Nassau County District Court: A Criminal Defense Guide

Our Hempstead criminal lawyers explain where Nassau County District Court is located, what happens when you arrive, common legal terms you may hear, and practical tips to help you navigate your court appearance.

If you have a pending case in Nassau County District Court, contact The R.M.L. Law Firm for a free consultation. Our former prosecutors appear in this courthouse regularly and can help protect your rights from day one.

What Is Nassau County District Court?

Nassau County District Court is the primary criminal court for misdemeanor cases, arraignments for misdemeanors and felonies in Nassau County. Most individuals charged with a crime in Nassau County will have at least one initial appearance in District Court.

The court is also commonly referred to as the Hempstead Criminal Court because it is located in Hempstead and handles the majority of misdemeanor criminal cases in Nassau County.

What Types of Cases Are Handled in Nassau County District Court?

Nassau County District Court handles misdemeanor criminal cases, traffic offenses, DWI charges, suspended license offenses, and arraignments for both misdemeanors and felonies. Felony cases generally begin in District Court before being transferred to County Court following Grand Jury action.

Nassau County District Court Address

Nassau County District Court is located at:

99 Main Street
Hempstead, NY 11550
(516) 493-4200

Court hours are generally:

Monday through Friday
9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

The courthouse is generally closed on New York State court holidays, although arraignments are conducted on weekends and holidays.

Who Are the Judges in Nassau County District Court?

Criminal cases are heard by various Nassau County District Court judges. Court assignments can change, and each judge has different procedures and scheduling practices. An experienced defense attorney familiar with Nassau County District Court can help navigate those differences.

Before You Enter the Courthouse

Security Screening

All visitors must pass through a security checkpoint before entering the courthouse. Similar to airport security, you will walk through a metal detector and may have your belongings screened.

Do not bring:

• Weapons
• Pocket knives
• Sharp objects
• Any prohibited items

Bringing prohibited items can delay your entry or result in additional legal issues.

Finding Your Courtroom

Your court paperwork should indicate the courtroom or “part” where your case is scheduled. If you are unsure where to go, check the courthouse directory or ask court personnel for assistance.

Checking In for Court

If you are represented by an attorney, your lawyer will typically check in with the court and prosecutor on your behalf.

If you do not have an attorney, you should check in with a court officer when you arrive.

Arriving early is always recommended. Court calendars are often busy, and late arrivals can create unnecessary complications.

What Happens After You Check In?

One of the most common misconceptions is that court appearances happen immediately. In reality, there is often a waiting period.

Cases are generally called in the order attorneys check in with the court. Cases involving unrepresented individuals are frequently called afterward.

Be patient and plan accordingly. Even a brief court appearance may require several hours at the courthouse.

Who Will Be Present During Your Nassau County District Court Appearance?

During most Nassau County District Court appearances, you can expect to see:

• The Judge
• Court Officers
• The Assistant District Attorney (ADA)
• Court Clerks
• Defense Attorneys
• Defendants and family members
• Witnesses in certain cases

If you are represented by counsel, your attorney will speak on your behalf during most court appearances and guide you through the process.

Nassau County District Court Directory

The courthouse contains several important departments:

First Floor

• Arraignment A
• Arraignment B (Desk Appearance Ticket cases)
• Clerk’s Office
• Cashier’s Office
• Police Liaison Unit – where you may retrieve personal property after your arraignment in Arraignment A if you were held prior to seeing the judge

Second Floor

• DVM (Domestic Violence part)
• Parts 1, 2, 3, and 4

Third Floor

• Parts 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, and 12 (Parts 7 and 8 are designated for DWI cases only)
• Nassau County District Attorney’s Office

Lower Level

• Probation Department
• Problem Solving Court Unit (PSCU) – where you can sign up for evaluations
• Ignition Interlock Department – called AIM (Alcohol Interlock Monitoring)
• Holding Cells

Common Nassau County Criminal Court Terms

Understanding common legal terminology can help reduce anxiety during your court appearance.

Arraignment

An arraignment is your first court appearance. During the arraignment:

• You are formally advised of the charges against you.
• A plea is entered – typically a not-guilty plea.
• The judge determines release conditions and other initial matters.

Bail or Bond

Bail is money or property posted to ensure a defendant returns to court for future appearances.

Adjournment

An adjournment is simply a future court date. Cases are often adjourned for:

• Discovery
• Motion practice
• Negotiations
• Hearings
• Trial preparation

Misdemeanor

A misdemeanor is a criminal offense punishable by up to one year in jail.

Examples include:

• Petit Larceny
• Criminal Possession of Stolen Property (certain levels)
• Some assault charges

Felony

A felony is a more serious criminal offense that can result in a state prison sentence exceeding one year.

Examples include:

• Burglary
• Grand Larceny
• Certain drug offenses
• Serious assault charges

Grand Jury

A Grand Jury determines whether sufficient evidence exists to formally charge someone with a felony offense.

Indictment

An indictment is a formal felony accusation issued by a Grand Jury after finding reasonable cause to believe a crime was committed.

Violation

A violation is a non-criminal offense.

Examples include:

• Disorderly Conduct
• Harassment in the Second Degree

Violations do not result in a criminal record.

Desk Appearance Ticket (DAT)

A Desk Appearance Ticket (DAT) is a written notice directing a person to appear in court at a future date instead of being held for arraignment after an arrest. Many DAT cases are handled in Arraignment B at Nassau County District Court. Even if you received a DAT and were released, you should take the matter seriously and consult with an attorney before your court date

Assistant District Attorney (ADA)

An Assistant District Attorney is the prosecutor assigned to represent the government and prosecute criminal cases.

Discovery

Discovery is the evidence the prosecution must provide to the defense under New York’s discovery laws. In many Nassau County criminal cases, discovery may include:

• Police reports
• Body-worn camera footage
• Surveillance video
• Witness statements
• Laboratory reports
• Photographs
• 911 recordings

An experienced criminal defense attorney will carefully review this evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

Plea Deal

A plea agreement is a negotiated resolution between the defense and prosecution that avoids trial. Depending on the facts of the case, it may result in reduced charges or a more favorable outcome.

Bench Warrant

A bench warrant may be issued when a person fails to appear for a scheduled court date. If a bench warrant is issued, the court may authorize law enforcement to arrest the individual and bring them before the judge.

Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD)

An Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal (ACD) is a disposition that allows a criminal case to be dismissed after a specified period of time, provided the defendant complies with any conditions imposed by the court. ACDs are commonly used in certain misdemeanor and violation cases.

Suppression Hearing

A suppression hearing allows the defense to challenge the admissibility of evidence. Common issues include whether police conducted an unlawful search, obtained statements in violation of constitutional rights, or lacked legal justification for their actions.

Tips for Your Nassau County Court Appearance

Arrive Early

Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled appearance.

Dress Professionally

First impressions matter. Avoid:

• Shorts
• Tank tops
• Clothing with offensive language
• Excessively casual attire

Show Respect

Address the judge as “Your Honor” or “Judge”

Remain respectful to court personnel, prosecutors, and court officers.

Turn Off Your Phone

Cell phones should be silenced or vibrate before entering the courtroom. If you need to take a call, step into the hallway.

Be Careful What You Say

Anything you say can potentially be used against you. Do not discuss the facts of your case with anyone other than your attorney.

Stay Calm

Court can be intimidating, especially if it is your first appearance. Listen carefully, follow instructions, and allow your attorney to guide you through the process.

No Food or Drinks

Food and beverages are generally not permitted inside courtrooms.

Nassau County District Court Parking

Parking is available in the courthouse lot near Main Street and Jackson Street. Metered parking is also available in the surrounding area.

Always allow extra time to locate parking, particularly during busy morning court sessions.

Do You Need a Nassau County Criminal Defense Lawyer?

Whether you are facing a misdemeanor, felony, violation, DWI, or traffic-related offense, having an experienced attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

An experienced Nassau County criminal defense lawyer can:

• Protect your rights
• Review the evidence against you
• Negotiate with prosecutors
• Challenge unlawful police conduct
• Seek dismissals or reductions when appropriate
• Guide you through every court appearance

Frequently Asked Questions About Nassau County District Court

How early should I arrive for court in Nassau County?

Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled appearance to allow time for parking and security screening.

Can I bring my phone into Nassau County District Court?

Yes, but your phone should remain silenced while inside the courtroom.

What happens if I miss a court date in Nassau County District Court?

Missing a court appearance can result in a bench warrant being issued for your arrest. Contact an attorney immediately if you miss court.

Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Nassau County?

Although you have the right to represent yourself, having an experienced criminal defense lawyer can significantly improve your chances of obtaining a favorable outcome.

How long does a court appearance take?

Even brief appearances often require several hours due to crowded court calendars and scheduling delays.

Can family members attend my court appearance?

In most cases, court proceedings are open to the public, and family members may attend. However, courtroom seating may be limited, and certain proceedings may be closed by court order.

What Should You Bring to Nassau County District Court?

Bring:

• A valid photo ID
• Any court paperwork you received
• Contact information for your attorney
• Reading material or work, as court appearances often involve waiting
• Any documents your attorney instructed you to bring

Do not bring prohibited items such as weapons, knives, or anything that may delay security screening.

Contact The R.M.L. Law Firm for Your Nassau County District Court Case

If you have a case pending in Nassau County District Court, the experienced Nassau County criminal defense attorneys at The R.M.L. Law Firm can help.

Whether you are appearing for a misdemeanor, felony, Desk Appearance Ticket, DWI charge, suspended license offense, or traffic violation, The R.M.L. Law Firm is prepared to protect your rights and fight for the best possible result.

Contact us today for a FREE consultation and learn how we can protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.