The Court System operates and maintains a variety of law libraries. Our primary purpose is to provide books, online resources, and helpful staff so anyone can learn more about the law. By doing this, we help facilitate the just and timely resolution of all matters before the courts.
Have a legal research question? Visit Ask a Law Librarian to get help by live chat, text or email.
Locations
Suffolk County Law Libraries that provide the public with access to legal research:
Arthur M. Cromarty Court Complex
210 Center Drive, 1st Floor
Riverhead, NY 11901
631-852-1887
John P. Cohalan, Jr. Courthouse
400 Carleton Avenue, 4th Floor
Central Islip, NY 11722
631-740-3961
Directions
Arthur M. Cromarty Court Complex
Westbound:
Exit 71 - Long Island Expressway; make right onto Route 24; proceed a few miles until you see signs on the right side of the road to the Criminal Courts Building.
Eastbound:
Exit 61 North - Sunrise Highway; proceed on Route 51 for approximately 7 miles; Criminal Court Building is located on the left.
John P. Cohalan, Jr. Courthouse
Eastbound or Westbound:
Exit 56 South - Long Island Expressway (Route 111); proceed approximately one block; bear left at fork onto Wheeler Road; continue on Wheeler Road which will turn into Carleton Avenue at the railroad tracks; continue on Carleton Avenue (approximately 6 traffic lights) until you see the Cohalan Court Complex on left.
Southern State Parkway (Eastbound):
Southern State Parkway to Exit 43A; exit Parkway and make left onto Spur Drive North; make first right into the Cohalan Court Complex.
Southern State Parkway (Westbound):
Southern State Parkway to Exit 43A; exit and proceed North (stay in right lane); cross over the Parkway and make right turn at second traffic light (Belt Drive); make second right into the Cohalan Court Complex.
Library Resources for the Public Program
The Library Resources for the Public Program (LRPP) is available to provide free, general information about court procedures. The Program can provide you with information on which court may hear your case, the usual steps taken in your type of case, and sample court forms. Located inside the Supreme Court Law Library, in both Central Islip and Riverhead, the public has available for their use computers with internet access and printers, as well as personnel who can assist you and provide legal resources for researching your case.
The Library Resources for the Public Program is currently a walk-in service; however, appointments are preferred and may be scheduled by calling the appropriate offices listed on this page.
How We Can Serve You
- CAN help you with procedural steps
- CAN assist you with legal research
- CAN provide resources for your research
- CAN provide sample court forms
- CAN advise you as to where you may go to apply for free legal services
- CAN refer you to other free and local organizations who may be able to assist you
It is important to note that this program is run by the court system. The courts and those working for the courts are neutral parties and can never take sides in any case or potential case. Therefore, the Library Resources for the Public Program:
- CANNOT give you legal advice on a case
- CANNOT tell you if you should file a case, or what you should do in your case
- CANNOT tell you what to say in court documents or in court proceedings
- CANNOT tell you what the probability is of you winning or losing your case
- CANNOT fill out court forms for you
- CANNOT recommend an attorney
Many of the forms available at the Library Resources for the Public Program are available online at Court Forms.
Please be aware, if you are currently involved in litigation or are looking to begin a lawsuit, it is highly recommended that you hire a lawyer. Attorneys can provide personalized legal assistance tailored to the needs of your specific set of facts and circumstances. The Library Resources for the Public Program should not and cannot replace the services of an attorney. The Program also cannot offer the legal protection of confidentiality that is recognized between an attorney and a client.
If you currently have an attorney, the Library Resources for the Public Program cannot assist you, even if you are considering leaving your lawyer. All questions regarding your case should be directed to your attorney while you are being represented. You may, however, have access to the Library computers, printers and research materials.