The Cohalan Court Complex is one of the busiest courthouses in Suffolk County, New York. Located in Central Islip, this large government building brings together many parts of the local justice system under one roof. It’s just off Carleton Avenue, a few miles south of the Long Island Expressway and north of the Southern State Parkway. This makes it easy to reach from most parts of Suffolk County.
If you’re going to court in Central Islip, there’s a good chance you’ll be coming here. Whether your case involves traffic tickets, criminal charges, family matters, or a Supreme Court issue, this is where it will likely take place.
What Courts and Services Are Inside the Complex?
The Cohalan Court Complex is home to several different divisions of the state and county court system. It includes:
- Suffolk County Criminal Court
- Suffolk County Traffic and Parking Violations Agency
- Suffolk County Family Court
- Suffolk County Supreme Court
- Administrative offices and the Judge’s chambers
- Offices for court clerks and other staff
- The Sheriff’s lockup facility
Each floor of the building is used for something different. For example, the second floor has many of the clerks’ offices, while floors three through six are used for trials. The family court handles custody, support, and domestic issues. The traffic division is where you go if you need to deal with speeding tickets, parking violations, or license issues.
There’s also a separate District Court building just across from the main parking lot, near the flagpoles. This is where many misdemeanor and arraignment cases are handled.
The Building and Its Location
The Cohalan Court Complex is a large, modern building. It sits near the big white federal courthouse and Bethpage Ballpark in Central Islip. These landmarks help people find their way. If you’re coming from the Southern State Parkway, take Exit 43A and head north. If you’re coming from the Long Island Expressway, use Exit 56 for Route 111. The courthouse is located at 400 Carleton Avenue and will be on your right.
There is a parking lot on-site, but like many busy court buildings, it can fill up quickly—especially in the mornings. It’s a good idea to arrive early so you have enough time to park and find your courtroom.
Educational Tours and Community Learning
The court complex doesn’t just handle legal cases. It also opens its doors to local students and community groups who want to learn more about how the justice system works. These tours give people a real look at what goes on inside a courthouse. Visitors learn about the arraignment process, how cases move through the system, and what different court workers do each day.
Students sometimes visit the lockup area to see where people are held before their hearings. These tours also help explain the Sixth Amendment, which gives everyone the right to a speedy trial, a lawyer, and to know what charges they are facing.
Why You Might Be Going to the Cohalan Court Complex
If you’ve been charged with a crime in Suffolk County, there’s a good chance you’ll have to go to this court complex. This includes charges like:
- DWI (driving while intoxicated)
- Assault
- Drug offenses
- Theft
- Traffic-related charges
It’s also where you go if your case is being heard in family or supreme court. If you’re unsure where your case is scheduled, you can check with the court clerk’s office or visit the official New York court website at ww2.nycourts.gov for more details.
What to Expect on the Day of Court
Going to court can feel stressful, especially if it’s your first time. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Arrive Early: Give yourself time to get through security and find your courtroom.
- Dress Respectfully: You don’t need a suit, but wear something clean and appropriate.
- Bring Your Paperwork: Make sure you have any letters from the court, your ID, and anything else your attorney tells you to bring.
- Listen for Your Name: When court is in session, stay quiet and listen for your name or case number.
- Don’t Miss Your Date: If you miss court, a warrant could be issued for your arrest.
Having a lawyer with you can make the process easier and less confusing. They can help you understand your rights, speak to the judge for you, and work toward the best outcome.
Call for Help Before You Go to Court
If you’re facing charges or need to appear at the Cohalan Court Complex, don’t go it alone. You have the right to speak to a lawyer before you talk to the police or appear before a judge. A criminal defense attorney can help you understand what’s happening and give you advice that protects you.
Call (631) 424-6444 today to schedule a consultation and get answers to your questions. Whether it’s your first court appearance or your fifth, having a skilled attorney by your side makes a big difference.