This form in for information 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 of Utica 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 (however, see #3 below). The Notice of Claim must be signed and notarized.  Please include you 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.
   
3. Do not include the monetary amount of damages in the wording of the Claim.  You may, however, attach and estimate(s) police report of any other supporting documentation to the 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 electron 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 proper Notice of Claim.