Village Justice Courts are local courts established within incorporated villages. They are part of the state’s Unified Court System. Elected village Justices preside over the court. Associate justices are appointed by the Village Manager to preside when the elected judge is not available or has to recuse from hearing a case. Justices do not necessarily have to be attorneys, although they must complete judicial training and certification. The Clerk of the Court assists with court administration, including maintaining records, managing dockets, and collecting fines or fees. These courts are governed by state law and play a key role in administering justice at the local level.
Village Justice Courts handle a mix of civil and criminal matters, including:
- Misdemeanors and violations occurring within the village boundaries.
- Initial arraignments and preliminary hearings for felonies before cases are transferred to higher courts.
- Traffic infractions, including violations of the New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law.
- Small claims cases (typically disputes involving claims up to $3,000, though the limit may vary).
- Local ordinance violations, such as zoning or housing code infractions.
- Eviction proceedings and landlord-tenant disputes provided they occur within the village.
The Justice Court is vital for enforcing local laws and maintaining order with the village.
They also serve as a critical entry point into the broader legal system, particularly for minor offenses or disputes.
Village Justice Courts do not have jurisdiction over major civil cases, family law matters, or significant criminal cases. These are handled by county or state-level courts. Appeals from Village Courts are heard by County Courts.
Location:
The Village of Monticello Justice Court is located in the lower level of the Ted Stroebele Recreation Center at 10 Jefferson Street Monticello NY 12701. Free Parking is at the rear of the building in the municipal parking lot, entrance on North Street.
Justices of the Court:
Justice Douglas Solomon
Associate Justice David Maho
Mailing Address:
Village Justice Court
Village of Monticello
2 Pleasant Street
Monticello, New York 12701
Contact Numbers:
- Phone: 845-794-1222
- FAX: 845-794-1254
- E-Mail: jdeppa@nycourts.gov
Court Hours:
- Monday –Thursday 8:30-12:00 — 1:00-4:30
- Friday – 8:30-12:00 — — 1:00-3:00
- Closed Daily 12:00 – 1:00
Court Calendar:
- Criminal and Civil cases: Monday at 9:00 AM and on the third Wednesday of the month at 11:00AM.
- Vehicle and Traffic cases: The third Wednesday of the month at 10:00AM.
Court Room Rules:
- No Cell Phones, Laptops, Tablets, IPads, cameras or Recording Devices are allowed in the Court Room.
- Proper attire is required, No shorts, Tank Tops, Pajamas, Hats
- All people entering the Court must sign in and show ID if asked.
- All persons and personal items are subject to search.
Payments:
Fines, surcharges and fees imposed may be paid by cash, money order or credit card. A fee is imposed for credit card payments.