• Traffic Infractions
• Domestic Abuse
• Small Claims Courts

Traffic Infractions
If you are driving a motor vehicle with a valid operator’s license, you may find yourself charged with one of a variety of traffic infractions. You may be given a ticket in writing to appear at a local (Town or City) court, usually at a date or time two or three weeks in the future.

You should contact an attorney, particularly if this is a new experience for you, since conviction of a serious offense (such as driving under the influence) or of a number of lesser offenses could result in the loss of your driving privileges. Even a single speeding conviction could result in a significant increase in the cost of your mandatory automobile liability insurance.

Domestic Abuse
If you feel that you, or someone you are living with, is being abused by a member of the same household, or by someone from whom you or the other victim(s) cannot be protected, you can call The New York State Domestic Abuse 24 Hour Hotline, 1 (800) 942-6906. Counselors there can give you advice on what your practical and legal options are.

If you, yourself, are charged with committing domestic abuse, you should consult an attorney who can advise you of your rights and defend you against the charges.

Small Claims Courts
Most Town and City Courts have a small claims procedure for the relatively informal resolution of civil (that is non-criminal) claims for damages up to $5,000 ($3,000 in town and village courts)

You do not necessarily need an attorney to represent you in these matters and Court personnel can give you copies of the necessary claim forms and explain other details for you. At the day and time that your case is scheduled to be heard, the judge will read the form and any responses, hear the stories of both sides, ask questions and then issue a ruling.