September 19, 2026

Contract law

Lease provisions purporting to exempt a lessor from liability for its own negligence are void as against public policy. However, where sophisticated parties, negotiating at arm's length, have agreed to allocate between themselves the risk of liability to third parties, through insurance, the agreement is enforceable.

Hearns v. Blended Family, LLC, NY Slip Op 05367 (1st Dep't September 17, 2026)

Here is the decision.