Court Types in NYC

Understanding NYC's court system helps ensure your documents are served correctly. We handle service for all court types across all five boroughs.

New York State Court System

New York City has multiple court systems handling different types of cases. Each has specific service requirements and procedures.

Supreme Court

Despite its name, Supreme Court is the trial-level court of general jurisdiction in New York. It handles civil cases over $25,000, including complex litigation, real property disputes, and matrimonial matters.

Common Cases:

  • • High-value civil lawsuits
  • • Divorce and matrimonial actions
  • • Real estate disputes
  • • Commercial litigation

Civil Court

NYC Civil Court handles civil cases up to $25,000, small claims up to $10,000, and landlord-tenant matters. It's a high-volume court with specific service rules.

Common Cases:

  • • Small claims matters
  • • Consumer disputes
  • • Landlord-tenant disputes
  • • Personal injury under $25K

Family Court

Family Court handles matters involving families and children, including custody, support, adoption, and juvenile delinquency. Service rules can be particularly strict.

Common Cases:

  • • Child custody and visitation
  • • Child support proceedings
  • • Orders of protection
  • • Adoption proceedings

Housing Court

A division of Civil Court, Housing Court handles residential landlord-tenant matters including evictions, repairs, and lease violations. High volume requires efficient service.

Common Cases:

  • • Nonpayment proceedings
  • • Holdover proceedings
  • • HP actions (repairs)
  • • Lease violations

Surrogate's Court

Surrogate's Court handles estate matters, including probate of wills, estate administration, guardianships, and trust disputes. Service requirements vary by proceeding type.

Common Cases:

  • • Probate proceedings
  • • Estate administration
  • • Guardianship petitions
  • • Will contests

Criminal Court

Criminal Court handles misdemeanors and violations, while felonies are handled in Supreme Court. We serve subpoenas and other documents related to criminal proceedings.

Service Types:

  • • Witness subpoenas
  • • Document subpoenas
  • • Notice to appear
  • • Supporting depositions

Experienced with All NYC Courts

Our process servers know the specific requirements and procedures for every court in the NYC system. Get reliable service that meets court standards.