Criminal Courts in Suffolk County

October 20, 2024

The criminal court system in Suffolk County, New York, involves multiple courts that handle different types of cases, including:

Riverhead County Court: Handles the prosecution of all crimes in the county, with the exception of preliminary proceedings and misdemeanor trials.
First District Court: Also known as the Cohalan Court Complex, handles misdemeanors and lesser offenses, and conducts arraignments for felony cases. District Courts are located in the five western towns of Suffolk County.
Justice Courts: Typically on the East End of Suffolk County, but also local Village Courts, handle misdemeanors and violations.
Criminal Court Actions Unit: Handles felony-level criminal court actions and highway takings.

Here are some other aspects of the criminal court system in Suffolk County:

Arraignments: Arraignments are conducted every day, including weekends and holidays. The Suffolk County Probation Department interviews arrestees before arraignment.
Bail: Cash bail is deposited with the Suffolk County Treasurer. Police bail is released after the defendant's first court appearance.
Probation: Probationers participate in programs that teach them how to better control their behavior. Probationers pay a fee per group session.
Failure to appear: If a defendant fails to appear for a court date or to pay a fine, the court may:
- Suspend their driver's license
- Issue a warrant for their arrest
- Enter a civil judgment against them
Indictment: If the Grand Jury votes to indict a defendant, their case is transferred from District Court to County Court
Your should speak with a criminal lawyer in Suffolk County if you have questions about your case.