Forum Non Conveniens Dismissal Affirmed

On November 17, 2020, the First Department issued a decision in Diwan v. Grinberg, 2020 NY Slip Op. 06708, affirming a forum non conveniens dismissal, explaining:

The court considered the proper factors for dismissal under CPLR 327, including the burden on the court, the residence of the parties, the location of evidence and witnesses, and the nexus of New York to the claims. Given that this is an action among Mexican shareholders of Bahamian corporations concerning the ownership and control of the corporations, and that the claims are also subject to an ongoing action in the Bahamas, the court providently exercised its discretion in granting Grinberg's motion to dismiss.

(Internal citations omitted).

Disputes regarding commercial contracts involving out-of-state and international parties end up being heard in New York courts. Even if the court has the power to assert jurisdiction of the parties, it can, under the forum non conveniens doctrine discussed above, dismiss the dispute so it can be heard in a forum that is more convenient for the parties. Contact Schlam Stone & Dolan partner John Lundin at jlundin@schlamstone.com if you or a client face a situation where you are unsure whether New York is the appropriate forum in which a dispute should be heard.