new york public court records: what they are and how to access them

What counts as a public record?

In New York, most court filings, calendars, and dispositions are presumptively open, spanning civil, criminal, family, housing, and small claims matters. Sensitive materials-juvenile cases, sealed arrests, medical details, or orders in sealed proceedings-are restricted or redacted.

Where and how to search

Records live across the trial-level Supreme and County Courts, City and District Courts, and the Appellate Division and Court of Appeals. You can search by party name, docket or index number, attorney, or judge via statewide eCourts tools, WebCrims/WebCivil, or county clerk terminals. Certified copies come from the County Clerk or court clerk, often with per‑page fees.

• Bring exact spellings, date ranges, and a case type.
• Know that “Supreme Court” in New York is a trial court.
• Use NYSCEF for e-filed documents when available.
• Expect limits on viewing exhibits with personal data.
• Request written certification for official uses.

FAQ

Can I use FOIL? Courts are generally outside FOIL; access follows Judiciary rules. Need older files? Ask about archives or off-site retrieval times.