I am being sued in smalls claims court in NYC falsely in nature and in amount owed.

No such counterclaim is available unless you remove the case from small claims. Just file and serve your answer denying the claim. If you do...

What should be my steps in recovering money from a "mom and pop owner" who sold his shop to someone else?

Speak to a lawyer in confidence about this. Depending on the size of your claim, and how well you can document the account relationship, you can...

It is best to file a motion to compel upon receipt of objections to a subpoena or should one first try to negotiate?

Best practice is to communicate first and try to resolve the discovery dispute or at least narrow the issues. . Document the discussion and any...

What licenses and permits do I need?

Mr. D'Esposito offers solid advice. Suggest you also visit the NYC Department of Consumer Affairs website. In addition to licenses and permits,...

Someone wants to provide a Character Affidavit for Plaintiff but is afraid of retaliation when Defendant learns about it.

Who can say? A character affidavit is typically voluntarily produced. Speak to your lawyer about the pros and cons a third-party deposition...

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Regarding law suit

Suggest you engage a lawyer to review your pleading and the court docket. Assuming you served and filed a proper summons and complaint (rather than...

How can I raise a defense after a default judgment was vacated on the grounds that my OSC serves as my answer?

You may be in over your head. Get a lawyer asap to advocate for you. You probably need to replead showing metitotious defenses to the priginal...

You need better advice. Sounds like the question may be plan feasibility. Perhaps your lawyer can confer with the trustee and offer a chapter 13...

I am an architect (RA) in NJ. Contractor and my Client are suing each other. I am not a lawsuit-party, but got subpoenad

The first thing to do is engage an experienced NJ business litigator. Meet with him/her in a confidential office setting. There may be grounds for...

First, the motion is typically granted upon default as unopposed. In that case, the relief awarded will be based on the motion papers. Second,...