Suffolk County Court Records

What Is Suffolk County Court Records

Suffolk County court records encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's court system. These records serve as the comprehensive documentation of judicial activities and decisions rendered by courts operating within Suffolk County, New York. Court records typically include:

• Case files containing pleadings, motions, and supporting documentation
• Docket sheets chronicling chronological case events
• Judicial orders and final judgments
• Hearing and trial transcripts
• Evidence and exhibits admitted during proceedings
• Sentencing information in criminal matters
• Settlement agreements in civil cases

Court records are distinct from other public records maintained by Suffolk County, such as property records (deeds, mortgages, liens), vital records (birth, death, marriage certificates), and tax assessment records. Pursuant to New York Judiciary Law § 255, court clerks are required to maintain these records and make them available for public inspection under appropriate circumstances.

The Suffolk County court system comprises several courts that maintain distinct record systems:

Suffolk County Supreme Court
1 Court Street
Riverhead, NY 11901
(631) 852-2000
Suffolk County Supreme Court

Suffolk County Family Court
400 Carleton Avenue
Central Islip, NY 11722
(631) 740-3800
Suffolk County Family Court

Suffolk County District Court
400 Carleton Avenue
Central Islip, NY 11722
(631) 208-5800
Suffolk County District Court

Suffolk County Surrogate's Court
320 Center Drive
Riverhead, NY 11901
(631) 852-1713
Suffolk County Surrogate's Court

Each court maintains records pertaining to its specific jurisdiction, including civil, criminal, family, probate, and traffic matters.

Are Court Records Public In Suffolk County

Court records in Suffolk County are presumptively public pursuant to New York's Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) and the common law right of access to judicial records. The New York State Unified Court System operates under a presumption of openness as established by 22 NYCRR § 124.1, which states that "court records shall be presumptively open to the public."

The following court records are generally accessible to the public:

• Civil case files (with certain exceptions for sealed matters)
• Criminal case files (post-arraignment)
• Judgments and court orders
• Docket sheets and case indices
• Court calendars and hearing schedules
• Property records in foreclosure or lien cases

However, certain categories of records may be restricted or sealed by statute or court order, including:

• Family Court proceedings (pursuant to Family Court Act § 166)
• Juvenile delinquency records
• Sealed criminal records following dismissal or acquittal
• Adoption proceedings
• Mental health proceedings
• Records containing confidential personal information

It is important to note that federal court records for cases heard in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York (which includes Suffolk County) are governed by federal access rules rather than state provisions. These records are accessible through the federal PACER system.

The New York State Office of Court Administration has established comprehensive rules governing public access to court records, balancing transparency with privacy concerns.

How To Find Court Records in Suffolk County in 2026

Members of the public seeking court records in Suffolk County may utilize several methods to locate and access these documents. The availability of specific records depends on the court of origin and the nature of the case. Currently, the following methods are available:

In-Person Requests:

• Visit the clerk's office of the specific court where the case was filed
• Complete a records request form providing case information (party names, case number, filing date)
• Present valid photo identification
• Pay applicable search and copy fees
• Allow time for staff to retrieve records from active files or archives

Mail Requests:

• Submit a written request to the appropriate court clerk's office
• Include specific case information and search parameters
• Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope for response
• Include payment for applicable fees (check or money order)
• Allow 10-15 business days for processing

Online Access:

• Utilize the New York State Unified Court System's WebCriminal for criminal case information
• Access the eCourts system for civil case information
• Create an account on the New York State Courts Electronic Filing System (NYSCEF) for electronically filed cases
• Search the WebFamily portal for limited Family Court information

Attorney Access:

• Attorneys of record may access case documents through NYSCEF
• Bar members may utilize attorney-specific portals with enhanced access
• Legal service providers may qualify for fee waivers under certain circumstances

When requesting records, individuals should be prepared to provide specific identifying information about the case, including party names, approximate dates, case types, and if possible, case numbers. Pursuant to 22 NYCRR § 124.6, reasonable fees may be charged for record searches and reproduction.

How To Look Up Court Records in Suffolk County Online?

Suffolk County residents and interested parties can access various court records through several online portals maintained by the New York State Unified Court System. Each system provides access to different types of records:

New York State eCourts System:

1. Navigate to the eCourts website
2. Select "Suffolk County" from the county dropdown menu
3. Choose the appropriate court (Supreme, County, Family, etc.)
4. Search by index number, party name, attorney, or judge
5. Review case summary information, appearance dates, and disposition status
6. Note that document images are generally not available through this system

New York State Courts Electronic Filing System (NYSCEF):

1. Access the NYSCEF portal
2. Create a user account or log in with existing credentials
3. Select "Public Inquiry" to search without an account
4. Enter case information (index number preferred)
5. View docket entries and, for public cases, access document images
6. Note that certain case types require attorney credentials for full access

WebCriminal Portal:

1. Visit the WebCriminal website
2. Select "Suffolk County" as the jurisdiction
3. Enter defendant name or case number
4. Review case status, upcoming appearances, and disposition information
5. Note that detailed criminal history information is restricted

WebFamily Portal:

1. Access the WebFamily system
2. Enter party information and case details
3. View limited case status information
4. Note that most Family Court records have restricted online access

Suffolk County Clerk Records:

1. Visit the Suffolk County Clerk's Land Records portal
2. Search property records, judgments, and business filings
3. Create an account for enhanced search capabilities
4. Pay applicable fees for document images

Users should be aware that online access to court records in Suffolk County is subject to certain limitations. Complete case files are typically not available online, and sensitive information may be redacted from accessible documents. For comprehensive access, in-person requests at the appropriate courthouse remain necessary.

How To Search Suffolk County Court Records for Free?

Suffolk County residents may access certain court records without payment of fees under provisions of New York's open records laws. The New York State Unified Court System provides several no-cost options for basic record searches:

Free In-Person Inspection:

• Public terminal access is available at all Suffolk County courthouses during regular business hours
• Self-service computer terminals provide free access to case indices and docket information
• Court clerks must provide public records for inspection without charge pursuant to Public Officers Law § 87(1)(b)(iii)
• While inspection is free, copying fees may apply ($0.25 per page for standard copies)

Free Online Resources:

• The New York State Court's WebCivil Supreme portal provides free access to basic civil case information
• WebCriminal offers free searches of criminal case status information
• The eCourts system provides free access to appearance calendars and case status
• The New York State Sex Offender Registry includes free public access to offender information

Public Library Access:

• Suffolk County public libraries offer free internet access to court websites
• Library staff may provide assistance with navigating public record systems
• Some libraries maintain legal research terminals with enhanced access

Legal Aid Resources:

• The Suffolk County Legal Aid Society may assist eligible individuals with free record searches
• Pro bono legal clinics periodically offer assistance with court record retrieval
• Law school clinics may provide record search assistance for qualifying individuals

While basic search functionality is available without charge, users should be aware that comprehensive searches, document retrieval, and certified copies typically require payment of statutory fees. Additionally, commercial third-party services that aggregate court data generally charge subscription or per-search fees and are not official government resources.

What's Included in a Suffolk County Court Record?

Suffolk County court records contain comprehensive documentation of legal proceedings, with contents varying by case type and court jurisdiction. A typical court record file includes:

Case Initiation Documents:

• Complaints, petitions, or indictments that commence proceedings
• Summonses, citations, or warrants issued to parties
• Filing date and case assignment information
• Initial appearance documentation
• Bail or bond information in criminal matters

Procedural Documentation:

• Docket sheets listing chronological case events
• Notices of appearance by attorneys
• Motions filed by parties and resulting orders
• Discovery requests and responses (not typically public)
• Scheduling orders and continuance requests
• Proof of service documentation

Substantive Legal Documents:

• Pleadings (complaints, answers, counterclaims)
• Affidavits and sworn statements
• Exhibits and evidence logs (actual exhibits may be stored separately)
• Expert witness reports and qualifications
• Deposition transcripts (if filed with the court)
• Trial briefs and memoranda of law

Judicial Determinations:

• Court orders on motions and procedural matters
• Findings of fact and conclusions of law
• Jury instructions in applicable cases
• Verdict forms and jury determinations
• Final judgments and decrees
• Sentencing information in criminal cases

Post-Judgment Materials:

• Notices of appeal and appellate documents
• Satisfaction of judgment filings
• Post-conviction relief petitions
• Probation or parole violation proceedings
• Modification requests for support or custody orders
• Collection and enforcement proceedings

Administrative Records:

• Fee payment information
• Interpreter requests and accommodations
• Court reporter assignments
• Judicial recusal or reassignment documentation
• Case management conference notes

Court records in Suffolk County are maintained according to standards established by the New York State Office of Court Administration and must comply with record-keeping requirements set forth in 22 NYCRR § 104.1.

How Long Does Suffolk County Keep Court Records?

Suffolk County courts retain records according to schedules established by the New York State Unified Court System and the New York State Archives. Retention periods vary based on case type, disposition, and historical significance. The current retention framework includes:

Criminal Case Records:

• Felony cases: Permanent retention for cases resulting in conviction
• Felony cases dismissed or acquitted: Minimum 10 years
• Misdemeanor cases with conviction: 25 years after disposition
• Misdemeanor cases dismissed: 6 years after disposition
• Violation/infraction cases: 6 years after disposition
• Youthful offender records: Sealed pursuant to Criminal Procedure Law § 720.35

Civil Case Records:

• Supreme Court civil cases: 25 years after disposition
• Contract and commercial disputes: 10 years after final judgment
• Personal injury cases: 25 years after disposition
• Property and real estate matters: Permanent retention
• Matrimonial actions: 25 years after judgment
• Small claims matters: 6 years after disposition

Family Court Records:

• Adoption proceedings: Permanent retention (sealed)
• Child protective proceedings: Until youngest child turns 28
• Support proceedings: Until youngest child turns 28
• Juvenile delinquency: Until subject turns 21, then sealed
• Family offense proceedings: 25 years

Surrogate's Court Records:

• Probate proceedings: Permanent retention
• Estate administration: Permanent retention
• Guardianship matters: 25 years after termination

Court Administrative Records:

• Court calendars and docket books: Permanent retention
• Indices to cases: Permanent retention
• Judgment books and registers: Permanent retention
• Naturalization records: Permanent retention

These retention periods are established pursuant to the Records Retention and Disposition Schedule for New York State Courts and may be subject to modification by administrative order. Records scheduled for destruction may be retained longer if they have historical significance or are subject to litigation holds.

After the retention period expires, records may be transferred to the New York State Archives, maintained in county archives, or destroyed according to established procedures. Certain historically significant records may be preserved permanently regardless of standard retention schedules.

Types of Courts In Suffolk County

Suffolk County's judicial system comprises several courts with distinct jurisdictions and authority. The county's courts operate within New York State's Tenth Judicial District and include:

Suffolk County Supreme Court
1 Court Street
Riverhead, NY 11901
(631) 852-2000
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Suffolk County Supreme Court

The Supreme Court has unlimited jurisdiction in civil matters and handles cases involving damages exceeding $25,000, matrimonial actions, equity proceedings, and real property disputes.

Suffolk County Supreme Court - Criminal Term
Arthur M. Cromarty Court Complex
210 Center Drive
Riverhead, NY 11901
(631) 852-2100
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Suffolk County Supreme Court - Criminal Term

This division handles felony prosecutions and serious criminal matters.

Suffolk County Family Court
400 Carleton Avenue
Central Islip, NY 11722
(631) 740-3800
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Suffolk County Family Court

Family Court handles matters involving children and families, including custody, visitation, support, adoption, juvenile delinquency, family offenses, and child protective proceedings.

Suffolk County Surrogate's Court
320 Center Drive
Riverhead, NY 11901
(631) 852-1713
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Suffolk County Surrogate's Court

Surrogate's Court handles matters related to estates, wills, trusts, guardianships, and adoptions.

Suffolk County District Court
400 Carleton Avenue
Central Islip, NY 11722
(631) 208-5800
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Suffolk County District Court

District Court handles misdemeanors, violations, traffic infractions, small claims up to $5,000, and civil cases up to $15,000.

Suffolk County Court
Arthur M. Cromarty Court Complex
210 Center Drive
Riverhead, NY 11901
(631) 852-2700
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Suffolk County Court

County Court handles felony criminal cases and civil matters up to $25,000.

The court hierarchy in Suffolk County follows the New York State judicial structure:

1. Local courts (District Court, City Courts)
2. County-level courts (County Court, Family Court, Surrogate's Court)
3. Supreme Court (trial court of general jurisdiction)
4. Appellate Division, Second Department (intermediate appellate court)
5. New York Court of Appeals (highest state court)

Appeals from Suffolk County courts are heard by the Appellate Division, Second Department, located in Brooklyn, with further appeals possible to the New York Court of Appeals in Albany.

What Types of Cases Do Suffolk County Courts Hear?

Suffolk County's court system adjudicates a diverse range of legal matters, with each court handling specific case types according to its statutory jurisdiction:

Suffolk County Supreme Court - Civil Term:

• Personal injury and tort claims exceeding $25,000
• Commercial and business litigation
• Real property disputes and foreclosure proceedings
• Matrimonial actions (divorce, separation, annulment)
• Article 78 proceedings (challenges to government actions)
• Medical malpractice claims
• Name change petitions
• Election law matters
• Civil forfeiture proceedings
• Declaratory judgment actions

Suffolk County Supreme Court - Criminal Term:

• Felony prosecutions
• Complex criminal matters
• Grand jury proceedings
• Criminal appeals from lower courts
• Habeas corpus petitions
• Certificate of relief from disabilities applications
• Extradition proceedings

Suffolk County Court:

• Felony criminal prosecutions
• Appeals from local criminal courts
• Civil matters with damages between $15,000 and $25,000
• Tax certiorari proceedings
• Pistol permit applications and hearings

Suffolk County Family Court:

• Child custody and visitation disputes
• Child and spousal support proceedings
• Family offense (domestic violence) petitions
• Juvenile delinquency proceedings
• Person in Need of Supervision (PINS) petitions
• Child protective proceedings (abuse and neglect)
• Adoption proceedings
• Paternity determinations
• Foster care reviews
• Guardianship of minors

Suffolk County Surrogate's Court:

• Probate of wills
• Administration of estates
• Trust administration and accounting
• Guardianships for incapacitated persons
• Adoptions
• Estate tax proceedings
• Kinship hearings
• Wrongful death compromise approvals

Suffolk County District Court:

• Misdemeanor criminal prosecutions
• Traffic violations and infractions
• Small claims matters (up to $5,000)
• Commercial claims (up to $5,000)
• Civil actions (up to $15,000)
• Landlord-tenant proceedings
• Code enforcement violations
• Vehicle and traffic matters
• Preliminary hearings in felony cases

Case assignment is determined by subject matter jurisdiction, monetary thresholds, and geographic considerations. Certain specialized proceedings, such as Mental Hygiene Law matters, may be heard by designated parts within these courts. Complex cases may involve multiple courts, such as when criminal matters impact family court proceedings or when probate issues arise in conjunction with civil litigation.

How To Find a Court Docket In Suffolk County

Court dockets in Suffolk County provide chronological listings of all proceedings and filings in a case. Members of the public can access docket information through several methods:

Online Docket Access:

1. Visit the New York State Unified Court System's WebCivil Supreme for civil Supreme Court cases
2. Access WebCriminal for criminal case dockets
3. Use the eCourts system for appearance calendars and case status
4. Search by party name, case number, or attorney
5. Review chronological listing of case events, filings, and scheduled appearances

In-Person Docket Requests:

1. Visit the clerk's office for the specific court handling the case
2. Complete a docket search request form
3. Provide case identifying information (names, case number, filing date)
4. Pay applicable search fees
5. Review docket information on public access terminals or request printed copies

Telephone Inquiries:

1. Contact the appropriate court clerk's office
2. Provide case identifying information
3. Request basic docket information (limited information available by phone)
4. Note that detailed docket information typically requires in-person or online access

Attorney Access:

1. Attorneys of record can access docket information through NYSCEF
2. Bar members may utilize attorney-specific portals with enhanced access
3. Case management systems provide automated docket updates to counsel

Commercial Services:

1. Third-party vendors offer subscription-based docket monitoring
2. Legal research platforms provide docket access for subscribers
3. Note that these services are not official court resources

When searching for docket information, users should be prepared with specific case details, as broad searches may be restricted or incur additional fees. Pursuant to 22 NYCRR § 202.5-b, electronically filed cases have docket information available through NYSCEF, while paper-filed cases may have more limited online access.

For the most comprehensive and current docket information, direct contact with the court clerk's office is recommended, particularly for cases filed before electronic docketing was implemented or for courts with limited electronic access.

Which Courts in Suffolk County Are Not Courts of Record?

In the New York State judicial system, a "court of record" is defined by Judiciary Law § 2 as a court whose proceedings are recorded, maintained, and preserved for future reference, and which has the authority to fine or imprison. Conversely, courts not of record typically handle minor matters, may not maintain verbatim transcripts, and have limited punitive authority.

Within Suffolk County, the following courts are classified as courts not of record:

Village Justice Courts:

• These local courts operate within incorporated villages in Suffolk County
• They handle minor offenses, traffic violations, and small civil matters
• Proceedings may not be stenographically recorded in all instances
• Appeals from these courts go to the Appellate Term, not directly to the Appellate Division
• Examples include:

Amityville Village Court
21 Ireland Place
Amityville, NY 11701
(631) 264-6000

Bellport Village Court
29 Bellport Lane
Bellport, NY 11713
(631) 286-0327

Patchogue Village Court
14 Baker Street
Patchogue, NY 11772
(631) 475-4347

Small Claims Parts of Courts:

• While housed within courts of record, small claims proceedings are conducted informally
• Rules of evidence are relaxed in these proceedings
• Verbatim transcripts may not be maintained
• Proceedings are designed for self-represented litigants

Characteristics of Courts Not of Record:

• Limited jurisdiction over minor matters
• Simplified procedures for accessibility
• May not require stenographic recording of all proceedings
• Presided over by justices who may not be attorneys
• Limited authority to impose fines and imprisonment
• Decisions appealable to courts of record

All other courts in Suffolk County, including Supreme Court, County Court, Family Court, Surrogate's Court, and District Court, are courts of record as defined by statute. These courts maintain complete records of proceedings, have court reporters or electronic recording systems, and preserve case files according to established retention schedules.

The distinction between courts of record and courts not of record affects appellate procedures, record-keeping requirements, and the precedential value of decisions. Pursuant to CPLR § 5501, appeals from courts not of record may involve different standards of review than appeals from courts of record.

Lookup Court Records in Suffolk County