Click here for small claims hotline numbers.

Just like TV’s “People's Court,” the Small Claims Court us an inexpensive, informal forum where New Yorkers can go to resolve typical consumer problems — such as shoddy goods, poor repairs or services and unreturned deposits — without the assistance or expense of an attorney. Over 100,000 small claims cases are filed each year in New York State.

However, the Small Claims Courts in New York are greatly underused. Many people are unaware of the courts' existance or hesitant to use them because there is no one to explain the process and provide assistance. Court personnel are not required to do outreach or publicity to promote the small claims system. Sadly, underrepresentation may be greatest for people with low-incomes and minority group members. Further, the courts do not provide counselling assistance in the various steps of a small claims action. And the successful claimant may come to the realization that "winning isn't everything" when repeated attempts to collect an award are unsuccessful.

What is the Action Center?

NYPIRG has established Small Claims Court Action Center Hotlines across New York State where trained student counsellors provide Small Claims Court and consumer counselling to campus and community members free of charge. The Action Centers have provided thousands of New Yorkers with assistance and referrals.

Who are the Student Counsellors and what do they do?

The Student Counsellors are volunteers and interns who staff the Action Center. Any student who has an interest in learning more about our legal system and in helping consumers can become a student counsellor.

Student Counsellors are trained by NYPIRG attorneys and have the opportunity to learn about the courts and how our legal system works. Students at the Centers also speak to community groups and write press releases and public service announcements to promote the Small Claims Courts and Hotlines.

Students who wish to get involved should visit their NYPIRG campus office to find out more.

All services provided free-of-charge. Counsellors do not give legal advice or provide coutroom representation.

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