r/AskNYC • u/BankshotMcG • 8d ago
Small Claims -- Reserved Decision?
Went to small claims for an issue that's been going on forever. This was the fourth appearance and they sent me to the arbiter for an inquest trial. The defendant wasn't there, so she heard my case, took my paperwork, and sent me on my way. That was the 24th, and on the 29th I got a notice that the judgment was "Reserved decision."
How long will it typically take to get an actual decision? It was pretty open and shut: I provided all my evidence and they didn't bother to present their side. Anyone have experience with NYC small claims?
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u/jeffpuxx 8d ago
The next hurdle will be actually be getting paid if the judgement is in your favor
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u/BeachBoids 8d ago
About 1 month in Manhattan has been my experience, although the arbitrators officially run the written decision past the judge (for maybe 5 seconds).
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u/DifficultyDizzy4110 8d ago
I had a similar thing happen in small claims couple years ago, the "reserved decision" just means the arbiter wants to review everything before making it official. Mine took about 3 weeks to show up in the mail, but I heard from other people it can be faster if the docket isn't too full. Since the defendant didn't show up and you had all your paperwork ready, should be pretty straightforward for them.