The Law Office of
Andrew L. Hoffman, P.C.
What Types of Cases Does the Firm Handle?
The Law Office of Andrew L. Hoffman represents clients in high-stakes civil disputes involving allegations of serious misconduct. While the firm represents both plaintiffs and defendants depending on the circumstances, its practice has increasingly focused on civil defense litigation, particularly in matters involving substantial financial, professional, or reputational consequences. The firm is also frequently retained by other attorneys to assist with complex motion practice, legal research, trial work, and litigation strategy.
Police Misconduct
The firm continues to represent individuals whose constitutional rights have been violated through false arrest, malicious prosecution, excessive force, unlawful searches, fabricated evidence, and related civil rights violations. These cases have been a cornerstone of the firm's practice since its founding.
Adult Survivors Act, Child Victims Act & Sexual Misconduct Litigation
The firm has substantial experience defending individuals and organizations against claims brought under New York's Adult Survivors Act ("ASA"), Child Victims Act ("CVA"), and related allegations of sexual assault, sexual abuse, sexual harassment, and other intentional torts. These cases often involve substantial financial exposure and significant reputational harm. The firm approaches them with discretion, careful factual investigation, and vigorous advocacy. Although the firm's recent experience has been primarily on the defense side, it will also represent plaintiffs in appropriate cases.
Business & Personal Civil Disputes
The firm also represents clients in a broad range of civil disputes involving fraud, defamation, assault and battery, employment-related claims, contract disputes, business disagreements, and other matters involving significant personal or financial consequences. Every case begins with a careful evaluation of the facts, the applicable law, and the client's objectives before determining the best course forward.
What You Can Expect From Me
Litigation is stressful. My job is not only to advocate for you in court, but also to help you understand what is happening and why. I believe clients deserve honest advice, prompt communication, and careful preparation. I'll tell you when your case is strong, and I'll also tell you when it isn't. My goal is to help you make informed decisions at every stage of the process.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I just learned that someone intends to sue me. What should I do?
A: Don't ignore it, but don't panic either. Avoid contacting the other party, preserve emails, text messages, social media posts, photographs, and other documents, and speak with an attorney before making statements that could later become evidence. Early legal advice often prevents avoidable mistakes.
Q: I've already been served with a lawsuit. How much time do I have to respond?
A: Deadlines are important and vary depending on how and where the lawsuit was served. Failing to respond on time can result in a default judgment. If you've been served, contact an attorney as soon as possible so your rights can be protected.
Q: What happens during our first meeting?
A: We'll discuss what happened, review any documents you have, identify the strengths and weaknesses of the case, and talk honestly about your options. Sometimes litigation is appropriate. Sometimes an early resolution or different strategy makes more sense. My goal is to give honest and practical advice—not simply tell you what you want to hear.
Q: How long does a lawsuit usually take?
A: Every case is different. Some resolve within months. Others take several years. The timeline depends on the complexity of the issues, the court's schedule, the amount of discovery required, and the willingness of the parties to negotiate. I'll keep you informed throughout the process so you always understand where your case stands.
Q: Will my case go to trial?
A: Most civil lawsuits resolve before trial through dismissal, settlement, or other negotiated resolution. However, every case should be prepared as though it may ultimately be tried before a judge or jury. Careful preparation often produces the best settlement opportunities.
Q: Can a case settle even if I deny the allegations?
A: Yes. Settlement is not necessarily an admission of wrongdoing. There are many reasons parties resolve lawsuits, including avoiding the expense, uncertainty, and emotional burden of litigation. Whether settlement is appropriate depends on the unique circumstances of each case.
Q: Will my emails, text messages, and social media become evidence?
A: Very often, yes. Modern litigation frequently involves electronic discovery. Text messages, emails, photographs, and social media posts may all become relevant depending on the issues in the case. It's important not to delete potentially relevant information once litigation is anticipated.
Q: What if the allegations against me are false?
A: Civil litigation often involves sharply conflicting accounts of what occurred. Successfully defending these cases requires effective presentation of the evidence. False allegations should never be ignored simply because you believe the truth will eventually come out.
Q: Can someone sue me years after something allegedly happened?
A: It depends. Statutes of limitation vary depending on the type of claim and changes in the law. In recent years, New York enacted legislation such as the Adult Survivors Act and Child Victims Act that temporarily revived certain otherwise time-barred claims. An attorney can evaluate whether a particular claim is timely.
Q: How are legal fees handled?
A: Plaintiff matters are often contingency, with the firm's fees being covered by a percentage of the trial or settlement proceeds. Defense matters are generally hourly.