NYC Court Transcripts Guide

Find the right process for your court. Different courts use different recording methods, so the steps to request a transcript vary by court type and borough.

Important: This website provides procedural information only and does not constitute legal advice. Court rules and procedures change. If you need legal advice, consult an attorney.

Quick Reference: Recording Methods

Court Type Recording Method Audio Available? Vendor Required?
Family Court Mixed (digital + stenographic) On-site listening only Yes (for digital)
Housing/Small Claims Digital audio Yes - listening copies Yes
Criminal Court Stenographic No No
Supreme Court Stenographic No No
Surrogate's Court Mixed (digital + stenographic) No Yes (for digital)

General Framework for Requesting Transcripts

  1. Identify the court and county. Determine which court division (Family, Civil, Criminal, Supreme, Surrogate) handled your case, and which borough the courthouse is in.
  2. Gather case details. You will need the case name, docket or index number, judge/referee name and date(s) of the hearing.
  3. Check the recording method. Contact the court's main line to find out whether the proceeding was digitally recorded or taken by a court reporter.
  4. Choose a transcription vendor (digital recordings only). If the proceeding was recorded digitally, you must select a vendor from the court's approved list.
  5. Complete the appropriate request form. Family Court uses a Request for Transcript (Family Court) form. Housing/Small Claims uses the Request for Audio Record (CIV-LT-90) form.
  6. Submit your request. Methods vary by court: most accept requests by mail or in person; Family Court also accepts submissions through EDDS.
  7. Pay for the transcript. The vendor or court reporter will quote you a per-page price. Audio listening copies (where available) are free.
  8. Receive the transcript. Turnaround time ranges from a few weeks to a few days for expedited service.

Ready to Request a Transcript?

Our wizard guides you through the process and generates a ready-to-submit request packet.

Start Request Wizard