The Town of Cornwall Justice Court is part of the Unified Court System. The Court arraigns felonies, handles and tries misdemeanors, traffic infractions and other violations. The wide range of responsibilities include securing defendants at county jail; issuing orders of protection; assigning counsel to indigent defendants; reporting case dispositions to the Division of Criminal Justice Service and New York State Department of Motor Vehicles; and properly managing & reporting revenue to New York State. Justice Courts have jurisdiction over civil matters as well: Small Claims up to $3,000 (exclusive of interest and costs) and Summary Proceedings (evictions). Whether a particular case is civil or criminal in nature, Justice Courts must be prepared to select a jury, admit evidence and conduct trials.
Justice Courts play a pivotal role in New York State's justice system, securing a standard of justice New Yorker's expect and deserve.
If you have questions or require assistance, please call the Court office Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. For assistance at the Court's window, the hours are 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM (except Wednesday to 1:30 PM and Thursday to 2:30 PM while court is in session).