Every week, thousands of people walk through the front doors of 111 Centre Street NY NY for the first time. Some are there for a small claims hearing. Others have a landlord-tenant dispute. Many are reporting for jury duty, unsure of where to go or what to expect once they step inside. Whatever the reason, this 12-story courthouse in Lower Manhattan plays a central role in the daily lives of New Yorkers who need access to the civil justice system.
The Manhattan Civil Courthouse, located at 111 Centre Street, New York, NY 10013, sits in the heart of the city’s Civic Center. It houses several different court divisions under one roof, making it one of the busiest courthouses not just in New York but in the entire country. The Civil Court of New York handles everything from money disputes and commercial claims to housing court battles between landlords and tenants. On any given weekday, you will find judges, attorneys, self-represented litigants, and court staff filling every floor of the building.
If you have upcoming business at this address, you probably have questions. How do you get there? What courts operate inside? What should you bring? What are the hours? This guide covers all of it. Whether you are filing a case, responding to a summons, or just trying to figure out which room to walk into, this article gives you practical, easy-to-follow information about 111 Centre Street NY NY so you can show up prepared and confident.
What Is 111 Centre Street in New York, NY 10013?
The building officially known as the Manhattan Civil Courthouse stands on the southwest corner of Centre Street and White Street in Lower Manhattan. It is bounded by four streets — Centre, White, Lafayette, and Leonard — and includes a small park sitting area on its south side. The structure itself is a 12-story modernist building with a limestone exterior, stainless steel windows, and a flat roofline. It is not the most eye-catching building in the neighborhood, but it is one of the most important.
The courthouse was designed by architects William Lescaze and Matthew Del Gaudio and was built between 1957 and 1960. Lescaze was a pioneering figure in modern architecture, well known for his work on the Williamsburg Houses in Brooklyn, a landmark public housing project completed in 1937. The building at 111 Centre Street reflects that same clean, functional design philosophy — no ornate columns, no grand staircases, just a working courthouse built to handle a high volume of daily activity.
The NYC Department of Citywide Administrative Services manages the property. It sits within the larger Foley Square court complex, surrounded by some of the most recognized judicial buildings in the country. The New York State Supreme Court operates out of 60 Centre Street, just up the block. The Criminal Courts Building is at 100 Centre Street. The Thurgood Marshall United States Courthouse stands at 40 Centre Street. Together, this cluster of buildings forms the legal nerve center of Manhattan.
A Brief History of the Building
Before the courthouse at 111 Centre Street opened, many of its current court functions were handled at the Tweed Courthouse on Chambers Street. The Tweed, built in the 1860s and 1870s, had become outdated and overcrowded. When the new building opened in 1960, court operations shifted over, and there were even plans to demolish the Tweed Courthouse entirely. Fortunately, that never happened. The Tweed was eventually restored and now serves as the home of the New York City Department of Education.
A major turning point came in 1962, when the old Municipal Court and the City Court were merged into a single entity called the Civil Court of the City of New York. Manhattan’s branch of that new court took up permanent residence at 111 Centre Street NY NY, where it remains to this day. Over the following decades, the building also absorbed overflow operations from the Supreme Court, adding criminal and civil term courtrooms to its upper floors.
In more recent years, the courthouse has gone through a significant infrastructure overhaul. Electrical systems, HVAC, plumbing, fire protection, security systems, and ADA-compliant entrances and restrooms were all upgraded. The facade and parapet walls were repaired as well. Remarkably, all of this construction work was completed while the building stayed open and fully operational.
Courts and Divisions Located at 111 Centre Street NY NY
One of the most common misconceptions is that 111 Centre Street houses just one court. In reality, multiple separate courts and divisions operate inside this building, each with its own clerks, courtrooms, and procedures. Understanding which court handles your matter is the first step toward a smooth experience.
Civil Court of New York — General Civil Part
The General Civil Part of the Civil Court of New York hears cases involving money disputes up to $50,000 that arise within Manhattan. This includes breach of contract claims, property damage lawsuits, personal injury cases within the court’s jurisdictional limits, and debt collection actions. More than 25 judges work in this division, and they collectively hear thousands of cases every year. If someone owes you money or if you have been sued over a financial disagreement in Manhattan, there is a strong chance your case will be heard here.
Small Claims and Commercial Claims Court
The Small Claims Part is designed for everyday people who want to resolve a dispute without hiring a lawyer. Claims up to $10,000 can be filed here, and the process is intentionally simpler than a standard civil case. There is no need for formal legal pleadings. You explain your situation to the judge, present your evidence, and receive a decision.
The Commercial Claims Part works similarly but is reserved for businesses and sole proprietors. If you run a small business in Manhattan and a client owes you money, this is where you would file.
One major advantage of the small claims operation at 111 Centre Street is its evening schedule. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, courtrooms stay open from 6:00 PM until 10:00 PM. Calendar calls for evening sessions begin at 6:30 PM. This means working people do not have to take a full day off just to appear in court.
Manhattan Housing Court
Housing Court is one of the busiest divisions inside the building. It handles landlord-tenant disputes, eviction proceedings, and HP actions, which are cases where tenants ask the court to order a landlord to make necessary repairs or correct building code violations.
The Manhattan Housing Court operates with seven resolution parts, seven trial parts, and one HP part. On any given day, dozens of cases move through these courtrooms. Both landlords and tenants appear, some with legal representation and many without. The court offers a Help Center with staff who assist self-represented litigants with paperwork, procedures, and general guidance. Housing Court Answers, a nonprofit organization that has served the public for over 30 years, also provides resources inside the building.
Supreme Court — Criminal and Civil Term Overflow
While 111 Centre Street is primarily a civil courthouse, elements of the New York State Supreme Court operate here as well. After a defendant is indicted, certain felony cases are transferred from 100 Centre Street next door to courtrooms inside this building. The upper floors contain judges’ chambers, juror assembly rooms, and support offices tied to Supreme Court operations. This is worth knowing because if your court papers reference 111 Centre Street and a Supreme Court part number, you are in the right place.
How to Get to 111 Centre Street, New York, NY 10013
Getting to 111 Centre Street NY NY is straightforward if you rely on public transportation. Driving, on the other hand, can be a headache. There is no public parking on-site, and the streets around Foley Square are not driver-friendly during business hours.
Subway and Bus Directions
The building sits between White Street and Franklin Street, making it accessible from several subway lines. You can take the 1 train to Franklin Street station, the 4 or 5 train to the Brooklyn Bridge–City Hall station, or the 6 train to Canal Street. The A, C, E, J, M, N, R, and Z trains all stop at Canal Street as well, putting you within a short walk of the courthouse.
If you prefer the bus, the M101 and M102 run down Lexington Avenue toward City Hall. The M15 runs down Second Avenue. Both options drop you close to the Civic Center.
Driving and Parking Options
If you must drive, plan ahead. The courthouse has no dedicated parking lot or garage. There is limited metered street parking across from 100 Centre Street, about one block away, but those spaces fill up early. Several private parking garages operate in the surrounding Chinatown and TriBeCa neighborhoods. Expect to pay Manhattan-level rates, which can range from $25 to $50 or more for a few hours.
The area is reachable from the Manhattan Bridge, Brooklyn Bridge, FDR Drive, and West Side Highway. However, traffic congestion during morning hours can add significant time to your trip. Public transit remains the most reliable option.
What to Expect When You Visit 111 Centre Street NY NY
Walking into a courthouse for the first time can feel intimidating. Knowing what to expect before you arrive takes a lot of the stress out of the experience.
Building Security and Entry Procedures
Every person entering the building must pass through a magnetometer, which is a walk-through metal detector similar to what you would find at an airport. Security officers staff the entrance and will ask you to place bags, keys, and metal objects on a conveyor belt for screening. Weapons, sharp objects, and other prohibited items are not allowed inside.
The building opens at 8:30 AM on weekdays. Court offices generally operate from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. On Thursdays, some divisions extend their hours into the evening for small claims and housing court sessions.
Both entrances to the building are at sidewalk level. There are no steps or ramps required, which makes entry straightforward for visitors using wheelchairs, walkers, or strollers.
ADA Accessibility
The courthouse at 111 Centre Street, New York, is fully accessible. Elevators serve all public floors. Restrooms are available on every floor except the lobby level. Assistive listening systems are installed in most courtrooms and can be requested by speaking with court personnel. ADA signage is posted near the entrances, and uniformed staff are available to provide directions and assistance.
Courtroom Etiquette and Practical Tips
If you have a court appearance, arrive early. Courtroom calendar calls usually begin at 9:30 AM, and you want to be seated and ready when your case is called. Dress appropriately — business casual is a safe choice. Silence your phone before entering the courtroom.
Be prepared for downtime. Courtrooms typically close from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM for a lunch recess, and cases are heard in the order they appear on the calendar. You may wait an hour or more before your matter is called. Bring something to read or work on. The wooden pews in the courtrooms are not known for their comfort, so some visitors recommend bringing a seat cushion if you anticipate a long wait.
If you have young children and no one to leave them with, the building offers a Children’s Center in Room 103. You can call ahead at 212-577-8769 to confirm availability.
Key Offices, Phone Numbers, and Hours at the Civil Court of New York
Knowing which office to visit and which number to call saves you time and confusion. Here is a breakdown of the most commonly needed contacts at 111 Centre Street NY NY.
General Clerk’s Office and Filing Windows
The General Clerk’s Office is located in Room 118 and handles civil filings, motions, orders to show cause, and entry of judgment for self-represented litigants. The office is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Cashiering services close at 4:30 PM on most days, though the Landlord-Tenant cashier stays open until 6:30 PM on Thursdays and the Small Claims cashier remains open until 7:30 PM on Thursdays. The general phone number for civil and small claims inquiries is 646-386-5700.
Housing Court and Landlord-Tenant Offices
Housing Court operations are based in Room 838 and on related floors throughout the building. The phone number for landlord-tenant matters is 646-386-5750. Landlord-Tenant clerk offices open at 8:30 AM and close at 5:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday. On Thursdays, hours extend to 7:00 PM. Emergency applications may be accepted after regular hours on a limited basis.
Help Center for Self-Represented Litigants
If you do not have a lawyer, the courthouse Help Centers are an important resource. The Civil and Small Claims Help Center is located in Room 104 and can be reached at 646-386-5556. The Housing Court Help Center is available at 646-386-5554 and 646-386-5555. Both are open from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday, with a lunch closure from 1:00 PM to 2:15 PM. Staff members at these centers help visitors understand court forms, filing requirements, and general procedures. They do not provide legal advice, but they can point you in the right direction and explain what steps to take.
Filing a Case at 111 Centre Street NY NY
If you need to start a legal action at this courthouse, the process depends on the type of case you are filing. Here is a quick overview of the two most common scenarios.
How to File a Small Claims Case
To file a small claims case, visit the Small Claims Clerk’s Office in Room 322. You can file in person during regular business hours. On Thursdays, the office stays open for evening filings until 7:30 PM. You will need to pay a filing fee, which varies depending on the amount of your claim. Bring identification and any documentation that supports your case, such as contracts, invoices, receipts, or photographs.
Keep in mind that you must file your case in the county where the dispute occurred or where the person or business you are suing is located. If the incident happened in Manhattan or the defendant has a Manhattan address, then the courthouse at 111 Centre Street, New York, NY 10013 is the right location.
Filing a Civil or Housing Court Case
For civil cases above the small claims threshold, filing is handled through the General Clerk’s Office in Room 118. You will need to submit the appropriate legal paperwork, including a summons and complaint. If you are unfamiliar with the process, the Help Center in Room 104 can walk you through the required forms.
For housing court matters, landlords file petitions — such as non-payment or holdover proceedings — through the Landlord-Tenant Clerk’s Office. Tenants who need to bring an HP action for repairs file through the same division. E-filing is available for certain case types through NYSCEF, the New York State Courts Electronic Filing system. After your case is filed, review your court papers carefully. They will include your assigned courtroom, part number, and the date and time of your first hearing.
The Civic Center Neighborhood Around 111 Centre Street
If you are visiting 111 Centre Street NY NY from out of town — or if you simply need to grab lunch between court sessions — the surrounding neighborhood offers plenty of options.
The courthouse sits in the Civic Center, a government-focused district near Foley Square. Within a few blocks, you will find NYC City Hall, the Municipal Building, the Tweed Courthouse (now home to the Department of Education), and the Thurgood Marshall United States Courthouse. Lafayette Street runs along the east side of the building and is lined with cafes, delis, and quick-service restaurants. Chinatown begins just a short walk to the south, offering affordable and diverse dining. TriBeCa is a few blocks to the west.
For out-of-town visitors who need nearby accommodations, several hotels operate in the area. NOMO SoHo, The Roxy Hotel in TriBeCa, Hotel Mulberry, and the Sheraton TriBeCa are all within walking distance or a short cab ride from the courthouse.
Frequently Asked Questions About 111 Centre Street NY NY
1. What building is at 111 Centre Street NY NY?
The building at 111 Centre Street NY NY is the Manhattan Civil Courthouse. It is a 12-story modernist courthouse that houses the New York County Civil Court, Small Claims Court, Commercial Claims Court, and Manhattan Housing Court. The Supreme Court also operates overflow courtrooms inside the building.
2. What is the zip code for 111 Centre Street NY NY?
The zip code for 111 Centre Street is 10013. The full mailing address is 111 Centre Street, New York, NY 10013. When sending mail, include the specific room number and the name of the court division you need to reach.
3. What courts are inside 111 Centre Street NY NY?
The building houses five court operations under one roof: the General Civil Part of the Civil Court, Small Claims Court, Commercial Claims Court, Manhattan Housing Court, and several Supreme Court criminal and civil term parts. Over 25 judges hear cases here daily.
4. What is the difference between 100 Centre Street and 111 Centre Street in Manhattan?
The building at 100 Centre Street is the Manhattan Criminal Courts Building, which handles misdemeanor and felony arraignments, the District Attorney’s office, and criminal court parts. The building at 111 Centre Street is primarily the Civil Courthouse, handling civil claims, small claims, and landlord-tenant disputes. However, some Supreme Court felony parts overflow into 111 Centre Street after indictment.
5. What are the hours of operation at 111 Centre Street NY NY?
The building opens at 8:30 AM on weekdays. Court offices generally run from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Evening sessions for Small Claims Court operate on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. The Landlord-Tenant offices extend to 7:00 PM on Thursdays.
6. Is there parking available at 111 Centre Street NY NY?
There is no public parking on-site or directly adjacent to the building. Limited metered parking is available across from 100 Centre Street, about one block away. Private parking garages in the surrounding Chinatown and TriBeCa neighborhoods charge typical Manhattan rates, often between $25 and $50 for a few hours.
7. How do I get to 111 Centre Street NY NY by subway?
Multiple subway lines serve the courthouse. Take the 1 train to Franklin Street, the 4 or 5 train to Brooklyn Bridge–City Hall, or the 6, A, C, E, J, M, N, R, or Z train to Canal Street. The building is between White and Franklin Streets, within a short walk from each station.
8. Can I file a small claims case at 111 Centre Street NY NY?
Yes. The Small Claims Clerk’s Office is in Room 322. You can file in person during regular hours or during extended Thursday evening hours until 7:30 PM. Claims up to $10,000 for individuals are accepted, and the filing fees are $15 for claims up to $1,000 and $20 for claims over $1,000.
9. Do I need a lawyer for small claims court at 111 Centre Street?
No. Small Claims Court is specifically designed so individuals can represent themselves without a lawyer. You present your own case and evidence directly to the judge. The court’s Help Center in Room 104 assists self-represented litigants with forms and procedures at no cost.
10. What is Housing Court at 111 Centre Street NY NY?
Manhattan Housing Court is the division that handles landlord-tenant disputes, eviction proceedings, and HP actions where tenants seek court orders for apartment repairs or building code violations. It operates within the same building and has seven resolution parts, seven trial parts, and one HP part.
11. How do I file an eviction case at 111 Centre Street?
Landlords file eviction petitions, such as non-payment or holdover proceedings, through the Landlord-Tenant Clerk’s Office located inside the building. The office is open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM most weekdays, with extended hours until 7:00 PM on Thursdays. You must file in the county where the property is located.
12. Can tenants get free legal help at 111 Centre Street NY NY?
Yes. Several free resources operate inside the building. The Legal Aid Society’s Manhattan Housing Court Project is in Room 106 and provides legal assistance for housing issues. The Housing Court Help Center answers questions about tenant rights, court procedures, and available legal clinics. Housing Court Answers, a nonprofit, also offers information and referrals.
13. Is 111 Centre Street NY NY wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Both building entrances are at sidewalk level, requiring no ramps or steps. Public elevators serve every floor. Accessible restrooms are available on all floors except the lobby. Assistive listening systems can be requested in most courtrooms. ADA accommodation inquiries can be directed to 646-386-5955.
14. What should I bring when visiting 111 Centre Street NY NY?
Bring your court papers or summons, a valid government-issued photo ID, all supporting documents or evidence, and a pen with blue or black ink. Leave prohibited items at home, including weapons and sharp objects. Consider bringing water, snacks, a book, and a phone charger, as wait times can be long.
15. Is there a metal detector at 111 Centre Street?
Yes. Every visitor must pass through a magnetometer at the entrance, similar to airport security. Security officers screen bags and personal items on a conveyor belt. Arrive 15 to 20 minutes early to account for the security line, especially during the morning rush before 9:30 AM.
16. What is the phone number for 111 Centre Street NY NY?
The main phone numbers depend on the division you need to reach. For civil and small claims inquiries, call 646-386-5700. For landlord-tenant and housing court matters, call 646-386-5750. The Small Claims Clerk’s Office can be reached at 646-386-5484.
17. Can I get married at 111 Centre Street NY NY?
No. The Manhattan Marriage Bureau is located at 141 Worth Street, which is inside the Lefkowitz State Office Building at 80 Centre Street. That is a separate building about one block north of 111 Centre Street. Marriage licenses and civil ceremonies are handled there, not at the Civil Courthouse.
18. What is the Help Center at 111 Centre Street?
The Help Center at 111 Centre Street is a free service for people who do not have a lawyer. The Civil and Small Claims Help Center is in Room 104, and the Housing Court Help Center operates nearby. Staff members assist visitors with understanding court forms, filing requirements, and general procedures. They do not provide legal advice but guide you through the process.
19. Is jury duty held at 111 Centre Street NY NY?
Yes. Jury duty for Supreme Court cases is held at 111 Centre Street. Jurors typically report to Room 1121 on the 11th floor. The jury waiting room has seating, free Wi-Fi, and vending machines. You should plan for a full day of service, though some panels are dismissed earlier depending on the case load.
20. What time should I arrive for a court appearance at 111 Centre Street?
Plan to arrive by 9:00 AM at the latest. The building opens at 8:30 AM, and morning calendar calls usually begin at 9:30 AM. Security screening can create lines during peak hours, so arriving 20 to 30 minutes before your scheduled time ensures you are seated and ready when your case is called.
21. When was the courthouse at 111 Centre Street NY NY built?
The Manhattan Civil Courthouse was built between 1957 and 1960. It was designed by architects William Lescaze and Matthew Del Gaudio, both known for their contributions to modern architecture in New York. The building replaced court operations previously held at the historic Tweed Courthouse on Chambers Street.
22. Can I e-file a case at 111 Centre Street?
E-filing is available for certain case types through NYSCEF, the New York State Courts Electronic Filing system. However, small claims cases cannot be filed electronically at this time and must be submitted in person at the Small Claims Clerk’s Office in Room 322. Check with the specific court division to confirm whether your case type qualifies for electronic filing.
23. What happens if I miss my court date at 111 Centre Street NY NY?
If you miss your court date, the court may issue a default judgment against you. In a civil or small claims case, this means the other party could win automatically. In a housing court eviction proceeding, a missed appearance can lead to a warrant of eviction. If you cannot attend, contact the court before your scheduled date to request an adjournment.
24. Is 111 Centre Street the same as 60 Centre Street?
No. These are two separate buildings. The courthouse at 60 Centre Street is the New York County Supreme Court Building, which handles civil matters involving higher dollar amounts, divorce proceedings, and houses the New York County Clerk. The building at 111 Centre Street NY NY is the Manhattan Civil Courthouse, which handles civil claims up to $50,000, small claims, and housing court. They are located about two blocks apart in the same Foley Square court complex.
Conclusion
Few addresses in New York carry as much daily significance for ordinary residents as 111 Centre Street NY NY. Every year, tens of thousands of people walk through its doors seeking resolution for disputes that affect their money, their homes, and their daily lives. It is not a glamorous building. There are no grand marble staircases or towering columns at the entrance. But what happens inside matters deeply to every person who has a case on the calendar.
Whether you are filing a small claims case over an unpaid invoice, defending yourself in a landlord-tenant proceeding, or showing up for jury duty, the key to a smooth visit is preparation. Take public transit. Arrive before 9:00 AM. Bring your paperwork and your patience. If you do not have a lawyer, take advantage of the free Help Centers — they exist specifically to guide people like you through the process.
The Civil Court of New York at 111 Centre Street, New York, NY 10013 is built to serve the public, and its staff handles an enormous workload every single day. The more you know before you arrive, the less overwhelming the experience will be. Bookmark this guide, review the phone numbers and room locations that apply to your situation, and walk into that courthouse ready.
