- Lawsuits $20,000 or less (Special Civil), Lawsuits for amounts up to $20,000 are called special civil cases. They are filed in Superior Court, in the special civil part of the civil division., On This Page, Essential Forms, The following forms are used to begin a case: CN Title 10542 How to Answer a Complaint in the Special Civil Part 10914 How To Request a Default Judgment in the Superior Court Of New Jersey - Special Civil Part (Small Claims and Regular Special Civil Part Cases) 10915 How to File a Motion to Dismiss the Complaint or to Strike the Answer for Failure to Answer Interrogatories in the Special Civil Part 12302 Special Civil Answer and Counterclaim, Cross-claim, Third Party Complaint - Appendix XI-Z 10541 How to Sue for an Amount of Money up to $20,000 11968 How to Answer a Complaint in the Special Civil Part with a Counterclaim, Cross-claim and/or Third Party Complaint These forms are used after a judgment is entered to help collect money: CN Title 10282 Collecting a Money Judgment - brochure 10546 How to Get Financial Information About Someone Who Owes You Money (Motion to Enforce Litigant’s Rights) 10548 How to Ask the Court to Order a Wage Execution in a Special Civil Part Case 11235 Writ of Wage Execution - Appendix XII-E 11236 Notice of Application for Wage Execution - Appendix XI-I 11711 How to Complete the Request for a Writ of Execution 11840 Information Subpoena - Appendix XI-L Use these from to defend yourself against collection: CN Title 12322 How to Object to a Wage Garnishment in a Special Civil Part Case 12323 How to Object to a Bank Account Levy in a Special Civil Part Case 10543 How to File a Motion in the Special Civil Part Examples: A person or company failed to comply with a written or oral contract. Your car was damaged in an accident. You paid money as a down payment and want it returned. Your property was damaged or lost. Merchandise you bought is defective. Work you paid for was faulty or not completed. You want to be paid for work you did. Someone wrote you a bad check. You gave a landlord a security deposit that was not returned. Cases not eligible: Malpractice claims against doctors, dentists, lawyers, or other professionals Claims for child support or alimony Cases involving wills and inheritance Claims seeking anything other than money from the Defendant defendant, Do I need a lawyer to file a lawsuit in the Special Civil Part?, The court system can be confusing, and it is a good idea to get a lawyer if you can. If you cannot afford a lawyer, you can contact the legal services program in your county to see if you qualify for free legal services. Legal Services of New Jersey maintains a directory of regional legal services offices. regional legal services offices. The NJ State Bar Association also maintains a list of county referral services list of county referral services that might be helpful., Things to think about before representing yourself in court, While you have the right to represent yourself in court, you should not expect any special treatment, help, or attention from the court. You must still comply with the Rules of the Court, even if you are not familiar with them. The following is a list of some things the court staff can and cannot do for you. Please read it carefully before asking the court staff for help. We can explain and answer questions about how the court works. We can tell you what the requirements are to have your case considered by the court. We can give you some information from your case file. We can provide you with samples of court forms that are available. We can provide you with guidance on how to fill out forms. We can usually answer questions about court deadlines. We cannot give you legal advice. Only your lawyer can give you legal advice. We cannot tell you whether or not you should bring your case to court. We cannot give you an opinion about what will happen if you bring your case to court. We cannot recommend a lawyer, but we can provide you with the telephone number of a local lawyer referral service. We cannot talk to the judge for you about what will happen in your case. We cannot let you talk to the judge outside of court. We cannot change an order issued by a judge., Filing a Special Civil Suit, How to Sue for an Amount of Money Up To $15,000 How to sue for an amount of money up to $20,000, This kit has all of the forms and instructions for self-represented litigants to file a special civil case for money Damages damages, Note: You must be 18 to file a court case. If you are under 18, your parent or guardian must filed the case for you., 9 steps to file a special civil case, Complete the Special Civil Part complaint (Form A in the Kit). Complete the top part only of Special Civil Part Summons (Form B in the Kit). Do not include personal identifiers such as social security numbers on the copy of the documents that you file with the court. Complete the forms, make a copy, and then Redact redact or black out the Personal Identifiers personal identifiers on the copies you will submit to the court. Include the current address of the person you are suing. Attach the Filing Fee filing fee or request a Fee Waivers fee waiver: Suing one defendant up to $5,000: $ 50 Suing one defendant for more than $5,000: $ 75 Each additional defendant: $ 5 Mail service fee for each defendant: $ 10 If requesting a jury trial: $100 Checks should be made payable to “Treasurer, State of NJ” Check forms to make sure they are complete. Sign the forms. Make copies of all of the documents you will submit to the court and put them in a safe place. , Check that you have redacted the personal identifiers on the copies you prepare for court, . , Upload the documents, into the Judiciary Electronic Document Submission (JEDS) system Judiciary Electronic Document Submission (JEDS) system . You can pay the fee with a credit card. You can upload the How to File for a Fee Waiver - All Courts fee waiver request form if needed. You also can mail the complaint , the summons and the fee to the Directory of Superior Court Special Civil Part Offices county Superior Court where the person or business is. Certified mail is recommended. The defendant can file a written Answer answer to the court within 35 days of getting the court summons. If the defendant files an answer, the court will send you a notice with a date to appear in court. If the defendant does not file an answer, you might be entitled to a Default Judgment default judgment Contact the court if you cannot come to court on your assigned date. Your case might be dismissed if you do not appear for trial., Serving the papers on the defendant, Your case cannot move forward unless the defendant receives the complaint and summons from the court. The court will mail the complaint and summons to the defendant(s). The defendant must then How to Answer a Complaint in the Special Civil Part file an answer. NOTE: You must give the court the correct address for the defendant or your case can not move forward., Defending yourself in a suit, If you are being sued in a special civil case You are the Defendant defendant in a lawsuit. You must file an Answer answer with the court. If you do not file an answer, a money Judgment judgment might be entered against you. You will receive a Summons summons from the court with the date and time to attend your trial. You must attend your trial on the date stated on the notice. If you do not attend your trial, a money judgment might be entered against you. If you cannot attend your trial on the date you were given, you must call the number on the notice or contact the Directory of Superior Court Special Civil Part Offices Special Civil Part office where the case was filed to ask for a new date., Do I need a lawyer to defend myself in a Special Civil Case?, The court system can be confusing, and it is a good idea to get a lawyer if you can. If you cannot afford a lawyer, you can contact the legal services program in your county to see if you qualify for free legal services. Legal Services of New Jersey has a list of Regional legal services offices. regional legal services offices. The NJ State Bar Association has a list of NJ NJ list of county referral services list of county referral services that might be helpful. Corporations, limited liability corporations and limited partnerships must be represented by an attorney if the lawsuit is more than $5000., Do not ignore the summons, . Even if you do not have a lawyer, it is better to try to defend yourself in court than to ignore the summons., Things to think about before representing yourself in court, While you have the right to represent yourself in court, you should not expect any special treatment, help, or attention from the court. You must still comply with the Rules of the Court, even if you are not familiar with them. The following is a list of some things the court staff can and cannot do for you. Please read it carefully before asking the court staff for help. We can explain and answer questions about how the court works. We can tell you what the requirements are to have your case considered by the court. We can give you some information from your case file. We can provide you with samples of court forms that are available. We can provide you with guidance on how to fill out forms. We can usually answer questions about court deadlines. We cannot give you legal advice. Only your lawyer can give you legal advice. We cannot tell you whether or not you should bring your case to court. We cannot give you an opinion about what will happen if you bring your case to court. We cannot recommend a lawyer, but we can provide you with the telephone number of a local lawyer referral service. We cannot talk to the judge for you about what will happen in your case. We cannot let you talk to the judge outside of court. We cannot change an order issued by a judge. How to Answer a Complaint in the Special Civil Part How to file an answer in the Special Civil Part. Defendants must file a written Answer answer to the complaint within 35 days of the date shown on the summons. Each defendant must file a separate answer. If you have evidence showing that you do not owe the amount claimed, such as receipts, attach copies of those papers to every copy of your answer. Keep copies of all the original documents and bring them to the trial. You also can choose to file a Counterclaim counterclaim, cross-claim or want to file a third-party complaint, 6 Steps for filing an answer to a lawsuit in the Special Civil Part, Complete the answer form and write your explanation why you think you do not owe the money that the person suing you is asking for. Do not include Personal Identifiers personal identifiers such as social security numbers on the documents filed with the court. Complete the forms, make a copy, and then Redact redact the personal identifiers on the copies you will submit to the court. Attach the filing fee of $30. Pay by credit card (for filings made through JEDS JEDS), use a check or a money order payable to "Treasurer, State of NJ." Check to make sure forms are completed and signed. Make copies of all documents you submit to the court and put them in a safe place. , Check that you have redacted the personal identifiers on the copies you prepare for court., Upload the documents, into the Judiciary Electronic Document Submission (JEDS) system Judiciary Electronic Document Submission (JEDS) system . You can pay the fee with a credit card. You can upload the How to File for a Fee Waiver – All Courts fee waiver request form if needed. You also can mail the documents to the Directory of Superior Court Special Civil Part Offices county Superior Court where the person or business is. Certified mail is recommended. You must also mail or bring your answer to the plaintiff and to any other parties in the case. If any party is represented by an attorney, send the information to the attorney instead. You will get a notice with a date to attend the trial.. Contact the court if you cannot attend the trial on your assigned date due to circumstances beyond your control. If you do not attend the trial, the court might find you in default and a money Judgment judgment might be entered against you. You might receive a list of questions, called Interrogatories interrogatories , from the plaintiff. You must answer the questions and return them to the plaintiff within 30 days. Read more about preparing for trial. Read more about preparing for trial., Filing Fees and Fee Waiver, Suing one Defendant defendant up to $5000: $50 Suing one defendant for more than $5000: $75 Each additional defendant: $5 All checks must be made payable to Treasurer, State of NJ, Do you qualify for a fee waiver?, You might not have to pay to file your cases if your income and assets are low enough. Fill out the Fee Waiver form and give it to the court along with the required documents. You can apply for a fee waiver in any NJ state court: Supreme Court, Appellate Division, Superior Court and Tax Court. How to File for a Fee Waiver - All Courts Request and learn more about fee waivers ., Preparing for Trial, Watch the video on preparing for trial before you come to court. Both the plaintiff and defendant will be asked to give Testimony testimony at the trial. You can present witnesses. The court cannot accept written statements. You must have your witness available to testify on the trial date. Submit all of the documents you need to prove your side of the case at the trial using Electronic Evidence Submission Electronic Evidence Submission The court cannot use text messages or emails on your mobile phone. You must either submit them to the court in advance of the trial date, through Electronic Evidence Submission Electronic Evidence Submission or by mail, or bring them to the trial. You will be questioning your witnesses and the witnesses brought by the other person. Write down your questions and have them available on the trial date. Be prepared to present records of any transactions that may help you prove your case. That could be Cancelled checks, money orders, sales receipts Bills, contracts, estimates, leases Letters Photographs Other documents proving your claim, Interrogatories, The parties in a court case are able to ask each other for information about the evidence they will use at trial. The questions are called Interrogatories interrogatories. The interrogatories are sent directly to the other party and not to the court. If there is more than one defendant in a case, separate interrogatories can be sent to each of them., Deadlines, Plaintiff, :, You have 30 days after receiving a defendant’s answer to send your interrogatories to that defendant. If you are suing for personal injury or automobile negligence, you must demand interrogatories in the complaint., Defendant, : You have 30 days after receiving a copy of the complaint to send your interrogatories to the plaintiff., All parties, : Whether you are a plaintiff or a defendant, all interrogatories must be answered within 30 days of when you received them. If you do not return your answers to the other parties within 30 days, the court might rule against you by suppressing your answer. If you miss the deadline, your filing is “stricken,” or removed, from the court record. You must pay a $25 fee within 30 days to have the case reinstated and your filing accepted. After 30 days, the restoration fee goes up to $75. After 45 days, the court might make the suppression order final, and then you will lose the case. Special Civil Part Interrogatories - Model Questions for Contract and Debt Collection Cases Where the Demand Exceeds $3,000 Use this kit for interrogatories for contract and debt collection cases over $5,000. How to Sue for Up To $5,000 in Small Claims Court Motor Vehicle Case Use these instructions if your case involves an auto accident or personal injury., Settlements, The court will ask that you try to settle your case so that you can avoid a trial. You might also want to contact the other party, or the other party’s lawyer, to talk about settling the case., Your day in court, The Plainiff plaintiff and the Defandant defendant must attend the trial at the time at the time and date stated on the summons, unless otherwise notified by the court. Be prepared to present all witnesses and evidence needed to present your case. On the day scheduled for trial, the court will help you try to settle your case through a settlement conference with a trained neutral third person. This person will try to help the plaintiff and the defendant reach an agreement. The neutral third person is not a judge. If a settlement cannot be reached, your case likely will be heard by the judge on the same day., If the plaintiff does not appear, the judge could dismiss the case., If the defendant does not appear, the judge could enter a , Default, default , judgment and the defendant might have to pay all or part of the money claimed in the lawsuit., Appealing a Special Civil Case, Either Party party can Appeal appeal a decision in Special Civil court. You should consider whether the amount at stake in your case is worth the cost of filing an appeal., When to File file, The appeal must be filed in the Appellate Division of Superior Court , within 45 days of the court’s decision., Do I need a lawyer to file an appeal?, You do not have to have a lawyer to appeal your case. But the appeals process can be confusing. You will have to convince the appeals court that the judge made a mistake. It is a good idea to get a lawyer if you can., Things to think about before representing yourself in court, While you have the right to represent yourself in court, you should not expect any special treatment, help, or attention from the court. You must still comply with the Rules of the Court, even if you are not familiar with them. The following is a list of some things the court staff can and cannot do for you. Please read it carefully before asking the court staff for help. We can explain and answer questions about how the court works. We can tell you what the requirements are to have your case considered by the court. We can give you some information from your case file. We can provide you with samples of court forms that are available. We can provide you with guidance on how to fill out forms. We can usually answer questions about court deadlines. We cannot give you legal advice. Only your lawyer can give you legal advice. We cannot tell you whether or not you should bring your case to court. We cannot give you an opinion about what will happen if you bring your case to court. We cannot recommend a lawyer, but we can provide you with the telephone number of a local lawyer referral service. We cannot talk to the judge for you about what will happen in your case. We cannot let you talk to the judge outside of court. We cannot change an order issued by a judge., Steps to file an appeal, File a Notice of Appeal. Request a transcript [link forthcoming] of your case from the Appellate Division. You must have the official transcript in order for your appeal to be considered. Complete a Case Information Statement. Appellate Division Practice Checklist Use the Appellate Division Practice Checklist, Filing Fees, $250 must be submitted with the Notice of Appeal. This is the cost of the appeal., Do you qualify for a Fee Waiver fee waiver?, Did the special civil court waive your fee? If so, you can attach a copy of the order and a signed letter that says your finances have not changed since the case was filed. How to File for a Fee Waiver – All Courts Use the Certified Statement in Support of a Motion to Proceed as an Indigent If you did not receive a fee waiver in your small claims case, you can submit a How to File for a Fee Waiver – All Courts request for a fee waiver with your appeal ., Mail or bring your appeals documents to:, Appellate Division Clerk’s Office, Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex P.O. Box 006 Trenton, New Jersey 08625-0970, Send copies of your appeals document to:, All parties in the case who appeared in court The local Directory of Superior Court Special Civil Part Offices Special Civil Part office that handled your special civil case The Judge's Chambers Listing judge who decided your special civil case, Keep a copy of each document for yourself., Preparing your appeal You will need to prepare a Brief brief , which is a document that explains why your appeal should be granted. Questions about your appeal? Call the , Appellate Division Clerk’s Office, at 609-815-2950 ., Collecting Your Money, If you were awarded a Judgment judgment in Special Civil part, you are a Judgment Creditor judgment creditor . You should contact the person who owes you the money, the Judgment Debtor judgment debtor, to talk about payment., The court cannot guarantee payment, Although the court will try to help you collect the money owed to you, it cannot guarantee the debt will be paid., Fees and other costs for Writs writs of execution, The filing fee is $35., Other Costs:, Ten percent fee: The special civil part officer will charge the debtor an extra ten percent on top of whatever money is recovered for you. Service fee: $7 fee for the Special Civil Part Officer to deliver service of process (e.g., complaints, writs and wage executions) to defendant(s). Sales and Advertising: If the special civil part officer sells personal property to get the money you are owed, you might be charged for things like advertising the sale., Writ of Execution, Read our brochure, on Collecting a Money Judgment How to Collect a Money Judgment A writ of execution is a court document that gives a special civil part officer the right to collect money from a judgment debtor’s bank account or personal property. , Real estate cannot be used to collect money owed in the Special Civil Part., Seizing a motor vehicle, You must be able to show that the vehicle is registered in the debtor’s name. You will need either: A certified of the title, or A certified Lien Glossary lien search from the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. The debtor might have an outstanding loan or debt on the car. You must determine if there is value or equity in the debtor’s car before you ask a special civil part officer to take it. Other items that could be used to satisfy a writ include: Office or sports equipment Household items Jewelry Clothing The debtor can keep $1,000 worth of personal property and clothing. If the debtor does not have more than $1,000 worth of personal property, this method cannot be used by the special civil part officer to satisfy your judgment and to collect the money owed to you., Bank levy (taking funds from a bank account), Use packet, How to Ask the Court to Order a Bank to Turn Over Funds That Have Been Frozen How to File a Motion to Turn Over Funds You can ask a special civil part officer to collect the money from the debtor’s bank account if the account is in New Jersey. Special civil part officers are not required to search for the debtor’s bank accounts. You must provide the name of the bank, the address and , no more than the last 4 digits of the account number, , if possible. , Do not provide the Special Civil Part Office with the debtor’s entire active financial account number, . Provide it to the officer directly if necessary. After the money has been levied upon by the special civil part officer, it is considered frozen. You must then File file a Motion Motion to Turn over Funds with the court and serve a copy upon the debtor and the bank. If the court grants the motion, the judge will sign an order that the special civil part officer will deliver to the bank. The officer will take the money from the bank, deposit it into an official business trust account, and then mail a check to the creditor or creditor’s attorney by the 15th day of the following month., Execution against wages (garnishing a debtor’s salary), Use packet, How to Ask the Court to Order a Wage Execution in a Special Civil Part Case How to File a Wage Execution The judgment creditor can request an execution against a person's wages if the debtor works in New Jersey and earns more than $217.50 per week. To request a wage execution, send a How to Ask the Court to Order a Wage Execution in a Special Civil Part Case Notice of Application for Wage Execution to the debtor by regular and certified mail. File a copy of the application and a statement of how you mailed the application to the debtor with the Office of the Special Civil Part in the county where the case was heard. If the debtor objects to the wage execution, a hearing will be immediately scheduled by the court. If the debtor does not object or the court does not allow the objection, the court will order a wage execution to be delivered to the debtor's employer by the special civil part officer. The employer will hold back a portion of the debtor's wages and will send this money directly to the officer. The officer will deduct a 10 percent commission and send the rest to you., If the money is not collected, Writs for wage executions can last for 20 years, but other writs expire in two year. After two years, the debtor can choose to: Request a new writ of execution from the court by following the same procedures used the first time in order to have the special civil officer keep trying to get the money; OR Request to have the judgment recorded as a lien against any real estate owned by the debtor. Once the judgment is recorded in the Superior Court, the debtor cannot sell with clear title any real estate owned in New Jersey until the debt is paid. To get a lien, a Statement for Docketing from the Directory of Superior Court Special Civil Part Offices Special Civil Part Office where the case was heard. You can send the Statement for Docketing, plus a $35 filing fee payable to Treasurer, State of New Jersey , to, Appellate Division Clerk’s Office, Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex P.O. Box 006 Trenton, New Jersey 08625-0970, Frequently Asked Questions, What Happens on the Day Of Trial in Special Civil? The defendant and the plaintiff must come to court at the time and date stated on the trial notice, unless otherwise notified by the court. Bring all witnesses and evidence needed to present your case. On the day scheduled for trial, the court may help you settle your case through mediation with a trained mediator or a settlement conference with a neutral third person. This person will try to help the plaintiff and the defendant reach a satisfactory agreement. The mediator or neutral third person is not a judge. If a settlement cannot be reached, every effort will be made to have your case tried by the judge on the same day. If you win your case and need information on how to collect your judgment, you can find that information in our brochure entitled “ Collecting a Money Judgment - brochure Collecting a Money Judgment .” This brochure is available in any New Jersey Special Civil Part Office as well as on the Internet at Collecting a Money Judgment - brochure njcourts.gov . What Claims Are Typically Filed in Special Civil Part? Following is a general list of claims that may be filed in Special Civil: Breach of a written or oral contract. Return of money used as a down payment. Property damage caused by a motor vehicle accident. Damage to or loss of property. Consumer complaints for defective merchandise or faulty workmanship. Payment for work performed. Claims based on bad checks Return of a tenant’s security deposit. What Is the Fee for Filing a Complaint with Special Civil? The costs for filing a complaint in Special Civil are: $50 for a complaint where the amount claimed is $5,000 or less. $75 for a complaint where the amount claimed is more than $5,000. $5 for each additional defendant. The fee is $10 for each defendant served by certified and regular mail. $10 fee for a Court Officer to personally reserve complaint. $12 fee for each additional defendant reserved by a Court Officer. Make a check or money order payable to the Treasurer, State of New Jersey. An additional $100 fee is required for requests for a jury trial by six jurors. If you cannot afford to pay the filing fees, you may apply to the court to qualify as an indigent and your filing fees may be waived by the judge. Can I Appeal a Special Civil Court? If you, as a plaintiff or as a defendant, disagree with the court's decision, you may appeal the case to the Appellate Division of the Superior Court within 45 days from the date when the final decision is rendered. (The information is available on How to Appeal a Trial Court, Tax Court or State Agency Decision njcourts.gov ) You must file a Notice of Appeal, a copy of the Request for Transcript and a Case Information Statement within the 45 days with the Clerk of the Appellate Division (located at the Hughes Justice Complex, Trenton) and deliver copies to: All parties to the case who appeared in court. The Office of the Special Civil Part from which the appeal is taken. The judge who decided the case. You must pay a filing fee of $250 with the Notice of Appeal and deposit $300 with the Clerk of the Appellate Division within 30 days of the Notice of Appeal. This deposit may be used to pay settlement or court costs if the appeal is lost. If the appeal is successful, the deposit will be refunded. You also must obtain a transcript (a copy of the record of what happened in court) of the trial. The request for a transcript should be made to the Office of the Special Civil Part in the county in which the case was tried. You must deposit with the Clerk the estimated cost of the transcript (as determined by the court reporter, Clerk or agency preparing it) or $300 for each day or part of a day of the trial. You must file three copies of the transcript with the, Appellate Division Clerk’s Office, . Questions concerning an appeal should be directed to the, Appellate Division Clerk’s Office, at 609-815-2950 or to an attorney. What Claims Cannot Be Filed in Special Civil Part? Claims arising from professional malpractice (for example, alleged malpractice by a doctor, dentist or lawyer). Claims for support or alimony from a marital or domestic dispute. Claims arising from a probate matter. Please remember that if you believe you are entitled to damages greater than $20,000, but still wish to sue in Special Civil, you give up your right to recover damages over $20,000. The additional money, cannot, be claimed later in a separate lawsuit. Can I File an Answer to a Complaint with Special Civil? If you have been named as a defendant in a case, you must file a written answer to the complaint with the Office of the Special Civil Part in the county in which the complaint was filed within the number of days stated in the summons (35 days). You also must hand deliver, or send by regular mail, a copy of this answer to the plaintiff's attorney or send it by regular and certified mail to the plaintiff if they do not have an attorney. An answer packet for self-represented litigants, with accompanying instructions, is available in any New Jersey Special Civil Part Office and is available on the Internet at How to Answer a Complaint in the Special Civil Part njcourts.gov. If you believe that the plaintiff owes you money, you must add a counterclaim to the answer. If you believe that someone else named as a defendant in the complaint owes the money, you must add to the answer a cross-claim against that defendant. Finally, if you believe that a party not named in the complaint owes the money, you must add a third-party complaint to the answer. When filing an answer, be sure to give the following information: The docket number and caption of the case which appears on the complaint. Your full name, address and telephone number. The correct name(s) and address(es) of the plaintiff(s). The reason(s) you are disputing the plaintiff's claim. Include the amount of money for which you are suing, if you are including a counterclaim, cross-claim or third-party complaint with your answer. Do not provide any party’s “ confidential and personal identifiers”* in the answer or in any other submission to the court unless specifically required under law, court order, rule or administrative directive. You must complete the summons form if you are filing an answer, that includes a third-party complaint, (a new party is being added to the lawsuit by you). You must also pay the applicable service fees, as the court is required to serve the answer and third party complaint, on your behalf, upon the new party(ies) that you are adding to the lawsuit. You also must sign the answer, and pay the correct fling fees, when filing the answer with the Office of the Special Civil Part. If you do not respond to the complaint in writing within the number of days listed on the summons, a "judgment by default" may be entered against you. Through a judgment by default, the court decides the amount of money, if any, to be awarded to the plaintiff because you did not answer the complaint in time. If you have answered the complaint on time, the court will notify you by mail of the trial date. * A “ confidential personal identifier ” is defined as a social security number, driver’s license number, vehicle plate number, insurance policy number,, active, financial account number or, active, credit card number. You can provide the last 4 digits of a party’s, active, financial account if it is the subject of the lawsuit and cannot otherwise be identified. Where Do I File a Complaint with Special Civil? A complaint must be filed in the Office of the Special Civil Part in the county where at least one defendant lives or where the defendant's business is located. A business defendant is considered located in a county wherever it is actually doing business or in the county where its registered office is located. If there is more than one defendant, the complaint can be filed in the county where any of the defendants live or is located. If none of the defendants live or are located in New Jersey, the complaint must be filed in the county where the cause of the complaint occurred. A list of all of the Special Civil Part Offices, addresses and phone numbers in New Jersey is available on the Internet at Directory of Superior Court Special Civil Part Offices njcourts.gov . What Is the Fee for Filing an Answer in Special Civil? $30 for an answer. $50 for an answer with a counterclaim, cross-claim or third-party complaint where the amount is $5,000 or less. $75 for an answer with a counterclaim, cross-claim or third-party complaint where the amount is more than $5,000. Note: The Clerk will also charge an additional fee for serving the third-party complaint upon the new party(ies) that you are adding to the lawsuit. If you cannot afford to pay the filing fees, you may apply to the court to qualify as an indigent and your filing fees may be waived by the judge. Who May File a Complaint with Special Civil? To sue in the Special Civil Part, a person must be 18 years of age or older. If the person suing is under the age of 18, the claim must be filed by a parent or guardian. A plaintiff or defendant that is a corporation, partnership, (any business entity other than sole proprietors) must be represented by an attorney when the claim is greater than $5,000. An officer, trustee, director, agent or employee of a corporation may present or defend against a claim of $5,000 or less. How Do I Prepare for Trial in Special Civil?, Interrogatories, The Rules of Court provide for an exchange of information by the parties. Whether you are the plaintiff or the defendant, questions from the opposing party, called "interrogatories," must be answered within 30 days from the date you receive them., Plaintiff, If you are the plaintiff, you must prove your case. Arrange to have any witnesses and records you need to prove your case at the trial. A written statement, even if made under oath, cannot be used in court. . Only actual testimony in court of what the witness(es) heard or saw will be allowed. Prepare your questions in advance. Bring to court records of any transactions that may help you prove your case. Such records may include: Cancelled checks, money orders, sales receipts. Bills, contracts, estimates, leases. Letters. Photographs. Other documents proving your claim. If you are able to settle the case with the defendant before the trial date, call the Special Civil Part Clerk's Office immediately to confirm that the case should be marked settled., Defendant, If you are the defendant, you should prepare your side of the case as the plaintiff prepared his or her case. Bring all necessary witnesses and documents to court with you on the scheduled trial date. You must come to court at the time and date shown on the trial notice. If you do not, a default judgment may be entered against you and you may have to pay the money the plaintiff says you owe. If you are able to settle the case with the plaintiff before the trial date, call the court immediately to confirm that the case should be marked settled. What Is the Special Civil Part? Special Civil is a court in which you may sue a person or a business (the defendant) to collect an amount of money up to $20,000 that you believe is owed to you. If your claim is $5,000 or less, you may sue in the Small Claims Section. This segment on Special Civil explains how to file a complaint, answer a complaint, file an appeal and gives general information about Special Civil. It is not intended to provide or take the place of legal advice or to answer every question you have about this court. For legal advice about your rights, you should contact a lawyer. If you do not have a lawyer, you may contact the Lawyers' Referral Service of your County Bar Association. If you cannot afford a lawyer, you may contact the Legal Services Program in your county to see if you are eligible for free legal services. Special Civil is one of three sections within the Special Civil Part Court. The other two sections are Landlord Tenant and Small Claims. Special Civil is limited to cases in which the demand is $20,000 or less. If you believe you are entitled to recover more than $20,000, your case should be filed in the Law Division of the Superior Court. If you believe you are entitled to damages greater than $20,000, but still wish to sue in Special Civil, you give up your right to recover damages over $20,000. The additional money cannot be claimed later in a separate lawsuit How Do I File a Complaint with Special Civil? A Special Civil complaint form and accompanying instructions is available in any New Jersey Special Civil Part Office and is available on the Internet at How to Sue for an Amount of Money Up To $20,000 njcourts.gov . The summons and complaint can be filed through the mail or in person at the appropriate Special Civil Part Office (See “ Where Do I File a Complaint With Special Civil? Where Do I File a Complaint? ” Question). When filing a complaint, you, as the plaintiff, must: Give your full name, address and telephone number. To ensure proper service of the complaint, give the correct name(s) and address(es) of the person(s) or business(es) named as the defendant(s) in the complaint. It is important that the defendant(s) be properly identified as an individual, a sole proprietorship, a partnership or a corporation. State the amount of money for which you are suing. State the reason why the defendant(s) owes you money. State whether there is, at this time, another case involving both you and the other party(ies) and, if so, the name of the court. Do not provide any party’s *“ confidential and personal identifiers ” in the complaint or in any other submission to the court unless specifically required under law, court order, rule or administrative directive. Sign and date the completed form. Pay the correct filing and service fees when filing the complaint with the Office of the Special Civil Part. * A “confidential personal identifier” is defined as a social security number, driver’s license number, vehicle plate number, insurance policy number,, active, financial account number or, active, credit card number . You can provide the last 4 digits of a party’s, active, financial account if it is the subject of the lawsuit and cannot otherwise be identified. After you have filed a complaint, a trial date will not be set unless the defendant files an answer in writing, along with the proper fees, to the Office of the Special Civil Part within 35 days from the date the complaint was served upon that defendant. If the defendant responds in writing within the 35 days, a trial date will be scheduled. All parties will be notified by the court. If a defendant does not respond within the 35 days, the Court will enter a default. The plaintiff can apply to the Special Civil Part Office for the entry of a “judgment by default” within 6 months from the date that default was entered. After this six month period, they must file a motion in order to obtain the judgment by default. Through a judgment by default request, the court decides the amount of money, if any, to be awarded to a plaintiff because the defendant did not answer the complaint in time or come to court. You are required to submit an affidavit and other documents verifying the amount of your claim and prove to the Court that the individual defendant is not an active member of the U.S. military. Proof of military service does not apply to business defendants. A hearing may be held in court to allow you to prove your claim where the amount you claimed cannot be proved from your documents. A packet for self-represented litigants on how to apply for a default judgment is available in any New Jersey Special Civil Part Office and is available on the Internet at How to Request a Default Judgment njcourts.gov . If the complaint is for money damages caused by a motor vehicle accident and the judgment requires a defendant to pay more than $500, the defendant must pay within 60 days. If the defendant does not pay within the 60 days, the plaintiff may request, through the Office of the Special Civil Part, that the Motor Vehicle Commission stop the defendant's driving privileges until the judgment is paid. There is no fee for this request., Glossary, Answer : An Answer is a written response that explains why the defendant thinks they do not owe the money to the plaintiff in a court case. Appeal : An appeal is a written request asking a higher court to look at the decision of the judge and change that judge’s decision. Breach of Contract : A breach of contract is a failure to perform a promise that is a part of a written or oral contract. Brief : A brief is document submitted to the court to explain your side of the case. Certification : A certification is a written statement made to the court when you file papers, swearing that the information contained in the filed papers is true. Complaint : A complaint is a document in which you briefly tell the court the facts in your case and the relief you want the court to grant. Counterclaim : A Counterclaim is a claim added to defendant’s answer which asserts an affirmative claim for damages against the plaintiff. Damages : The amount of money the plaintiff sues for in a lawsuit is called damages . Default : When the defendant does not appear for trial to respond to the complaint or does not file an answer, a judge could rule in the plaintiff's favor. This is called a default . Also, if the plaintiff does not appear for trial, the court could dismiss the plaintiff's case. Defendant : The defendant is the person or business against whom a case is filed. Fee waiver : The court does not charge a filing fee for litigants who can prove that their income is no more than 150% of the current poverty level and that they have no more than $2,500 in cash and bank accounts. File : To file means to give the correct forms and fee to the court. Interrogatories : Interrogatories are written questions to the other party or parties in a lawsuit whose purpose is to get information that can be used at trial. Judgment : A judgment is the official decision of a court in a case. Judgment creditor : A person who is owed money as a result of a court order. Judgment debtor : A person who owes money as a result of a court order. Lien : A lien is the legal right of a creditor to claim a debtor’s property until a debt is paid. Litigant : A litigant is party in a court case, either suing or being sued. Motion : A motion is a written request in which you ask the court to issue an order, or to change an order it has already issued. Order : An order is a signed paper from the judge telling someone they must do something. Party : A party is a person, business or governmental agency involved in a court action. Personal Identifier : A personal identifier is any personal information that is unique to an individual, including Social Security number, military status, driver’s license number, license plate number, insurance policy number, active bank account and credit card numbers. This information could be used to steal someone’s identity or their money. All documents filed with the court are available for public inspection. , Therefore no personal identifiers should be included on documents filed with the court, Plaintiff : The plaintiff is the person who starts the lawsuit by filing the complaint. Proof Hearing : the judge or court can direct the plaintiff to submit written documents or tell their story in a proof hearing to support or prove the how much the defendant owes. Redact : To redact is to remove or to hide parts of a written document. Return Date : The return date is the date the plaintiff and defendant are told to appear in court. Service : Service is mailing or delivering copies of your papers to the lawyer for the other party or to the other party directly if they have no lawyer. Service of Process : Service of Process is the official delivery of the papers to the other party. Summons : A summons is the paper that notifies the defendant that he or she is being sued and briefly explains the steps they need to take once they have received this notice. Testimony : Testimony is an oral statement given by a witness at a trial or hearing. Tort : A tort is an act or failure to act that causes an injury or harm to another that forms the basis of a lawsuit for damages. Transcript : A transcript is a written record of everything that was said during a court hearing. Writ : A writ is a document issued by a court that orders a person, or organization to do something.
- Domestic Violence, People dealing with domestic violence can file a restraining order. Some restraining orders include child custody. Discover additional resources to help you get out of a domestic violence situation., On This Page, Body, Who can get a restraining order?, If you are a victim of domestic violence, you can apply if: You are 18 years of age or older, or you are an emancipated minor (a person under 18 years who is married, in the military, has a child, is pregnant or has been legally declared an adult by a court) and are a victim who has experienced domestic violence by: Spouse, Former Spouse, or Any other person who is a present household member or was at any time a household member, OR Or regardless of your age, you have experienced domestic violence by: Someone you have a child with, Someone you are expecting a child with, or if either of you are pregnant, Someone you have had a dating relationship with., How to apply for a restraining order, You can apply in-person, or, by phone in the county where you live, where the person you are applying against lives, where the domestic violence incident took place, or where you are staying. Offices are open every weekday from 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. If it is the weekend, evening, holiday, or the courts are closed, go to your local police department to file a complaint., In-person, Visit the Domestic Violence Unit at the courthouse in your county., By Phone:, Call the Family Division of the Superior Court during business hours. Each county has a Temporary Restraining Orders - County Phone Numbers phone number for you to call. If they cannot answer right away, the voicemail will tell you to call 9-1-1 if it is an emergency. If you want to proceed, you may leave your name, number, and the best time for them to contact you., Step 1: Apply for a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO), At the courthouse, a staff person will sit with you and fill out an application. Then, you will go before a hearing officer or judge who will listen to you and decide whether to grant a TRO. The other party will not be present in the hearing. If you apply at a police station, the police will contact a judge to decide whether to give you a TRO. If the court issues a TRO, you will get a copy, and the court will send a copy to the police to give to the other party. Another hearing will be scheduled within ten days. The other party can ask for an earlier court date. If that happens, you will be contacted. At any time, you can ask to talk to a domestic violence advocate who can help you with the court process and safety planning. County Phone Numbers Temporary Restraining Orders Contact list for TRP by county., Step 2: Go To The Final Restraining Order (FRO) Hearing, Review the Preparing for a Domestic Violence Final Restraining Order Hearing Preparing for Domestic Violence FRO Hearing. You must appear at the hearing for the FRO. The other party will be present and has the right to hire a lawyer. You do not need a lawyer, but you can hire one if you choose. The court does not provide lawyers for these cases. If you want a lawyer, you can contact the Lawyer Referral Service or Legal Services of New Jersey. If the other party does not appear and there is proof they were given the order, the judge can still hear the case. If the other party did not get the order, the court will reschedule the hearing. If you and the other party appear, the court will hear both sides and make a decision In addition to protection, the order also could address custody, child support, parenting time (visitation) and other issues. In New Jersey, a Final Restraining Order (FRO) is permanent. It continues forever unless changed by the court., Child Support and Custody, You can request custody and child support as a part of a restraining order. Court staff will provide a safe and confidential environment to you when seeking custody or child support from an abuser. The location when you are staying can remain confidential. If a child support order already exists, that order will remain in full effect during the proceedings for the restraining order. A victim can also request that an existing child support order be modified during the hearing for the final restraining order. Go to the New Jersey Child Support website New Jersey Child Support website ., Amending a Domestic Violence Complaint, You can file an How to File an Amended Domestic Violence Complaint amended domestic violence complaint if you want to provide additional information about the domestic violence that took place. You can also provide details about additional acts of domestic violence that took place after the first complaint was filed. , Resources for Victims, Isolation is one of the most significant factors that leads to an increase in domestic violence and safety risks. Don’t let social distancing mean social isolation. If you are - or someone you know is – living in fear of intimate partner violence, call the Domestic Violence 1-800-572-7233 1-800-572-7233 ., Additional Resources, County Phone Numbers for Temporary Restraining Orders County Phone Numbers for Temporary Restraining Orders DV Remote Hearing Instruction Sheet for Litigants Domestic Violence Remote Hearing Instruction Sheet for Litigants Frequently Asked Questions About Domestic Violence Frequently Asked Questions about Domestic Violence How to File an Amended Domestic Violence Complaint How to File an Amended Domestic Violence Complaint, Dismissing a Restraining Order, The victim can ask the judge to dismiss the restraining order at any time. The judge will make the final decision as to if the restraining order will be dismissed. If you are unsure about dismissing a restraining order, speak to the intake worker at the courthouse, someone in the family court, a victim advocate or your attorney., The victim should only sign the “Certification to Dissolve a Restraining Order” voluntarily., Dismissal of a restraining order means that the legal restraints entered against the defendant to protect the victim will be removed. The victim will no longer have the benefit of this legal protection against the defendant. Dismissal of a restraining order will not dismiss any related criminal charges. Those criminal matters will proceed. This protection cannot be renewed unless there is another act of domestic violence. If there is a new act of domestic violence, the victim must request a new restraining order Without a restraining order, the police are not required to arrest the defendant. This is true even if the defendant violates a "stay away" order as part of a divorce or child support case., Violating a Restraining Order, Domestic violence matters are serious. If you are unsure about any aspect of a restraining order, you should call the police or contact the family court., A Restraining Order is a document issued by the court that sets out the terms that the defendant must follow., A final restraining order will tell the defendant: Whom the defendant is not allowed to be in contact with. Locations where the defendant cannot go. Money that the defendant owes or child support that is due. All actions that the defendant is not allowed to take. The order also will include a warrant for law enforcement to search and seize weapons for safekeeping., If the defendant violates a Restraining Order, The restraining order is divided into two parts. Two different things will happen if the defendant violates the restraining order:, Part 1 contains restraints against contact., If the defendant does not comply with Part 1 of the order, the plaintiff can report the violation to the local police. The police will arrest the defendant and file a criminal charge., Part 2 deals with financial and parenting issues., If the defendant is not complying with Part 2 of the order, the plaintiff must file for relief in the family court where the order was issued., Information for Defendants, If a Restraining Order Is Filed Against You, You cannot have any contact with the other person (or people) named on the restraining order. If you contact anyone on the order, you may be arrested. Read the restraining order carefully. The order tells you what you cannot do and has a date for you to appear in court for a final restraining order (FRO) hearing. If you do not show up at the hearing, the court can decide the case without you and give the other person a Final Restraining Order (FRO). You do not need a lawyer, but you can hire one if you choose. The court does not provide lawyers for these cases. If you want a lawyer, you can contact the Lawyer Referral Service. At the hearing, the judge will hear both sides and make a decision. In addition to protection, the order may also address custody, child support, parenting time (visitation) and other issues. The last page of the restraining order tells you where and when to appear for the final restraining order hearing. If you have questions, contact the Family Division Office Family Division Office ., Temporary Restraining Order (TRO), The TRO tells you what you can and cannot do. If you live with the other person, you might be allowed to go there with a law enforcement officer to get some of your things. The police will take your weapons. The order may include a temporary plan for custody and parenting time (visitation) for you and your child. The order will include a date for a hearing within ten (10) days. You can contact the Family Division Office Family Division Office to ask to change the date of the hearing., Final Restraining Order (FRO), You must show up at the hearing for the final restraining order (FRO). If you do not show up, the court can decide the case without you and give the other person the FRO. If both parties appear, the court will hear both sides and make a decision. The FRO, if granted, does not expire. The order can include child support, child custody, and parenting time (visitation). A FRO requires that you be fingerprinted. It may also include penalties, such as payment of a fine and loss of weapons. Read the order carefully., What Else Can I Do?, You can go to Family Court and apply to change or dismiss the final restraining order. Get more information from Prevention of Domestic Violence Frequently Asked Questions. Prevention of Domestic Violence Frequently Asked Questions. Note: A person who does not qualify for a domestic violence restraining order may be able to get other relief. If you have questions, contact the Family Division Office Family Division Office.
- Name Change for Minors Under Age 18, Learn how to process a legal name change for a child under 18. , How to Ask the Court to Change a Name in the Chancery Division, Family Part How to Ask the Court to Change a Name in the Chancery Division, Family Part, This kit has all of the forms and instructions for self-represented litigants to request a name change for their child in the family division. If you also are seeking a name change for yourself, you can do that while requesting a name change for your child. Do not use this form if you are only seeking to change your own name. Instead, follow the instructions for Name Change for Adults filing for a name change in the civil division . If there is an active restraining order between you and the other parent, call the Directory of Superior Court Family Division Offices family court in your county for more information., Note: You must be 18 to file a court case. If you are under 18, your parent or guardian must file the case for you., 10 steps to file for name change for your minor child(ren), Complete the forms., Note that the court must fill in some parts of some of the forms. For each child, complete these forms: Verified Complaint (Form F) Certification of Confidential information (Form F1) Order Fixing Date of Hearing (Form G) Final Judgment (Form H) Only complete these forms if you are also requesting a name change for yourself: Verified Complaint (Form A) Certification of Confidential Information (Form A1) Order Fixing Date of Hearing (Form B) Final Judgment (Form C) Prepare the $250 filing fee. If you are filing electronically, you can use a credit card. If you are mailing or delivering your papers in person, make out a check for $250 payable to “Treasurer, State of NJ.” If you are changing the names of multiple family members, the $250 fee covers all name change applications. Fee Waiver Do you qualify for a fee waiver ? Check your forms and make sure they are complete. Remove all instruction sheets. Make sure you have signed all the forms wherever necessary. Checklist: Form F: Verified Complaint Form F1: Certification of Confidential Information for Name Change Form G: Order Fixing Date of Hearing Form H: Final Judgment Form H1: Final Judgment Addendum $250 Payment If you are requesting a name change for yourself, you also need: Form A: Verified Complaint Form A1: Certification of Confidential Information for Name Change Form B: Order Fixing Date of Hearing Form C: Final Judgment Form C1: Final Judgment Addendum File your papers with the court. Upload your forms in the Judiciary Electronic Document System (JEDS) Judiciary Electronic Document System (JEDS) . You can pay the fee with a credit card. You also can mail or deliver your documents to the court. First, make two copies of your documents. Mail the originals plus one copy to the Directory of Superior Court Family Division Offices family division of Superior Court in the county where you live. Include a stamped, self-addressed envelope and a check or money order for the filing fee. Send by certified mail with return receipt. The post office can tell you how to do this. Review papers returned from the court. The court will return copies of the Verified Complaint, Certification of Confidential Information for Name Change and Order Fixing Date of Hearing to you. The case docket number will be written on all the copies. The docket number is very important because it identifies your case. It also lets the court know how to find your case. You must use the docket number on all future papers you send to the court about your case. The court will fill in the date on the Order Fixing Date of Hearing. That is the day you will appear before the judge to get the Final Judgment. If neither you nor your child have pending criminal or delinquent charges in New Jersey, skip this step. If you or your child have pending criminal or delinquent charges, you must notify law enforcement of your name change application., You must send notification at least 20 days before your hearing date., Send copies of the following documents: Verified Complaint, Certification of Confidential Information for Name Change Order Fixing Date of Hearing For charges filed by any county prosecutor, send the forms to the county prosecutor in the county where you are filing the name change case. For charges filed by the attorney general, send the forms to the Division of Criminal Justice (see Step 8). Send by certified mail, return receipt requested. Notify the State of New Jersey of the Application for a Name Change. You must send notification, at least 20 days before your hearing date., Send a copy of the Order Fixing Date of Hearing for each child to: Director, Division of Criminal Justice ATTN: Records and Identification Section R. J. Hughes Justice Complex 25 Market Street P. O. Box 085 Trenton, NJ 08625-0085 Include a copy of the Order for yourself if you also are changing your name. Note: If you or your child has criminal charges pending against you in New Jersey, you must also include a copy of the Verified Complaint and Certification of Confidential Information for Name Change. Send by certified mail, return receipt requested. Notify the other parent. If you are changing the name of a child under the age 18 and the child’s other parent does not live with you, you must send a copy of the Verified Complaint (Form F) and the Order Fixing Date for Hearing (Form G) to the last known address of the other parent. Send by certified mail, return receipt requested. Complete a Proof of Mailing Form (Form J) for each child and send to the court. Also complete and send a copy. of Form D if you are changing your own name. Be sure to attach the green certified mail receipt(s) to the Proof of Mailing. Send the Proof of Mailing to the court. Keep copies of the form and the receipts for your files., Prepare for Court, You should arrive in court on the date set for your hearing on the Order Fixing Date for Hearing. Be sure to bring with you proof of your current name. Proof could include birth certificates, passports, and driver’s licenses., 4 steps to Take After the Name Change Is Issued, Order certified copies of the Final Judgment and Final Judgment Addendum. Certified copies have a raised seal. You will need at least two certified copies of each document. Licensed drivers will need three copies of each document. Copies can be JEDS ordered through JEDS . There is a $25 fee for each copy of each document. The fee can be paid with a credit card. Send one set of certified copies to the New Jersey Department of the Treasury. Include a $50 fee for every family member whose name was changed. Make the check or money order payable to “Treasurer, State of New Jersey.”, This must be done within 45 days after the date of the name change., Mail the documents, the check or money order, and stamped, self-addressed envelope to: Department of Treasury Division of Revenue Judgment Name Change Unit P. O. Box 453 Trenton, NJ 08646 Send one set of certified copies to the registrar of vital statistics in the state where the child was born. If your name also was changed, send your own certified copies to the state where you were born., The office of the registrar is located in the capital city of each state. Check with each office to see if they require a fee. In New Jersey, the address for Bureau of Vital Statistics address is: Bureau of Vital Statistics Attn: Vital Records Modifications Unit P. O. Box 370 Trenton, NJ 08625 Licensed drivers must bring one set of certified copies to the New Jersey Motor Vehicles Commission. Each driver must go to the agency in person to change your driver’s license, car registration, or handicapped or non-driver identification card. You can go to at any motor vehicle agency location or regional service center., This must be done within two weeks after the effective date listed on the Final Judgment., The effective date is not the date of the hearing or the date the final judgment was signed. The effective date is the date you may begin using your assumed name. You will need several forms of ID to get a new license. Go to njmvc.gov njmvc.gov for more information on how to change the name on your license or identification card.
- Modifying a Divorce Order, File a motion to make a change to a court order in your divorce. Filing a Motion: If you need to change or enforce the court order in your divorce, you must file a motion with the same court that issued the court order. A motion is a written request asking the court to change something in the order or make the other party comply with the terms of the order. Common reasons to file a motion include: to increase or decrease child support payments to increase or decrease alimony or spousal support payments to change the custody arrangements of a minor child to change the visitation/parenting time arrangements to relocate children to another state to emancipate a child, which ends child support obligation to get reimbursement of medical expenses to “enforce litigant’s rights,” (tell the court that the other party is not complying with the order and ask the court to make the party do so) How to Ask the Court to Change or Enforce an Order in Your Case (Family Multipurpose Post-Judgment Motions) How to Ask the Court to Change or Enforce an Order in Your Case The kit has several forms that you must fill out and file with the court. You will also have to send a copy of everything you file to your ex-spouse., Important Note, : There are very specific time frames for selecting a motion date, for filing and for getting the motion papers to your ex-spouse—contact the family division in the county where you are filing to make sure you understand and meet these deadlines., 7 Steps to file a motion to change or enforce an order in your divorce case, Complete all of the forms in the kit. Choose a motion date. Directory of Superior Court Family Division Offices Contact the Family Division where your divorce was granted and ask for a motion date at least one month away. Make 3 copies of all of the forms, and 5 copies of the proposed order. Keep one copy for yourself in a safe place. If Probation Services monitors child support in your case, make an extra copy of all of the forms. Redact Redact , or black out, the Personal Identifier personal identifiers on the copies you will submit to the court. Attach the $50 filing fee. Upload the documents into the Judiciary Electronic Document Submission (JEDS) Judiciary Electronic Document Submission (JEDS) system. You can pay the fee with a credit card. You can upload the How to File for a Fee Waiver – All Courts fee waiver request form if needed . You also can mail the originals plus two copies of all of the documents, plus the fee, to the Family Division Manager Conference Contact List Family Division of the Superior Court where your divorce was granted. Mail or deliver one copy of all of the documents to your ex-spouse. They must receive the papers at least 24 days before the motion date you have selected., Responding to a Motion:, If you have received papers stating that your ex-spouse has filed a motion with the court, you can respond by preparing and filing a Certification within the appropriate timeframe. You can use the How to Ask the Court to Change or Enforce an Order in Your Case (Family Multipurpose Post-Judgment Motions) Certification form in this packet and attach any documents that you believe will support what you state in the form., Filing a Cross-Motion:, You can also use this packet to file a How to Ask the Court to Change or Enforce an Order in Your Case (Family Multipurpose Post-Judgment Motions) cross-motion , meaning you are asking the court to take action on your behalf, in addition to opposing whatever the other party has asked for. You must file your Certification (and Cross-Motion if you are filing one) with the court and send or deliver a full copy to your ex-spouse no later than 15 days prior to the motion date. If you filed a Cross-Motion as well as a response to the original motion, your ex-spouse can respond in writing to the information in your Cross-Motion no later than 8 days prior to the motion date., Outcome of a Motion:, A motion date is not a trial. There might not be an actual court hearing on the motion date. Most motions are decided “on the papers.” The judge reviews the arguments and proofs each person has provided and decides the motion on that basis. Both the person filing the motion and the person responding to it can request "oral argument" in their motion papers. This means that they are asking for an actual court hearing with the judge, so they can be heard in person. However, it is up to the judge to decide if this will be necessary. Even if oral argument is granted and there is an actual hearing, a decision on the motion may not occur on that same day. In some cases, it may take weeks or longer to receive the written order stating the judge’s decision. When the motion is decided, each person will receive a copy of the signed order that states the decision on each request made in the motion.
- Responding to a Divorce Complaint, If you have been served with a Summons and Divorce Complaint, you are the Defendant defendant . The person who filed the divorce is the Plaintiff plaintiff . You have 35 days to respond to the Summons and Divorce Complaint. If you do not respond to the court at all, the court may grant the divorce and order in favor of the Plaintiff. You have three options in how you respond to the court. You can: File an Answer — this means you respond to, or contest, what the plaintiff has stated in the Complaint; File an Answer and Counterclaim — this means you respond to the Complaint and also state any separate grounds for divorce and/or claims you want to make against the plaintiff; or, File an Appearance — this means you are not contesting what Plaintiff has stated in the Complaint but you do want to be heard on issues of custody, parenting time (visitation), child support, equitable distribution, alimony, or other matters., 6 Steps to filing an answer in a divorce case, Get the forms and instructions. Get the forms and instructions. Complete the Answer, Answer and Counterclaim, or Appearance Form. Complete the Certificate of Insurance and the Confidential Litigation Sheet., Do not include personal identifiers such as social security numbers on the document filed with the court., Make a copy of the forms and keep your copy in a safe place. Redact, or black out, the personal identifiers on the copies you submit to the court. Attach the filing fee of $175 or request a fee waiver. request a fee waiver . Upload the documents into the Judiciary Electronic Document Submission (JEDS) Judiciary Electronic Document Submission (JEDS) system . You can pay the fee with a credit card. You can upload the How to File for a Fee Waiver - All Courts fee waiver request form if needed You also can mail the originals plus two copies of all of the documents, plus the fee, to the Directory of Superior Court Family Division Offices Family Division of the Superior Court. Serve the Answer, Answer and Counterclaim, or Appearance Form on the plaintiff. You can deliver the papers yourself or send them using certified mail to the address the plaintiff put on the forms they filed with the court. You will need the complete the Acknowledgement of Service form and include the certified mail card and submit them to the court. **Note: If you cannot prove your spouse received the papers, you might not be able to proceed with your case. Contact the family division for more information., Forms needed to respond to a divorce complaint, Answer, Answer and Counterclaim, or Notice of Appearance Confidential Litigant Information Sheet Confidential Litigant Information Sheet (CN 10486) Self-Represented Litigant Certification of Notification of Complementary Dispute Resolution (CDR) Alternatives Self-Represented Litigant Certification of Notification of Complementary Dispute Resolution (CDR) Alternatives (CN 10889) Certification Regarding Redaction of Personal Identifiers Certification Verification and Non-collusion Certification of Insurance Coverage Family Part Case Information Statement (CIS) Family Part Case Information Statement (CN 10482) –This form is required for litigants seeking alimony or child support
- Municipal Court Appeals, Municipal court appeals go to the Superior Court, criminal division, in the same county as the municipal court. Some reasons to file an appeal are: You believe the facts do not support the judge’s decision; or You believe the judge’s decision does not follow the law. How to Appeal a Decision of a Municipal Court How to Appeal a Decision of a Municipal Court Self-help Packet Use this packet if you want to appeal a conviction in a municipal court case. Deadlines and Fees The municipal court must receive your Notice of Municipal Court Appeal form within 20 days (including weekends and holidays) from the date you were found guilty. Filing Fee $100 Transcript fee To be determined by the municipal court where the case was heard Fee Waiver Do you qualify for a fee waiver?, Note:, If you were represented by a court-appointed attorney in your municipal court case, consult with them before you file an appeal. They can help you file your case. , Court Rules About Municipal Court Appeals, You can get learn more about municipal court appeals from 3:23-Appeals From Judgments of Conviction In Courts of Limited Criminal Jurisdiction Court Rule 3:23 . 6 Steps for Filing a Municipal Appeal Complete the forms in the How to Appeal a Decision of a Municipal Court How to Appeal a Decision of a Municipal Court Self-help Packet . Make copies of all forms. Call the court to ask for the estimated cost of the transcript and to whom the write out the check. Mail or deliver the transcript request form (Form B) to the court, making sure to order at least two transcripts. You can order a copy for yourself as well. Mail or deliver Form A to the municipal court where you were convicted. If you mail the form, use “certified mail, return receipt requested.” The post office can tell you how to do this. The court MUST receive this form within 20 days of your conviction. This includes weekends and holidays. If you miss the deadline, your appeal will not be heard. Send or bring a copy of the form to the prosecutor. Ordinance violations: send to the municipal attorney State law violations (tickets, assault, and most other matters): send to county prosecutor Executive order, or appeal based on constitutionality: send to Attorney General Call the municipal court for help if you are unsure which prosecutor should receive the form. If you mail this copy, it also should be sent “certified mail, return receipt requested.” The prosecutor MUST receive this form within five days of it being sent to the municipal court. Fill out Form C-Certification of Timely Filing. Form C is your statement that you sent or delivered your forms on time and to the correct places. Judiciary Electronic Document Submission (JEDS) Upload Forms A and C in the Judiciary Electronic Document System. You can pay the filing fee with a credit card. You also can mail or deliver the forms to the Directory of Criminal Division Offices criminal division of Superior Court in the county where the municipal court is located. Make your check payable to “ Treasurer, State of NJ .” Send it “certified mail, return receipt requested.” Include one extra copy of each form and a stamped, self-addressed envelope if you want the court to send you a stamped “filed” copy back.
- Divorce, On This Page, Overview, Divorce is called “dissolution” in New Jersey because you are “dissolving” a legal union. The process and information below are the same for a divorce, dissolution of a civil union, termination of a domestic partnership, or annulment., Who can file?, Either person in a marriage, civil union or domestic partnership can file for divorce in New Jersey as long as at least one person lives in the state. If you formed a domestic partnership or a civil union in New Jersey but now live in a different state, you might not be able to legally dissolve the union in your new state. In that case, you can file in New Jersey in the county where the civil union or domestic partnership took place., Do I need a lawyer to file a divorce case?, The decision to file for divorce is a difficult one, and having to work through the legal process on your own makes it even more difficult. For this reason, the court recommends that people filing for divorce, or people responding to a divorce complaint, speak to a lawyer. Legal Services of New Jersey maintains a directory of regional legal services offices. regional legal services offices that provide free legal assistance to low-income residents. The New Jersey State Bar Association has a list of lawyers who offer lawyer referral services lawyer referral services in the county where you live., Things to think about before representing yourself in court, While you have the right to represent yourself in court, you should not expect any special treatment, help, or attention from the court. You must still comply with the Rules of the Court, even if you are not familiar with them. The following is a list of some things the court staff can and cannot do for you. Please read it carefully before asking the court staff for help. We can explain and answer questions about how the court works. We can tell you what the requirements are to have your case considered by the court. We can give you some information from your case file. We can provide you with samples of court forms that are available. We can provide you with guidance on how to fill out forms. We can usually answer questions about court deadlines. We cannot give you legal advice. Only your lawyer can give you legal advice. We cannot tell you whether or not you should bring your case to court. We cannot give you an opinion about what will happen if you bring your case to court. We cannot recommend a lawyer, but we can provide you with the telephone number of a local lawyer referral service. We cannot talk to the judge for you about what will happen in your case. We cannot let you talk to the judge outside of court. We cannot change an order issued by a judge., Divorce Forms and Instructions, The New Jersey Judiciary has some of the forms you need. A list of the documents you must file are described below. The forms with CN numbers can be downloaded from the Judiciary website., Divorce Complaint A legal document that starts a lawsuit in the Family Division. It includes the filer’s information, reasons for the lawsuit, and what the filing party is asking for from the court. For example, child custody, child support, or alimony. Certification of Verification and Non-Collusion The person signing this is swearing under oath that the information in the divorce complaint is true; the complaint is not being filed for secret, illegal or dishonest reasons; and that there are no other legal actions or arbitrations pending in the case. Summons This is the official notice to the other person that a divorce complaint was filed against them. It also explains where and how to respond to the complaint and the deadline to file a response. Confidential Litigant Information Sheet Confidential Litigant Information Sheet (CN 10486) This form contains personal and confidential information the court needs to process the complaint and set up the case. Self-Represented Litigant Certification of Notification of Complementary Dispute Resolution (CDR) Alternatives Self-Represented Litigant Certification of Notification of Complementary Dispute Resolution (CDR) Alternatives (CN 10889) The person signing this is swearing under oath that they read the document Descriptive Material (R. 5:4-2(h)) - Divorce or Dissolution - Dispute Resolution Alternatives to Conventional Litigation “Descriptive Material (R. 5:4-2(h)) Divorce or Dissolution - Dispute Resolution Alternatives to Conventional Litigation” (CN 10888) and they know that there are options available to try to settle their case instead of filing a complaint. Certification of Insurance Coverage This must include a list of all known insurance policies between the parties and any children. The person signing this is swearing under oath that the insurance information provided is true. Family Part Case Information Statement (CIS) Case Information Statement (CN 10482) This form must be filed by both parties if custody, support, alimony, or equitable distribution are in dispute., Important: If you file your case electronically, you must upload each of the required documents as a separate document. They cannot be filed together in one attachment., Where to find divorce forms and instructions., Legal Services of New Jersey (LSNJ), LSNJ has a free divorce guide free divorce guide that explains how to file for divorce, dissolve a civil union or terminate a domestic partnership if the reason for the divorce is irreconcilable differences, separation, desertion, or extreme cruelty. LSNJ also sells a Complete divorce kit complete divorce kit , with instructions and all of the required forms, for $25., Superior Court Office of the Ombudsmen, You can get the required forms and instructions in your county courthouse. Contact your Ombudsman Directory local court ombudsman for more information. The ombudsman is a neutral staff person who answers questions, provides assistance, addresses concerns, and helps to guide court users through the court system. The ombudsman cannot give legal advice, however, because all court staff must be neutral and impartial. Learn more about the ombudsman program. Learn more about the ombudsman program., Filing the Divorce Complaint, File your forms in the county in New Jersey where you lived when you separated. If you do not live in New Jersey, file your forms in the county in New Jersey where the other party lives. See Divorce, Dissolution of Civil Union, Termination of Domestic Partnership, Nullity, Separate Maintenance Court Rule R. 5:7-1 for more information. If you are the person filing the complaint, you are considered the “plaintiff.” The other party is considered the “defendant.” , Note: You must be 18 to file a complaint. If you are under 18, your parent or guardian must file the complaint for you., Grounds for Divorce, The complaint must include the legal reason(s) for the divorce according to New Jersey law. In New Jersey these reasons are called the “grounds” for divorce. The following is a summary of frequently used legal grounds for divorce. No-Fault or Irreconcilable Differences: You must meet the following requirements: You or the other party lived in New Jersey for 12 consecutive months before filing for divorce; You or the other party experienced irreconcilable differences for 6 months; and The irreconcilable differences are the reason you want to dissolve the marriage, civil union, or domestic partnership; and You are certain you will not reconcile. Separation : You and the other party have been living apart for at least 18 months. Extreme Cruelty : Certain factors must be proven. You should consult a lawyer or read N.J.S.A. 2A:34-2 to see if the law applies to your case. Other Grounds : These include adultery, institutionalization, and incarceration for an extended period. For more information, read N.J.S.A. 2A:34-2., 4 Steps to File a Divorce Complaint, Complete required documents., Divorce Complaint Certification of Verification and Non-Collusion Summons Confidential Litigant Information Sheet Confidential Litigant Information Sheet (CN 10486) Self-Represented Litigant Certification of Notification of Complementary Dispute Resolution (CDR) Alternatives Self-Represented Litigant Certification of Notification of Complementary Dispute Resolution (CDR) Alternatives (CN 10889) Family Part Case Information Statement (CIS) Family Part Case Information Statement (CN 10482) Certification of Insurance Coverage, File required documents., There are three filing options., Electronically, using the Judiciary Electronic Document Submission (JEDS) Judiciary Electronic Document Submission (JEDS) System . JEDS is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week so it is quick and convenient. The fee must be paid with a credit card. Once you upload your papers, you will automatically receive an email confirming that they were received., Important: When filing electronically, you must upload each of the required documents as a separate document. They cannot be filed together in one attachment., In person, at the courthouse in the county where you or the other person lives. Make three copies of your papers. Bring two copies to the court and keep one copy for your records. Bring your papers to the Superior Court Family Division Manager Conference Contact List Family Division in the county where you or the other person lives. You can pay the fee in cash or with a check or money order made out to, “Treasurer, State of New Jersey.”, By mail, . Make three copies of your papers. Mail two copies to the court and keep one copy for your records. You must pay the fee by including a check or money order made out to, “Treasurer, State of New Jersey.” Mail your papers to the Superior Court Family Division Manager Conference Contact List Family Division in the county where you or the other person lives. Certified mail is recommended., If you mail your papers, , you must also include a stamped, self-addressed envelope so the court can mail you a copy of the filed complaint. The filed copy will include a docket number that identifies your case. Pay the filing fee or Court Fees and Fee Waivers request a fee waiver ., Plaintiff's Fees, Complaint Fee $300 Parenting Workshop Fee You must pay this additional fee and attend a parenting program if either party requests custody or parenting time. $25, Defendant's Fees, Filing Fee $175 Parenting Workshop Fee You must pay this additional fee and attend a parenting program if either party requests custody or parenting time. $25, Fee Waivers Do you qualify to have your fee waived?, , Serve the other person., You must serve the other party with the divorce papers within 60 days of the date you filed your papers. After you receive confirmation that your documents were filed correctly and you have a copy of the complaint with the docket number on it, you are ready to “serve” the other party (now the defendant) with a Summons, and all required documents. As part of this process you must prove to the court, in writing, that the other party received the divorce papers. This is referred to as “proof of service.” There are two ways to have the other party served., County Sheriff’s Officer:, Contact the Sheriff’s Office in the county where you filed your complaint. When a sheriff’s officer serves your papers, they will send proof of service to you and the court., Process Server:, These companies can be found online. Most do not send proof of service to the court so you must file an “Acknowledgement of Service” form with the court and include the process server’s receipt., Settle Your Case Before Filing a Complaint, Consider mediation or a similar settlement process to resolve custody, parenting time and financial issues before filing for divorce. This allows you and the other party to come up with a plan that works best for you and your family with the help of a neutral, third person. If you reach an agreement the process is quicker, cheaper, private and often less upsetting., Settle Your Case After Filing a Complaint, Custody and Parenting Time Mediation., The court may require you to meet with a mediator to help you to resolve issues related to your children. , Early Settlement Panel (ESP)., If you are not able to resolve economic issues your case will be scheduled for review by an Early Settlement Panels Early Settlement Panel . The panel is made up of experienced divorce lawyers who will recommend a fair settlement of your case. Each county has an ESP coordinator. Contact your county's coordinator for more information., Economic Mediation, . If you do not resolve the economic issues at ESP, the court may require you to meet with a mediator to help you to resolve them. The court has a Economic Mediation in Family Law Cases list of approved economic mediators or you can choose someone who is not on the list. The court will not require mediation if there is a Domestic Violence restraining order between the parties. However, under certain circumstances, the victim can agree to go to economic mediation even if there is a restraining order., Arbitration., This is different from mediation because the arbitrator decides the outcome and the parties must agree in advance to accept the arbitrator’s decision. The parties choose the arbitrator, pay the fee, and agree in advance which issues the arbitrator will address. , Finding a Divorce Record, After a divorce case is final and a judgment of divorce is issued, the case is considered closed. Closed divorce records are kept in the county courthouse where the divorce was entered for a short time and then are stored by the Superior Court Clerk's Office Superior Court Clerk's Office in Trenton. To get closed divorce records, contact the , Superior Court Clerk's Office, at 609-421-6100 .
- Family Practice Division, The Family Practice Division develops and implements policies and best practices to advance the goals and mission of the Judiciary in areas related to family law. , On This Page, Body Visit our Self-help Center self-help center for forms and information to represent yourself in a family court matter., Contacts, Joanne M Dietrich, Assistant Director, Family Practice Division 609-815-2900 ext. 55350 The following statewide directories are available: Family Division Presiding Judges Family Division Presiding Judges Family Division Manager Conference Contact List Family Division Managers Family Division Vicinage Contact Directory Matrimonial Early Settlement Coordinators Parenting Coordinator Program Parenting Coordinators Economic Mediators for Matrimonial Cases Economic Mediators for Matrimonial Cases Supervised Visitation Coordinators Directory Supervised Visitation Coordinators , Forms, These are the forms below used most frequently in family court. See the Forms Catalog full forms catalog . CN Title 10160 Order to Show Cause for Care and Supervision (Word form) 10255 FC Permanency Order (Word form) 10257 FC Summary Hearing Order (Word form) 10259 Permanency Order - FN & FG Cases (Word form) 10260 FN Order to Show Cause for Temporary Custody (Word form) 10261 FN Multipurpose Order (Word form) 10263 FN or FG Order - Termination Litigation (Word form) 10264 FG Guardianship Multipurpose Order (Word form) 10270 FL Order Judgment for Kinship Legal Guardianship 10270 FL Order Judgment for Kinship Legal Guardianship (Word form) 10272 FL Motion to Amend or Vacate an Order/Judgment of Kinship Legal Guardianship (Word form) 10273 Kinship Legal Guardianship (KLG) Multipurpose Order (Word form) 10275 Supplemental Order** (Word form) To be used for court approval of out-of-home placement(s) of child(ren) during ongoing litigation 10278 FL Order Used When Motion to Amend or Vacate Is Filed (Word form) 10482 Family Part Case Information Statement (CIS) Pagination 1 Go to page 2 2 Go to next page > Next page Showing 1 to 15 of 19 items, Manuals and Reports, The following manuals assist the courts, police, and other state agencies: Domestic Violence Procedures Manual The Domestic Violence Procedures Manual . This resource provides procedural and operational guidance. Its focus is on implementing the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act. Child Support Hearing Officer Program Operations Manual The Child Support Hearing Officer Program Operations Manual. This manual provides procedural and operations for court staff. Juvenile/Family Crisis Operations Manual The Juvenile/Family Crisis Operations Manual. Family crisis intervention units use this manual. Intervention units include both court staff and other agencies. Children in Court Operations Manual The Children in Court Operations Manual . The involvement of children in court requires special consideration. This manual provides operational and procedural guidance to Judiciary staff. These Supervised Visitation Program Annual Reports are available: Supervised Visitation Annual Report 2024 2024 Supervised Visitation Program Annual Report 2023 Supervised Visitation Program Annual Report 2023 Supervised Visitation Program Annual Report 2022 Supervised Visitation Program Annual Report 2022 Supervised Visitation Program Annual Report 2021 Supervised Visitation Program Annual Report 2021 Supervised Visitation Program Annual Report 2020 Supervised Visitation Program Annual Report 2020 Supervised Visitation Program Annual Report 2019 Supervised Visitation Program Annual Report 2019 Supervised Visitation Program Annual Report 2018 Supervised Visitation Program Annual Report 2018 Supervised Visitation Program Annual Report 2017 Supervised Visitation Program Annual Report 2017 Supervised Visitation Program Annual Report 2016 Supervised Visitation Program Annual Report 2016 Supervised Visitation Program Annual Report Call 609-815-2900 ext. 55350 to request previous annual reports back to 2008. These Domestic Violence Reports are available: 2022 Report on the Domestic Violence Act 2022 Report on the Domestic Violence Act 2021 Report on the Domestic Violence Act 2021 Report on the Domestic Violence Act 2018-2020 Report on the Domestic Violence Act 2018-2020 Report on the Domestic Violence Act 2017 Report on the Domestic Violence Act 2017 Report on the Domestic Violence Act 2016 Report on the Domestic Violence Act 2016 Report on the Domestic Violence Act Call 609-815-2900 ext. 55350 to request previous annual reports back to 2003., Victim's Assistance and Survivor Protection Act Information, Victim’s Assistance and Survivor Protection Act (VASPA) VASPA Brochure VASPA Reference Guide, Federal Grants, Agencies and service providers can use the CIC Improvement Grant Proposal Form CIC Improvement Grant Proposal Form to submit proposals for improving children in court operations and procedures., Docket Types, Family court cases are identified by these docket types., Docket Type:, Type of Case, FA: Adoption FC: Child Placement Review FD: Custody in non-divorce cases (non-dissolution) FF: Juvenile family crisis FG: Termination of parental and adoption rights FJ: Juvenile FL: Kinship & Legal guardianship FM: Divorce (Dissolution) FN: Child abuse/neglect FO: Quasi-criminal FV: Domestic violence and Victim’s Assistance and Survivor Protection Act (VASPA)
- Appealing a contested divorce case, Either party can appeal a decision in a contested divorce case. You cannot file an appeal if your case was uncontested., When to Glossary Terms file, The appeal must be filed in the Appellate Division of Superior Court within 45 days of the court’s decision., Do I need a lawyer to file an appeal?, You do not have to have a lawyer to appeal your case. Be aware, however, that the appeals process can be confusing. It is a good idea to get a lawyer if you can., Things to think about before representing yourself in court, While you have the right to represent yourself in court, you should not expect any special treatment, help, or attention from the court. You must still comply with the Rules of the Court, even if you are not familiar with them. The following is a list of some things the court staff can and cannot do for you. Please read it carefully before asking the court staff for help. We can explain and answer questions about how the court works. We can tell you what the requirements are to have your case considered by the court. We can give you some information from your case file. We can provide you with samples of court forms that are available. We can provide you with guidance on how to fill out forms. We can usually answer questions about court deadlines. We cannot give you legal advice. Only your lawyer can give you legal advice. We cannot tell you whether or not you should bring your case to court. We cannot give you an opinion about what will happen if you bring your case to court. We cannot recommend a lawyer, but we can provide you with the telephone number of a local lawyer referral service. We cannot talk to the judge for you about what will happen in your case. We cannot let you talk to the judge outside of court. We cannot change an order issued by a judge., Steps to file an appeal, File a Notice of Appeal. Request a Requesting a Superior Court or Tax Court Transcript for Your Appeal transcript of your case from the Appellate Division. You must have the official transcript in order for your appeal to be considered. Complete a Case Information Statement. How to Appeal a Trial Court, Tax Court or State Agency Decision Use the How to File an Appeal self-help kit., Filing Fees, $250 must be submitted with the Notice of Appeal. This is the cost of the appeal. $300 must be submitted with to the clerk of the Appellate Division within 30 days of filing the Notice of Appeal. This will be refunded if you win your appeal. If you lose your appeal, the money can be used to pay settlement or court costs., Do you qualify for a Fee Waivers fee waiver ?, If you received a fee waiver in your divorce case, you can attach a copy of the order and a signed letter that says your finances have not changed since the case was filed. If you did not receive a fee waiver in your divorce case, you can submit a How to File for a Fee Waiver – All Courts request for a fee waiver with your appeal ., Send copies of your appeals document to:, All parties in the case who appeared in court The local Superior Court office that handled your divorce case The judge who decided your small claims case, Keep a copy of each document for yourself., Preparing your appeal, You will need to prepare a brief, which is a document that explains why your appeal should be granted. Questions about your appeal? Call the , Appellate Division Clerk’s Office, at 609-815-2950 .
- Arbitration, Some civil cases go to arbitration instead of going to trial. An arbitrator will hear the case, consider evidence, and decide the outcome. Typically, arbitration ends with an award to one party or a dismissal of the case. Questionnaire Attorneys are required to complete this questionnaire as directed by the notice received from the Civil Presiding Judges., On This Page, Body, Arbitration Overview , There are several advantages to arbitration. It is a faster and cheaper than going to trial. Both parties get an impartial, third-party expert to review the case. This helps when the parties reach an agreement. Arbitration is less formal than trial. Each party gets tell their side of the case. Proceedings are kept confidential. Once both parties accept the arbitration award, it becomes legally binding and enforceable. Arbitrators are experienced lawyers. Some are retired judges. They must have a minimum of 10 years’ experience in the area of law pertaining to the case. Each arbitrator receives formal training and must be approved by the assignment judge. Arbitration is mandatory for certain civil cases: automobile negligence ( N.J.S.A . 39:6A-24, et. seq); personal injury ( N.J.S.A . 2A:23A-20, et. seq); suits against a party's insurance carrier for unpaid bills arising from a vehicular accident; and certain commercial cases. In addition, Lemon Law Program Lemon Law cases can go to arbitration. Lemon law cases involve defective cars or other products that do not work., Voluntary Binding Arbitration (vba) , Cases can be referred by the courts for voluntary binding arbitration. You can learn more from the Civil CDR Resource Book Civil CDR Program Resource Book appendix . Here is a summary of the process: The parties file a written consent form that submits the case to binding arbitration. The parties must also submit a consent order of dismissal with prejudice. This means that the court case is dismissed and the parties will abide by the arbitrator's decision. The case is then presented to a panel of two arbitrators whom the parties have selected. A Superior Court judge, also selected by the parties, is present. The judge only participates if the arbitrators do not agree. The judge explains to the parties that the decision of the panel will be final and not appealable. All parties must then agree, on the record, that they understand the final and binding nature of the program. The arbitration itself proceeds off the record. The parties often use a high/low agreement, which the arbitrators do not see. The high/low provision lets the attorneys know what is the best and the worst that could happen for their clients in the case. For the plaintiffs, that’s a guarantee that at least they get something. The incentive for the defense is that it can set a cap and limit its exposure. The high/low provision helps to protect the client -- whether the client is the plaintiff or the defendant. The courts do not schedule the case nor pay the arbitrators. It is the responsibility of the attorneys using VBA to coordinate the arbitrators, arrange payment, and ensure attendance at a time when the judge is available. , NOTE: In lemon law cases only, if the parties fail to submit the completed VBA materials to the court within 30 days, the case will be referred to mediation., Resources for Arbitrators, Continuing education trainings are being offered for active roster arbitrators. See Arbitration Course Schedule list of scheduled trainings . The list will be updated as trainings are added. Arbitrators are welcome to attend any of the trainings, even those outside the county in which they regularly arbitrate. For information on whether a specific vicinage will be offering a training, contact the county’s Arbitration Administrators and CDR Point Persons Committee Arbitration Administrator/CDR Point Person . This Checklist For Arbitrators checklist is available to help you during arbitration: Introduce all participants. Explain the adjudicatory nature of the proceeding and his/her background as an unbiased attorney approved by the court and local bar. Take stipulations. Swear in witnesses. Allow all sides to present relevant information. Make a determination based solely on the evidence presented and either call a “no cause” or award full value. Complete the written award ensuring that brief findings of fact and conclusions of law are included and that the absence of parties, or relevant evidence, or of items of incomplete discovery is noted. Absent exceptional circumstances, deliver the award in the presence of the parties. If the arbitrator conducts a settlement conference prior to rendering a decision on the merits of the case, he or she should not continue the arbitration process, but should instead turn the arbitration over to another arbitrator. Otherwise, the arbitrator should not engage in settlement negotiations until after the award form is completed and only with the parties’ consent. Use the arbitrator’s Quick Reference Guide Quick Reference Guide for more information. Access the contact list for the Arbitration Administrators and CDR Point Persons Committee . , Statewide Adjournment of Arbitration , All requests to adjourn a civil trial or an arbitration are governed by Rule 4:36-3 Trial Calendar Rule 4:36-3(b) . A good faith effort shall be made to discuss any request for an adjournment with all other parties before the request is presented to the court. All adjournment requests must be made in writing, submitted to the civil division manager. Faxed submissions are acceptable. Telephone requests will not be accepted absent exceptional circumstances. Requests must be copied to all other parties. Any request for an adjournment must be presented as soon as the need for an adjournment is known. Absent exceptional circumstances, the request must be presented no later than the close of business on the Wednesday preceding the week the matter is scheduled for trial or arbitration. The written request must indicate the reason or reasons the adjournment has been requested, and whether the other parties have consented to the proposed adjournment. The written request should also include a new proposed date for trial or arbitration, consented to by all parties. If consent cannot be obtained, the court will determine the matter by conference call with all parties. If the adjournment request is based upon a conflict with another court proceeding, the party requesting the adjournment must indicate whether he or she is designated trial counsel and supply the name of the other matter, the court and county in which it is pending, and the docket number assigned to the matter. No adjournments will be granted to accommodate dispositive motions returnable on or after the scheduled trial date. A matter should not be considered adjourned until court staff has confirmed that the request for an adjournment has been granted. Timely response will be given to the party requesting the adjournment, who will then be responsible for communicating the decision to all other parties. To the extent any party is dissatisfied with the decision made by the civil case management office, the following procedure should be followed: in master calendar counties, the aggrieved party should present the matter to the civil division manager directly; to the extent that any party is dissatisfied with the decision made by the Civil Division Manager, that party may ask that the matter be presented to the civil presiding judge; in individual/team calendar counties, the aggrieved party should present the matter to the civil division manager directly; to the extent that any party is dissatisfied with the decision made by the civil division manager, that party may ask that the matter be presented to the pretrial or managing judge. Requests for adjournment of a civil trial based on expert unavailability are governed by R. 4:36-3(c) Adjournments Expert Unavailability R. 4:36-3(c) . See Directive #6-04 for more information., How to Become an Arbitrator , Potential Arbitrators need to Application For Admission To Roster of Civil Arbitrators apply . There is a ARBITRATORS’ TRAINING CURRICULUM training manual available as well. ARBITRATOR SCREENING AND APPOINTMENT GUIDELINES All new arbitrators must submit a completed uniform application form with a copy of their resumé and proof of attendance at the required initial training in accordance with RULE 1:40-12 Mediators and Arbitrators in Court Annexed Program R. 1:40-12(c) . Existing arbitrators applying for appointment in additional counties must submit proof of attendance at a continuing training in accordance with R. 1:40-12(c). A certified civil trial attorney with the requisite experience, who has also completed the training and continuing education required by R. 1:40-12(c), will be entitled to automatic inclusion on the roster. After attending the initial training, a new arbitrator shall attend continuing training after two years. Thereafter, an arbitrator shall attend continuing training every four years. Mediators and Arbitrators in Court Annexed Program R. 1:40-12(c)(1) . Arbitrators who have already attended the initial training and at least one continuing training shall attend continuing training every four years. Mediators and Arbitrators in Court Annexed Program R. 1:40-12(c)(2) . Completed application forms should be submitted to the arbitration administrator of the county in which the arbitrator wishes to serve. Appointments to the roster cannot be provisional. All required documents must be submitted prior to consideration for appointment to the roster. The arbitration administrator will verify and submit the application and accompanying documents to the local selection committee. No applicant is permitted to submit required paperwork directly to the local selection committee nor can the local selection committee consider any applicant that has not previously submitted all required paperwork to the arbitration administrator. After its review, the local selection committee will then submit recommendations for the roster to the assignment judge or his/her designee for final approval. This is necessary to ensure that arbitrators are qualified in accordance with Arbitration of Certain Civil Actions R. 4:21A-2 . Upon approval by the assignment judge or his/her designee, the arbitration administrator will advise the AOC Civil Practice Division of the appointment of new arbitrators to the county roster. Any individual who feels that he or she has been aggrieved during the application or review process may bring this matter to the attention of the assignment judge for review. The local selection committee shall annually review the roster of arbitrators Revised 09/10//2019 in consultation with the civil presiding judge, civil division manager and Arbitration Administrator and make recommendations to the Assignment Judge to remove arbitrators from the roster. See Arbitration of Certain Civil Actions R. 4:21A-2(b) . It is imperative that staff are an integral part of this process so that evaluations include staff input regarding arbitrator scheduling issues, time management, promptness, cooperation, professionalism, availability and other relevant issues. Arbitrator mentoring and other assistance should be made available at the county level. General concerns identified as a result of the evaluation process should be addressed at county meetings to the extent practicable, with assignment judges always welcome to reach out to the AOC Civil Practice Division on arbitration-related issues. Each county is encouraged to establish a local monitoring and support committee to provide assistance to arbitrators, court staff, and judges regarding any arbitration-related issues. This can be part of the existing bar committees. , Related Dispute Resolution, Arbitration falls under the Civil CDR Program Information Center Complementary Dispute Resolution (CDR) program . Additional CDR programs include Civil Mediation Mediation . , Forms, CN Title 10505 Uniform Arbitration Statement of Facts - Appendix XXII-A 10506 Uniform Commercial Arbitration Memorandum - Appendix XXII-B 10507 Application For Admission To Roster of Civil Arbitrators 10736 Voluntary Binding Arbitration - Civil Action Consent Order of Dismissal 10738 Voluntary Binding Arbitration Program Application 10763 Uniform Order Confirming Arbitration Award and Entering Judgment 10766 Order of Dismissal/Suppression 10767 Notice of Settlement/Order of Dismissal 10768 Trial De Novo Request Form 10769 Voluntary Binding Arbitration Program Consent Form 10770 Voluntary Binding Arbitration Order 10977 Report and Award Form of Arbitrator(s) - Auto / Personal Injury 10978 Report and Award Form of Arbitrator(s) - Commercial 11329 Civil Division Arbitration Program Pamphlet 11669 Notice Of Arbitration Hearing - Appendix XXIX Arbitration is a process in which a dispute is submitted to experienced and knowledgeable neutral attorneys or retired Superior Court Judges who hear arguments, review evidence and render a non-binding decision. It is less formal, less complex and often can be concluded more quickly than court proceedings., Frequently Asked Questions, What if I am not satisfied with the arbitrator’s award? A party who is not satisfied with the arbitrator’s award can reject the award and get a trial by filing a notice called a “demand for a trial de novo ” with the court and serving it upon all parties within 30 days of the filing of the arbitrator's award. The court is very strict concerning enforcing the 30-day time limit. The effect of not filing the demand for trial de novo is that the award, whether a monetary award or a dismissal, can be converted into a judgment. A party requesting a trial de novo must pay a trial de novo fee to the Treasurer, State of New Jersey. Under certain circumstances if the requesting party does not significantly improve their position at trial, they may also be liable to pay other reasonable costs, including attorney fees of the other party up to $750, and witness costs up to $500 after the trial is concluded. What are the advantages of arbitration? Some of the advantages of arbitration include: arbitrators are knowledgeable and experienced attorneys or retired Superior Court Judges; prompt scheduling, expeditious procedures, and established time frames for each step serve to limit the time required to resolve the case; many of the costs associated with the formal court process can be eliminated by arbitration; each party tells his or her side of the case to an arbitrator in an atmosphere that is less formal than a court proceeding; an arbitrator's decision and award may resolve a case or serve as the basis for further negotiations to a settlement; and arbitration awards, if accepted by all parties and confirmed by the court, are legally binding and enforceable What types of cases are arbitrated? Arbitration is mandatory statewide for civil cases involving automobile negligence, personal injury, contracts and commercial matters, products liability and personal injury protection suits against one’s own insurance carrier for unpaid insurance benefits. What cases are amenable to resolution by arbitration? Arbitration has been found to be particularly effective in resolving cases having the following characteristics: the parties require an independent decision to resolve the dispute; the parties have full information, but seek the opinion of a third party respecting the extent of damages, or the credibility of witness; the parties are committed to “litigating” and are not open to negotiation; the parties have no relationship beyond a single incident and the disputed issues involve only the amount of money damages; or the amount at stake is relatively small and a quick third-party decision is of primary importance, e.g. , simple book account cases. Who are the arbitrators? Arbitrators are attorneys who have at least ten years of consistent and extensive experience in New Jersey in the pertinent substantive area of law. Arbitrators are selected by the Assignment Judge or his/her designee on recommendation of the local bar association and are paid a per diem fee by the court for their services. Retired Superior Court Judges may also serve as arbitrators. How does arbitration work? All attorneys and all parties are notified of their date for an arbitration hearing. Before the scheduled hearing, each party shall exchange a statement of the factual and legal issues. Although attendance by each party or their attorney is required, all attorneys and parties are strongly encouraged to appear at the hearing. The arbitrator conducts the hearing during which each party presents its case. Parties are permitted to introduce exhibits and other relevant documentary evidence. The arbitrator generally exercises the powers of the court in the management and conduct of the hearing. After the hearing, the arbitrator renders a non-binding decision and a written award. The decision is usually rendered on the day of the arbitration hearing in the presence of the participants.
- Appellate Division, On This Page, Body, Overview, For information on how to represent yourself in an appeal, visit our Guide to Completing Appeals Forms Self-Help page . Court appeals in New Jersey go through the Appellate Division of the Superior Court. This is an intermediate appellate court. The state Supreme Court is the highest appellate court. Appeals come from trial courts, tax court, and administrative agencies. Review the New Jersey Standards for Appellate Review Standards for Appellate Review to learn how the two- or three-judge appellate panels reach a decision in each case. The division is composed of 32 judges divided into 8 parts. The division decides around 6,500 appeals and 10,000 motions each year. Appellate Division Parts List Appellate Division Court Term Parts List Published Appellate Court Opinions Appellate Court opinions are posted at 10 a.m. each business day. Expected Opinions Expected opinions for the following business day also are posted at 10 a.m. Alternative resolution programs can streamline the appeals process for some types of cases. These include:, Civil Appeals Settlement Program (CASP), . The clerk’s office identifies cases that might be settled with the help of a retired judge. Alternatively, appeals with complex issues could go to a pre-argument conference. The conference helps clarify those issues prior to briefing., Sentencing Calendars, . Appeals of criminal sentences are argued without full briefing due to their narrow scope. This shortened process helps resolve those cases more quickly., Forms and Filing Information, Attorneys must use eCourts Appellate to file all non-emergent appellate matters. For emergent matters, contact the Appellate Division emergent clerks between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. at 609-815-2950 and when prompted, press 1. The current self-representing appeals forms can be found under Forms and Instructions Forms and Instructions . Use the Build-a-Brief Creator Build-a-Brief Creator , the Build-a-Brief Sample (Letter Brief Sample) Letter Brief Sample , and the Appellate Formal Brief Sample Formal Brief Sample for guidance on preparing appellate briefs. See the Appellate pretrial detention Pretrial Detention page for guidance filing an appeal on an order granting a motion for pretrial detention. Here are examples to help you complete your forms: Examples, Tables of Judgments, Orders and Rulings Examples, Tables of Judgments, Orders and Rulings . This document provides you with sample information that should be included with your appeal. Point Heading Examples Point heading examples . These illustrate how to format your headings in an appeal. You will need a transcript of the lower court hearing. Requesting a Superior Court or Tax Court Transcript for Your Appeal Order transcripts . , Resources for Transcribers, The Judiciary maintains a list of Certified Transcribers List certified transcribers . Also see the contact information for Transcript Processing Offices transcript offices in each Superior Court . Transcribers can consult the Judiciary Transcriber Manual Judiciary Transcriber Manual and the Transcript Format for Judicial Proceedings Transcript Format for Judicial Proceedings . Use the Judiciary Payment Voucher payment voucher and follow the Instructions for Payment Voucher payment voucher instructions to receive payment. , Calendars and Locations, The following are the upcoming calendars for appellate cases. Choose a date below to review the scheduled appeals. Appellate court calendars are subject to change due to uncontrollable circumstances. Call 609-815-2950 ext. 52627 to confirm calendar information for an appeal. As provided in the Notice – New Jersey Judiciary Expands Livestreaming of Oral Arguments to the Appellate Division and Announces the Availability of Publicly Filed Briefs Before the Supreme Court and Appellate Division Sept. 3, 2024, Notice to the Bar , the Judiciary is livestreaming oral arguments before the Appellate Division. Exceptions are specified in the Notice – Public Access in the Appellate Division: (1) Oral Arguments of Non-Public Cases Excepted from Livestreaming and Brief Posting; (2) New Form to Request Audio Recordings of Oral Arguments; and (3) Requesting Access to Non-Public Arguments/Records March 10, 2025 Notice to the Bar . Per this Notice to the Bar, audio recordings of remote arguments held after Sept. 3, 2024 are available upon request. Submit the Request for Audio Records of Appellate Division Oral Argumen Request for Audio Records of Appellate Division Oral Arguments and send to Appeal-Trans.mailbox@njcourts.gov . For help with case information, call the , Transcript Unit, at 609-376-3040 . See appeals scheduled for the Week of Nov. 17, 2025 See appeals scheduled for the Week 1 Appellate Calendar Week of Dec. 1, 2025 The week of November 24, 2025 is a recess week due to Judicial College. Appellate Division chambers are located throughout the state. Arguments are heard in courtrooms in Morristown, New Brunswick, Newark, and Trenton. Arguments are also heard in other courts from time to time. , Appellate Division Clerk’s Office, Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex P.O. Box 006 Trenton, New Jersey 08625-0970 609-815-2950, Notices to the Bar, The following are notices to bar regarding the appellate court and Ecourts Appellate eCourts Appellate . Notice – Public Access in the Appellate Division: (1) Oral Arguments of Non-Public Cases Excepted from Livestreaming and Brief Posting; (2) Promulgation of New Form to Request Audio Recordings of Oral Arguments; and (3) Process for Requesting Access to Non-Public Arguments/Records Notice and Order – Public Access in the Supreme Court and Appellate Division – Relaxation of Court Rules; Requirement for a Filing Party to Certify to the Absence of Confidential Information in Publicly Filed Documents
- Transcript Processing Offices, Name Address Contact Transcript Unit Administrative Office of the Courts Appellate Division Clerk's Office PO Box 968 Trenton, New Jersey 08625 Phone: 609-376-3040 Fax: 609-826-7026 Email: Appeal-Trans.mailbox @njcourts.gov Transcript Unit Atlantic Family/Civil/Criminal Atlantic County Civil Courts Building 1201 Bacharach Blvd. Atlantic City, New Jersey 08401 Phone: 609-402-0100 ext. 47036 Email: Atl-Trans.mbx @njcourts.gov Transcript Unit Bergen Bergen County Justice Center 10 Main Street Suite/Room 116 Hackensack, New Jersey 07601 Phone: 201-221-0700 ext. 25050 Fax: 201-221-0552 Email: Ber-Trans.mbx @njcourts.gov Transcript Unit Burlington Burlington County Court Facility 49 Rancocas Road Floor 5 Mount Holly, New Jersey 08060 Phone: 609-288-9500 ext. 38023 Email: BurTranscripts.mbx @njcourts.gov Transcript Unit Camden Camden County Hall of Justice 101 South 5th Street Suite/Room 510F Camden, New Jersey 08103 Phone: 856-650-9100 ext. 43050 Fax: 856-379-2153 Email: CamTranscripts.mbx @njcourts.gov Transcript Unit Cape May Cape May County Courthouse 9 North Main Street Cape May Courthouse, New Jersey 08210 Phone: 609-402-0100 ext. 47950 Fax: 609-463-6365 Email: Cap-trans.mbx @njcourts.gov Transcript Unit Cumberland Gloucester County Justice Complex 70 Hunter Street Woodbury, New Jersey 08096 Phone: 856-878-5050 ext. 15190 Email: Vic15Trans.mbx @njcourts.gov Transcript Unit Essex Family & General Equity Essex County Veterans Courthouse 50 West Market Street Suite/Room 131 Newark, New Jersey 07102 Phone: 973-776-9300 ext. 56885 Email: Esx-Fam-Trans.mbx @njcourts.gov Transcript Unit Essex Criminal & Civil Essex County Veterans Courthouse 50 West Market Street Suite/Room 131 Newark, New Jersey 07102 Phone: 973-776-9300, ext. 56885 Email: Esx-Trans.mbx @njcourts.gov Transcript Unit Gloucester Gloucester County Justice Complex 70 Hunter Street Woodbury, New Jersey 08096 Phone: 856-878-5050 ext. 15190 Email: Vic15Trans.mbx @njcourts.gov Transcript Unit Hudson Hudson County Administration Bldg 595 Newark Avenue Suite/Room 500, Floor 5 Jersey City, New Jersey 07306 Phone: 201-748-4400 ext. 66630 Email: hudtrnscript.mbx @njcourts.gov Transcript Unit Hunterdon Ops Division Hunterdon County Justice Center 65 Park Avenue Flemington, New Jersey 08822 Phone: 908-824-9750 ext. 13040 Email: V13HCtrans.mailbox @njcourts.gov Transcript Unit Mercer Mercer County Transcript Office Mercer County Civil Courthouse 175 South Broad Street Floor 2 Trenton, New Jersey 08650-0068 Phone: 609-571-4200 ext. 74365 Fax: 609-376-0841 Email: Mertranscript.mailbox @njcourts.gov Transcript Unit Middlesex PO Box 964 New Brunswick, New Jersey 08903-0964 Phone: 732-645-4300 ext. 88640 Fax: 732-645-4277 Email: Mid-Trans.mbx @njcourts.gov Transcript Unit Monmouth Monmouth County Courthouse 71 Monument Street Floor 1 Freehold, New Jersey 07728 Phone: 732-358-8700 ext. 87090 Email: Mon-Trans.mbx @njcourts.gov Transcript Unit Morris Morris - Transcript Office PO Box 910 Morristown, New Jersey 07963 Phone: 862-397-5700 ext. 75050 Fax: 862-397-5675 Email: Mrstranscripts.mailbox @njcourts.gov Transcript Unit Ocean 118 Washington Street 118 Washington Street Suite/Room 103 Toms River, New Jersey 08754 Phone: 732-504-0700 ext. 64020 Fax: 732-435-8402 Email: Ocn-Trans.mbx @njcourts.gov Transcript Unit Passaic 71 Hamilton Street 71 Hamilton Street Suite/Room 146 Paterson, New Jersey 07505 Phone: 973-653-2910 ext. 24480 Fax: 973-424-6880 Email: Pas-Trans.mbx @njcourts.gov Transcript Unit Salem Gloucester County Justice Complex 70 Hunter Street Woodbury, New Jersey 08096 Phone: 856-878-5050 ext. 15190 Email: Vic15Trans.mbx @njcourts.gov Transcript Unit Somerset Somerset County Courthouse 20 North Bridge Street Floor 2 Somerville, New Jersey 08876 Phone: 908-332-7700 ext. 13035 Fax: 908-332-7681 Email: Som-Trans.mbx @njcourts.gov Pagination 1 Go to page 2 2 Go to next page > Next page Showing 1 to 20 of 23 items
- Special Civil Part Supervising Judges Roster, Name Address Contact Atlantic Marcolongo, Dean Judge Superior Court Atlantic Atlantic County Civil Courthouse 1201 Bacharach Boulevard Floor 1 Atlantic City, New Jersey 08401 Phone: 609-402-0100 Bergen Monaghan, Joseph G. Judge Superior Court Bergen Bergen County Justice Center 10 Main Street Suite/Room 427 Hackensack, New Jersey 07601 Phone: 201-221-0700 ext. 25462 Burlington Fikry, Eric G. Judge Superior Court Burlington Burlington County Court Facility 49 Rancocas Road Mount Holly, New Jersey 08060 Phone: 609-228-9500 ext. 38809 Camden VACANT Judge Superior Court Camden Camden County Hall of Justice 101 South 5th Street Floor 4 Camden, New Jersey 08103 Phone: 856-650-9100 ext. 43870 Cumberland/Gloucester/Salem Ragonese, Jr., Samuel J. Judge Superior Court Cumberland/Gloucester/Salem Gloucester County Old Courthouse 1 North Broad Street Floor 3 Woodbury, New Jersey 08096 Phone: 856-878-5050 ext. 15278 Essex Spencer, Louise Grace Judge Superior Court Essex Essex County Historic Courthouse 470 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. Floor 2 Newark, New Jersey 07102 Phone: 973-776-9516 ext. 57233 Hudson Eglentowicz, Keri Ann Judge Superior Court Hudson Hudson County Administration Bldg 595 Newark Avenue Floor 1 Jersey City, New Jersey 07306 Phone: 201-748-4400 ext. 60435 Mercer Anklowitz, William Judge Superior Court Mercer Mercer County Civil Courthouse 175 South Broad Street Floor 1 Trenton, New Jersey 08650-0068 Phone: 609-571-4200 ext. 74838 Middlesex Corman, J Randall Judge Superior Court Middlesex Middlesex County Courthouse PO Box 964 New Brunswick, New Jersey Phone: 732-645-4300 ext. 88218 Monmouth Marshall, Andrea I. Judge Superior Court Monmouth Monmouth County Courthouse 71 Monument Street Floor 2 Freehold, New Jersey 07728 Phone: 732-358-8700 ext. 87140 Morris/Sussex McAndrew Vuotto, Jennifer Judge Superior Court Morris/Sussex Morris County Courthouse PO Box 910 Morristown, New Jersey Phone: 862-397-5700 ext. 75504 Ocean Ducey, John G., III Judge Superior Court Ocean Ocean County Courthouse 100 Hooper Avenue Suite/Room Courtroom #6, Floor 1 Toms River, New Jersey 08753 Phone: 732-504-0700 ext. 64762 Passaic Mizzone Testa, Elissa Judge Superior Court Passaic Passaic County Courthouse 77 Hamilton Street Floor 2 Paterson, New Jersey 07505 Phone: 973-653-2910 ext. 24521 Somerset/Hunterdon/Warren Kalik, Lance Judge Superior Court Somerset/Hunterdon/Warren Somerset County Courthouse 20 North Bridge Street Floor 1 Somerville, New Jersey 08876 Phone: 908-332-7700 ext. 13620 Union Roberts, Daniel Judge Superior Court Union Union County Courthouse 2 Broad Street Suite/Room Old Annex, Floor 3 Elizabeth, New Jersey 07207 Phone: 908-787-1650 ext. 21700 Showing 1 to 15 of 15 items
- Certificates and Forms, This page contains forms and instructions for attorneys to resign or retire, to request a certificate of good standing, and to request a certificate of ethical conduct. , On This Page, Body, Resignation Without Prejudice, An attorney cannot resign (Review Court Rule R 1:20-22 R.1:20-22 ): If any disciplinary or criminal proceedings are pending in any jurisdiction; OR If you are NOT in good standing. If an attorney meets the requirements set forth within Resignation without Prejudice from the Bar of the State of New Jersey Resignation Without Prejudice Please print and mail the completed original to:, Office of Attorney Ethics, Attn: Resignation Without Prejudice P.O. Box 963 Trenton, New Jersey 08625-0963 Please allow up to six weeks for processing. Please note: All attorneys, must, be in good standing status at the time your resignation paperwork is processed. Final notification of approval will be received from the , Supreme Court Clerk's Office, Resignation will terminate your membership to the NJ Bar. To be readmitted, you will have to retake the NJ Bar Examination, unless , you meet the requirements of Court Rule R.1:24-4 R.1:24-4 to be readmitted by motion., Request Certificate of Ethical Conduct, For a Certificate of Ethical Conduct, send your request in writing to:, Office of Attorney Ethics, Attn: Certificate of Ethical Conduct P.O. Box 963 Trenton, New Jersey 08625-0963 Please include your name, date of birth, NJ Bar ID number, date of admission to the NJ State Bar, and a self-addressed stamped envelope. Please allow two to three weeks for processing., Retirement, You may request the retired exemption online. You are entitled to the retired exemption only if, since January 31 of the current year, Your employment is not related to the practice of law; You do not draft or review legal documents; You do not render legal assistance or advice on the law; You do not serve in the judiciary in any capacity, in any jurisdiction; and You do not teach law. You may not claim this exemption by virtue of being out-of-state or exempt from pro bono assignment. Once you have certified to the retirement exemption, you will remain in retired status until you inform the Judiciary otherwise. If you are currently in retired status, please respond to the other parts of the annual registration. For lawyers granted the retirement exemption, the Supreme Court Clerk’s Office will only issue letters indicating your status and not certificates of good standing. An attorney in retired status is not permitted to practice New Jersey law; provided however, that a retired attorney who certifies to the Supreme Court that the only aspect of the attorney’s participation in legal practice is by providing qualifying pro bono service as defined by R. 1:21-11 (a) for Legal Services of New Jersey and the associated legal regional programs; for a certified organization under R. 1:21-11 (b), or for an organization otherwise approved by the Supreme Court, may do so pursuant to those rules. Certification of Retirement Certification of Retirement
- NJ Supreme Court History, On This Page, Body, Overview of the Supreme Court, Welcome to the New Jersey Supreme Court Virtual Museum. Here you will find detailed biographical information about the chief justices and associate justices who have served on the court since the adoption of the 1947 New Jersey Constitution, notable cases, speeches, correspondence, videos and photographs of the court and court-related people and institutions. Equally important, and interesting, you will find the life stories of some of the most dynamic people in New Jersey’s history. The website is a work in progress and will be updated often. New Jersey has had a Court bearing the title “Supreme Court” since before we became a state on Dec. 18, 1787. However, the Supreme Court did not become the state’s highest appellate court until 1948. New Jersey’s first constitution in 1776 included a Court of Appeals, which was then the state’s court of last resort. The state constitution of 1844 established the Court of Errors and Appeals, which derived its name from its function of hearing appeals and correcting errors of lower courts. That Court was abolished when the 1947 state constitution established today’s New Jersey Supreme Court, which held its first session in its courtroom in the Statehouse Annex in Trenton on Sept. 15, 1948. Biographical profiles of the first six Chief Justices to serve under the 1947 Constitution are contained below. Each of them were high-energy people who understood the importance of their role as a leader of the “Third Branch” of New Jersey Government. The New Jersey Supreme Court is composed of a chief justice and six associate justices. As the highest appellate court, the Supreme Court reviews cases from the lower courts. Most litigants must request that the court hear their appeal by filing conflicting Appellate Division decisions. In very limited circumstances, such as where a judge in the Appellate Division files a dissenting opinion, a party can appeal as of right to the Supreme Court. In deciding the cases that come before it, the court interprets the New Jersey and the U.S Constitution, New Jersey statutes, administrative regulations of the state’s governmental agencies and the body of common law. Chief Justice Stuart Rabner also serves as the administrative head for the court system and oversees the management of the state's courts., State of New Jersey Constitutional Convention of 1947 Committee on The Judiciary, N.J. Constitutional Convention: Vol. 4, Page v N.J. Constitutional Convention: Vol. 4, Page 5 N.J. Constitutional Convention: Vol. 4, Page vi N.J. Constitutional Convention: Vol. 4, Page 6 N.J. Constitutional Convention: Vol. 4, Page vii N.J. Constitutional Convention: Vol. 4, Page 7 N.J. Constitutional Convention: Vol. 4, Page viii N.J. Constitutional Convention: Vol. 4, Page 8 N.J. Constitutional Convention: Vol. 4, Page ix N.J. Constitutional Convention: Vol. 4, Page 9, Governor Alfred E. Driscoll's Role in the Court's Formation, Carousel Image Preview Governor Alfred E. Driscoll Carousel Image Preview Alfred Driscoll Carousel Image Preview Governor Alfred E. Driscoll Carousel Image Preview Governor Alfred E. Driscoll Previous Next, Court System Before the 1947 Constitutional Convention, As discussed in the biographical sketches of the Chief Justices contained in this website, Arthur Vanderbilt was the indispensable bridge between a court system that worked only for political insiders to one that became a role model in the United States. The basic framework of New Jersey’s court system prior to 1947 was created during the colonial era and prevailed for nearly two centuries. On July 2, 1776, the day that New Jersey’s provincial congress ratified the Declaration of Independence, it also approved our first constitution. Working in the shadow of war, the committee hastily crafted a document transferring all the powers of the royal governor to the legislature, making the new governor a mere figurehead, and creating s court system akin to Great Britain, but dominated by the legislature. Despite the 13 years between adoption of the Revolution-era constitution, and the new U.S. Constitution in 1789, no thought was given to taking a second look at the original charter. The state’s constitution was so poorly drawn that it drew the attention of James Madison who cited New Jersey’s constitution as inferior in Federalist Papers #47, warning: “The accumulation of all powers, legislative, executive, and judiciary, in the same hands, whether of one, a few, or many, and whether hereditary, self-appointed, or elective, may justly be pronounced the very definition of tyranny.” The result was a court system dominated by politicians with no regard for the rule of law. Calls for revision of the constitution in 1790, 1797, 1819, 1827, and 1840, all failed. Finally, in 1844, a constitutional convention proposed a new constitution which was approved by the voters. Yet even then, little changed, particularly the courts which grew more chaotic and corrupt. Following the turn of the 20th Century, and as other courts across America were being reformed to keep pace with the modern world, “Jersey justice” was the label attached to the rickety, corrupt conglomeration of courts that legal scholars and historians alike cited as the most archaic judicial system in America. As shown by the pre-1947 chart, our court system was so antiquated and incoherent that only the well-heeled, armed with politically connected lawyers, were confident of fair treatment. For anyone else, beware. After more than two decades of battling, Arthur Vanderbilt and others had built a strong coalition of supporters from the legal, political and social communities, resulting in the approval of a June 1947 referendum providing for a constitutional convention convened at Rutgers University. The result was a modern unitary court system insuring accountability, coherence and respect for litigants. See more information on the Dept. of State websitel See more information on the Dept. of State website ., Supreme Court Historical Advisory Board, Chief Justice Stuart Rabner formed the New Jersey Supreme Court Historical Advisory Board to preserve and promote and to educate the public on the rich history of the state’s highest appellate court., Chair, Judge Nelson C. Johnson (ret.) Judge Stewart G. Pollock (ret.) - Advisory Board Past Chair, Members, Hon. Nelson C. Johnson (ret.), Chair Hon. Stewart G. Pollock (ret.) Advisory Board Past Chair Heather Joy Baker Hon. Avion Benjamin Hon. John W. Bissell (ret.) Michael J. Blee, J.A.D. Steven D. Bonville Hon. Peter A. Buchsbaum (ret.) Hon. Maritza Berdote Byrne Hon. Phillip S. Carchman (ret.) Hon. Amy Piro Chambers (ret.) Dean Ronald K. Chen Thomas Curtin Hon. Virginia A. Long (ret.) Hon. Paulette Sapp-Peterson (ret.) Hon. Edwin H. Stern (ret.) Hon. Menelaos Toskos (ret.) Professor John B. Wefing Professor Robert F. Williams For more information about the board, its work or to donate photographs, documents and artifacts related to the New Jersey Supreme Court, contact Mike Mathis , Communications and Community Relations, at Mike.Mathis@njcourts.gov 609-815-2900 ext. 52352
- eCDR – Electronic Court Disposition Reporting, On This Page, Body Law Enforcement Login Judge and Attorney Login Log in using your Judiciary eCourts credentials Login credentials are assigned by your TAC officer., Training and Resources, eCDR for Judges, Videos, Documentation, Help System / Release Notes (RN), How to Login to eCDR for Judges - Full Video How to Login to eCDR for Judges - Full Video First Time Log into Judiciary Systems User ID and Log in for Judges How to login to eCDR from a Judiciary Computer How to Login to eCDR from a Judiciary Computer Online Tools for Judges 2025 Online Tools for Judges 2025 How to Login from Home - Judge - Judicial Official How to Login from Home - Judge - Judicial Official How to Generate and Submit eCDR to Prosecutor - Sr Officer to Review How to Generate and Submit eCDR to Prosecutor - Sr Officer to Review How to Generate and Review an eCDR Commitment Form How to Generate and Review an eCDR Commitment Form Temporary Sealing of Complaint – Warrant (full video) Temporary Sealing of Complaint – Warrant (full video) Temporary Sealing of Complaint – Warrant (Superior Court Judge) Temporary Sealing of Complaint – Warrant (Superior Court Judge) , eCDR for Prosecutors, Videos, Documentation, Help System / Release Notes (RN), How to Login to eCDR - Prosecutor and Public Defender How to Login to eCDR - Prosecutor and Public Defender eCDR Manual eCDR Manual eCDR for Prosecutors-RN RN 12.06.24 How to Generate and Submit eCDR to Prosecutor How to Generate and Submit eCDR to Prosecutor eCDR for Prosecutors - Full Volume Release Notes - Full Volume How to Review an eCDR Complaint Prosecutor - Sr Officer How to Review an eCDR Complaint Prosecutor - Sr Officer Temporary Sealing of Complaint – Warrant (full video) Temporary Sealing of Complaint – Warrant (full video) Temporary Sealing of Complaint – Warrant (County Prosecutor) Temporary Sealing of Complaint – Warrant (County Prosecutor) , eCDR for Public Defenders, Videos, Documentation, Help System / Release Notes (RN), How to Login to eCDR - Prosecutor and Public Defender How to Login to eCDR - Prosecutor and Public Defender eCDR Manual eCDR Manual eCDR for Public Defenders - Release Notes RN.12.06.24, eCDR for Law Enforcement, Videos, Documentation, Help System / Release Notes (RN), How to File a Juvenile Custody Warrant Complaint Juvenile Custody Warrant Powerpoint Juvenile Custody Warrant Powerpoint eCDR for Law Enforcement Release Notes RN 12.12.25 How to Login to eCDR (Law Enforcement) How to Login to eCDR (Law Enforcement) Livescan Linking for Wanted Persons Arrest and Unprinted Defendants on Summons eCDR Livescan and PSA eCDR for Law Enforcement Release Notes - Full Volume Release Notes - Full Volume How to Generate and Submit eCDR to Prosecutor/Sr Officer for Review How to Generate and Submit eCDR to Prosecutor/Sr Officer for Review eCDR Powerpoint - includes Reset Password instructions eCDR Powerpoint How to Review an eCDR Complaint Prosecutor-Sr Officer How to Review an eCDR Complaint Prosecutor-Sr Officer Pretrial Home Detention - Electronic Monitoring Dashboard Pretrial Home Detention - Electronic Monitoring Dashboard How to Generate and Review an eCDR Commitment Form How to Generate and Review an eCDR Commitment Form eCDR Manual eCDR Manual Temporary Sealing of Complaint – Warrant (full video) Temporary Sealing of Complaint – Warrant (full video) Temporary Sealing of Complaint – Warrant (Law Enforcement) Temporary Sealing of Complaint – Warrant (Law Enforcement)
- Jury Reforms and Attorney-Conducted Voir Dire Pilot Program, As authorized by the New Jersey Supreme Court, the Judiciary is reforming jury processes. Through these reforms, the Court seeks to broaden participation in jury service and reduce the effects of discrimination and bias in jury selection. Many of the jury reforms apply to all civil and criminal jury trials as of Sept. 1, 2022. Certain additional reforms for now apply only to criminal matters in three counties -- Bergen, Camden, and Middlesex -- that will be testing a new approach to jury selection known as Attorney-Conducted Voir Dire (ACVD)., On This Page, Body, Statewide Jury Reforms, This document highlights statewide jury process reforms statewide jury process reforms effective Sept. 1, 2022. Those reforms include strategies to support jurors in recognizing and interrupting the effects of potential biases and amendments to Court Rules applicable in all jury trials Strategies to Interrupt Implicit Bias The court will show a Juror Impartiality Video Juror Impartiality Video to jurors to raise awareness and improve understanding of implicit bias. The video educates jurors about how to avoid the effects of bias when making decisions. Judges in all trials will use enhanced instructions that include additional guidance to jurors about their responsibility to decide the case based on the facts and evidence, rather than any preconceived ideas about the parties. See the Notice – Jury Reforms – Updates to Model Civil and Criminal Jury Charges to Provide Additional Information and Guidance Regarding Implicit Bias. Aug. 25, 2022 notice for the full text of the updated jury charges. Judges will ask jurors the following two new voir dire questions about implicit bias: Question 1: In the juror orientation video and my introductory remarks, the concept of implicit bias was defined and discussed. In light of that information, do you think you will be able to decide the case fairly and impartially? Please explain. Question 2: Some of the witnesses, parties, lawyers, jurors, or other people involved with this case may have personal characteristics (such as their race, ethnicity, or religion) or backgrounds different from yours, or they may be similar to yours. Would those differences or similarities make it difficult for you to decide this case impartially based solely on the evidence and the law? Please explain. Amendments to the Rules of Court Three Court Rules are amended effective Sept. 1, 2022. As amended: Rule 1:8-3 provides for a clear and liberal standard for challenges for cause. Rule 1:8-5 provides for sharing more information about prospective jurors with attorneys. Rule 1:38-5 clarifies the confidentiality of certain types of juror records. For further information, see the Court’s Order Amending Rules 1:8:3 July 12, 2022 Order. The Court has also adopted new Rule 1:8-3A (“Reduction of Bias in the Exercise of Peremptory Challenges”), which is effective for cases in the ACVD pilot program as of September 2022 and effective statewide as of January 1, 2023. This document sets out the content of Rule 1:8-3A new Rule 1:8-3A with additional background information and key takeaways for judges and attorneys., Attorney-Conducted Voir Dire (ACVD), The Supreme Court has authorized a pilot program to explore attorney-conducted -- rather than judge-led -- voir dire. The program is available for criminal cases in Bergen, Camden, and Middlesex counties starting Sept. 1, 2022. See the Court’s Attorney-Conducted Voir Dire ACVD July 12, 2022 Order . For an introduction to ACVD and an overview of the pilot program, see this document that includes video illustrations of the key phases of the ACVD process video illustrations of the key phases of the ACVD process . The ACVD model proposed for New Jersey will involve the use of case-specific written questionnaires. Jurors will complete those questionnaires electronically, with their responses compiled and provided for review by counsel and the court before the start of oral questioning. This document explains the Electronic questionnaire process electronic questionnaire process , with videos showing how questionnaires will be customized and how attorneys will receive and review juror responses. This Word version of the Supreme Court-approved consent and waiver form consent and waiver form will be entered for each case that opts into the pilot program. To support cases in the ACVD pilot program, the Judiciary has developed template notices and forms, which we are continuing to review and improve with input from stakeholders in the pilot counties. These optional forms are available in customizable Word format for attorneys in ACVD cases:. This template Notice of Hearing on Participation :ACVD Pilot Program and Case Conference notice of hearing includes a copy of an AVCD - Updated Template updated short-form questionnaire and guidance for attorneys to develop and modify case-specific questions. This model trial order on ACVD process trial order on ACVD process would be customized and entered after the case conference., Additional Information on Jury Reforms, The statewide jury reforms follow through on State v. Andujar , 247 N.J. 275, 318 (2021) in which the Supreme Court called for a Judicial Conference to examine New Jersey’s jury selection processes and recommend improvements designed to broaden participation and representativeness and reduce the effects of purposeful discrimination and all types of bias. Information on that November 2021 Conference is available on this Judicial Conference on Jury Selection webpage . See this Notice – Jury Reforms – Supreme Court Action: (1) Administrative Determinations on the Report and Recommendations of the Committee of the Judicial Conference on Jury Selection; (2) Amendments to the Rules of Court; and (3) Authorization of a Pilot July 12, 2022 notice for the Court’s Administrative Determinations on the 25 recommendations of the Judicial Conference Committee. The Judiciary is in the process of implementing other parts of the Court’s action, including through the collection of voluntary juror demographic information. See this Notice - Collection of Voluntary Juror Demographic Information - Initial Implementation in Bergen, Camden, and Middlesex Counties July 14, 2022 notice about the first phase of that data collection. Nearly all COVID-19 related adjustments to jury operations have concluded as of Sept. 1, 2022. See the Court’s Notice and Order - Conclusion of Mandatory Social Distancing and Masking in Jury Proceedings; Adjustments to Virtual Phase of Jury Selection - Effective September 1, 2022 Aug. 24, 2022 Order . The Supreme Court has authorized expanded availability of aggregate juror demographic information. See the March 28, 2023 notice .
- Criminal Division Manager Conference Contact List, Kristy Smith (Monmouth) – Chair, Agustina Lane (Ocean) – Vice Chair, Name Address Contact Atlantic/Cape May Wertzberger, Jason Criminal Division Manager Atlantic/Cape May Atlantic County Criminal Courts Complex 4997 Unami Blvd. Mays Landing, New Jersey 08330 Phone: 609-402-0100 ext. 47286 Fax: 609-909-8190 Bergen Darcy, Leslie Criminal Division Manager Bergen Bergen County Justice Center 10 Main Street Suite/Room 124 Hackensack, New Jersey 07601 Phone: 201-221-0700 ext. 25020 Fax: 201-371-1108 Burlington DeNise, Shannon Criminal Division Manager Burlington Courts Facility 49 Rancocas Road Floor 3 Mount Holly, New Jersey 08060 Phone: 609-288-9500 ext. 38081 Fax: 609-288-9469 Fax: 609-288-9469 Camden Sandoval, Jeanine Criminal Division Manager Camden Camden County Hall of Justice 101 South 5th Street Camden, New Jersey 08103 Phone: 856-650-9100 ext. 43580 Fax: 856-379-2257 Cumberland/Gloucester/Salem Harris, Crystal Criminal Division Manager, Cumberland/Gloucester/Salem Cumberland/Gloucester/Salem Gloucester County Justice Complex 70 Hunter Street Woodbury, New Jersey 08096 Phone: 856-878-5050 ext. 15363 Essex Jacobson, Abigail Criminal Division Manager Essex Essex County Veterans Courthouse 50 West Market Street Floor 8 Newark, New Jersey 07102 Phone: 973-776-9300 ext. 69029 Hudson Spate, Jessica Criminal Division Manager Hudson Hudson County Administration Bldg 595 Newark Avenue Jersey City, New Jersey 07306 Phone: 201-748-4400 ext. 60212 Fax: 201-748-4418 Mercer Mejia, Efrain Criminal Division Manager Mercer Mercer County Criminal Courthouse 400 South Warren Street Trenton, New Jersey 08650-0068 Phone: 609-571-4200 ext. 74104 Fax: 609-571-4150 Middlesex Grimaldi, Lori Criminal Division Manager Middlesex Middlesex County Courthouse PO Box 964 New Brunswick, New Jersey Phone: 732-645-4300 ext. 88095 Fax: 732-645-4311 Monmouth Smith, Kristy Criminal Division Manager Monmouth Monmouth County Courthouse PO Box 1271 Freehold, New Jersey Phone: 732-358-8700 ext. 87418 Fax: 732-677-4578 Morris/Sussex Montanez, Antonio Criminal Division Manager Morris/Sussex Morris County Courthouse PO Box 910 Morristown, New Jersey Phone: 862-397-5700 ext. 75032 Fax: 862-397-5670 Ocean Lane, Agustina Criminal Division Manager Ocean Ocean County Justice Complex 120 Hooper Avenue Suite/Room 240 Toms River, New Jersey 08753 Phone: 732-504-0700 ext. 64320 Passaic Harrison, John J Criminal Division Manager Passaic Criminal Division Passaic County Courthouse 77 Hamilton Street Paterson, New Jersey 07505 Phone: 973-653-2910 ext. 24295 Fax: 973-247-8900 Somerset/Hunterdon/Warren Lipovetskiy, Meghann Criminal Division Manager Somerset/Hunterdon/Warren Somerset County Courthouse PO Box 3000 Somerville, New Jersey Phone: 908-750-8100 ext. 13720 Union Jan, Michael Criminal Division Manager Union Union County Courthouse 2 Broad Street Floor 7 - Tower Elizabeth, New Jersey 07207 Phone: 908-787-1650 ext. 21038 Showing 1 to 15 of 15 items
- Statewide Pro Bono Coordinator Contact List, Name Address Contact Atlantic/Cape May Overs, Carolina Statewide Pro Bono Coordinator Atlantic/Cape May Atlantic County Civil Courthouse 1201 Bacharach Boulevard Atlantic City, New Jersey 08401 Phone: 609-402-0100 ext. 47036 ATLProBono.Mailbox@njcourts.gov Bergen Marfino, Elena Statewide Pro Bono Coordinator Bergen Bergen County Justice Center 10 Main Street Suite/Room 124 Hackensack, New Jersey 07601 Phone: 201-221-0700 ext. 25209 BERProBono.Mailbox@njcourts.gov Burlington Coleman, Lyssa Statewide Pro Bono Coordinator Burlington Burlington County Court Facility 49 Rancocas Road Suite/Room Municipal Division Mount Holly, New Jersey 08060 Phone: 609-288-9500 ext. 38045 BURProBono.Mailbox@njcourts.gov Camden Mejia, Georgette Statewide Pro Bono Coordinator Camden Camden County Hall of Justice 101 South 5th Street Suite/Room 680 Camden, New Jersey 08103 Phone: 856-650-9100 ext. 43960 CAMProBono.Mailbox@njcourts.gov Cumberland/Gloucester/Salem Demarzio, Joseph Statewide Pro Bono Coordinator Cumberland/Gloucester/Salem Salem County Courthouse 92 Market Street Salem, New Jersey 08079 Phone: 856-878-5050 VIC15ProBono.mbx@njcourts.gov Essex Dunnemann, James Assistant Municipal Division Manager, Statewide Pro Bono Coordinator Essex Municipal Division Essex County Veterans Courthouse 50 West Market Street Suite/Room 716 Newark, New Jersey 07102 Phone: 973-776-9300 ext. 55714 ESXProBono.Mailbox@njcourts.gov Hudson Gambino, Jennifer Statewide Pro Bono Coordinator Hudson Hudson County Administration Bldg 595 Newark Avenue Suite/Room TCA's Office Jersey City, New Jersey 07306 Phone: 201-748-4400 ext. 60521 HudProBono.mailbox@njcourts.gov Mercer VACANT Pro Bono Coordinator Mercer Mercer County Criminal Courthouse 400 South Warren Street Suite/Room 109 Trenton, New Jersey 08650-0068 Phone: 609-571-4200 ext. 74048 MerProBono.Mailbox@njcourts.gov Middlesex Dempsey, Rachel Municipal Division Manager Middlesex Middlesex County Courthouse PO Box 964 New Brunswick, New Jersey Phone: 732-645-4300 ext. 88664 MIDProBono.Mailbox@njcourts.gov Monmouth Trotta, Robert Statewide Pro Bono Coordinator Monmouth Family Division Monmouth County Courthouse 71 Monument Street Suite/Room Family Division Freehold, New Jersey 07728 Phone: 732-358-8700 ext. 87240 MONProBono.Mailbox@njcourts.gov Morris/Sussex Briggs, Jennifer Statewide Pro Bono Coordinator Morris/Sussex Morris County Courthouse PO Box 910 Morristown, New Jersey Phone: 862-397-5700 ext. 75150 MRSSSXProBono.Mailbox@njcourts.gov Ocean Garcia, Tara Statewide Pro Bono Coordinator Ocean Family Division 3 Mott Place Suite/Room Family Division, Floor 1st Floor Toms River, New Jersey 08754 Phone: 732-504-0700 ext. 64065 OCNProBono.Mailbox@njcourts.gov Passaic Bodeen, Diana Statewide Pro Bono Coordinator Passaic Family Division / DVHO Passaic County Admin Building 401 Grand Street Floor 8th Floor Paterson, New Jersey 07505 Phone: 973-653-2910 ext. 24615 PASProBono.Mailbox@njcourts.gov Somerset/Hunterdon/Warren Mccormick, Carrie Statewide Pro Bono Coordinator Somerset/Hunterdon/Warren Somerset County Courthouse 20 North Bridge Street Somerville, New Jersey 08876 Phone: 908-332-7700 ext. 13355 SOMProBono.Mailbox@njcourts.gov Union VACANT Pro Bono Coordinator Union Union County Courthouse 2 Broad Street Suite/Room New Annex, Floor 2nd Floor Elizabeth, New Jersey 07207 Phone: 908-787-1650 ext. 21312 UNNProBono.Mailbox@njcourts.gov Showing 1 to 15 of 15 items
- Economic Mediation in Family Law Cases, On This Page, Economic Mediation Program Overview, Contested divorce cases are first reviewed by an early settlement panel (ESP). This panel, made up of two experienced divorce attorneys, will recommend a settlement in the case. If the parties do not agree with the recommendation, and there are unresolved financial disputes after ESP review, the court may order them to participate in economic mediation. Economic mediation can help divorcing couples find common ground to divide shared property and determine support. Economic mediation is a means of resolving financial issues with a trained, impartial third party. It is designed to facilitate settlements in an informal, non-adversarial environment. Mediators do not represent either party and do not offer legal advice. Parties are encouraged to retain their own attorney for the mediation process. If they do not have an attorney, they may choose someone else to accompany them in mediation. Benefits of mediation include: Confidential proceedings. The opportunity for the parties to create their own, mutually acceptable agreement. Allowing parties to take an active role in resolving their dispute. Saving both parties time and money. All mediators on the roster of Judiciary-approved mediators have completed 40 hours of mediation training. Mediators on the roster with a domestic violence designation completed training that qualifies them to conduct Domestic Violence Economic Mediation. Mediators are attorneys and other experienced professionals in the financial or mental health fields., After the first two hours, the mediation costs are paid by the parties., The first two hours of mediation are free. These two hours include the time it takes for the mediator to prepare for the first session and for the session itself. Travel time is not included in the first two hours and mediators are not allowed to charge for their travel. During the mediation, the mediator will let you know when the two free hours have been reached. Either party can then choose to end the mediation. If the mediation goes beyond the free two hours, the court decides the amount each party will be responsible for to cover the mediator’s fee., Economic Mediation and Final Restraining Orders, Generally, the law prohibits mediation when there is an active final restraining order between the parties. The Domestic Violence Economic Mediation Program allows mediation only if the protected party (the person with the restraining order) requests it. The protected party must consent to amending the final restraining order to allow mediation. The protected party may terminate the mediation process at any time and for any reason. , The protected party must initiate the request for economic mediation., The protected party must Read and understand the DVEM - Frequently Asked Questions for Protected Party Frequently Asked Questions for Protected Parties Meet with a domestic violence advocate or trained court staff; and Complete and file a certification which is a formal request to the court that the case be referred to economic mediation. It is also a request for the court to amend the Final Restraining Order to permit economic mediation. Filing the certification does not guarantee that the court will refer the case to the program. After reviewing the certification and confirming that the protected party consents to economic mediation, the court will ask the other party if they agree to mediation. If they do not agree, they will be asked to provide an explanation. The court may still decide to refer the case to economic mediation. If the court refers a case to economic mediation, both parties will work separately with court staff to agree on the selection of a mediator. If they are unable to agree, the court will assign one., If there is a final restraining order, the parties will not be in the same room for mediation., Domestic violence economic mediation takes place in a secure room at the courthouse where security is on site, or it may take place on-line using videoconferencing. Domestic violence economic mediation will not be conducted at the mediator’s office or any other location. The mediator assigned to the case will use a process called “shuttle diplomacy” to facilitate the mediation. This means that each party will be in separate rooms the entire time, and the mediator will communicate with them separately. This eliminates direct communication between the parties. Similarly, if the mediation is conducted online, the parties will be in separate virtual meeting rooms and will not have any contact. Only mediators who completed domestic violence mediation training are eligible to mediate cases where there is a restraining order between the parties., The protected party can choose to end mediation at any time., This program was created to give victims of domestic violence the same opportunity to resolve their case as litigants who do not have a restraining order. If the protected party does not feel comfortable about moving forward with economic mediation, they can let their attorney know. If they do not have an attorney, they can contact the court. This will not be held against them in any way., The mediator cannot address other issues such as custody or parenting time., This is prohibited by law and violates provisions of the Domestic Violence Economic Mediation program. Read the DVEM - Frequently Asked Questions for Protected Party Frequently Asked Questions for Protected Parties and DVEM - Frequently Asked Questions for Non-Protected Party Frequently Asked Questions for Non-Protected Parties for more details about the program. Mediators must complete the Economic Mediation Results Form Economic Mediation Results Form after the mediation session. , Become a Mediator, If you want to become a mediator, Application for Admissions to Roster of Mediators you need to apply . Current mediators can Economic Mediation Roster Update Form change or update their roster status ., Mediators for Economic Aspects of Family Law, Location - Any - Administrative Office of the Courts Atlantic Cumberland Hunterdon Mays Landing Morris Atlantic City Atlantic/Cape May Cape May Gloucester Somerset Sussex Bergen Salem Warren Burlington Camden Cumberland/Gloucester/Salem Essex Hudson Mercer Middlesex Monmouth Morris/Sussex Ocean Passaic Somerset/Hunterdon/Warren Union New Jersey Qualifications - Any - Approved for DV Cases Qualified Mentor Search Apply Filters sort by Mediator Mediator Qualifications sort by Hourly Rate Hourly Rate Lorraine A. Abraham, Esq. Cullen and Dykman 433 Hackensack Avenue Hackensack, NJ 07602 Phone: (201) 488-2600 Fax: (201) 488-5059 Email: labraham@cullenanddykman.com $375.00 Robert A. Abrams, Esq. Robert A. Abrams, PA 1127 Highway 35 Ocean Township, NJ 07712 Phone: (732) 531-6900 Fax: (732) 517-0649 Email: rabrams@rabramslaw.com $325.00 Charles C. Abut, Esq. 401 Hackensack Avenue Suite 706 Hackensack, NJ 07601 Phone: (201) 488-3366 Fax: (201) 488-1366 Email: CAbut@snydersarno.com A graduate of Columbia University and Cornell University Law School, Mr. Abut has successfully mediated and arbitrated hundreds of cases. He is a court- accredited mediator by the NJ Administrative Office of the Courts, a fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and has been repeatedly peer- selected for inclusion in Best Lawyers in America. Approved for DV Cases $400.00 Rachel Alexander, Esq. The Alexander Group, LLC 119 West Valley Brook Road Califon, NJ 07830 Phone: (908) 832-2305 Fax: (908) 832-2221 Cell: (908) 310-3397 Email: rachel@alexandermediation.com Qualified Mentor $350.00 S. R. Allcorn, Esq. Rabner, Allcorn, Baumgart & Ben Asher 52 Upper Montclair Plaza Upper Montclair, NJ 07043 Phone: (973) 744-4000 Fax: (973) 783-1524 $325.00 Irene M. Amarel, Esq. 24 James Court Princeton, NJ 08540 Phone: (609) 924-5315 $275.00 Jensen Annmarie, Esq. Malamut & Associates 457 Haddonfield Road Suite 500 Cherry Hill, NJ 08033 Phone: (856) 424-1808 Fax: (856) 424-2032 Email: annmarie@malamutlaw.com $350.00 Christine M. Antonelli, DSW Antonelli & Associates, Inc. 2400 McClellan Avenue Suite 101 East Pennsauken, NJ 08109 Phone: (856) 488-9595 Fax: (856) 488-4550 $300.00 Jennifer C. Apell, Esq. PO Box 974 Cherry Hill, NJ 08003 Phone: (856) 906-0172 Email: jenniferapell.esquire@yahoo.com $280.00 Nicholas C. Apicelli, Esq. 551 Lakehurst Road 1st floor Toms River, NJ 08755 Phone: (732) 286-4300 Fax: (732) 286-3605 Email: napicelli@yahoo.com $250.00 Howard F. Appelt II, Esq. Johnson,Murphy,Hubner,McKeon,Wubbenhurst,Bucco & 51 Route 23 South Riverdale, NJ 07457 Phone: (973) 568-6539 Fax: (973) 835-1732 $300.00 Rita A. Aquilio, Esq. Lawrence Law LLC 744 Mountain Boulevard Watchung, NJ 07069 Phone: (908) 645-1000 Fax: (908) 645-1001 Email: rmaquilio@lawlawfirm.com Ms. Aquilio practices extensively in the areas of divorce, child support, custody & post judgment issues. She represents clients in all types of matrimonial actions, from basic actions to complex valuation cases. She is a trained collaborative divorce attorney & a member of the IACP. Ms. Aquilio has trial experience, dispute resolution training and is a divorce arbitrator in matrimonial actions. $500.00 Dolores L. Aretsky, Esq. 45 North Broad Street Ridgewood, NJ 07450 Phone: (201) 445-5856 Fax: (201) 445-5867 Email: Dolores@aretsky.com $325.00 Eric J. Aretsky, Esq. Court Plaza East 19 Main Street Hackensack, NJ 07601 Phone: (201) 445-5856 Fax: (201) 445-5867 $325.00 Jodi Argentino, Esq. Offit Kurman, PC 21 Main Street, Suite 158 Court Plaza South Hackensack, NJ 07601 Phone: (973) 245-9929 Fax: (732) 218-1835 Email: jodi.argentino@offitkurman.com $450.00 Mitchell S. Arons, Esq. Arons & Solomon, P.A. 1 University Plaza Suite 400 Hackensack, NJ 07601 Phone: (201) 487-1199 Fax: (201) 487-9109 Email: mitchell.arons@aslawnj.com $350.00 Carolann Aschoff, Esq. Carolann M. Aschoff, P.C. 3279 Kennedy Boulevard Jersey City, NJ 07306 Phone: (201) 653-7382 Fax: (201) 653-8030 Email: njfamilyattorney@yahoo.com I have been an attorney for 31 years and am certified by the NJ Supreme Court as a matrimonial attorney. My practice has been devoted almost exclusively to matrimonial matters. I believe that a successfully mediated case leaves the parties in a much better position to go on with their lives, particularly if children are involved. $300.00 Francine M. Aster, Esq. Ziegler Law Group, LLC 651 W. Mt. Pleasant Ave., STE 150 Livingston , NJ 07039 Phone: (973) 533-1100 Fax: (973) 533-1144 Email: fran@zlgllc.com I have a general practice law firm but the majority of my time is spent handling Family Law issues. These issues include economic mediation, divorce and parenting coordinator. Qualified Mentor $500.00 Thomas D. Baldwin, Esq. 150 John F. Kennedy Parkway Short Hills, NJ 07078 Phone: (973) 315-4420 Fax: (973) 315-4510 $410.00 David C. Barry, Esq. Bowne, Barry and Barry 5 Auer Court Suite A East Brunswick, NJ 08816 Phone: (732) 238-8686 Fax: (732) 257-5551 $300.00 Pagination 1 Go to page 2 2 Go to page 3 3 Go to last page 33 Last page Go to next page > Next page Showing 1 to 20 of 660 items