Town Court
Justice Courts are often called "the courts closest to the people" — they have broad jurisdiction over matters affecting the everyday lives of community members. The Austerlitz Town Court serves residents of the Town of Austerlitz, Columbia County.
Court officials
David Casuto
Sharon E. Grubin
Kate Pulver
Court information
Spencertown, NY 12165
Spencertown, NY 12165
About the Justice Court
Justice Courts have very broad jurisdiction over matters affecting the everyday lives of community members. The court can hear civil cases involving amounts up to $3,000 — except in landlord/tenant disputes, where the monetary amount is unlimited. Cases may be filed in either the Civil or Small Claims Part of the court.
In addition to civil matters, Justice Courts have criminal jurisdiction over all misdemeanors, violations, and infractions. Town Justices also conduct arraignments and preliminary hearings involving felonies.
Town Justices have the authority to conduct marriage ceremonies. The Justice Court shares jurisdiction with Family Court over certain family offenses such as disorderly conduct, harassment, menacing, reckless endangerment, and certain assaults.
The Austerlitz Town Court conducts formal proceedings on the first Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. Questions regarding court matters may be directed to the Court Clerk at (518) 392-3260 ext. 251.
Paying fees & fines
The court accepts MasterCard and Visa, as well as cash in person. You may also pay fees and fines online — the credit card company will apply a small fee. If mailing a payment, it must be a certified bank check or money order made payable to Town of Austerlitz Justice Court. If you would like a receipt, please enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope.