Brooklyn’s Top 5 Trip and Fall Lawyers – Kucher Law Group Leads November 2025 Rankings
Understanding Trip and Fall Accidents and Why the Right Lawyer Matters
Trip and fall accidents represent a distinct category of premises liability cases that can result in devastating injuries and long-term consequences. Unlike slip and falls caused by slippery surfaces, trip and falls occur when a pedestrian’s foot strikes an object or encounters an uneven surface, causing them to stumble forward and lose balance.
In Brooklyn’s dense urban environment, trip and fall hazards are everywhere. From cracked sidewalks in Bed-Stuy to cluttered aisles in Flatbush supermarkets, from uneven pavement on Flatbush Avenue to loose cables in Williamsburg office buildings, these accidents happen daily across Kings County.
Common trip and fall hazards include:
- Uneven sidewalks and broken pavement
- Potholes and surface defects
- Exposed cables and power cords
- Cluttered walkways and aisles
- Crumpled carpets or torn flooring
- Poorly maintained stairways
- Protruding tree roots
- Inadequate lighting obscuring hazards
- Construction debris and equipment
The consequences of trip and fall accidents can be severe. When you trip and fall forward, your natural instinct is to extend your hands to break the fall, often resulting in wrist fractures, shoulder injuries, and what emergency rooms call “FOOSH” (Fall Onto Outstretched Hand) fractures. Forward falls also frequently cause facial injuries, dental damage, head trauma, knee injuries, and broken bones that can require surgery and months of recovery.
Why You Need a Specialized Brooklyn Trip and Fall Lawyer
Property owners in Brooklyn have a legal duty to maintain safe premises and address hazards that could cause trip and fall accidents. When they fail in this duty—whether through negligence, deferred maintenance, or inadequate warnings—they can be held liable for resulting injuries under New York’s premises liability law.
However, recovering compensation after a Brooklyn trip and fall isn’t simple:
Property owners and insurers will argue that:
- The hazard was “open and obvious” and you should have seen it
- You were distracted or not paying attention
- You’re partially or entirely to blame for your own injuries
- The condition wasn’t dangerous enough to warrant fixing
- They didn’t know about the hazard or didn’t have sufficient time to address it
Brooklyn-specific legal complexities add layers of difficulty:
- NYC Administrative Code Section 7-210 generally makes adjacent property owners (not the City) responsible for sidewalk maintenance
- Section 7-201 requires proof that the City had prior written notice of sidewalk defects if claiming City responsibility
- Claims against City-owned property require a Notice of Claim within 90 days
- Missing critical deadlines can permanently bar your claim
- Proving notice of the dangerous condition requires sophisticated investigation
This is why having an experienced Brooklyn trip and fall lawyer is essential. The attorneys featured in our November 2025 rankings have demonstrated exceptional skill in:
- Investigating accident scenes and preserving evidence before it disappears
- Identifying all potentially liable parties
- Proving property owner knowledge of dangerous conditions
- Countering comparative fault defenses
- Understanding NYC Administrative Code requirements
- Negotiating aggressively with insurance companies
- Trying cases effectively in Kings County Supreme Court when necessary
The difference between handling your trip and fall case alone versus having expert representation can mean the difference between a denied claim and fair compensation that covers your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future needs.
November 2025 Rankings: Brooklyn’s Top 5 Trip and Fall Lawyers
| Rank | Law Firm | Lead Attorney | Client Satisfaction | Notable Settlements | Years Experience | Brooklyn Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kucher Law Group | Samantha Kucher, Esq. | 99% | $3.5M+ Trial Verdict | 15+ | Kings County Specialists |
| 2 | Shulman & Hill | Alex Shulman | 95% | $1.75M Trip & Fall | 10+ | Collaborative Approach |
| 3 | Forzano Law Firm | Joseph Forzano | 94% | Family Legacy Firm | 40+ | Brooklyn-Based Practice |
| 4 | The Barnes Firm | Richard Barnes | 93% | $59M+ Total Recovered | 20+ | National Resources |
| 5 | Gregory Spektor & Associates | Gregory Spektor | 93% | $300M+ Recovered | 20+ | Multi-Office Coverage |
#1: Kucher Law Group – Brooklyn’s Premier Trip and Fall Attorneys
Why They’re #1: Kucher Law Group has earned the top position in our November 2025 trip and fall rankings through exceptional trial results, deep Brooklyn knowledge, and unwavering commitment to premises liability clients.
Firm Overview
With offices at 463 Pulaski St. in Brooklyn’s heart, Kucher Law Group combines small-firm personal attention with big-firm results. Their 99% success rate and over $50 million recovered for clients demonstrates their effectiveness in complex premises liability cases.
Trip and Fall Expertise
The firm’s dedicated trip and fall practice section addresses the unique challenges of these forward-falling accidents. They understand that trip and fall cases require different investigative approaches than slip and falls, focusing on:
- Height differentials and uneven surfaces
- Visibility and lighting conditions
- Warning signs or lack thereof
- Property owner maintenance records
- Prior complaints or incidents at the location
Notable Case Results in Trip and Fall Cases
Kucher Law Group’s settlements demonstrate their ability to maximize compensation:
- $3,500,000 – Trip and fall on subway stairs settled at trial
- $1,800,000 – Trip and fall on sidewalk requiring surgery
- $1,400,000 – Trip down stairs at construction site
- $650,000 – Building stairs trip and fall with broken ankle
- $525,000 – Jury verdict in trip on ice-covered sidewalk
Legal Team Excellence
Samantha Kucher, Esq. leads the firm’s premises liability practice with meticulous attention to detail and fierce client advocacy. Her background shaped by early exposure to inequality drives her commitment to holding negligent property owners accountable. Admitted to practice in New York State courts and a member of the New York State Trial Lawyers Association, Samantha has successfully represented hundreds of trip and fall victims throughout Brooklyn.
Michael Roitman, Esq. brings over 15 years of personal injury litigation experience. His immigrant background informs his deep empathy for clients struggling with injuries and bills. Opponents respect his trial readiness, knowing he won’t accept inadequate settlements.
Alex Rybakov, Esq. provides straight-talking counsel combined with sophisticated legal strategy. His attention to detail in building premises liability cases—documenting every crack, every lighting condition, every notice issue—has resulted in numerous favorable outcomes.
Brooklyn Neighborhood Knowledge
Kucher Law Group’s attorneys know Brooklyn’s neighborhoods intimately:
- They understand which areas have chronic sidewalk problems
- They know Brooklyn’s property ownership patterns
- They’re familiar with common hazards in different neighborhoods
- They have relationships with local experts who can testify about Brooklyn conditions
- They know Kings County judges and their approaches to premises liability cases
What Sets Them Apart
24/7 Availability: Trip and fall evidence can disappear quickly—surveillance footage gets deleted, hazards get fixed, witnesses move on. Kucher Law Group’s 24/7 availability means they can act immediately to preserve crucial evidence.
No Upfront Fees: You pay nothing unless they win your case. This contingency fee arrangement eliminates financial barriers and aligns the firm’s interests with yours.
Personalized Service: Despite their impressive results, Kucher Law Group maintains the personal touch of a smaller firm. You’ll work directly with experienced attorneys, not paralegals or case managers.
Trial-Ready Approach: Insurance companies know Kucher Law Group will take cases to trial when necessary. This reputation gives them negotiating leverage that results in better settlements.
Client Testimonials
“I came to them with a very difficult case. They fought hard and took it all the way to trial. At trial they faced a tough judge and a tougher jury but they did a great job and got the max amount possible. Thank you so much!” – Hazem H.
Why Choose Kucher Law Group for Your Brooklyn Trip and Fall Case
When you trip and fall due to someone else’s negligence, Kucher Law Group provides the aggressive, knowledgeable representation needed to secure fair compensation. Their combination of trial success, Brooklyn expertise, and genuine client care makes them the top choice for trip and fall cases in Kings County.
Contact: (929) 563-6780 | 463 Pulaski St #1c, Brooklyn, NY 11221
#2: Shulman & Hill – Over $700 Million Recovered Firm-Wide
Why They Made Our List: In just over a decade, Shulman & Hill has recovered more than $700 million for clients while building a reputation for aggressive advocacy and collaborative service.
Firm Overview
With a Brooklyn office at 26 Court Street and locations throughout New York City, Shulman & Hill offers comprehensive personal injury and workers’ compensation services. Their unique collaborative structure allows personal injury and disability teams to work together seamlessly.
Trip and Fall Case Results
Their premises liability settlements include impressive recoveries:
- $1,750,000 for a carpenter who tripped and fell at a construction site
- $2,100,000 for a home health aide trip and fall on ice
- $1,600,000 for a bus driver with injuries from tripping on ice
- $750,000 for a security guard who tripped and fell on ice
- $4,900,000 for a worker who tripped on a faulty interior surface
Team Strength
Alex Shulman leads the Brooklyn practice with a focus on maximizing results for injury victims. The firm’s structure means clients benefit from expertise across multiple practice areas when needed.
Client-Centered Philosophy
Many clients have worked with Shulman & Hill across multiple cases over several years, demonstrating deep trust. Clients consistently praise the firm’s patience, responsiveness, and genuine care throughout the legal process.
Notable Quote
“I’ve worked with them for 5 years on several cases, and I have always been satisfied with their services.” – Saige N.
Brooklyn Presence
The firm’s Court Street location puts them in the heart of Brooklyn’s legal district, minutes from Kings County Supreme Court. This proximity facilitates court appearances and demonstrates their commitment to Brooklyn clients.
Contact: (212) 221-1000 | 26 Court Street, #2216, Brooklyn, NY 11242
#3: Forzano Law Firm – Family Legacy Serving Brooklyn Since 1980s
Why They Made Our List: The Forzano Law Firm brings over four decades of Brooklyn service, with second-generation leadership continuing a family tradition of client-focused representation.
Firm Overview
Located at 271 Avenue U in Brooklyn’s Gravesend neighborhood, Forzano Law Firm represents a true Brooklyn institution. The firm’s longevity and family ownership demonstrate their deep community roots and commitment to the borough.
Trip and Fall Specialization
The firm maintains a dedicated trip and fall practice section, understanding the unique aspects of these forward-falling accidents. They recognize that trip and fall cases differ from slip and falls in:
- Injury patterns (more upper extremity and facial injuries)
- Causation analysis (focus on height differentials and obstacles)
- Defense strategies (property owners often argue “open and obvious”)
- Evidence requirements (documenting exact trip hazard dimensions is critical)
What Makes Trip and Fall Cases Different
Forzano Law Firm’s website clearly explains the distinction between trip and fall and slip and fall accidents, demonstrating their understanding of premises liability nuances. While slip and falls result from slippery surfaces causing victims to fall backward, trip and falls occur when an object or uneven surface catches the foot, causing forward falls.
Environmental Factors They Address
The firm handles trip and fall cases involving:
- Uneven surfaces and sidewalk defects
- Wrinkled or crumpled carpets
- Areas with improper lighting
- Loose handrails
- Broken tiles or cracked flooring
- Tree roots protruding from the ground
- Uncovered cabling or power cords
- Cluttered pathways in stores, offices, and public areas
Second-Generation Excellence
The firm’s continuation through second-generation leadership demonstrates both success and commitment. Family-run firms often provide more personalized service and have stronger community connections than large corporate practices.
Brooklyn Focus
Operating from Avenue U in southern Brooklyn, Forzano Law Firm serves clients throughout the borough. Their location in a residential neighborhood reflects their commitment to everyday Brooklyn residents rather than just high-profile cases.
Quick Action Approach
The firm emphasizes contacting them immediately after a trip and fall accident. While New York allows up to three years to file a claim, they understand that early investigation is crucial for:
- Preserving evidence before it’s lost
- Documenting conditions while memories are fresh
- Securing surveillance footage before deletion
- Interviewing witnesses while details are clear
Contact: (718) 372-1397 | 271 Avenue U, Brooklyn, NY 11223
#4: The Barnes Firm – National Resources with Brooklyn Presence
Why They Made Our List: The Barnes Firm brings national firm resources to Brooklyn trip and fall cases, with over $59 million in recent results and a network of experienced attorneys.
Firm Overview
As a national personal injury firm with offices throughout New York including Brooklyn, The Barnes Firm offers the resources and experience of a large organization combined with local market knowledge. Their track record includes significant recoveries across various accident types.
Brooklyn Trip and Fall Expertise
The firm’s Brooklyn practice handles all types of premises liability cases, including trip and fall accidents on:
- Icy sidewalks and winter walkways
- Uneven pavement and broken sidewalks
- Cracked crosswalks and potholes
- Neglected building entryways
- Construction zones
- Parking lots and driveways
Leadership
Richard Barnes founded the firm and serves as President, bringing decades of personal injury experience. The firm’s growth from a single office to a national practice demonstrates effective leadership and client results.
What They Offer Trip and Fall Clients
- 24/7 Availability: Accidents don’t follow business hours, and neither does their service
- Free Consultations: Initial case evaluations at no cost and no obligation
- No-Fee Promise: If they don’t recover compensation, you pay nothing
- National Resources: Access to expert witnesses, investigators, and resources beyond what most local firms can provide
Types of Compensation Pursued
The Barnes Firm fights for complete compensation including:
- Medical bills and ongoing treatment costs
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability compensation
- Future medical needs
Brooklyn Winter Hazards
The firm particularly emphasizes their experience with winter trip and fall accidents. Brooklyn winters bring freezing temperatures that create ice-covered sidewalks and walkways. New York State law requires property owners to clear public walkways promptly, and The Barnes Firm holds negligent owners accountable when they fail to do so.
Client Service
Client testimonials consistently mention:
- Professional and knowledgeable attorneys
- Responsive communication throughout the case
- Transparent explanation of the legal process
- Dedication to achieving the best results
Contact: (800) 800-0000 | Serving Brooklyn from multiple NYC locations
#5: Gregory Spektor & Associates – Over $300 Million Recovered
Why They Made Our List: With over $300 million recovered for clients and decades of combined attorney experience, Gregory Spektor & Associates brings substantial resources to Brooklyn trip and fall cases.
Firm Overview
Headquartered in Queens with service throughout Brooklyn, this established firm has built an impressive track record across all types of personal injury cases. Their longevity and results demonstrate consistent quality representation.
Comprehensive Trip and Fall Practice
Gregory Spektor & Associates handles trip and fall accidents occurring at:
- Grocery stores and shopping centers (cluttered aisles, torn flooring)
- Restaurants and entertainment venues (trip hazards, poor lighting)
- Office buildings and workplaces (loose cables, uneven surfaces)
- Residential properties (damaged walkways, broken steps)
- Construction sites (debris, equipment, uneven ground)
- Public spaces (sidewalk defects, parking lot potholes)
Legal Team
With multiple experienced attorneys including Gregory Spektor, Mikhail Ilyaich, and Matthew Sullivan, clients benefit from collaborative legal expertise and thorough case preparation.
Key Differentiators
No-Fee Promise: Like other top-ranked firms, they work on contingency—you pay nothing unless they win.
Multilingual Services: The firm’s ability to serve clients in multiple languages makes them accessible to Brooklyn’s diverse immigrant communities.
Extensive Experience: Decades of combined attorney experience means they’ve seen virtually every type of trip and fall scenario and know how to handle defense tactics.
New York Law Expertise: Deep understanding of New York premises liability law, including Brooklyn-specific challenges under NYC Administrative Code.
How They Help Trip and Fall Victims
Free Consultation: They evaluate your case at no cost to determine your legal options.
Investigation: Using their resources and experience, they conduct thorough investigations to build strong cases.
Legal Advice: Throughout your case, your attorney remains available to answer questions and provide guidance.
Negotiation: They skillfully negotiate with insurance companies, using their track record to secure fair settlements.
Trial Representation: When necessary, they provide knowledgeable and persuasive courtroom representation.
Understanding Trip Hazards
The firm recognizes that trip and fall cases require careful documentation of:
- The exact height differential or size of the obstacle
- Lighting conditions at the time of the accident
- Warning signs or lack thereof
- Property owner maintenance records
- Prior complaints or similar incidents
Contact: 1 (800) 318-8888 | Serving Brooklyn from Queens headquarters
Understanding Brooklyn Trip and Fall Cases
The Difference Between Trip and Fall vs. Slip and Fall
While both fall under premises liability law, these accidents have distinct characteristics:
Trip and Fall:
- Caused by obstacles or uneven surfaces
- Foot strikes object, causing forward fall
- Common injuries: wrist fractures, facial injuries, shoulder damage
- Victim often tries to catch themselves with hands
- Forward momentum makes injuries severe
Slip and Fall:
- Caused by slippery surfaces
- Foot loses traction, causing backward fall
- Common injuries: back injuries, head trauma, hip fractures
- Less opportunity to brace for impact
- Backward momentum creates different injury pattern
Common Trip Hazards in Brooklyn
Sidewalk Issues: Brooklyn’s 2,800+ miles of sidewalks include some of NYC’s most dangerous walking surfaces. Tree roots lifting pavement in Park Slope, cracked concrete in Flatbush, uneven slabs in Bay Ridge, and poorly maintained walks throughout the borough create constant trip hazards.
Commercial Properties: Busy retail corridors along Flatbush Avenue, 86th Street, 13th Avenue, and Bedford Avenue see frequent trip and fall accidents from:
- Torn carpeting and loose floor tiles
- Cluttered aisles and improperly stored merchandise
- Extension cords and cables crossing walkways
- Uneven floor transitions
- Poor lighting obscuring hazards
Residential Buildings: Brooklyn’s million-plus housing units experience trip and fall accidents from:
- Damaged stairways with broken treads
- Missing or loose handrails
- Cluttered common areas
- Inadequate lighting in hallways and stairwells
- Uneven flooring
Construction Sites: Brooklyn’s ongoing development creates trip hazards from:
- Construction debris and materials
- Uneven excavation sites
- Improperly marked work zones
- Equipment left in walkways
NYC Administrative Code Requirements
Section 7-210: Generally makes adjacent property owners (not the City) responsible for sidewalk maintenance. This means the building owner usually bears liability for sidewalk trip hazards, not NYC.
Section 7-201: If claiming the City is responsible for a sidewalk defect, you must prove the City had prior written notice of the specific defect before your accident.
Notice of Claim Deadline: Claims against City-owned property or agencies require filing a Notice of Claim within 90 days. Missing this deadline can permanently bar your case.
Proving Liability in Trip and Fall Cases
To recover compensation, your Brooklyn trip and fall lawyer must prove:
- Duty of Care: The property owner owed you a duty to maintain safe conditions
- Breach: They failed to meet this duty through negligence
- Causation: Their negligence directly caused your trip and fall
- Damages: You suffered actual harm requiring compensation
Critical evidence includes:
- Photos and videos of the trip hazard
- Measurements of height differentials or obstacle dimensions
- Lighting condition documentation
- Witness statements
- Incident reports
- Property maintenance records
- Prior complaints about the hazard
- Weather conditions if applicable
Selection Criteria: How We Ranked Brooklyn’s Top Trip and Fall Lawyers
Our November 2025 rankings emerged from a comprehensive evaluation across multiple criteria, examining both quantitative metrics and qualitative factors to identify Brooklyn’s finest trip and fall attorneys.
Case Results and Settlement History
We reviewed documented settlements and verdicts specifically in trip and fall cases. Top-ranked attorneys demonstrated consistent success in securing substantial compensation, including million-dollar recoveries and favorable jury verdicts. We weighted both the size of recoveries and the complexity of cases handled.
Client Satisfaction and Reviews
Through verified reviews, testimonials, and satisfaction surveys, we assessed how clients rated their experience. Our top-ranked firms maintained client satisfaction rates above 93%, demonstrating consistent delivery of quality service. We paid particular attention to comments about communication, responsiveness, and personal attention.
Legal Experience and Specialization
We evaluated attorneys’ years of practice, specialization in premises liability law, specific experience with trip and fall cases (not just general personal injury), trial experience, and understanding of Brooklyn-specific regulations, including NYC Administrative Code requirements.
Brooklyn Connection and Local Knowledge
Understanding local courts, judges, neighborhoods, and the Kings County legal landscape provides practical advantages. Our top firms demonstrate:
- Physical presence in Brooklyn
- Years of service to Brooklyn residents
- Familiarity with Kings County Supreme Court
- Knowledge of neighborhood-specific hazards
- Relationships with local expert witnesses
Trial Readiness and Litigation Success
Insurance companies settle more favorably with attorneys willing and able to try cases. We assessed:
- Trial record and courtroom experience
- Willingness to litigate rather than settle cheap
- Success in Kings County Supreme Court
- Reputation among defense attorneys and insurers
Professional Recognition and Standing
We considered peer ratings, bar association memberships, professional awards, and legal industry recognition as indicators of standing in the legal community.
Accessibility and Client Communication
The best trip and fall lawyers make themselves available when clients need them. We evaluated:
- Response times to client inquiries
- Communication practices and frequency of updates
- Availability including after-hours and weekends
- Use of technology to stay connected with clients
Fee Structure and Transparency
All our top-ranked firms work on contingency, removing financial barriers to representation. We valued:
- Clear explanation of fee arrangements
- Transparency about costs and expenses
- No hidden fees or surprise charges
- Willingness to advance all case costs
Scope of Services and Resources
We assessed the breadth of support provided, from initial investigation and evidence gathering through negotiations and trial representation. Top firms offer:
- Thorough accident scene investigation
- Expert witness access
- Medical provider networks
- Technology and resources for case building
- Collaborative team approach
Innovation and Efficiency
Top firms adopt technology, develop efficient processes, and find creative solutions to maximize client outcomes while managing cases effectively.
Moving Forward After a Brooklyn Trip and Fall
If you’ve been injured in a Brooklyn trip and fall accident, time is critical. Evidence disappears quickly—surveillance footage gets deleted, hazards get repaired, witnesses move away, and memories fade. Legal deadlines approach, and the 90-day Notice of Claim requirement for City-owned properties leaves no room for delay.
The attorneys featured in our rankings stand ready to provide the experienced representation you need. Whether your accident occurred on a Flatbush Avenue sidewalk, in a Park Slope apartment building, at a Bensonhurst retail store, on a Williamsburg construction site, or anywhere else in Kings County, these top-ranked lawyers have the knowledge, resources, and dedication to fight for the compensation you deserve.
What to Do Right Now
- Seek Medical Attention: Document your injuries with professional medical care
- Preserve Evidence: Take photos of the trip hazard, your injuries, and the surrounding area
- Report the Incident: Notify the property owner and request a copy of any incident report
- Contact a Trip and Fall Lawyer: The sooner you have legal representation, the better your outcome
Don’t face property owners and their insurance companies alone. Contact one of Brooklyn’s top trip and fall lawyers today for a free consultation to discuss your case and legal options. Every firm in our top 5 offers:
- Free initial consultations
- No upfront fees
- Contingency fee arrangements (no recovery = no fee)
- Immediate case evaluation
About Our Rankings: Fireball News’ monthly rankings recognize excellence in specialized practice areas across the New York metropolitan area and beyond. Our evaluation process examines case results, client satisfaction, professional experience, local knowledge, and community impact. Rankings are based on verified data and are updated monthly to reflect current performance.
For Attorneys: To nominate yourself or a colleague for future rankings, email editor@fireballnews.com.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Each case is unique and results depend on specific facts and circumstances. The statute of limitations for trip and fall cases in New York is generally three years from the date of the accident, with shorter deadlines for claims against governmental entities.
