Clifton Park Town Court
Introduction to Clifton Park Town Court
Clifton Park Town Court serves as a vital institution within the Saratoga County judicial system in New York. Located in the heart of Clifton Park, this court handles a range of legal matters, including traffic violations, small claims, criminal cases, and town ordinance infractions. As a part of the New York Unified Court System, the court plays a significant role in maintaining law and order within the community.
Location and Contact Information
Where is Clifton Park Town Court Located?
- Address: 5 Municipal Plaza, Clifton Park, NY 12065, United States
- Google Maps Link: Clifton Park Town Court Location
How to Contact Clifton Park Town Court?
- Phone: 518-371-6668
- Fax: 518-371-3963
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: Clifton Park Official Site
Working Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: Closed
Judges and Officials
- Judges:
- Judge James F. Hughes
- Judge Robert A. Rybak
- Chief Prosecutor: Karen Heggen
- Clerk of Courts: Connie Brown
Types of Cases Handled
Understanding the Jurisdiction of Clifton Park Town Court
Clifton Park Town Court handles diverse legal matters, including:
- Traffic and Vehicle Violations: Addressing infractions and misdemeanors.
- Small Claims and Evictions: Resolving disputes involving claims up to $3,000.
- Criminal Cases: Dealing with misdemeanors and preliminary felony hearings.
- Civil Cases: Handling town ordinance violations and related issues.
Court Procedures and Expectations
Filing a Small Claims Case
To file a small claims case:
- Obtain and complete the small claims application form from the clerk’s office.
- Provide the name and address of the defendant, the reason for the claim, and the amount (up to $3,000).
- Pay a filing fee: $10 for claims under $1,000 and $15 for claims between $1,000 and $3,000.
Important Notes:
- The defendant must reside or own property in Clifton Park.
- Applicants must be 18 years or older, or have a parent/guardian file on their behalf.
- Corporations must file claims in city court.
How to Find Case Information
Case records can be accessed via:
- Online Search: By name, case number, address, or email.
- Court Office: Confidential records require a formal request.
Traffic Court: Handling Violations
Types of Traffic Tickets
- Misdemeanor: Requires a mandatory court appearance for charges such as Driving While Intoxicated (DWI).
- Traffic Infraction: Allows for a court appearance or a plea by mail.
Steps to Resolve Traffic Tickets
- Misdemeanor Tickets: Attend the court on the specified date for arraignment.
- Traffic Infractions: Plead guilty or not guilty. If pleading not guilty, the court will schedule a trial date.
Payment Options
- In-Person: Pay fines at the court office using cash, checks, or credit cards (2.99% service fee applies).
- Online: Use the Clifton Park Town Court Payment Portal to settle fines.
- By Mail: Send certified checks or money orders to the court’s address. Personal checks and cash are not accepted.
Marriage Licenses
To obtain a marriage license:
- Submit a completed application with photo ID and a state-issued birth certificate.
- Pay a $32 fee for the license and $10 per copy of certificates.
- For second marriages, provide divorce papers or a spouse’s death certificate.
Validity: The marriage license is valid for 60 days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I contact the clerk’s office?
Visit during working hours or call 518-371-6681.
Will the judge rule on my case the same day?
The decision may be immediate or mailed later, depending on the case type.
Can I pay fines online?
Yes, payments can be made through the court’s official website.
Community Role and Updates
Clifton Park Town Court not only enforces local laws but also engages in community outreach and education initiatives. Stay updated on procedural changes and news via the Clifton Park Official Website.
