No. You don't need one to file, defend, or appeal a small claims case.

Not in small claims court — but you can file a regular civil case in City Court (up to $15,000).

You can still file. Get the correct legal name from the County Clerk or the NYS business search before you try to collect — an incorrect name makes collecting much harder.

No, for either party. Ask the Clerk if this applies to your situation.

Ask the Clerk about a fee waiver if you can't afford the cost.

See “Special Situations” in the “Trial” tab— they can file a counterclaim.

Ask the Court when it can be returned.

Only if the defendant requests one and pays the jury fee.

No — NYC (and Nassau/Suffolk) have different rules and dollar limits. This site covers Ithaca / upstate NY only.