Nassau County District Court Small Claims
File small claims cases up to $5,000 at Nassau County District Court. Evening sessions available at 5 convenient locations. No attorneys required.
Quick Small Claims Facts - Nassau County District Court
$29 service fee + court filing fees
What is Small Claims Court?
Small Claims Court in Nassau County District Court is a special part of the court designed to resolve disputes quickly and inexpensively. Cases are heard in the evening to accommodate working individuals, and no attorneys are required, making it accessible to everyone.
With a $5,000 maximum claim limit (New York's standard), it's perfect for resolving common disputes like unpaid debts, property damage, breach of contract, and consumer complaints.
Cases You CAN File:
- Unpaid loans or debts (up to $5,000)
- Property damage claims
- Breach of contract
- Security deposit disputes
- Defective goods or services
- Unpaid wages (non-labor law)
- Auto accident damages
- Personal property disputes
Cases You CANNOT File:
- Divorce or family law matters
- Evictions (landlord-tenant court)
- Defamation or libel
- Claims over $5,000
- Criminal matters
- Federal law violations
- Professional malpractice
- Discrimination claims
Nassau County District Court Locations
Nassau County has 5 District Court locations. Choose the appropriate court based on jurisdiction.
99 Main Street, Hempstead, NY 11550
Serves: Town of Hempstead (western portion)
99 Main Street, Hempstead, NY 11550
Serves: Town of Hempstead (eastern portion)
435 Middle Neck Road, Great Neck, NY 11023
Serves: Town of North Hempstead
1050 Franklin Avenue, Hewlett, NY 11557
Serves: Five Towns area
How to File Small Claims in Nassau County
Step 1: Verify Your Claim Amount
Ensure your claim is $5,000 or less. If it's more, you'll need to file in civil court or reduce your claim.
Step 2: Gather Your Evidence
Collect contracts, receipts, photos, emails, text messages, and any other documentation supporting your claim.
Step 3: Choose the Right Court Location
File at the District Court that serves where the defendant lives or where the incident occurred.
Step 4: Complete the Small Claims Application
Fill out all required information including defendant details, claim amount, and case description.
Step 5: File Your Case
Submit your forms at the court. Pay $15 for claims up to $1,000 or $20 for claims $1,001-$5,000.
Step 6: Serve the Defendant
Choose certified mail ($6) or personal service ($40). The defendant must be properly notified.
Step 7: Attend Your Evening Hearing
Appear at the scheduled evening session with all your evidence. Be prepared to present your case clearly.
Filing Fees
Service Fees
Ready to File Your Small Claims Case?
PettyLawsuit makes filing in Nassau County District Court simple and stress-free
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Only $29 service fee + court filing fees
Related Nassau County Court Resources
Nassau County District Court Overview
Complete guide to all Nassau County District Court services and locations
Nassau County Filing Fees
Complete fee schedule for all case types at Nassau County District Court
How to File Court Papers
Step-by-step guide to filing documents in Nassau County courts
Nassau County Court Forms
Directory of all forms needed for Nassau County District Court
Frequently asked questions
What is the small claims limit at Nassau County District Court?
The small claims limit at Nassau County District Court is $5,000, which is the maximum for New York small claims courts. No attorneys are required in small claims court, making the process simpler and more affordable for everyone. PettyLawsuit helps you prepare your case for just a $29 service fee plus court filing fees.
When are small claims hearings held at Nassau County District Court?
Small claims hearings at Nassau County District Court are held in the evening at different locations: 1st District Court (99 Main St, Hempstead), 2nd District Court (99 Main St, Hempstead), 3rd District Court (435 Middle Neck Rd, Great Neck), and 4th District Court (1050 Franklin Ave, Hewlett). Evening sessions make it convenient for working individuals. Phone: (516) 493-3000 for schedules.
Can I have a lawyer in Nassau County small claims court?
No attorneys are required in Nassau County small claims court, which keeps the process simple and affordable. You can represent yourself, or have someone assist you with preparation. PettyLawsuit helps you prepare professional documents for just $29 plus court filing fees.
How much does it cost to file small claims at Nassau County District Court?
Filing a small claims case at Nassau County District Court costs $15 for claims up to $1,000 and $20 for claims from $1,001 to $5,000. Additional costs include service fees ($6 for certified mail or $40 for personal service). PettyLawsuit charges just $29 to help you prepare all paperwork (court fees are additional).
Which Nassau County District Court location should I use for small claims?
Nassau County has 5 District Court locations. Choose based on where the defendant lives or where the incident occurred: 1st District Court (Hempstead area), 2nd District Court (Hempstead area), 3rd District Court (Great Neck area), or 4th District Court (Hewlett/Five Towns area). Contact (516) 493-3000 for jurisdiction guidance.
What types of cases can I file in Nassau County small claims court?
You can file these cases in Nassau County small claims court: breach of contract (up to $5,000), unpaid loans, property damage, security deposit disputes, defective goods or services, unpaid rent (non-eviction), auto accidents, and personal property disputes. You cannot file for divorce, eviction, defamation, or cases over $5,000.