NASSAU & SUFFOLK COUNTIES

Hon. Andrew A. Crecca
District Administrative Judge, County of Suffolk

Hon. Vito M. DeStefano
District Administrative Judge, County of Nassau

 

Court Descriptions

The County Court is established in each county outside New York City. It is authorized to handle the prosecution of all crimes committed within the County. The County Court also has limited jurisdiction in civil cases involving amounts up to $25,000.

City Courts Outside New York City exist in 61 cities and have criminal jurisdiction over misdemeanors and lesser offenses and civil jurisdiction over claims of up to $15,000. Some City Courts have separate parts to handle small claims or housing matters. City Court judges act as arraigning magistrates and conduct preliminary hearings in felony cases.

There are District Courts in Nassau County and the five western towns of Suffolk County. District Courts have criminal jurisdiction over misdemeanors and lesser offenses, and civil jurisdiction over claims of up to $15,000.

Town & Village Courts have criminal jurisdiction over violations and misdemeanors, and civil jurisdiction over claims of up to $15,000. As magistrates, Town and Village Court justices hold arraignments and preliminary hearings for those charged with more serious crimes. Traffic infractions also are heard in these courts.