Trusted New York Medical Malpractice Defense Attorneys
Last updated on February 12, 2026
Even as a responsible practitioner, you may find yourself facing medical malpractice allegations that threaten your professional practice. New York law requires plaintiffs to file a certificate of merit, affirming that a qualified medical expert reviewed their case and found a reasonable basis for the claim. State medical malpractice laws are strict, and defending against these claims requires legal support from an experienced attorney.
The Law Firm of Connors & Connors, P.C., brings over six decades of defense experience to medical malpractice cases in Staten Island and the five boroughs of New York. Our track record includes successfully defending more than 27,000 liability claims on behalf of insurance carriers and health care providers. We offer free initial consultations to discuss your case without financial commitment.
Health Care Professionals We Can Defend
Our firm provides comprehensive defense for a range of health care providers facing medical malpractice claims. We proudly serve:
- Doctors and surgeons: Representing those accused of misdiagnosis, surgical errors or treatment complications
- Nurses and nurse practitioners: Defending against claims of improper care or patient management
- Pharmacists: Handling cases involving alleged prescription errors or failure to counsel on medication risks
- Dentists and oral surgeons: Addressing accusations related to dental malpractice
Our goal is to offer peace of mind to medical professionals by helping ensure a strong defense against claims that could impact their careers and reputations.
Strategic Approach To Medical Malpractice Defense
Each malpractice case is unique, requiring a tailored defense strategy that addresses the specifics of the allegation. Our experienced lawyers offer:
- Detailed analysis of medical records and expert testimony
- Early case evaluation to determine optimal defense positioning
- Aggressive motion practices to challenge unfounded claims
- Strategic negotiations to minimize exposure and costs
- Trial preparation backed by decades of courtroom experience
Our firm’s record in state and federal courts shows our strength in handling complex medical malpractice and liability cases.
Understanding New York Medical Malpractice Statute Of Limitations
New York’s medical malpractice statute of limitations provides important protections for health care professionals by establishing clear timeframes for when claims can be filed. Under New York Civil Practice Law and Rules Section 214-A, patients must file medical malpractice lawsuits within two years and six months from the date of the alleged malpractice or from the end of continuous treatment for the particular condition or injury.
This statute serves as a crucial defense tool, as claims filed beyond this timeframe are typically dismissed regardless of their merit. The continuous treatment rule extends the filing deadline when an ongoing doctor-patient relationship exists for the same condition that forms the basis of the malpractice claim. However, routine follow-up visits or unrelated treatment do not extend this limitation period.
Health care providers benefit from this statutory protection because it prevents stale claims where evidence may have deteriorated and memories have faded. Our experienced defense attorneys carefully examine the timeline of each case to determine whether statute of limitations defenses apply, often resulting in early case dismissal without costly litigation.
Contributory And Comparative Negligence In Medical Malpractice Defense
New York follows a comparative negligence system that can significantly reduce or eliminate liability when patients contribute to their own injuries. This defense strategy proves particularly effective when patients fail to follow medical instructions, withhold critical medical history or engage in behaviors that worsen their condition.
Common scenarios where patient negligence applies include failing to take prescribed medications as directed, ignoring post-operative care instructions, not attending follow-up appointments or concealing relevant medical history, including drug use or previous treatments. When patients mix medications against medical advice or fail to disclose allergies and current prescriptions, they may bear partial responsibility for resulting complications.
Under New York’s comparative negligence law, damages are reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to the patient. If a patient is found 30% responsible for their injury, any damage award is reduced accordingly. In cases where patient negligence significantly contributes to the alleged harm, this defense strategy can substantially limit exposure.
We Have Earned The Trust Of Fortune 500 Companies
The Law Firm of Connors & Connors, P.C., offers the depth of experience and focused attention medical malpractice cases demand. Call our Staten Island office at 718-619-4601 or contact us online for a free consultation to discuss your medical malpractice defense needs.