Starting a case · For the plaintiff
Small claims in Albany County is designed for people to resolve modest money disputes without a lawyer. Businesses use the commercial claims part instead, with limits on how many claims they can bring each month.
File with the clerk, pay the fee, and the court mails notice to the defendant. Bring every document, photo and text message you rely on to the hearing.
Expect a short, informal hearing. Explain what happened, what you're owed, and how you calculated it.
Winning doesn't guarantee payment. You may need a marshal or sheriff to enforce the judgment.
Tell us what happened and we will tell you where it belongs, what the deadline is, and what it will cost. We respond within the hour during business hours.
This guide is general information about court procedure in Albany County, New York. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Court rules, fees and deadlines change — confirm current requirements with the court or an attorney before acting. Dispute Counsel PLLC serves New York residents, businesses and New York local representation.