Kings County Supreme Court, Civil Term – New York, NY

Kings County Supreme Court, Civil Term

The Kings County Supreme Court, Civil Term, serves as the primary trial court of general jurisdiction for the 2nd Judicial District of the New York State Unified Court System. Located at 360 Adams Street in the heart of Downtown Brooklyn, this court handles a vast array of civil matters, generally involving disputes where the amount in controversy exceeds $25,000. It is distinct from the Criminal Term (located nearby on Jay Street) and specifically focuses on non-criminal litigation, ranging from complex commercial disputes to personal injury cases and real estate matters.

Jurisdiction and Case Types

As a court of general jurisdiction, the Civil Term has the authority to hear virtually any type of civil case, though it is most frequently the venue for:

• Foreclosures and Real Estate: Handling a significant volume of mortgage foreclosure actions and property title disputes.
• Matrimonial and Family Law: The sole court with the authority to grant divorce decrees (matrimonial actions) in New York State.
• Commercial Division: A specialized part designed to handle complex business litigation with efficiency.
• Guardianship and Mental Hygiene: Proceedings related to the appointment of guardians for incapacitated persons under the Mental Hygiene Law.

Self-Representation and Resources

Recognizing the complexity of the legal system, the court operates a dedicated Help Center in Room 123. This resource is staffed by court attorneys and clerks who provide procedural information (not legal advice) to unrepresented litigants. They assist with forms for divorce, name changes, and responding to lawsuits. The facility also houses the Kings County Clerk’s Office, where all court records, judgments, and liens are filed and maintained.

Security and Building Policies

Visitors must pass through rigorous security screening upon entry, including magnetometer checks and x-ray screening for bags. Weapons of any kind, including small pocket knives and pepper spray, are strictly prohibited and will be confiscated. While mobile phones are generally permitted, they must be silenced in courtrooms, and taking photographs or recording video is strictly forbidden without express judicial permission. The building is fully accessible, with elevators and ADA-compliant facilities available for those with disabilities.