Essex County Supreme & County Court

Graphic of a Civil Law book, someone in handcuffs, and a man and woman standing dejected, back to back to each other.

Overview

The Supreme Court generally hears cases that are outside the authority of the lower courts, such as: civil matters involving higher dollar amounts; divorce, separation, and annulment proceedings; and criminal prosecutions of felonies. Supreme Courts hear civil matters while the County Courts hear criminal matters.

County Courts are located in each county outside New York City. County Courts, City Courts, and Town and Village Courts share authority to handle trials in misdemeanor cases and other minor offenses. But only County Courts have the authority to conduct trials in felony matters. County Courts also have limited authority over cases involving claims up to $25,000.