Choosing the Proper County

File in the Supreme Court of the county where either spouse lives. The index number is assigned upon payment of the filing fee.

Serving the Defendant

Use a licensed process server or any adult unrelated to the case. The Affidavit of Service or Affidavit of Defendant must accompany the judgment packet.

Monitoring the Calendar

Each county posts processing times. Queens and Brooklyn often take longer than Manhattan or Staten Island. Follow up periodically to confirm no documents are missing.

Receiving the Final Judgment

Pick up certified copies at the clerk’s office or request them by mail. Keep multiple copies for record changes and financial institutions.