Small Claims Guide
• What it is
• Try to settle
• Q&A
• Be prepared
• If you win
• State-by-state guide
In New York City, Small Claims cases are heard in City Civil Court; in Nassau and Suffolk Counties in District Court, except 1st District; in other cities in City Court. In rural areas, cases are heard in Justice Court.
Statues: Consolidated Laws of New York Annotated, Uniform Civil Court Act, Article 18, Section 01-15, Article 18-A, Section 01- 14 (commercial claims); Uniform District Court Act, Article 18, Sections 01-15; Uniform Justice Court Act, Article 18, Sections 01-15; N.Y.C. Civil Court Act, Article 18, Section 01-15, Article 18-A, Sections 01-14 (commercial claims). Uniform Civil Rules for the New York City Civil Court, Part 208, Section 41 and Part 208, Section 41- A; Uniform Civil Rules for the City Courts Outside the City of New York, Part 210, Section 41 and Section 41 Part 212-A, Section 41; Uniform Civil Rules for the Justice Courts, Part 214, Section 10.
Dollar Limit:: $3,000.
Where To Sue: Where defendant resides, is employed or maintains a business office.
http://www.consumeraffairs.com/consumerism/small_ny.html
It would seem that New York has specific rules if it has to do with NYC or Naussau or Suffolk counties. Google "New York" and then refine with "small claims court". You will get more info than you can use.