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Our thoughts are with the communities, families, and first responders and all those affected by the California wildfires.

Our thoughts are with the communities, families, and first responders and all those affected by the California wildfires.

Overview

Melissa Cartaya focuses her practice on professional liability, employment law, labor law, and general liability defense.  In the area of professional liability, Ms. Cartaya defends professionals including lawyers, architects, engineers, and insurance brokers. She also litigates and participates in trials of insurance defense cases, involving premises liability and vertical transportation matters related to elevator and escalator personal injury. As part of her practice, Ms. Cartaya represents those in construction trades including subcontractors and handles matters relating to construction delay claims and alleged contractual construction damages.

Ms. Cartaya also represents and advises business and property owners on matters including allegations of discrimination, and other violations of federal and state civil rights statutes, including the ADA and the New York State and City Human Rights laws. 

She is fluent in Spanish. As a first-generation American, Ms. Cartaya is passionate about being part of the American justice system. 

Admissions

  • New York
  • Florida
  • U.S. District Court
    • U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York
    • U.S. District Court, Eastern District of New York
    • U.S. District Court, Northern District of New York

Education

  • Lehigh University, B.A., cum laude
  • American University, Washington College of Law, J.D.

Professional Memberships

  • Westchester County Bar Association

Recognitions and Awards

  • Super Lawyers®, New York Metro, “Rising Star” —2020 -2024

    Speaking Engagements

    • “Cyber Risk Management for New Lawyers,” CLE, Bronx County Bar Association, 10-18-2023

Awards & Honors

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Mansfield Rule Certified 2023 Super Lawyers Super Lawyers Best Law Firms 2025 Martindale Hubbel AV Preeminent Law 360