Corporate & Commercial Lawyers in New York City

Corporate lawyers in New York City handle a large share of America's deal flow, from seed rounds in Brooklyn to cross border acquisitions in Midtown. Their clients include founders forming a first company, foreign businesses opening a US subsidiary, family owned companies bringing in investors and firms negotiating commercial contracts with American partners.

A common first question is where to incorporate. Many startups choose Delaware and then register to do business in New York, while smaller companies often form a New York LLC, which carries a publication requirement after formation. A business lawyer in New York will draft operating and shareholder agreements, handle financing documents, run due diligence and negotiate supply, licensing and services contracts. Larger commercial disputes in the city often go to the Commercial Division of the New York State Supreme Court, while federal cases are heard in the Southern or Eastern District of New York. Many contracts also choose New York law and arbitration in the city. Attorney registration can be checked through the New York State Unified Court System's attorney search.

Hourly billing is standard, and many firms offer flat fees for formation packages and routine agreements. Some New York firms take part of their fee in equity or defer fees for early stage startups, which should be agreed in writing. Before hiring corporate lawyers in New York City, decide on the entity and state you prefer, prepare your cap table and term sheet if you have one, list the contracts you need and ask for a written engagement letter with the fee basis. Then compare the firms below and contact them directly.