What is the definition of a Small Claim Action?
Any cause of action for money only, not in excess of five thousand dollars ($5,000.00) exclusive of interest and costs. Small claims matters are limited to the recovery of money. This is not the proper forum for punitive damages. In Suffolk District Court, the defendant either resides, or has an office for the transaction of business or a regular employment within any district in the county (UDCA ยง1801): one of the five western towns of Suffolk County (Babylon, Brookhaven, Huntington, Islip or Smithtown).
