Information to help you represent yourself in the NY Courts

Disclaimer
This website gives legal information, not legal advice. You can only get legal advice from a lawyer.

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After the Case Is Over

Get information on what happens after a court case ends, including judgments, appeals, enforcement, and next steps you may need to take.
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Criminal

Get basic information about criminal cases, records, victims' rights, and what happens when a crime is reported. 
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Family Issues & Divorce

Find help with family matters like support, custody, and divorce, and learn what steps you may need to take. 
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Guardianship

Learn about guardianship for children or adults, including how to start a case, your responsibilities, and what the court may require.
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Homes & Evictions

Get guidance on housing issues such as evictions, landlord–tenant disputes, and foreclosure matters, and learn what options may be available.
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Name Change and/or Sex Designation

Find out how to change your name or sex designation and what forms you may need for life events like marriage or divorce. 
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Problems With Money

Get information when money is owed, when someone owes you, or when your case must go to arbitration first. 
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Safety & Violence

Find information and court help related to orders of protection, domestic violence, and personal safety, and learn what steps you may need to take.
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Small Claims

Find help with small claims cases, including how to sue or defend for money damages within the court’s limits and what to expect in court.
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When Someone Dies

Learn what to do after a death, including small estates, probate, and who can manage legal and financial matters. 
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Legal Glossary

Look up common legal terms explained in plain language. 
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DIY Forms

Access guided Do-It-Yourself forms to prepare court papers online and file them with the appropriate court.

Navigating the NY Courts

Represent your self in court
Going to Court

Learn how to get help at court, find the right forms, and understand basic processes before your case starts. 
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Overview of the Courts
(PDF)

Which Court Should I Go To?
In New York State, different courts handle different problems. Find out which court you should go to for your problem.
Judge’s gavel rests on a wooden surface with blurred scales of justice and chair in the background
After the Case is Over

Get information on what happens after a court case ends, including judgments, appeals, enforcement, and next steps you may need to take.
Americans with Disabilities (ADA)

Each Court has a person available to help people with disabilities. Find contact information, how a request is made and handled, and learn about the services and aids that courts can provide.

 

Learn more about ADA accommodations
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ADA sign
Americans with Disabilities (ADA)

Each Court has a person available to help people with disabilities get accommodations. Find contact information, how a request is made and handled, and learn about the services and aids that courts can provide.
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Office of Language Access

The New York State Courts provide interpreting services at no expense for court users with limited English proficiency, regardless of their level of ability to communicate in the spoken English language.
Virtual Court Appearance
Appearing in Court Virtually