Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to start my case?

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

Where can I get free help?

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

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

What do I do if I want someone (“witness”) to come to my trial to tell the judge important information, but they refuse?

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

How can I prove or defend my case?

What do I do if I don’t want to come to court at night?

What do I do if I want to sue someone in Small Claims Court who lives outside New York City?

What is the difference between a judge and an arbitrator?

What happens if I don’t settle the case?

The judge or arbitrator “reserved decision” in my case, what does that mean?

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

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

How can I listen to, or get a written copy of, what happened in court?

I sent a copy of the judgment to the defendant and the defendant didn’t pay, what do I do?

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

Can I watch a video on how to start a small claims case?

Can I watch a video on how to fill in the form to start a Small Claims Court case?

Where can I read more about Small Claims Court?