NY State — NY Real Property Actions & Proceedings Law

§ 1001 — SECTION 1001 Limitation of action for dower

Brooklyn since 2014All five boroughsSame-day response during business hours

Statute text reproduced from nysenate.gov. Not attorney-reviewed for your situation — for reference only.

What is NY RPAPL § 1001?

Quick Answer

This section establishes the time limitations for a widow to commence an action for dower, requiring that such actions be initiated within two years following the death of her husband. It specifies different rules based on whether the husband died before or after April 6, 1954. Applies to widows seeking dower rights.

General informational summary. Not legal advice for your situation. Consult an attorney before acting on any specific matter.

Michael Nacmias - Founding PartnerMichael Sargo - Partner
From the team atNacmias Law Firm, PLLCBrooklyn-based attorneys representingproperty owners across all five boroughsMeet the team →

§ 1001 SECTION 1001 Limitation of action for dower

RPAPL § 1001

1.An action for dower must be commenced by a widow within two years after the death of her husband, if the husband dies on or after April 6, 1954.

2.If the husband died before April 6, 1954, an action for dower must be commenced by his widow within two years from April 6, 1954. If the widow had, on April 6, 1954, less than two years under existing law in which to bring an action for dower, the time so remaining is not enlarged by this section. Nothing herein contained shall revive a cause of action barred on April 6, 1954.

Common Questions

Our team

Meet the people you will work with

Free case review

Talk to an attorney before you act on NYC code.

Free 15-minute case review with the attorney handling your matter. Same-day response during business hours across all five boroughs — OATH hearings, Housing Court, and real estate closings.

Or email us

[email protected]

An attorney reads every message.

  • Same-day response

    During business hours

  • Direct attorney access

    Same lawyer from intake to close

  • Flat-fee pricing

    On most OATH and closing matters