Legal Question in Criminal Law in New York

Hello, I am curious if a company in New Zealand can take legal action against someone who is located in the USA and is a citizen of USA.


Asked on 1/21/12, 8:22 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Edward Hoffman Law Offices of Edward A. Hoffman

Yes. Our legal system does not shield Americans who wrong foreigners, including foreign corporations. There is no reason why it should, since such a rule would only encourage wrongdoing. It would thus be unjust. It would also encourage other countries to let their citizens get away with harming Americans, which is something we don't want.

Depending upon the facts, the New Zealand company might sue you in the U.S. or in New Zealand. Any judgment it obtained in New Zealand would almost certainly be recognized and enforced by American courts, though the company would have to jump through a couple of legal hoops first.

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Answered on 1/21/12, 8:38 pm


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