Bronx County Courthouse (Supreme Court, Civil & Surrogate’s Court)

Bronx County Courthouse (Supreme Court, Civil and Surrogate’s Court)

The Bronx County Courthouse, a massive limestone and granite structure located at 851 Grand Concourse, serves as the judicial heart of the 12th Judicial District. This facility primarily houses the Supreme Court, Civil Term and the Bronx County Surrogate’s Court. Unlike the nearby Hall of Justice which handles criminal matters, this courthouse is dedicated to civil litigation where the amount in dispute exceeds $25,000, as well as all matters related to the estates of deceased residents. The building itself is a designated New York City Landmark, known for its imposing architecture and significant murals.

Legal Services and Departments

The courthouse manages a diverse docket of cases through several specialized departments:

• Supreme Court Civil Term: Adjudicates complex civil lawsuits, including personal injury torts, medical malpractice, commercial disputes, and real estate foreclosures. It is also the exclusive venue for matrimonial actions (divorce) in the Bronx.
• Surrogate’s Court: Located within the same building, this court handles the probate of wills, administration of estates for those dying without a will, adoptions, and guardianship proceedings for minors and incapacitated persons.
• Public Law Library: Accessible to the public and legal professionals for legal research and case reference.
• Help Center: Provides procedural assistance and forms to unrepresented litigants (pro se) navigating civil or matrimonial cases.

Security and Access

As with all New York State court facilities, security is rigorous. All visitors must pass through magnetometer screening, and bags are subject to x-ray inspection. Prohibited items include all weapons, pepper spray, craft knives, and glass bottles. While cell phones are permitted, they must be silenced in courtrooms, and photography or video recording is strictly prohibited inside the facility. The building is wheelchair accessible via the ramp entrance on the 161st Street side.