NYC Civil Court Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I start a case if I can't come to the courthouse?

See Starting a Case: Issuance of the Summons.

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Do I need to hire an attorney?

See Representing Yourself in NYC Civil Court.

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How can I enforce my judgment in another county in New York State?

See Transcript of Judgment.

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How can I get a written copy (transcript) of what happened in court?

See Appeals: Obtaining the Transcript of the Trial.

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How can I use the court if I have a disability?

See Accessibility (ADA).

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How do I find out if there is a judgment against me?

See Vacating a Default Judgment.

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How do I find phone numbers, addresses, directions or court hours?

For addresses, directions and hours: Find your court on the Courts by County page.

For phone numbers: Find your court on the Court Directory.

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How do I get a Non-Military affidavit?

See Entering Judgments: Non-Military Affidavit.

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How much does the court charge in my case?

See Court Fees.

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My salary has been garnished, or my bank account is frozen. What can I do?

See Vacating a Default Judgment.

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What do I do if I can’t afford to pay the fees charged by the court ("poor person’s relief")?

See Applications to Waive Court Fees.

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What do I do if I can’t make my court date?

See Adjournments.

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What do I do if I know that records or documents can prove my case, but I don’t have them?

See Subpoenas.

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What do I do if I missed my court appearance ("defaulted")?

See Vacating a Default Judgment.

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What do I do if I think the judge made a mistake in my case?

See Appeals.

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What do I do if I want someone ("witness") to come to my trial to tell the judge important information, but he or she refuses?

See Subpoenas.

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What method of payment does the court accept?

See Court Fees.

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Where can I sue somebody who resides outside the city of New York?

See Starting a Case: Where to Sue.

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New York City Civil Court NYC Civil Court Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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