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Comments: NYC Surrogate's Courts

Mr. Stephen C.
Kings County Surrogates Court
2 Johnson Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201

RE: EMPLOYEES ROCHEL W. & AREMA W.

Dear Mr. C.:

I am writing this letter personally to commend two of the Kings County Surrogate's Court employees. While I have worked for over 30 years serving the legal profession, including a number of years in a District Attorney's office, I am relatively new to the area of trusts and estates. Regardless of the area of law, I think you will agree that we are in the business of delivering legal services.

Arema W. and Rochel W. are to be commended because they are employees that serve the office of the Kings County Surrogate by truly serving the public by taking initiative toward effective problem resolution. What struck me was their willingness to go the extra mile in answering my inquiry while others conveniently dismissed the situation. When all was said and done, the problem was resolved and there was a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction, all because these two employees took the extra effort to check the court file and investigate the situation.

When it comes to getting the job done and an inquiry answered, you can be sure that I will look forward to working with Arema and Rochel again.

Very truly yours,

Diane L. F.

Stephen C.
Chief Clerk Surrogate's Court
2 Johnson Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201

Dear Mr. C.: My wife Gloria, and I recently had the necessity to visit your Guardianship office in connection with the filing of a Guardianship Petition.

This letter is to let you know how pleased we were by the excellent assistance of Eileen M., the Guardianship Clerk.

Her patient care led us through each of the requirements and forms, with charity and understanding. Our experience in her office was top notch. You are lucky to have her on board.... and so are we.

We just thought that once in a while, you should receive a letter of compliments, rather than letters of complaint.

LJR:rs

Very truly yours,

IRA J. R.

Surrogate's Court Kings County
Attn: Steven F. C.
2 Johnson Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201

Re: Guardianship of Janel Marie P.
Index No.: 2921/2005

Dear Mr. C.:

I'd like to take this opportunity to thank Surrogate's Court, and in particular clerk Walter V. C., for assistance in filing a guardianship petition on behalf of my Client Virginia P.

Ms. P. will be the estate representative in a wrongful death action that I must file by September 12. Given the short time frame between now and September 12th , I was very concerned about all the various Surrogate's Court orders that I had to file and obtain before I could file the wrongful death action. Mr. C. assisted me in the guardianship petition in a way that few clerks have ever done before in my career as a lawyer. The fact that I never filed a guardianship before made it all the more difficult for me. Thank you again for Mr. C.'s help.

Very truly yours,

Martin J. C. Esq.

Judge Albert T.
King's County Surrogate Court
2 Johnson Street, 3rd Floor
Brooklyn, New York 11201

Dear Judge T.:

I received the most excellent service during the past weeks from Rochelle and Reggie in the Cashier's Office of the King's County Surrogate Court. I met them for the first time during my contacts with the Cashier's Office and they left me with a positive lasting impression of what good service is and should become.

Rochelle and Reggie went far beyond the call of duty in helping to expedite my request for an authenticated Last Will and Testament to be sent to a city government office in North Carlina. In so doing, Rochelle and Reggie were not only efficient, businesslike and helpful, but they also gave a wonderful image of King's County Surrogate Court in its daily operations.

Thank you for attending to this letter. Please convey my warm and sincere compliments to Rochelle and Reggie. I wanted to send Rochelle and Reggie flowers for being kind and caring. However, they refused and humbly and said, "Thank you". I believe Rochelle and Reggie were happy to be helpful.

Sincerely,

Ann Garrett R.

Surrogate's Court Kings County
Johnson Street
Brooklyn, N.Y. 11201

Stephen F. C.
Chief Clerk Dear

Mr. Stephen F. C.:

I Mr. Leonard J., came to the surrogates court, county of kings on or about July 8 to file some papers as it related to surrogate matters, I was received by Mr. W. C. , Jr. Mr. C. gave my attorney and me one of the most wonderful help in terms of making sure that all documents where in place and thus properly filed, I f most of the people that works in the court system was like Mr. C., I believe that our court system will be one of the best operating court system, once again, If only employees of this system will treat people like Mr.W. C. does, our system will be a better system.

Respectfully,

Leonard J.

Surrogate's Court of Kings County
2 Johnson Street - Room 222
Brooklyn, New York 11201

Re: Employee Relations

Dear Sir:

I would like to bring to your attention to a very efficient worker. I rarely send letters of commendation, but I felt compelled to praise Reginald P. in the cashier's department.

In this day and age of hurry up and wait, Mr. P. is a breath of fresh air. I recently requested an exemplified copy of a petition and asked Mr. P. the fee. Mr. P. answered all my questions in a clear and concise manner. He asked me for the file number and told me that he would have the copies ready when I arrived. He was true to his word; the records were waiting. He even smiled.

Very truly yours,

Ralph D. Jr.
RDS/lj

To: Ms. B.:

That was really nice of you. Thank you for taking the time to explain the process of establishing an estate. I know that you were doing your job, but you did it w/ "EXCELLENCE"

Thank you.

Ms. Tonya H. & Ms. Katrina B.
(Daughters of Mrs. B.)

Hon. Stephen C.
Clerk, Surrogates Court
2 Johnson Street
Brooklyn, N.Y. 11201

Dear Sir:

Permit me to congratulate you on having in your employ a man who understands his function - to serve the public capably.

On the several occasions I have had to deal with Mr. Jim D. (in the Surrogates' Court record room) he has demonstrated courtesy, competency, understanding and sensitivity to the needs of the public.

The citizens of Kings County are fortunate to have Mr. D.'s services and I hope he is sufficiently rewarded for the outstanding job he does everyday.

Very truly yours,

Arthur E.

Surrogate's Court, Kings County
2 Johnson Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201

Attn: Judge F.

Re: Marty S.

Dear Judge F.:

I just wanted to take the time out to tell you that it is a pleasure to have a person such as Marty S. to contact to check on the status of my pending files at the Surrogate's Court. He has been very helpful and responsive to me.

Thank you.

Sincerely,

Karen C. Secretary to Denis B. /kc

Mr. Martin S.
c/o Surrogate's Court: Kings County
2 Johnson Street
Brooklyn, New York 11201

Dear Marty:

In a system over burdened with bureaucrats who expend more effort attempting to avoid their obligations you a maverick like "Breath of Fresh Air". You have an extraordinary interest in your fellow man and you are without a doubt the "Goodwill Ambassador Of the Surrogate's Court". It is my prayer that the Good Lord will grant you many more years of Good Health and Happiness.

Andrew L. S.

Good Morning Mr. C.,

Just a moment of your time, you probably don't remember me. In your line of work, I know you speak to many people seeking help with guardianship, adoption etc., I spoke with you briefly, in the company of your supervising clerk Mr. Walter C.. I would like to take this time to commend and thank you and your staff for working with me on behalf of my niece Hamarenee W., Especially Mr. C. who at anytime, I called gave me the right information as what I needed to do, he even walked over to the other courts to see if the situation could be handled there. He was always available polite and very professional. He knows his job and does it thoroughly. Its not to many things he doesn't know concerning his job. When Mr. C. was in doubt he would go to any lengths, to get the correct information. As he did, with me asking you about my situation. You see my niece is 27 yrs old and mentally challenged. Her mother died 6 yrs ago, she was placed in some awful and unhealthy situations. People kept her simply because, she received a check. I've been in her life from the moment she was born. I love her and she loves me. I have medical guardianship. We are waiting for permanent guardianship. Thank God and your office that we made it this far. Again please thank Mr. C., Ms. B. and all concerned for all courtesies extended to hamar and myself. And a big thank you to you for having such a professional staff.

God Bless you & yours

Sincerely,

Renee P. & Hamarenee W.

Hon. Michael H. F.
Surrogate - Kings County
2 Johnson Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201

Dear Judge F.: It is very seldom that I write a letter of this type but I felt that the time has come to bring to your attention that quality of a member of your staff, namely, Madeleine R..

During the past several years, I have had several interactions with the Miscellaneous Department, the latest of which was today, and on each occasion I requested to see Madeleine R. The reason for this request was that on every prior occasion Madeleine was extremely concerned about the problem that I brought to her and after listening to me, she proceeded to take immediate steps to help with the matter that I presented to her.

I have found Madeleine not only to be extremely courteous and caring but very knowledgeable in Surrogate Court procedures. While I can state generally that your staff in the various departments of the court are helpful, I particularly want to take this opportunity to single our Madeleine for her fine efforts whenever I presented a problem to her. She has provided immediate solutions so that I could move forward in a positive manner.

In conclusion, let me congratulate you on having such a fine person on your staff.

Very truly yours,

Michael J. F.

MJF:ls
cc: Madeleine R., Esq.

Stephen F. C., Chief Clerk
Surrogate's Court, Kings County
2 Johnson Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201

Dear Mr. C.: I take the opportunity to express my appreciation for some really out-of-the-ordinary assistance I received last week, from the Court's Administration Clerk, Kevin M., and the Guardianship Clerk, Walter V. C..

I had telephoned Mr. M. in order primarily to see if I could arrange to have mailed to me the appropriate forms for commencing a proceeding for the issuance of letters of administration, involving a somewhat unusual combination of circumstances ( a decedent whose only known asset is a civil R.I.C.O. cause of action against an extortionist; four surviving children, two of whom are minors and one of whom was born out of wedlock, living with two different out-of- state mothers; and so on). To my great pleasure, Mr. McT. got interested enough to give me some excellent preliminary guidance over the phone as to what would be needed and what wouldn't, then to put me in touch directly with Mr. C. to check as to the proper jurisdictions and forms for the parents of the minors to apply for guardianship of their property, and finally to send me a carefully though out- and partially annotated - set of the requisite forms, including the Guardianship petitions he'd collected from Mr. C..

After my talk with Mr. M., I encountered with Mr. C. the same spirit of patience, interest and cooperation, in the process whereby he, too, took the time to educate me via telephone concerning some of the parameters of the guardianship aspects of my administrator's situation.

Having experienced, in over 38 years of practice, many a less-than-satisfactory experience when seeking assistance from court personnel, I am particularly grateful when I encounter the kind of over-and-above-the-call cooperation that both these gentlemen accorded me. Thanks to them, and to yourself for harboring them.

Yours truly,

Harvey S.

Ms. Madeline R.
Surrogate's Court Kings County
2 Johnson Street, Room 212
Brooklyn, N.Y. 11201

Dear Madeline:

Re: Rev. Ralph J. G.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you and your staff for all the help in having my document signed by the judge and processed as quickly as you did. Again, thank you.

Sincerely,

Fr. Ralph

To: Steven F. C.
From: Brother J.C. A.
Subject: Praise

Chief Clerk Surrogate's Court
Kings County
2 Johnson Street
Brooklyn, New York 11201

Dear Sir: Just a Few words to let you know how a "Door Works" Egress-Ingress of Room #213 during my trails fo seeking papers in a custody case. I had the privilege of service of two (2) of the fineness people of your service. Due to my sickness I was unable to be a efficient in doing service. Due to my sickness I was unable to be a efficient in doing what was required of me as a petitioner for my Son's case. The help that I received in the "Room" has Exemplified what I said upon my retirement farewell party Quote "A job is only as good as to what you put into it." Unquote The persons by names are Mister Walter V. C. Jr. And Mrs. Anabel S. commended for 1. Humility 2. Dignity 3. Compassion 4. Honesty what a joy it is to go through such "doors" of the whole building and truly feel so greeted by the officers at the revolving "doors" Please feel the pride and joy of this writer of the true "Blessing" of privilege to have been serviced by such fine people as the two afore mention. There is much more that I feel in my heart but I did say a few words.

Thank you.

Sincerely Brother J.C. A.

Honorable Stephen F. C.
Clerk of the Court
Surrogate's Court of Kings County
2 Johnson Street
Brooklyn, New York 11201

Re: Petition To Appoint A Guardian For The Infant Allesio Paul V. Kings County Surrogate's Court File No. 478-2004

Dear Mr. C.: I write to express my appreciation for the efficiency and dispatch with which my client's application to be appointed temporary guardian of her brother's property was handled by the Surrogate and your office. Thanks to the timely grant of temporary letters of guardianship I was able to file a notice of claim on behalf of the infant before the statute of limitations ran out.

I am particularly grateful for the invaluable assistance rendered by Guardianship Clerk Walter V. C. and his assistant, Ms. Anabel S., who both helped me prepare the applications for guardianship and temporary letters. You are fortunate to have such dedicated and committed public servants working in your office.

Sincerely yours,

Ronald M.

c: Mr. Walter V. C.e, Jr.
Ms. Anabel S.

City of New York
Chief Clerk Office
Steven F. C.
Surrogates's Court
Kings County

Dear Sir:

I Mr. Junius A. take this time to say how grateful I am at the service I received. During my quest for assistance in a child custody case I had the privilege of the service of an Angle, Ms. A. S. a Clerk in the Surrogate System. I am very sick and in the month of October and November The help she rendered to this man must be commended for her kindness, compassion and humility. Whereas a Retired Federal Employee I find in this day and time to many people forget the pure since of assistive kindly service to the public. The way Ms. A. handled this the writer must be Honorable mention I pray every day for "God" to assist me in my efforts to do these things I have to do, then I thank him for those that were assistive to me everyday. This is just a letter now truly trying to say how grateful this man truly is for the love of this humble women that is truly a child of "God". Again I say thank you..

Mr. Junius A.
Brooklyn, NY 11203

Surrogate's Court of the State of New York
County of Kings
2 Johnson Street
Brooklyn, New York 11201

Dear Mr. F.:

I am an attorney who practices in New York State. In a recent Surrogates matter I had before the court I encountered various obstacles. One of the employees in the guardian department, Mr. Walter C., was extremely helpful in guiding me through the process. On several occasions I found myself at an impasse, Mr. C. was always willing and did take the time to go over the matter with me.

In my eleven years of practice I have yet to encounter an employee as helpful as Mr. C., In today's society where one is apt to believe that government employees are not helpful or courteous, Mr. C. certainly proves them wrong. I commend your Court on having such an outstanding employee.

May you and your staff have a happy holiday and a prosperous new year.

Sincerely,

Ingrid W.

Letter of Appreciation

To: Anabel S.

Thanks for your aid and assistance relative to successor Guardianship, file # 1989-01439, Granted 02/24/03.

Your helpful and courteous demeanor is an asset of the Court.

Sincerely,

Paul C.

Quality Service Division
Office of Court Administration
Alfred E. Smith Building
P.O. Box 7040 Albany, NY 12214-0256

To Whom It May Concern:

Recently, I had an intractable problem regarding appointment of a guardian for two (2) minor litigants.

I went to the Guardianships Clerk's Office, at the Surrogate's Court, Kings County, to request assistance.

At this office, I was assisted by Walter V. C., Jr., and Sheila D. They were both exceedingly cooperative, courteous and helpful.

Thanks to the patience and assistance, my problems were solved.

I wish to highly commend both of these two (2) people. If everyone in the Court system was as helpful and friendly as they were, I am quite certain the public in general and lawyers, in particular, will find going to court a far more pleasant experience.

Very truly yours,

Peter R.

PDR:ar

Mr. Stephen C.:
Chief Clerk
NYS Surrogate's Court
2 Johnson Street
Brooklyn, NY, 11201
Dear Mr. C.:
As a genealogy researcher, I have visited your Record Room regularly over the last five years.
I have found the organization, security and service to be vastly better in the recefit years, since Jim D. took over.
The days, of allowing researchers access to the files in the basement and behind the counter has ended and the service by record room employees has improved.
Many thanks to you for these improvements.

Charles T.

Surrogate 's Court Kings County
2 Johnson Street, Room 222
Brooklyn, New York 11201
Attn .: Supervisor
Dear Sir,

Recently, I wrote a letter asking for the procedure to obtain information pertaining to my Aunt 's Last Will and Testament, which dated back to 1986. It was my good fortune that the request was handled by your employee, Ms. Patricia B.. I am pleased to inform you,. that Ms. B. was both professional and easy to work with. My request was originally answered quicker than I ever expected. I thought for certain it would be buried under piles of more important paperwork. After filling out the request form, and addressing it to the attention of Ms. B., I had all the information that I ordered faster than I hoped. Please relay to Ms. B. my sincere appreciation for a job well done, and my gratitude for completing it so quickly. If Ms. B. is always so thorough and dedicated to her job she deserves much praise. For me, she made what I thought was going to be a very long drawn out and expensive process extremely simple and painless. Prior to writing to Ms. B. I had been informed by a lawyer that I would need to hire an attorney to search for the documents I wanted. I appreciate her attention to my request and her competence that allowed me to avoid involving a lawyer.

Sincerely,

Sandra J. Q.

HON. MICHAEL H. F.
SURROGATE
SURROGATE'S COURT
KINGS COUNTY
2 Johnson Street
BROOKLYN NY 11201

Re : Est . of George A. J., dec'd.
File No . 187-1985
Dear Judge F. :

The services of Mrs. Miriam S., Court Attorney, in helping to terminate an accounting proceeding that seemed more and more of an impossibility cannot be sufficiently praised .

Her diligence, her patience, her courtesy and, most of all , her skill never faltered .

We wish to publicly thank Mrs. S., and also the Surrogate's Court, in helping all concerned to end something that seemed endless and to help assuage as much as possible the rancor that inheres in family difficulties that go awry .

Very truly yours,

ROBERT P. W.

Hon. Michael H. F., Surrogate
Surrogate 's Court- Kings County
2 Johnson Street
Rrooklynt New York 11201

Re: ESTATE OF ADA C. LEGAL
File No. 4321/1998
Proceeding for Authorization to Sell Real Property and Remove Restrictions
Dear Surrogate F.:
I want to commend: you for having Ms. Madeline R. on your staff and in the position as Chief Clerk of the Accounting Department. Recently I advised her of the urgency for the appointment of a Guardian ad Litem in the above-captioned estate. Despite an extensive case load and her supervisory duties, Ms. R. appreciated the problem and within hours your Honor appointed a Guardian ad Litem.
Ms. R.'s attentiveness and assistance makes it a pleasure to practice in the Kings County Surrogate's Court.
Sincerely yours,

Frederick A M.

cc: Ms. Madeline R., Chief Clerk -Accunting Department

Ms. Joanne B.
Ring Court Surrogate's Court
2 Johnson Street Brooklyn,
New York 11201

Dear Ms. B.:

I wish to express our appreciation to you for your sensitivity to our pressing need for letters of appointment which were necessary in connection with a recent court conference in the Supreme Court.
Throughout: our contacts with you, now and in the past, we have found you to be exceptionally professional; knowledgeable, courteous and understanding.
Dealing with you is always refreshing. You are a credit to your office.
Very truly yours,

Steven E. N.

SEN: ar
enclosures

Steven C.
Chief Clerk
Surrogate 's Court of the State of New York
county of Rings
2 Johnson Street
Brooklyn New York 11201
Dear Mr. C.:

I have been meaning to write this letter for quite a while, and finally have found the time to do so. I am writing to compliment your staffregarding the courtesy and assistance they demonstrate on a daily basis, while dealing with the public and attorneys, two groups that are difficult to please. I especially would Re to say thank you to Walter V. C., Jr., Anabel S. and Gloria M. for their assistance and courtesy. I believe that the good work that people do should be recognized, and ask that you become aware, if you aren't already, of the fine reflection of your leadership that is your staff.

Thank you.
Yours truly,
Stafford L

Mr. Stephen C.
Chief Clerk
Surrogates Court
2 Johnson Street, 3rd Fl.
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Dear Mr. C.:
I want to make you aware of an outstanding and cordial employee in the Surrogate's Clerk office. Her name is Jackie G.

The estate matter that this office handled was complex and needed immediate attention. Ms. G. was extremely informative, and provided us with precise and detailed instructions on how to resolve the dispute.

When Ms. G. realized that this matter involved the sale -of real property she acted promptly so that our client would not lose the sale. Besides all of that, she was just extremely cordial and courteous. She is an employee that the court system should be proud of.

Sincerely,
Stephen D. H

Hon. Michael H. F.
Surrogate, Kings County Surrogate's Court
2 Johnson Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Dear Surrogate F.:
As a practicing attorney I write to commend your court in general and the accounting and misellaneous department of your court in particular.
Courts and clerks are too often criticized unfairly. However, my experience with the personnel of the Kings County Surrogate's Court in whatever department has been excellent, I have been treated courteously, helpfully, patiently and knowledgeably.
My recent experience with Madeline R. of the accounting and miscellaneous department has been especially excellent. Ms. R. is very helpful and understanding, she is a great asset to the court as are the people in her department.
This letter is unsolicited.
Respectfully yours,
Myron J. M

Surrogate Michael F.
Surrogate Court King's County
2 Johnson Street
Brooklyn, New York

Re: Ancillary Probate Proceeding, Will of Eva Mae W.
File No.: 4288/02
Dear Honorable Sir:

I represent Mr. Ronald D. in regard to his petition for ancillary letters to be issued by the Surrogate's Court, Kings County, State of New York. Because the decedent, Eva Mae W., owned real property located at 390 New Lots Avenue, Brooklyn, New York, we filed a petition for ancillary probate of her estate on October 11. Since that time, members of my office and myself have spoken to various clerks and personnel within the Surrogate's Court by phone and in person regarding this matter. Although the process in obtaining these letters has been quite arduous and difficult, I am writing to inform you that Ms. Sarah Z. has proved to be extremely helpful. She has been very patient with my staff and had gone out of her way to ensure that this estate was properly and expeditiously handled. She has been in constant contact with Katherine V., an associate with my firm and has provided Katherine with a step by step detailed analysis on how to go about obtaining ancillary letters. In addition to her communication with Katherine, Sarah has personally visited the Probate Department several times regarding this matter and because she understood the urgency of the situation, she did everything she could possibly do to ensure that this-matter was quickly and properly handled. Without Sarah's help, this matter would nof have been settled.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank you for all your help. Both Sarah and yourself have made the probate of this estate possible. If you have any questions or comments, please do not hesitate to call me at number above.
Very truly yours,
COOPER & CULLEY, P. C.

cc: Sarah Z.

The Hon. Robert L. N.
Queens County Surrogate
88-11 Sutphin Blvd.
Jamaica, New York 11435

Re: Estate of John S.
File No. 164/2002
Dear Judge N.:
In recent years the quality of assistance which we have received from your clerical staff has been steadily improving, and members of the bar are grateful for their help.

In particular I would like you to be aware of the fine work by a probate clerk named Jim B.. He has shepherded this case from the beginning with unfailing courtesy and legal accuracy. We have a law student intern who has taken many of the documents for review and filing. Mr. B. has been endlessly patient with him and has explained the process and the documents to him, so that it has been an excellent learning experience for our intern.

As members of the bar who naturally want "instant" results, made to order for our clients (!), having to deal with reality is made far less burdensome when there are helpful staff like Mr. B.

Very truly yours,

A. Patricia M.

Honorable Robert L. N.
Surrogate's Court
Queens County
88-11 Sutphin Boulevard
Jamaica, NY 11435
Dear Judge N.,
I have been in practice for approximately thirty-two (32) years and have dealt with the Surrogate's Court in all the counties of New York, as well as, in Suffolk and Nassau Counties.
In all these years I have never had an occasion to write to a judge with regard to an employee who works in their Court. I feel that I must do so now with regard to Ms. Linda B., who is handling a Petition to appoint a Successor Trustee for our office.
Ms. B. has gone to great lengths in aiding this office with regard to this Petition. She is extremely helpful, bery courteous and has gone above and beyond what would be expected of a city or state employee. It has been a pleasure for our office to work with her in this matter and you should be proud to have such employees as Ms B. working for your court. she is a true professional and has earned our firm's highest praise.
Very truly yours,

H. Wayne M.

Hon. Robert J. N.
Surrogate's Court, Queens County
88-11 Sutphin Boulevard.
Jamica, New York 11435

Re: Estate of Michael N.

Dear Surrogate N.:

This office assisted its employee, Merrilly N., in preparing the documentation necessary for her to obtain authority to act on behalf of her son's estate. You will recall that he was the service member killed in the Pentagon attack. You and your staff immediately reviewed the submission and awarded temporary Letters of Administration to his mother so that she could retrieve decedent's property from the United State Navy.

It was with some professional pride that I disclosed to Ms. N. while she was away in Washington DC at her son's memorial services that our professional had responded sensitively and promptly to a national tragedy.

Thank you very much.
Sincerely,
Goldfinger & Lassar LLP

Quality Service Division
Office of Court Administration
Alfred E. Smith Building
PO Box 7040
Albany, NY 12214-0256
Re: Linda B.
Dear Sir/Madame:
I am writing this letter to acknowledge and praise a Queens Surrogate's Court employee, Linda B.. Ms. B. works in the Miscellaneous Department of said court. I believe that you should be made aware of the outstanding job she does in the performance of her duties.
During the last year I have had four very complicated estate matters that I had to bring before Ms. B.. Three of the estates went back more that 30 years. Ms. B. was an invaluable source of help and information. She was more than kind. Although Ms. B. appears to be a "one-man band" in her department, she always made the time to speak to me, to advise me and point me in the right direction. If I mailed her documents, she would promptly get back to me, either be phone or mail, to advise me on making corrections and tell me what steps I should take next.
It is patently obvious that Ms. B. is an expert in her field. She aids and assists people by sharing her knowledge in a courteous and professional manner.
I know that it is easy to find fault with a court employee who is overloaded with work and short on patience. This is exactly why it is my pleasure to write to you about an employee that may bave a great deal of work to do, but she always finds the patience to assist people with questions. I wish that all of the court employees could follow Ms. B.'s example.
Very truly yours,

Susan R. L.

Dear Judge F.,
I wish to appraise you of the efficiency, helpfulness and politeness of you staff and specially Supervisor Patricia B.. I was not only treated courteously and delightfully by her clerks Rochelle, Ms. B. intervened to help and expedited the process of my receiving a necessary updated letter of testament.
Sincerely yours,

Charles F.

Hon. Michael H. F., Kings County Surrogate
Ms. Marietta S., Public Administrator
360 Adams St Brooklyn, NY 11201
Gentlemen:
Recently, I had the sad responsibility of resolving the final affairs of my deceased uncle.
A few months before his death I had unpleasant experiences with two local Brooklyn hospitals which were supposed to be caring for him. Other government services were found wanting too:
It therefore gives me pleasure to tell you that this chain of disappointment was broken by several of your personnel as follows: 1) Ms. Pat J.
2) Mr. Charles Y.
3) Ms. Roseann I.

not only were they pleasant and accommodating, but they were knowledgeable and quite efficient.
As a seventy-three year old taxpayer, I want to commend these individuals and compliment you for your good judgement in keeping them on staff. With much appreciation.
Very truly yours,

Bernard L.

c.c. Ms. Pat J.
Mr. Charles Y.
Ms. Roseann I.

Dear Surrogate F.,
When one has to deal with a Government Agency one expects o encounter a lot of red tape.

Two weeks ago I called the Surrogate Court to get a "letter of testimony" for my deceased father in order to collect a claim from the New York State Office of the Comptroller Unclaimed Funds Dept. (talk about red tape, I've been dealing with them for almost 2 years) I reached a lovely, very cooperative woman, MONIQUE H. She gave the information I needed and told me exactly what to do. She suggested I send the money order to her attention and she'd take care of it.

Almost by return mail I got the letter. To say I was surprised and very pleased is putting it mildly.
I felt I really had to let her supervisor know of what a terrific representative she is for the City. Thank you.
Sincerely,

Myra K.

Honorable Michael H. F.
2 Johnson Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Dear Judge F.:
During the "NYC 2000 - a Week of Research" program held by the New York Genealogical and Biographical Society. I had the pleasure of escorting a group to the Surrogate's Court to pursue research on their ancestors. James D. made our expedition such a positive one! He went above and beyond the call of duty to assist the group an to reprieve materials for us. We really kept him busy but both Jim and his staff were very pleasant and most helpful. As a professional Genealogist, I benefit more regularly from Jim's expertful assistance as well.
Sincerely yours,

Mary Ann D.

James D. Surrogate's Court, Room 109
2 Johnson Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Dear Jim,
Sincere but belated thanks for your help during my group's visit as part of the New York Genealogical and Biographical Society's NYC 2000 - "A Week of research". You and your staff could not have been nicer and more helpful. You made the research experience at the Surrogate's Court such a positive one for all of us. Thank you again!
Sincerely,
Mary Ann,

Hon. Michael H. F.
Judge of the Surrogate's Court
Kings County Surrogate's Court
2 Johnson Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Dear Judge F.:

Although my contacts with the Kings County Surrogate's Court have been relatively infrequent over the years, my recent
experiences in two matters, and my reading of your published decisions, have made me realize that the Kings County Surrogate's
Court is experiencing a remarkable renaissance. Everything about the Court, from the courtesy and helpfulness of the clerks in the
probate department and the record rcom, to the quality of your decisions and the expeditious manner in which our litigation
matter was resolved, convinces me that the estates bar now has another court in which we can be proud to practice.

Thank you very much.

James D.
Surrogate's Court, Kings County
2 Johnson Street, Room 109
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Dear Mr. D.:
All of us here at The New York Genealogical and Biographical Society would like to thank you and the other staff members of the Surrogate's Court who assisted the participants in our recent "NYC2000: A Week of Research" program when they visited your office.
You all were so helpful in retrieving files and ansivering questions, and it meant a great deal to these people who had come from all over the country in search of their Brooklyn roots.
We hope that we can count on your support when we conduct another of these programs.

Sincerely yours,

William P. J.

Executive Director
cc: Hon. Michael H. F.

The Honorable Michael H. F.
Surrogate's Court Kings County
2 Johnson Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201

Subject: Mr. Jim D.

Dear Sir:

Allow me to compliment your organization for the excellent cooperation and spirit of Mr. D. during my recent visit to Room 109 ofthe Records Section. He has defeated any prior negative attitude that I had of a typical civil servant. He helped beyond what was expected and made the pmcedure quite comfortable. Please extend my compliments.

Sincerely yours,

Christopher G. H.

Honorable Michael H. F.
Surrogate's Court
Kings County
2 Johnson Street
Brooklyn, New York 11201

Dear Judge F.:
I have been practicing law for over 40 years, and the vast majority of my time has been devoted to Surrogate's matters. In my opinion the Kings County Surrogate's Court enjoys a reputation and prestige second to none.

However, not unlike most of my colleagues, I am quick to complain when I have not received the services to which I believe I am entitled, but not as quick to give credit and praise when the service and attention I receive are exemplary. I would indeed be remiss if I did not bring to your attention the dedication and service provided by Marty S. for as long as he has been a member of the Surrogate's Court staff. If a pending matter falls between the cracks Marty S. will leave no stone unturned to determine the cause of the problem and set in motion its resolution. He is courteous; friendly and leaves you convinced that he enjoys the opportunity to help you.

It is also important to point out that he is as attentive to the general public as he is to the attorneys'. It is not uncommon to see Marty coming to the aid of some person in the hallway who is confused and find him personally bringing the person to the appropriate department or your courtroom.

Having years of experience in each of the Surrogate's Courts in the metropolitan area I can honestly say that only Kings County has a Marty S. providing a very valuable service in a very competent and courteous manner.

Thank you for your time and attention to this correspondence.
Very truly yours,

Andrew L. S.

Hon. Michael H. F.
Surrogate -Kings County
2 Johnson Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201

Re: Ms. Sarah Z. and Estate of Anna L. -#2075/00

Dear Judge F.:

I am taking the liberty of writing to you to advise you of -and thank you for -the extraordinary assistance I was given by Ms. Sarah Z. of your Probate department.

Without boring you with details, there were some unusual problems in properly obtaining a decree in the above matter [even for an attorney who has been admitted for 41 years]. Your Ms. Z. was not only more than helpful but was unusually patient and understanding of my problems in providing the necessary paper work.

While I have always received professional treatment from all of your "staff', I do feel that Ms. Z.'s assistance to me went above and beyond what I could have reasonably expected.

It is my pleasure to write this letter commending Ms. Z. -and thanking you.

RespectfuIly yours,

acmlff

Hon. M. F.
2 Johnson Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Dear Judge F.;
Two weeks ago I had occasion to visit the office where one requests Probate Records in the Supreme Court Building on Adams Street in Brooklyn. I am working on my family's genealogy and had found many listings for records that would be found at this location. James Dillon was working in the Sys Room, Room 109. When I presented him with my list, almost two pages long, he explained that a person could only request three files per day. This was upsetting to me as I had taken the day off from work and had traveled almost three hours to get to the Brooklyn office. It would take a lifetime to view all the records at that rate!

Mr. D. suggested that I request four files and that, if I completed copying them -as this is what I wanted to do -he would then get me four more files. I was able to complete about twenty files in this manner.

I believe Mr. D. went far beyond the requirements of his job to offer me assistance. He and his staff were extremely helpful and courteous. I hope there is some way to reward the people in this office for their willingness to go beyond the call of duty when helping the public. These are the kind of people who represent all that is right in New York City. I am in their debt and thought you should know about it.

Sincerely,

Joan A.
Cc: James D., Sys Room 190 and his staff

Stephen F. C., Chief Clerk
Surrogate's Court, Kings County
2 Johnson Street
Brooklyn, NY 11101

Dear Mr. C.:

I am writing to you to let you know the excellent service I received from Ed E. in the Miscellaneous/Accounting Department. I recently had an estate with time pressures and needed to amend letters of administration. Ed was very cooperative and went out of his way to make certain that the letters were amended so that a closing on the sole estate asset could be held.

I appreciate all of his efforts and I want you to know that as well.
Very truly yours,

Magdalen G.
cc: Ed E.

Honorable Michael H. F.
Surrogate's Court
Kings County
2 Johnson Street
Brooklyn, New York 11201

Dear Sir:

Recently during a visit your Court it was necessary for me to conduct business in the Cashier's Department (Room
222).

I dealt with both Monique and Rochelle who conducted themselves in such a courteous and professional manner that I find myself obligated to bring them to your attention.

It is without question that they bring credit to your Court .

Thanking you for your attention to this matter I am,

Sincerely,

Edward R. T.

Administration Clerk
Surrogates Court
2 Johnson Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201

Dear Sir or Madam:

I am writing to let you know how pleased I am with the assistance I received from a man named Ray, of your office (I am sorry I don't know his last name).

I recently represented someone selling a house that they received through an administered estate. To clear up some estate questions raised by the title company we placed a conference call to your office and spoke with Ray.

He provided us with the information available from your computer system and then immediately went to the record room to retrieve the file. He answered our questions in a thoroughly expert and professional manner.

1 could not have been more satisfied.

Very truly yours,
Decloator, Cohen & Diprisco

by Eric D. F.

Honorable Judge F.
Surrogate's Court
King's County
2 Johnson Street
Brooklyn,, New York 11201

Dear Honorable F.:

This letter is being written with much appreciation and gratitude to three individuals my husband and I met on Friday, September 15 while trying to obtain an original of a Letters Testamentary. They are Mr. Martin S., Rochelle and Monique (all of whom assisted us while in the Cashier's office).

Not only were we greeted with a "good morning" and a smile, they were professional, courteous, polite and very helpful. In a town where service is not always what it should be, I did not want to miss the opportunity to tell you, as their employer, how terrific these three people are.

Thank you.

Sincerely yours,

Elizabeth E. Z.

Joanne B.
Room 222
Surrogate's Court, Kings County
2 Johnson Street
Brooklyn, NY
11201

Dear Joanne:

Enclosed please find my accounting of how I have handled my responsibilities as Voluntary Administrator for the estate of my daughter, K. V. T.. Her File #is 1999-04391.

I want to thank you for the patient help you have given me at various points in this long and difficult process. The emotional aspects of losing my precious daughter in such an impossible-tounderstand way has made it very hard for me to face up to the task of dealing with her estate each step of the way, so I'm afraid things have stretched out quite a bit. I hope and believe that the accounting I have given meets all the necessary requirements and that her estate can now be considered settled.

The many kindnesses of people such as yourself has made it possible for me to get to this point. Thank you again.

Sincerely,

Patricia G. T.

Mr. Walter C.
Supervisor
Surrogate Court
2 Johnson Street
Brooklyn, N. Y. 11201

Dear Mr. C.,

Please accept my sincere thanks and appreciation for the manner in which your staff has assisted me over the last few days. The bureaucratic maze of forms and procedures can be cumbersome and unsettling.

I have to tell you that it is becoming all too rare in today's world to find employees in a customer service capacity perform their duties with as much courtesy, competence and professionalism as your staff has. From the time I called your office until I appeared there, I was given clear instructions on what to do, and how to do it. I don't know the young woman's name who assisted me, but she was patient, bowledgeable and at all times pleasant and helpful. Please convey these sentiments to her.

Again, many thanks for your tireless efforts.

Sincerely,

Lois A. J.

SURROGATE'S COURT, KINGS COUNTY
ADMINISTRATION DEPARTMENT
ATTENTION: PAT J.
2 Johnson Street
BROOKLYN, NEW YORK 11201

Dear Ms. J.,

Thank you for all your help. I know that you are a very busy woman with all the responsibilities that you have, but you still took the time to help Betty and myself. I want you to know that: we appreciate all that you helped us with because we called you so many times to make sure that the paper work was right (the fax helped us a lot).

I don't know if you believe, but I will say this on faith that you do believe that God put us here for many different reasons, and I thank him for you and helping us. You touch so many people lives on a day to day basis some are going through so many problems, but God put you in your position to help people who are confuse. I hope you know that I will always say a pray for you that you will continue to be strong and use your knowledge to help people who don't know. Again thank you Ms. J..

Sincerely,

Shalisa L.

Mr. Stephen C.:
Chief Clerk
NYS Surrogate's Court
2 Johnson Street
Brooklyn, NY, 11201

Dear Mr. C.:

As a genealogy researcher, I have visited your Record Room regularly over the last five years.
I have found the organization, security and service to be vastly better in the recent years, since Jim Dillon took over.
The days of allowing researchers access to the files in the basement and behind the counter has ended and the service by record room employees has improved.

Many thanks to you for these improvements.

Sincerely,

Charles T.

Honorable Michael H. F.
Surrogate's Court Kings County
2 Johnson Street
Brooklyn, New York 11201

Dear Judge F.:

On behalf of the Touro College Pre-Law Society, I wish to thank you for welcoming our group and taking the time to speak with us. We were able to witness courtroom drama and learn first-hand the inner workings of the Surrogate's Court.

We were greatly impressed by the diversity of the cases handled by the Surrogate's Court and the erudite manner you administer them. The opportunity to observe courtroom procedure and then have our questions answered so amiably was enlightening and enjoyable.

Our trip has not only been an educational one, but a memorable one as well. Your graciousness was inspiring and will be remembered by us all.

Sincerely yours,
TOUR0 COLLEGE
PRE-LAW SOCIETY

Rachel F.

Mr. G.,

I want to thank you for all your help during a very difficult time for me. My brother had passed away. He passed without a will.

You told me exactly what I had to bring to your office, what to request and where to go find the property clerk. You actually had to tell me what to do about 3 times before I got it straight. Instead of being mired in legal morass, I could fill out a 2-page form which my mother signed, and there were no further problems about the absence of a will. You made this possible. You did tyhis all while juggling 4 other individuals with different needs, all while being professional and respectful. New York should be proud of civil servants like you.

Sincerely,

Maureen

Dear Surrogate F.,

As a practicing attorney I write to commend your court and in the Accounting and Miscellaneous Department of your court in particular. Courts and clerks are too often critized unfairly. However, my experience with the personnel of the Kings County Surrogate's Court in whatever department, has been excellent. I have been treated courteously, fairly. My recent experience with Madeline R. of the accounting and miscellaneous department has been especially excellent. Madeline is very helpful and understanding. She is a great asset to the court as are the people in her department.

Respectfully yours,

Michael, Attorney at Law

Dear Honorable F.,

In a recent petition for ancillary letters to be issued by the Surrogate's Court, Kings County, State of New York I have had the pleasure of dealing with your employee Ms. Sarah Z. The process of obtaining these letters has been ardous and difficult and Sarah has been extremely helpful. She has been very patient with my staff and had gone out of her way to ensure that this estate was properly and expeditiously handled. She has been in constant contact with my associate and help in so many ways. She had personally visited the Probate Department several times regarding this matter and because she understood the urgency of this matter was quickly and properly handled. Without Sarah's help this matter would have not been settled.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank you for all your help. Both Sarah and yourself have made the probate of this estate possible.

Very truly yours,

Ira S. C.

Law Offices of Cooper & Cooper

Kings County Surrogate's Court

2 Johnson Street

Brooklyn, NY 11201

Dear Sir or Madam,

The purpose of this letter is to thank the Court for the exemplary service given to me by Sarah Z. of the ancillary probate department. Having never filed an application for ancillary letters before, I needed assistance. Sarah was kind and professional in guiding me along.

Very truly yours,

Adrienne, Attorney at Law

Dear Mr. C.,

THis is the second time I am contacting you. My letter is in reference to the excellent services of Ms. Susan W., Probate Court. She is a great asset to the courts. After dealing with another very dedicated perosn, that represents the Surrogate's Court, I am taking this time to make her efficient and respondsible service, with a smile, brought to your attention. The courts should be proud to have this woman. She is dealing with the public and does her job well. I felt her services should not go unnoticed. I have a bit more work to finish with my business and I hope that others in the system will be as courteous as Ms. Wright.

Sincerely,

Diana

Judge Micheal F.

Kings County Surrogate Court

Sir,

I am writing a short note so that you are aware of an employee I had dealt with in the course of dealing with probating my father's will. I received a couple of telephone calls from Sarah Z., letting me know what was necesary for me to do and what to bring in to facilitate the process. She left me her work number and I was able to contact her. She was courteous and sympathetic to my loss.

I wanted to write to let you know of this, since I am sure you get mostly complaints and seldom praise. Here the praise is due.

Yours truly,

Frances

Montreal, Canada

Mr. Stephen C.,

I will never forget you and your staff for the help you have given me at the Surrogate's Court. Your understanding and kindness helped me settle matters at the court. Again thank you.

Thank you and God bless all at the Court,

Sonia

Mr. Stephen C.,

The reason for my writing of this letter is to offer my sincere gratitude to your staff with the assistance I received both in the Guardianship Department and the Administration Department. My firm represents the estate of one who was kiled in a motor vehicle wrongful death accident. As the statue of limitations on this matter was quickly approaching and with the need to first appoint a guardian of the infant issue born out of wedlock and residing overseas, and then to appoint an Administrator of the Estate and to commence a wrongful death suit, it would not have been possible to do so without the personal assistance care and help of your staff.

In particular, and while I commend both departments in their entirety, I would like to specifically point out those individuals who took the time and had the patience to assist me in my most complicated endeavor:

Guardianship Department: Walter C., Anabel S., Gloria M.

Administration Department: Kevin M., Janice B. and Charlie Y.

Your entire staff made the process easy and did so in a friendly manner. Something which is extremely difficult find in the court system these days.

Thus, I kindly ask you to extend our utmost graditude to your staff, especially those mention above.

With warm regards,

Daniel Chilewich, Esq

Sessler & Chilewich, LLP

Kings County Surrogate's Court

Mr C.,

I recently had a very complicated matter before the Guardianship Department of the Court. I wanted to take a moment to let you know just how helpful and considerate Walter C. was in assisting me in completing the rather time sensitive matter.

He is a credit to the Court and you are lucky to have him on your staff.

Very truly yours,

Ira, Attorney at Law

Honorable Michael H. F.

Surrogate's Court, Kings County

Honorable Sir:

We wish to thank you for the especially capable services that one of your assistants, Martin S., has performed in one of our matters. It is truly a pleasure to deal with someone who is both knowledgeable and helpful.

Many thanks again,

Marc, Attorney at Law

Pulvers, Pulvers & Thompson, LLP

Honorable Justice Michael H. F.

Surrogate's Court, Kings County

Dear Justice F.:

I am writing to thank you and Sarah Z.. Although I have been practicing law for fiftenn years, I have only on occasion probated a will. Consequently, my initial Petition for Probate was not perfect. Sarah was kind enough to call me and guide me in the preparation of the appropriate documentation.

It was a pleasure dealing with Sarah. She was efficient, courteous and patient. She was instrumental in the successful completion of the probate process. Sarah is a model of what clerks should be - informed and helpful. She clearly realizes that it is in no one's best interets to make the process difficult. Sarah was able to expedite the probate process, consequently making attorney and client very happy.

Again, I thank you and Sarah of your staff for making the probate process proceed smoothly.

Truly yours,

Rosa, Attorney at Law

Kings County Surrogate's Court

Dear Mr. F.,

I am an attorney who practices in New York State. In a recent surrogates matter I had before the court I encountered various obstacles. One of the employees in the Guardian Department, Walter C., was extremely helpful in guiding me through the process. On several occasions I found myself at an impasse and Mr. C. would take the time to go over the matter with me.

In my eleven years of practice I have yet to encounter an employee as helpful as Mr. C.. In today's society where one is apt to believe government employees are not helpful or courteous, Mr. C. certainly proves them wrong. I commend your Court on having such an outstanding employee.

Sincerely,

Ingrid W., Esq