys who are not only deeply knowledgeable about the class action litigation process but also possess experience in managing these significant cases.

Woods Lonergan has a distinguished history of involvement in high-profile multi-district class action suits across the United States, including:

  • Data Breach: Addressing unauthorized access and misuse of personal and sensitive information, particularly breaches involving healthcare, government, technology, and entertainment companies.
  • Employment: Addressing a wide range of workplace issues including wage and hour disputes (overtime, minimum wage, unpaid breaks), misclassification of employees (exempt vs. non-exempt, independent contractors), discrimination (based on race, gender, age, disability, etc.), harassment and hostile work environment, and wrongful termination.
  • Consumer Protection and Fraud: Combating false advertising and misrepresentation, defective products or product liability, unfair business practices, privacy violations, and overcharging or hidden fees.
  • Securities and Financial Institutions: Taking a leading role in class actions involving securities fraud, misrepresentation in the financial sector, ERISA violations, unfair fees, insider trading, market manipulation, and breaches of fiduciary duty by trustees and investment advisors to protect investors, employees, and retirees.
  • Antitrust: Combating illegal monopolies and practices that harm competition and consumers.

Our firm represents individuals and groups in precedent-setting cases against formidable adversaries in the technology, social media, healthcare, and entertainment sectors. Our goal is to uphold and reinforce the protections provided by the law while seeking just compensation for our clients for the harm inflicted.

Our approach combines meticulous legal strategy with a deep understanding of the broader implications of each case. We work closely with our clients to ensure their voices are heard and their rights are fully represented. With the resources and dedication to take on the world’s largest corporations, Woods Lonergan has the means and experience to see these cases from beginning to end and to push for a satisfactory conclusion with all possible speed. We have successfully navigated complex legal battles and secured justice for our clients, reaffirming our commitment to upholding the rights of individuals against powerful entities. Learn more about our Class Action and Mass Tort Litigation Services…

Cooperative & Condominium Litigation 

At Woods Lonergan, we understand the distinct legal landscape surrounding cooperative and condominium law in New York. Our Cooperative and Condominium attorneys act as general counsel for the boards of directors and management teams of a wide array of cooperatives, condominiums, homeowners’ associations, and mixed-use properties across the New York metropolitan area. Leveraging their depth of experience and long-standing reputation, our lawyers offer a wide range of services to our clients, including management and governance issues, transactions, dispute resolution, and litigation. We provide comprehensive legal services to cooperatives, condominiums, boards, and individual owners, adeptly navigating complex issues related to governance, compliance, financing, and disputes. Our commitment to these communities is reflected in our proactive approach to resolving conflicts efficiently and cost-effectively while protecting the interests of our clients. In addition to these services, we address more nuanced aspects of cooperative and condominium law, such as conversion, sponsor obligations, shareholder rights, and board election issues. With over three decades of expertise, our team is dedicated to providing practical and effective legal solutions, ensuring the stability and success of the communities we serve. Learn more about our Cooperative and Condominium Law Services…

Emerging Companies & Venture Capital Litigation

Woods Lonergan is well-regarded for its litigation expertise in the startup and venture capital ecosystem, with a special focus on IP, employment, and corporate disputes. Our NYC Startup lawyers are particularly strong in representing emerging businesses in the New York market, adept at handling disputes and complex litigation challenges from inception through to sale or IPO. Our clients typically come from the consumer products, technology and media sectors. We represent a diverse range of clients in contentious matters, from startups and established businesses to corporations, their directors, shareholders, as well as U.S. and foreign investors. Our clients rely on us for expert legal counsel in complex litigation scenarios.

This includes handling contentious matters related to formation, financing, and various corporate disputes. Our team’s litigation experience is a cornerstone in guiding startups and investors through the intricate legal landscape.

In the realm of IP and employment disputes, Our New York Start-Up attorneys address issues ranging from non-compete agreements, infringement and misappropriation of intellectual property, to wrongful termination, workplace discrimination, and complex compensation and stock option disputes. Our team is adept at navigating the nuances of employment and intellectual property litigation common to startups. We ensure that employers are fully counseled on employment laws and policies during their company’s formation while also guaranteeing fair representation for employees. This expertise ensures comprehensive legal support for emerging businesses facing the multifaceted challenges of today’s market.

In our litigation practice, we strive to provide exceptional service, valuable advice, and practical solutions tailored to the unique challenges faced by our clients. As a firm that understands the rapid pace and hard work required to grow a successful business, we bring a deep appreciation and tailored approach to each litigation matter, ensuring our clients can confidently and cost-effectively navigate legal challenges. Learn more about our Start-Up and Venture Capital Litigation Services…

Arbitration, Mediation, and Alternative Dispute Resolution 

At Woods Lonergan, we recognize that arbitration and mediation offer businesses the chance to resolve disputes cost-effectively and efficiently. Our team is well-respected for their thorough knowledge of the applicable rules of procedure and their credibility among arbitrators and mediators. We excel in accurately assessing the risks and settlement value of a case. Even though we consistently achieve positive outcomes for clients in mediation, avoiding the need for prolonged litigation, we’re always prepared for those instances where a trial is unavoidable. In such cases, our team has a proven track record of securing winning results. Throughout the process, we forecast potential outcomes and devise innovative strategies to ensure an optimal arbitration award or settlement resolution for our clients. Whether it’s developing creative strategies for an optimal arbitration award or crafting a settlement resolution, we stand prepared to advocate fiercely and strategically in every scenario. From commercial and employment disputes to intellectual property and real estate matters, our team is adept at crafting strategic solutions tailored to each unique situation. Our team is experienced in handling complex multiparty claims in arbitration, mediation, and dispute review boards, including with the American Arbitration Association. Learn more about our Arbitration, Mediation, and Dispute Resolution Services…

Recognizing That Litigation is Just One Part of a Larger Business Strategy 

Your business objectives are at the heart of our litigation strategy. With Woods Lonergan, you are guaranteed representation by partner-level litigators who bring substantial trial experience in presenting business issues to judges, juries, and arbitrators. We offer the expertise and resources of larger law firms but with a more nimble boutique structure and advantageous rates. 

If you’re seeking legal guidance that aligns with your business goals and provides value-driven solutions, Woods Lonergan is here to assist you. Book A Call today to explore how we can support you through every stage of your legal journey.