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Premises Liability Defense

Experienced Defense for Commercial and Residential Property Owners

Morris Duffy Alonso Faley & Pitcoff has extensive experience defending property owners, landlords, managing agents, and commercial tenants in all manner of premises liability claims. From routine slip-and-fall cases to high-exposure structural defect claims, we deliver strategic, trial-ready defense built on decades of success.

We represent:

  • National and regional property management companies
  • Commercial and residential landlords
  • Hospitality and retail operators
  • Cooperative and condominium boards
  • Contractors and vendors involved in premises-related disputes

Scope of Representation

Our attorneys have defended clients in claims involving:

  • Slips, trips, and falls on sidewalks, walkways, and staircases
  • Defective or mis leveled flooring and cracked pavement
  • Improperly maintained or malfunctioning elevators and escalators
  • Insufficient lighting and visibility hazards
  • Weather-related conditions (snow, ice, water accumulation)
  • Negligent security, assaults, or third-party criminal acts
  • Defective locks, cameras, and security systems
  • Pest infestations, including bedbug claims
  • Structural defects and code violations

We are deeply familiar with New York City building codes, property maintenance regulations, and industry standards, and we collaborate with leading engineers, architects, and safety experts when technical litigation support is required.

Aggressive Risk Transfer & Indemnification Strategy

In matters involving independent contractors or third-party vendors, we pursue early tenders of defense and seek indemnity based on contract terms and insurance endorsements. We also litigate additional insured coverage disputes with co-defendants and insurance carriers, protecting our clients' interests and shifting liability wherever legally appropriate.

Early Defense and Case Resolution Tactics

From the outset of each case, MDAFP pursues early resolution strategies through:

  • Motions to dismiss based on lack of notice, trivial defects, or open and obvious conditions
  • Analysis of surveillance footage, inspection logs, and maintenance records
  • Review of medical records to identify degenerative or pre-existing injuries
  • Alternative dispute resolution, including mediation and arbitration

When trial is necessary, our experienced litigators are fully prepared to defend property owners in court and through the appellate process.




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