Notice of Claim Information Sheet

This form is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice. The attorneys in the Corporation Counsel’s Office represent the City of Utica as a Municipal Corporation. They do not represent individual citizens and cannot give legal advice to individuals. For legal advice you should see your own attorney. The City is governed by New York State General Municipal Law §50-e with regard to Notice of Claim procedures. The information contained herein is in no way intended to alter or supersede the requirements of the New York State General Municipal Law.

1. A Notice of Claim must be properly served upon the City Clerk first, and in the event that the City Clerk is unavailable, upon Corporation Counsel within ninety (90) days after the date of occurrence/accident.

2. A Notice of Claim consists of a written statement specifically describing the circumstances of the occurrence/accident and a description of the alleged damages the date, time, location and circumstances of the accident or occurrence (however, see #3 below). The Notice of Claim must be signed by the person making the claim and his or her signature must be notarized. Please include your name, post office address, telephone number and that of your attorney, if any. Forms for Notice of Claim Against a Municipality may be purchased at a local office supply store but no specific form is required.

3. Do not include the monetary amount of damages in the wording of the Claim. You may, however, attach an estimate(s) of the damages allegedly sustained by you, police report, photos or any other supporting documentation which you feel supports your claim.

4. The procedures set forth herein may be handled by you or your attorney.

5. A Notice of Claim may be submitted by registered or certified mail or in person to:

The Corporation Counsel’s Office

Utica City Hall

1 Kennedy Plaza

Utica, New York 13502

The City of Utica does not accept service of Notices of Claim via facsimile or electronic mail.

Please note: Any correspondence and/or conversation with a City official or employee prior to submitting a proper Notice of Claim constitutes neither an admission of liability on the part of the City of Utica nor a waiver of the Notice of Claim requirements pursuant to the General Municipal Law of New York State. Investigation will commence following receipt of a proper Notice of Claim.

Please take notice that mere acceptance of a Notice of Claim by the City Clerk or Office of the Corporation Counsel is not to be construed that such Claim will be paid by the City.