Queens is the most diverse borough in the city and home to countless small businesses, landlords, contractors, and freelancers. When a customer, tenant, or client in Queens won't pay, New York's enforcement toolkit gives you a clear path — if you use the steps in the right order.
Smaller money claims are handled by the Civil Court of the City of New York, Queens County, at 89-17 Sutphin Boulevard in Jamaica (including its Small Claims Part for claims up to $10,000). Larger matters go to the Supreme Court, Queens County. Once you have a judgment, you can docket a transcript of judgment with the Queens County Clerk to lien real property the debtor owns in Queens.
1. Find the money. An information subpoena (CPLR 5224) forces the debtor, their bank, or their employer to reveal accounts, wages, and assets under oath.
2. Freeze it. A restraining notice (CPLR 5222) locks down a Queens bank account or other property so it can't be moved while you collect.
3. Take it. A NYC Marshal or the City Sheriff can levy a bank account (CPLR 5232) or serve an income execution (CPLR 5231) that captures up to 10% of gross wages. Liens reach real estate.
No. A New York judgment is enforceable statewide. If the debtor lives, banks, or works in Queens County, you target those assets and can docket the judgment with the Queens County Clerk to reach Queens real property.
Up to 10% of gross wages via an income execution (CPLR 5231), within statutory limits.
Not required, but enforcement is procedural and easy to botch. New York collection matters can go on contingency here — you don't pay unless you collect.