Rockland County Supreme Court
Time
Working Hours:
Monday – Friday
9 am – 5 pm
Saturday: closed
Sunday: closed
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Rockland County Supreme Court
Overview of the Rockland County Supreme Court
The Rockland County Supreme Court is located in New City, New York and serves as the trial court of general jurisdiction for Rockland County. As part of the New York State Unified Court System, the Rockland County Supreme Court has broad authority over civil and criminal matters originating within the county.
History and establishment
The Rockland County Supreme Court was established in 1798, shortly after Rockland County was formed out of southern Orange County. As one of the original 12 counties in New York, Rockland County was entitled to its own Supreme Court from the beginning. The court has operated continuously since its founding over 200 years ago.
Composition of Rockland Supreme Court
The Rockland Supreme Court has four elected Supreme Court Justices who preside over both civil and criminal matters. There are also three County Court Judges appointed from the Supreme Court bench who handle cases in County Court. In addition, there is a Surrogate and a Judge that handles Court of Claims cases.
Supreme Court Justices
The four Supreme Court Justices are:
- Hon. Christie L. D’Alessio
- Hon. Sherri L. Eisenpress
- Hon. Amy S. Puerto
- Hon. Thomas Zugibe
County Court Judges
The County Court Judges are:
- Hon. Kevin F. Russo
- Hon. Larry J. Schwartz
- Hon. Rolf M. Thorsen
Surrogate
The Surrogate handling estates and wills is:
- Hon. Keith J. Cornell
Court of Claims
The Court of Claims Judge is:
- Hon. David Fried
Key Personnel
The Rockland Supreme and County Court has dedicated court staff that keep operations running smoothly.
Chief Clerk
The Chief Clerk is Thomas Morrissey. The Chief Clerk is responsible for overseeing the administration of the court.
Deputy Chief Clerk
The Deputy Chief Clerk is Alicia Kaye. The Deputy assists the Chief Clerk in administrative matters.
Jurisdiction and types of cases
The Supreme Court has unlimited jurisdiction in both civil and criminal cases. On the civil side, the court handles complex commercial litigation, personal injury, medical malpractice, divorces, foreclosures, and other high-value lawsuits. For criminal cases, the court conducts felony trials, sentences convicted defendants, and hears serious juvenile offenses.
Court organization and administration
There are currently five elected New York Supreme Court justices assigned to the Rockland County courthouse. The justices rotate hearing civil and criminal matters. Administrative judges are designated to handle calendar management and oversight of court personnel.
Court Calendars and eCourts Access
The court provides both daily and weekly civil and criminal calendars to view scheduled cases. The eCourts portal provides online access to case records and documents through WebCivil Supreme and WebCrims.
Specialized Parts
The Rockland Supreme and County Court has two specialized parts:
Regional CVA Part
This part handles complex civil cases involving commercial, business, and insurance litigation.
Matrimonial Mediation
This program provides mediation services for divorcing couples to resolve issues and agree on settlement terms.
Supreme Court Justices
The four Supreme Court Justices each preside over civil and criminal cases on the Supreme Court bench.
Hon. Christie L. D’Alessio
Justice D’Alessio was elected to the court in 2015. She handles a variety of cases in her courtroom.
Hon. Sherri L. Eisenpress
Justice Eisenpress was elected in 2003. She is currently the Supervising Judge of the Civil Term.
Hon. Amy S. Puerto
Justice Puerto was elected to the bench in 2013. She presides over both civil and criminal cases.
Hon. Thomas Zugibe
Justice Zugibe has served since 2006 after being elected in 2005. He was previously District Attorney of Rockland County.
County Court Judges
There are three County Court Judges that handle the criminal and limited civil caseload in County Court.
Hon. Kevin F. Russo
Judge Russo has served as a County Court Judge since 2015. He presides over criminal prosecutions and arraignments.
Hon. Larry J. Schwartz
Judge Schwartz was appointed to the County Court bench in 2007. He mainly handles criminal matters.
Hon. Rolf M. Thorsen
Judge Thorsen was designated as a County Court Judge in 2011. He presides over criminal cases and arraignments.
Surrogate’s Court
The Surrogate’s Court handles proceedings involving wills and the administration of estates of deceased persons.
Hon. Keith J. Cornell
Surrogate Cornell has served as the Judge of the Surrogate’s Court since 2003. His court handles estate proceedings and admitting wills to probate.
Court of Claims
The Court of Claims has exclusive jurisdiction over claims for monetary damages against the State of New York.
Hon. David Fried
Judge Fried is an Acting Supreme Court Justice designated to the Court of Claims. He presides over civil claims against the state.
Clerk’s Office
The Clerk’s Office handles the administrative aspects of the court system.
Chief Clerk – Thomas Morrissey
The Chief Clerk oversees all court personnel and administration for the Supreme and County Courts.
Deputy Chief Clerk – Alicia Kaye
The Deputy Chief Clerk assists the Chief Clerk in carrying out administrative duties for the courts.
Court Calendars and eCourts Access
The court provides both daily and weekly calendars to view scheduled case proceedings in civil and criminal court.
Daily civil and criminal calendars
These list cases scheduled each day before the various judges and parts of court.
Weekly civil and criminal calendars
The weekly calendars provide a view of all matters scheduled in the coming week.
eCourts portals
The public can access case information and documents through the eCourts WebCivil Supreme and WebCrims online portals. This provides transparency into court records and proceedings.
Specialized Parts
The Rockland Supreme and County Courts have two specialized parts designed to improve efficiency in handling certain case types.
Regional CVA Part
This part handles complex commercial, business, insurance and construction cases. Concentrating these case types facilitates timely resolution.
Matrimonial Mediation
The mediation program helps divorcing couples resolve issues and agree on settlement terms through mediation rather than litigation. This can reduce costs and ease the process for families.
Facilities and locations
Main courthouse in New City
The main courthouse for the Rockland County Supreme Court is located at 1 South Main Street in New City. This historic, 3-story building contains courtrooms and judges’ chambers as well as the County Clerk’s office. The Law Library is also located here.
Other locations
Additional court facilities are located in Haverstraw and Pearl River. The Rockland County Family Court building in New City is adjacent to the main courthouse.
Judges and personnel
Elected NY Supreme Court justices
The Supreme Court justices serving Rockland County are elected countywide to 14-year terms. Current justices include: Hon. Robert M. Berliner, Hon. David S. Zuckerman, Hon. Rolf M. Thorsen, Hon. Sherri L. Eisenpress, and Hon. Linda P. Christopher.
Support staff and employees
Each justice has an assigned court attorney referee and law clerk. The courthouse staff includes court clerks, court officers, court reporters, interpreters, and administrative aides. The County Clerk’s office assists with records management.
Famous cases and decisions
Landmark civil cases
The Rockland County Supreme Court presided over several landmark desegregation cases in the 1950s involving schools and housing. More recently, the court has handled major zoning disputes over controversial land developments.
High-profile criminal trials
Notable criminal trials in the Rockland County Supreme Court include the 1976 trial of David Berkowitz, also known as the “Son of Sam” serial killer. More recently, the court oversaw the trial of Keith Cornegy, convicted in a high-profile murder case in 2000.
Impactful decisions
Key decisions of the Rockland County Supreme Court have involved school funding, election procedures, and juvenile sentencing reforms. The court’s rulings often influence local policy and legal precedent.
Contact information and website
The main phone number for the Rockland County Supreme Court is (845) 483-8300. Further information can be found on the court’s official website at www.nycourts.gov/courts/9jd/rockland/index.shtml.
Rockland County Supreme Court Online Court Resources
In the digital age, access to legal information and court resources has become easier than ever before. For residents of Rockland County, New York, and anyone in need of legal information, the Rockland County Supreme Court offers a comprehensive array of online court resources. These resources are not only convenient but also essential for anyone navigating the legal system or seeking information about court cases. In this article, we’ll delve into the wealth of online court resources provided by the Rockland County Supreme Court and explore how they can benefit you.
Search court case records
Accessing records and documents
In-person reviews
Court records can be reviewed in-person at the County Clerk’s office in the New City courthouse. Files can be examined but not removed from the premises.
Online records access
Many Supreme Court records can be accessed through the New York State Court’s Electronic Filing (NYSCEF) system. This online portal provides searchable access to both civil and criminal proceedings.
Rockland County Court Records
One of the most valuable resources provided by the Rockland County Supreme Court is access to Rockland County Court Records. You can search Rockland County Supreme Court and County Court records online, making it convenient to retrieve essential information about ongoing or past cases. As a guest, you can even search index information for free, and images are available with a paid subscription.
Supreme Court Civil Case Records
Searching for Supreme Court civil case records has never been easier. You can search these records by index number, party name, attorney name, or justice name. The online interface also provides a link to a mobile version for added accessibility.
Criminal Case Records
If you’re interested in criminal cases, you can search these records by case or summons number, defendant name, and county. This information is available for all criminal courts in New York City, some County Courts, and many City Courts. A mobile version is also available for easy access on the go.
Criminal History Records
Viewing criminal history records is crucial for various legal proceedings. You can find information about requesting criminal history records, including an application form, filing and pickup instructions, contacts, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Electronic Case Record Tracking
Stay updated on the cases that matter to you by registering for free e-mail notification of activity in cases you select to be tracked. This service is available for Supreme Court civil cases in all counties, some local civil courts, and criminal cases in 13 counties.
Case Records Requests
If you need copies of case records, the Rockland County Supreme Court provides detailed information on how to request them from the court clerk. You can find information on fees for copies, inspection for free at the clerk’s office, and trial transcripts.
Dockets, calendars, and other information about court cases
9th Judicial District Supreme and County Court Calendars
Access daily and weekly civil and criminal calendars for Supreme and County Courts in Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, and Westchester Counties. This resource is invaluable for staying informed about upcoming court proceedings.
Supreme Court Civil Calendars
Find Supreme Court civil calendars by county, part, justice, or date range. A link to a mobile version is provided for your convenience.
Criminal Court Calendars
For those interested in criminal court proceedings, you can search criminal court calendars by court location, date, and court part or judge’s last name. Information is available for all criminal courts in New York City and Nassau and Suffolk Counties. Only cases with pending future appearance dates are included, ensuring you have the most up-to-date information.
Published opinions and orders
Supreme Court Civil Case Documents
Search statewide Supreme Court civil decisions and orders by index number and county. This resource includes a link to Supreme Court civil and criminal decision search by keyword in selected counties.
Supreme Court Commercial Division Decisions
If you’re looking for commercial division opinions, you can view published New York State Supreme Court Commercial Division opinions by date and case name. Alternatively, you can search opinions and motions by name, decision date, court, docket number, judge, citation, or keyword. Separate links for Nassau County and New York County decisions are provided.
Supreme Court Commercial Division Opinions
To access summaries of Supreme Court Commercial Division Law Reports, you can search by keyword or by volume number and date. Summaries include a link to the text of the opinion, ensuring you can access the details you need.
Attorney General Legal Opinions
For legal opinions from the New York Attorney General from 1995 to the present, you can easily search and access this valuable resource.
New York State Trial Court Decisions
View published New York State trial court opinions by date and case name, or search opinions and motions by name, decision date, court, docket number, judge, citation, or keyword. While not all trial court decisions are published, this resource provides access to a significant number of them.
Forms and related information
9th Judicial District Supreme Court Forms
Access various forms for use in Supreme Court in Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, and Westchester Counties. These forms are essential for various legal processes and can streamline your interactions with the court.
Online Forms and Filing Fee Information
View and download forms and view filing fees for various courts. Forms for statewide use include Family Court, Domestic Violence, Surrogate’s Court, Divorce, Criminal, and various general and procedural forms. Some local court forms are also included for your convenience.
Do-It-Yourself Forms
If you prefer an interactive approach, you can use an interactive computer program to fill out forms for use in various courts. Forms are organized by case type, program/form name, and court, making it easy to find the appropriate forms for your needs.
Online fine payments
Pay Child Support
For individuals making child support payments in New York, you can conveniently pay New York child support payments online. This resource simplifies the payment process, and while a fee applies, it offers added convenience.
Self-help, legal research, general information
Rockland County Clerk Court Information
The Rockland County Clerk’s Office provides essential information about court records, starting a lawsuit, small claims, and other court-related topics. Whether you’re a legal professional or an individual seeking information, this resource is invaluable.
Rockland County Matrimonial Mediation
If you’re dealing with matrimonial matters, the Matrimonial Alternative Dispute Resolution Program in Rockland County Supreme Court offers rules, forms, and a roster of mediators to help you navigate these sensitive issues.
Rockland County Supreme Court Law Library
Access information about the Rockland Supreme Court Law Library, including location, hours of operation, and available services. Libraries play a crucial role in legal research, and this resource is no exception.
9th Judicial District Court Help Center
For parties without a lawyer in Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, and Westchester Counties, the 9th Judicial District Court Help Center provides procedural help, forms, and information. It’s a valuable resource for those who may not have legal representation.
9th Judicial District Supreme Court Judges’ Part Rules
Understanding the rules that govern court proceedings is essential. You can view selected judges’ Part Rules for Supreme Court in Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, and Westchester Counties, providing insight into court procedures.
Small Claims Assessment Review (SCAR)
Learn about the procedure that allows property owners to challenge the assessment on their property without going to court. This resource includes an overview of the procedure and downloadable petitions.
Divorce Information
If you’re considering or going through a divorce in New York, this resource offers valuable information about divorce mediation, forms, county-specific information, domestic violence, and answers to frequently asked questions. Divorce is a complex process, and having access to reliable information is crucial.
Family Violence Information and Resources
Domestic violence cases require special attention, and this resource provides information about family violence cases and specialized courts. It also offers links to resources for victims of domestic violence and elder abuse. For those seeking information about Domestic Violence, Integrated Domestic Violence, and Youthful Offender Domestic Violence Courts, the resource provides essential contact information.
Foreclosure Information
Facing foreclosure can be a daunting experience, and this resource offers information about foreclosure settlement conferences and other resources for homeowners facing foreclosure. It’s a critical resource for anyone dealing with foreclosure proceedings.
Guardianship and Fiduciary Information
Court-appointed guardians and other types of fiduciaries have important responsibilities. This resource provides information, training resources, laws, forms, summaries of relevant cases, and even a Guardian ad Litem Manual for those in these roles.
Orders of Protection
Orders of Protection can be a lifeline for those in danger, and this resource offers comprehensive information about them. It explains the difference between Supreme Court, Family Court, and criminal courts Orders of Protection, outlines what to do if someone violates an Order of Protection, and provides additional information about Domestic Violence.
Problem Solving Courts
Problem Solving Courts offer an alternative to traditional incarceration, focusing on treatment programs, monitoring, and access to services for some offenders. This resource provides insight into various types of problem-solving courts, highlighting their objectives and benefits.
Rural Legal Resources
Low-income rural residents can benefit from self-help guides, forms, and samples provided by the Rural Law Center. Topics covered include going to court, service of court papers, small claims, family matters, housing, and mediation.
Supreme Court and Surrogate’s Court Electronic Filing
As the legal landscape evolves, electronic filing becomes increasingly important. This resource offers information about electronic filing for some types of cases in Supreme Courts and Surrogate’s Courts in certain counties. It includes instructions, lists of counties and case types, and online training to help you navigate electronic filing.
Tenants’ Rights
Understanding your rights as a tenant is crucial, and this resource from the New York Office of the Attorney General offers a downloadable publication about tenants’ rights in both English and Spanish.
Alternative Dispute Resolution
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) can be an effective way to resolve legal conflicts outside of traditional court proceedings. This resource provides a list of ADR court-based programs, information about ADR, and links to private ADR organizations and other resources.
Child Support Services
The New York State Division of Child Support Enforcement offers information and services related to child support, including paternity establishment and enforcement of child support orders. If child support is a concern for you, this resource can provide valuable assistance.
Definitions of Common Legal Terms
Legal terminology can be confusing, and this glossary of general legal and divorce terms can help you navigate legal documents and conversations with more confidence.
Law Library Information
Knowing the locations of county law libraries can be beneficial for legal research. This resource offers information about county law libraries, library services, including an online catalog of trial court law libraries, glossaries of legal terms, document request options, and links to additional online resources.
Legal Information and Legal Resources
Legal information is organized by topic and includes Housing, Landlord-Tenant, Family, Child Support, Juvenile, Consumer, Probate, Individual Rights, and other legal issues. This resource also includes information about the courts and community services that can provide assistance.
Legal Publications
Access a wealth of publications and videos covering various legal topics, including alternative dispute resolution, courts, family law, housing issues, self-representation, and many others. These resources can provide valuable insights into complex legal matters.
New York Laws
If you need to search and browse the laws of New York State, this resource offers access to Consolidated Laws, Unconsolidated Laws, Court Acts, Senate and Assembly Rules, the Constitution of New York, and the New York City Charter and Administrative Code. It’s a comprehensive legal reference for those seeking specific laws and regulations.
Self-Help Legal Information
This resource provides detailed information about going to court, the court system, how to get help, how to find the correct court, information about various legal topics, a court locator, a glossary of legal terms, a link to forms, and locations of local help centers. It’s a one-stop resource for individuals navigating the legal system without legal representation.
Traffic Ticket and Motor Vehicle Information
For those dealing with motor vehicle-related issues, the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles offers information about driver licensing, registration, insurance, and driving records. It also provides detailed information about traffic tickets, including online fine payment and pleas, points, penalties, license suspensions, parking tickets, and the Point and Insurance Reduction Program, which allows some offenders to reduce points and insurance premiums by taking a classroom or online safe driving course.
Trial Court Rules
Understanding the rules that govern trial courts is crucial, and this resource offers access to the Uniform Rules for New York State Trial Courts by court type and topic. It’s a valuable reference for legal professionals and anyone involved in trial court proceedings.
Legal aid, free services, lawyer referral
9th Judicial District Lawyer Complaints
If you have concerns about a lawyer’s conduct, this resource provides instructions for filing a complaint with the Grievance Committee of the 9th Judicial District, which covers Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, and Westchester Counties. It’s an avenue for addressing lawyer misconduct and ensuring accountability.
Legal Services of the Hudson Valley
For free civil legal help for low-income residents of Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster, and Westchester Counties, Legal Services of the Hudson Valley is available to provide assistance. This organization plays a critical role in ensuring access to legal services for those in need.
New York Legal Assistance Group
The New York Legal Assistance Group offers free civil legal help for low-income residents of New York City and Nassau, Suffolk, and Westchester Counties. If you require legal assistance and meet the eligibility criteria, this organization can provide valuable support.
Legal Services for Workers
The Worker Justice Center of New York offers free employment law help for low-income workers. If you’re facing employment-related legal issues, this resource can help you understand your rights and options.
Consumer Protection
Consumer protection is paramount, and the New York Office of the Attorney General offers information about various consumer frauds, including auto, computer, credit, foreclosure, identity theft, investing, and more. It provides tips to avoid fraud, a consumer hotline, instructions for filing complaints, and complaint forms. This resource is essential for protecting your interests as a consumer.
Rural Law Center Legal Help
Low-income rural residents seeking legal assistance can contact the Rural Law Center or submit an online form to request help. This resource ensures that residents in rural areas have access to legal support when they need it most.
Find Free Legal Assistance
If you’re looking for organizations offering free legal services to eligible clients, this directory allows you to search by location and legal issue. It’s a convenient way to find the support you need.
Information about Attorneys
Understanding your rights and responsibilities as a client is important. This resource provides information about client rights and responsibilities, the Attorney Grievance Committee, and the Attorney-Client Fee Dispute Resolution Program. It’s a valuable reference for those seeking legal representation.
New York State Attorney Search
If you need to find a lawyer in New York State, this resource allows you to search for one by name. It’s a useful tool for locating legal professionals in your area.
New York State Bar Association Lawyer Referral
The New York State Bar Association offers a lawyer referral service by telephone, which includes an initial consultation with a lawyer. While a nominal fee is charged for most types of cases, it is free for certain types of cases. This service is available in most counties, and contacts and links to services in the remaining counties are provided. It’s a valuable resource for those seeking legal representation.
New York State Public Defenders and Family Court Parent Representatives
Access a list of all Public Defender offices by county, as well as Family Court parent representatives, provided by the New York State Defenders Association. This resource is essential for individuals seeking representation in criminal and family court matters.
Women Lawyers
For those looking to connect with women lawyers, this directory offers a comprehensive list of Women’s Bar Association of New York members. It can be a valuable resource for networking and seeking legal advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How can I access Rockland County Court Records?
You can access Rockland County Court Records online. Simply visit the Rockland County Supreme Court website and use the search feature to find the records you need. As a guest, you can search index information for free, and images are available with a paid subscription. - Are there resources available for individuals representing themselves in court?
Yes, the Rockland County Supreme Court offers self-help resources and forms for individuals representing themselves in court. These resources can help you navigate the legal process more effectively. - How can I file a complaint against a lawyer in the 9th Judicial District?
If you have concerns about a lawyer’s conduct in the 9th Judicial District, you can file a complaint with the Grievance Committee of the 9th Judicial District. Detailed instructions for filing a complaint are available on the Rockland County Supreme Court website. - Is there assistance available for low-income residents in need of legal help?
Yes, there are organizations such as Legal Services of the Hudson Valley and the New York Legal Assistance Group that offer free civil legal help for low-income residents in various counties, including Rockland County. These organizations are dedicated to ensuring access to justice for all. - How can I find a lawyer in New York State?
You can find a lawyer in New York State by using the New York State Attorney Search tool. Simply enter the lawyer’s name, and the tool will provide you with information about their practice.
