surrogates court 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Queens, NY 11435

"The 3 separate occasions I have had to deal with this court has been awful. The secretaries are just plain nasty and rude, for no reason whatsoever. I always approach them extra politely because I know how rude they are, and STILL no matter what they have a nasty attitude. I was made to feel a fool because I used the word “motion” instead of “petition” the last time I called (I am not a lawyer and they knew what I meant). I am new to this process, after dealing with the sudden death of my sons dad, grieving, I don’t know what’s what, and they make you feel as if your existence is a horrible inconvenience to them, and they could not make that any more clear. When I first had to apply for guardianship right after my sons father died, I went there to inquire and start the process, they answer you as if it’s a chore, they are not forthcoming with any information, they look at you as if you’re supposed to know everything, and they downright treat you as if being in this unfortunate position is somehow your fault. Just mean there’s no other word for it. And all this is before even trying to withdraw funds to pay for my sons school tuition, which is apparently an impossible feat even though the money is his, and whenever I call for an update nobody has any answers. It’s been 6 months of waiting. I was recently yelled at (yes raised voice and all) because I didn’t have the correct file number when I called and they instead had to search my case by name. Apparently the extra labor of typing out a full name is unacceptable. I am nervous to call the office back and I avoid them at all costs because I don’t appreciate being treated like a criminal or worse whenever I call. Avoid avoid avoid. One lady in particular has been extremely intimidating and rude to me on several occasions and I don’t know why, her name is Ms. Moore. Avoid if possible and see if anyone else is available to help. They should try having a little grace and understanding, or at the very least some tact, when dealing with the public. Not everyone can afford a lawyer especially those of us left alone as a single parent with no help whatsoever, not from this court or otherwise. It’s a daunting process and if you are doing it alone it’s almost impossible, they could at the very least have basic decency when speaking with someone."

"Went to handle some personal matters very early in the morning. They open the building before 9am but only allow you to enter the elevators after 9am. Everyone I spoke to was very helpful. There is a notary on site at no cost. I was able to get everything done within an hour. No parking but public transportation is available."

"Came here to help settle with a loved ones estate. The staff was very helpful! The process of forms and documents is very frustrating! Please bring your patient when coming here. Do take your time and try to come with all of the necessary documents needed to complete the forms. Hopefully you will be able to settle all of your affairs. I wish everyone the best of luck!"

"If I could give 0 stars I would. The phone number listed never works and the one they call you from always appears to be disconnected. Everyone tells you different things. It is set up for you to fail. I had requested more time after I told them I couldn’t find the person. They never answered my emails till 3 wks after the original court date and I live out of state."

"Went back to the court for more help because the certificate expired. (Not the fault of the Court) The clerk asked the judge for a replacement with new expiration date in a minute. Plus an additional copy. Really appreciated the help. Get what I expected from there. Good work. Thumbs up."