In order to succeed on the motion, the defendant must present, in admissible form, evidence that at least one of the claims essential elements cannot be satisfied: (1) the attorney failed to exercise the ordinary reasonable skill and knowledge commonly possessed by a member of the legal profession and (2) the attorney's breach of this duty proximately caused the plaintiff to sustain actual and ascertainable damages. The causation element requires a showing that, but for the lawyer's negligence, the injured party would have prevailed in the underlying action or would not have incurred any damages. The defendant must affirmatively demonstrate the absence of one of the elements of legal malpractice, rather than merely pointing out gaps in the plaintiff's proof.
Aqua-Trol Corp. v. Wilentz, Goldman & Spitzer, P.A.NY Slip Op 04652 (2d Dep't August 11, 2021)
Tomorrow's issue: Appellate practice.
