Municipal Liability Serving clients Statewide

Municipal Liability

Municipal liability cases are those against the state, county or city. They can involve employees and/or agencies of the municipality such as the police department, the board of education and the department of environmental protection. The most common types of cases against a municipality are those involving sidewalk defects. Generally, the municipality must have at least 15 days notice of the defect before the accident occurs.

Municipal liability can also include cases against the transit and housing authorities. Such cases can involve accidents on train station platforms and stairways; accidents while a passenger on a city bus; and accidents as the result of improper maintenance of housing authority properties. These accidents can involve a slip or trip and fall, falling ceilings and toxic mold cases. Police brutality and excessive force cases include those concerning the mistreatment of suspects before and after an arrest, injuries and/or death occurring to persons while in police custody and unjustified use of deadly force by police officers.

Generally, the time period for filing a claim against a municipality is much shorter than for other types of actions. It is generally within 90 days from the date of the occurrence. Beware, as there are exceptions where the time periods are even shorter.

Any government entity that owns or occupies properties has a responsibility to tell the public about any dangerous conditions on these properties as well as to fix the conditions in a timely manner. However, with New York being such a busy city, and despite the high cost of taxes for the upkeep of city streets and buildings, many of these hazards are not fixed until it is too late and someone slips and falls on the New York street or worse. The statute of limitations on municipal liabilities in New York is short and that victims have little time to make their claims.

Anytime that there are sidewalk defects, incorrect usage of a city-owned vehicle, police assaults or excessive force, or hazards in public parks, the city is responsible. If you have been injured by a slip or trip and fall, toxic waste, police brutality, or other accident on city property, including on city buses and trains, you may be entitled to compensation. If you are the victim of municipal liability in New York and suspect that the city might be at fault, call the municipal liability attorney of New York, Polanco & Associates, PLLC to make your claim as quickly as possible.

Meet Attorney Cristobal Jose Polanco Esq.

To have your personal injury and real estate issues resolved contact Jose Polanco Esq. or one of the members at Polanco & Associates PLLC for a free consultation.

Attorney Profile

Contact Us Today

Fill Out the Form Below to Get Started
  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.
  • By submitting, you agree to be contacted about your request & other information using automated technology. Message frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Text STOP to cancel. Acceptable Use Policy
  • "Respectful, Diligent & the Consummate Professional"
    I first met Jose when we were both starting out in our careers. I remained in touch and when he opened his own practice, I couldn't have been any happier for his success. So when I needed legal representation as I was closing on my condo, I wouldn't have gone to anyone else. He reviewed the prospectus and the contract. He brought me into the office to discuss my concerns, answered all of my questions, and sent me away feeling confident in my decisions. On the day of closing; he was prompt, paid attention to detail, and helped me through the lengthy process with ease. With his experience and patience, I was able to purchase my very first home. I still consult with him every now and then on various legal matters. But I am so glad I gave my business to Polanco & Associates when it came to making the biggest purchase of my life.
    Abi B.
    Brooklyn, NY
  • "Great experience!!"
    We were in very serious car accident and we wanted an experienced personal injury attorney with proven trial records. A friend recommended Mr. Polanco to us. He listened to us and answers all of our questions. He took on the big insurance company, making sure our medical needs were taken care of and we were compensated considerably. Choosing Mr. Polanco to represent us was the best decision we made during this difficult time.
    Brian
    Queens, NY
  • "Motivated and Caring"
    This team goes above and beyond! Fighting to ensure all your needs are met and questions are answered!
    Kervens Louissaint
    Merrick, NY
  • "Very professional, yet personable at the same time"
    Polanco & Associates, PLLC define the ultimate version of the Legal Dream Team. I totally recommend Mr. Polanco. Very professional, yet personable at the same time.
    W. D.
    Brooklyn, NY
  • "Excellent Service"
    Polanco & Associates provided a high level of expertise and professionalism. I was kept informed of the progress of my case and impressed with the outcome. I would highly recommend Jose Polanco, Esq. for representation in a personal injury matter.
    P Elie
    New York, NY
  • "Respectable, Diligent Consummate Professional"
    I first met Jose when we were both starting out in our careers. I remained in touch and when he opened his own practice, I couldn't have been any happier for his success. So when I needed legal representation as I was closing on my condo, I wouldn’t have gone to anyone else. He reviewed the prospectus and the contract. He brought me into the office to discuss my concerns, answered all of my questions, and sent me away feeling confident in my decisions. On the day of closing; he was prompt, paid attention to detail, and helped me through the lengthy process with ease. With his expertise and patience, I was able to purchase my very first home. I still consult with him every now and then on various legal issues. But I’m so glad I gave my business to Polanco & Associates when it came to making the biggest purchase of my life.
    A. B.
    Brooklyn, NY
  • "Highly Recommended"
    Mr. Polanco's professionalism, strong work ethic coupled with his solid command of the law is a testament to the level of commitment he provides to all of his clients. My experience with Mr. Polanco has always proven him to be very responsive and extremely knowledgeable in all matters requiring his legal expertise. I would highly recommend his firm to anyone in need of legal counsel.
    G. Milwood
    NY, NY
  • "World Class Service"
    Dealing with this firm made my apprehension with the judicial system disappear. The entire staff was knowledgeable and treated me with respect AND also as if I was their only client. The attention to detail that was directed to my case was extraordinary. Mr. Polanco's dedication and preparation made me feel a profound amount of comfort and ease as I entered unfamiliar surroundings, the courtroom. I would not hesitate to recommend this law firm to anyone that I know.
    Mr. Hill
    Bronx, NY