While there are several exceptions, personal injury cases in New York State are usually handled at the supreme court level in the county where the accident occurred. While for many other states and the federal goverment a “supreme” court is the highest level of court, in New York State there is a “supreme” court in each county.
For example, if you are injured in a car crash in the Town of Clarence or the City of Buffalo, your case is most likely to be heard in the New York State Supreme Court in Erie County. If you are hurt after slipping on an icy sidewalk in the City of Batavia, the most likely venue for your case is New York State Supreme Court in Genesee County.
Having a case decided near the location where your injury occurred is often easier because of its proximity to evidence such as eyewitnesses, police officers who may have investigated the accident, and anyone who provided immediate medical care. There are exceptions to this general rule, however, and you should consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who can determine if there are other possible venues to bring your case in and which of these courts is appropriate for your case.
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