My bank said I need to go to surrogate court or probate court to access my safety deposit box. Is that the law?

Yes, it is.

What is self help eviction?

One example is if the landlord changes the tenant's locks and throws the tenant's stuff out before properly evicting a tenant in Housing Court.

Do we need to give the court a Affirmation that we served the defendants with a "Letter of Non-Compliance"?

Proof of service is always recommended when obtainable.

Is it a good sign if my lawyer said It will be done within a month?

Good if there is no deadline, bad if there is a deadline less than 30 days away.

Is there always a counter offer? Do they ever settle with your first demand?

It really does depend on the individual.

You certainly can call the police if there is any dangerous, threatening, or illegal activity on the property.

Can the court force me to pay child care rears if I explain to the petitioner that I can't not pay 67% of child care?

This is an issue you need to bring up in Court. You can either object to the original decision (if time has not expired) or file a Petition for...

Can i still start a law suit against the city after all this time.

Unfortunately time has expired.

I live in Washington state. While visiting NYC, got a ticket w/ a summons- can I get an attorney to appear for me?

Retain a New York attorney, he/she can appear for you in light of your potential travel burden.

Can the force me to daycare rears if I did not give consent even if I explained to the pertitioner that I can't afford it?

It depends on the language of the support order that exists (if any).