New York Court Help

Which Courts Handle Civil Legal Problems?

In New York State, many courts handle civil legal problems.

The court you use depends on the type of problem.

Use the scroll bar to search the information below.

Problem Court That Handles It
Housing/Landlord-Tenant New York City:
NEW YORK CITY CIVIL COURT

Outside New York City:
Your local
CITY COURT
TOWN COURT
VILLAGE COURT
DISTRICT COURT (L.I.)
Small Claims
(Money damages up
to $5,000) 		New York City:
NEW YORK CITY CIVIL COURT

Outside New York City:
Your local
CITY COURT
DISTRICT COURT (L.I.)
TOWN & VILLAGE COURTS   (up to $3,000)
Lawsuits seeking money damages up to $15,000 Outside New York City:
Your local CITY COURT
DISTRICT COURT (L.I.)
Lawsuits seeking money damages up to $25,000 New York City:
NEW YORK CITY CIVIL COURT

Outside New York City:
Your county's COUNTY COURT
Lawsuits seeking money damages of more than $25,000 Your county's SUPREME COURT
Wills, estates, and property of deceased persons Your county's SURROGATE'S COURT
Lawsuits to stop, regulate, or supervise private or governmental activities Your county's SUPREME COURT




New York State Unified Court System