Victims of crime often feel powerless, especially when the attack happened somewhere that should have been safe. But under New York law, you may have the right to file a negligent security claim against the property owner or manager who failed to provide a reasonably secure environment. At Leitner Warywoda, we help individuals across NYC and Long Island take action against landlords, businesses, and institutions whose negligence allowed violent incidents to occur.

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Step 1: Seek Medical Care and Report the Incident

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The first and most important step is to get medical attention for your injuries—even if they seem minor. Not only does this protect your health, but it also creates a record of your condition immediately following the incident. Be sure to:

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• Call 911 and file a police report

• Request a copy of the report for your records

• Document the scene if possible (photos, witness info, security camera presence)

• Notify the building owner or property manager in writing

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These early actions help establish a paper trail and demonstrate that you took the event seriously from the start.

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Step 2: Contact a Negligent Security Attorney

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The success of your case often depends on the strength of the investigation. That’s where we come in. A seasoned premises security lawyer will:

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• Identify all potentially liable parties (landlords, businesses, contractors, etc.)

• Investigate prior crimes or complaints at the property

• Subpoena surveillance footage or maintenance records

• Consult with security experts and police

• Build a timeline of what should have been done—and wasn’t

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We handle all communication with insurance companies and opposing counsel, so you don’t have to deal with intimidation tactics or pressure to settle cheap.

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Step 3: Prove the Property Owner Was Negligent

 

To win a negligent security case in New York, we must show that:

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• You were lawfully on the property (as a tenant, guest, customer, etc.)

• The property owner knew or should have known about the risk of crime

• They failed to take reasonable steps to prevent that crime

• You suffered harm as a result of that failure

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Examples of negligence may include poor lighting, lack of cameras, broken entry systems, or ignoring prior assaults. The more evidence we can gather, the stronger your claim.

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Step 4: Seek Full and Fair Compensation

Depending on your injuries, your case may be worth more than you think. You may be entitled to compensation for:

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• Hospital bills, rehabilitation, and therapy

• Lost wages or loss of future earnings

• Pain and suffering

• Emotional distress or PTSD

• Property damage

• Relocation costs, if you no longer feel safe

 

Leitner Warywoda’s attorneys are aggressive negotiators and fearless litigators. We don’t just settle—we fight for what your case is truly worth.