- Filing Fees/Fee Waivers - Child Support and Custody, Fees for filing in FD (non-dissolution) cases., Filing Fees and Fee Waivers, To file an FD case with Non-dissolution "FD" Case - How to file a non-divorce application for custody, child/spousal support or parenting time (visitation) CN 11492 No fee To request a modification with How to File a Request to Modify a Non-Dissolution “FD” Court Order Previously Issued by the Court Superior Court of New Jersey - Chancery Division - Family Par CN 11487 $25 *Note: the request for child support enforcement must be a separate check or money order, unless you are filing online. All checks must be made payable to Treasurer, State of NJ Notice of appearance (if you have an attorney) $50 Substitution of attorney (if you get a new attorney) $35 Motion for reconsideration of the judge’s decision $50, Do you qualify for a fee waiver?, You might not have to pay to file your case 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. Fee Waiver Request and learn more about fee waivers .
- Argument Schedule, Not all appeals include oral argument. Visit our Appellate Division home page to see Appellate Division Calendars and Locations all upcoming appeals . Briefs are available online if those documents are not sealed. Read 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 to see which case types are impounded. Not all appeals will have oral argument. Read 2:11-Argument; Determination; Costs; Rehearing Court Rule 2:11-1 for details on oral argument requests. Visit our Appellate Division home page to see Appellate Division Calendars and Locations all upcoming appeals . Briefs are available online if those documents are not sealed or otherwise deemed confidential. Read 1:38-Public Access To Court Records and Administrative Records Court Rule 1:38 for more information about public access to Appellate Court documents. Next argument dates will be announced soon.
- Elder Justice, Older adults could face increased risk of abuse, neglect, or exploitation. They might also face issues with housing, domestic violence, or consumer fraud. Elderly persons deserve equal justice. Get valuable resources for ensuring justice for the elderly. Body, Report Abuse, Neglect, or Exploitation, The Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU) of the New Jersey Office of the Insurance Fraud Prosecutor Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU) of the New Jersey Office of the Insurance Fraud Prosecutor responds to issues of fraud, abuse or neglect involving Medicaid recipients. Call their hotline at Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU) of the New Jersey Office of the Insurance Fraud Prosecutor-Hotline tel no 1-877-55-FRAUD (1-877-553-7283) or Elder Justice Questions and Issues tel number 1-609-292-1272 for elder justice questions and issues, including to report abuse. The New Jersey Adult Protective Services Adult Protective Services run programs in every county to investigate issues of abuse of individuals living on their own in the community. Use this service to report abuse. The New Jersey New Jersey Long-Term Care Ombudsman Long-Term Care Ombudsman provides valuable resources for the elderly living in nursing homes or other care facilities and their loved ones. You can also file a complaint through their office. Older individuals are also vulnerable to insurance fraud. Report insurance fraud-Department of Law and Safety Report insurance fraud concerns to the Attorney General’s Office., Learn About Domestic Violence and Elder Abuse, Domestic Violence refers to any violence that occurs inside the home. This includes elder abuse from a family member or other resident in a shared home. Domestic Violence-Self Help Visit our Domestic Violence Self-Help center for resources to report and stop domestic elder abuse. Access the stop Elder Abuse brochure. Stop Elder Abuse brochure . It provides information and resources on identifying, reporting and stopping abuse. This Abuse in Later Life Wheel Abuse in Later Life Wheel discusses types of abuse and tactics abusers use. It helps you to recognize the signs and patterns of abuse so you can intervene. Access this Brochure on the Signs of Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation Brochure on the Signs of Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation. Have additional questions? Visit the National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA) FAQ. National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA) FAQ., Guardianship of Incapacitated Adults and Supported Decision-Making, Some older adults have disabilities that make them unable to make decisions for themselves. They may need a court-appointed guardian to handle their affairs. Others may simply need support from people they trust to help them make their own decisions, instead of a court-appointed guardian making decisions for them. Visit our Resource Center for Guardianship Self-Help resource center for Adult Guardianship . Get information on obtaining a guardianship and reporting suspected abuse. Or you can contact your New Jersey Surrogates County Surrogate for more information. Some individuals in need of guardianship may be eligible for the New Jersey Office of the Public Guardian for the Elderly. Visit the Division of Aging Services office website for more information on their role and services. Financial abuse is another form of vulnerability for the elderly. Resources are available to help financial caregivers manage someone else’s money. Access guides on overseeing someone else’s finances. Access guides on overseeing someone else’s finances. The National Center for State Courts (NCSC) National Center for State Courts (NCSC) provides guidance on finding the right fit in elder care. You can also get information on the role of the decision-maker or advocate. The National Center on Law & Elder Rights provides a Resource for supporting an elderly person resource for supporting an elderly person . The American Bar Association also provides Resources-American Bar Association Website resources for decision-making support, including Guide to Support Decision making works How Supported Decision Making Works for Older Adults guide . The ACLU provides National Resource Center for Supported Decision-Making a resource library for supported decision-making. Visit the National Resource Center for Supported Decision-Making National Resource Center for Supported Decision-Making for more information and resources., Housing Issues, Some elderly persons might face issues of foreclosure or eviction. The following information could help in these cases. Visit our Foreclosure Self-Help center Foreclosure Self-Help center for options in foreclosure cases. If facing an eviction, visit our Landlord/Tenant Self-Help center Landlord-Tenant Self-Help center. The NJ Department of Community Affairs also provides Housing and community affairs resources housing and community affairs resources ., Consumer Fraud, The Division of Consumer Affairs provides a Handbook for the Senior Fraud Education and Protection Program handbook for the Senior Fraud Education and Protection Program . The division also provides an Anti-fraud toolkit-Nj Division of Consumer Affairs anti-fraud toolkit . Both resources can help you combat consumer fraud against the elderly., Get Legal Help for Older Adults, NJ Courts provides several resources to assist you with legal issues. You can Landlord/Tenant-Self-help center visit our Self-Help center for help with a variety of legal issues. You can contact the Directory of Superior Court Deputy Clerk’s Offices/ County Lawyer Referral and Legal Services Offices Legal Services Office in your county. You can also Ombudsman Directory contact your local ombudsman for court support and services. New Jersey is also dedicated ADA Title II Get Help to providing ADA accommodations in court . Legal Services of New Jersey Legal Services of New Jersey provides a wide range of options for legal help. On a federal level, the Department of Justice provides an Elder Justice Initiative--U.S. Department of Justice Elder Justice Initiative . The Department of Health and Human Services also provides Resources for Elder Justice-US Department of Health and Human Services resources for Elder Justice ., Resources for Elder Care and Support, Part of providing elder justice and preventing abuse is providing quality care. The following resources can help with ensuring elder care. NJ Department of Human Services, Division of Aging-Department of Human Services Division of Aging . The division provides a list of services to support the elderly. Find a program that works for you. NJ Department of Human Services Division of Aging- Aging and Disability Resource Connection Aging and Disability Resource Connection provides answers to common searches for elder care providers and programs such as home-delivered meals, transportation, and prescription drug assistance. The Division of Aging Services-County Offices on Aging Aging & Disability Resource Connection/Area Agency on Aging (ADRC/AAA) . This program from the Department of Human services provides support by county. Learn more about the program and how it can help. NJ Department of Health – Your Health NJ Department of Health – Your Health . Access a list of health and care resources for seniors. NJ Department of Health – Facilities NJ Department of Health – Facilities . Get information on nursing homes and other care facilities. Alzheimer's New Jersey Alzheimer’s New Jersey . This helpline is available for assistance with Alzheimer and dementia patients. New Jersey Regional Crisis Hotlines Regional Crisis Hotline . The New Jersey Technical Institute provides a list of emergency hotlines by area through the state. Mental Health and Addiction Services Mental Health and Addiction Services . Resources for support from the Department of Human Services.
- Recovery Courts, Recovery courts are a successful and cost-effective way solution to address non-violent crime related to drug and alcohol dependency. Defendants in recovery court get the help they need to break their addictions. They can receive treatment, counseling, guidance, and close supervision to get them on the path to recovery. Recovery court graduates are more likely to avoid future criminal behavior. They are also more likely to stay sober, complete their education, find employment, and stay connected to their families and their communities. Recovery Courts Work Learn more ., Naloxone Training and Kits - postcard Naloxone Training and Kits, Relapse Prevention Tips for the Holidays Relapse Prevention Tips for the Holidays (Video), Recovery Court Brochures, Recovery Courts Work Recovery Courts Work - brochure Will Recovery Court Work for Me? Will Recovery Court Work for Me? Will Recovery Court Work for Me? (Spanish), Recovery Support and Meetings, Alcoholics Anonymous Alcoholics Anonymous Al-Anon Meetings Al-Anon The Mission of Telephone Recovery Support Rutgers Health Telephone Recovery Support Narcotics Anonymous WORLD SERVICES Narcotics Anonymous SMART Recovery There’s Life Beyond Addiction Smart Recovery Virtual Recovery Meetings Virtual Recovery Meetings, Treatment Provider Information, For inquiries on how to become a recovery court treatment provider, email Tyrone.Richardson@dhs.nj.gov Tyrone.Richardson@dhs.nj.gov or Senate.Maxwell@dhs.nj.gov Senate.Maxwell@dhs.nj.gov, Information for Attorneys, Recovery Court Judges and Coordinators Contact List Recovery Court Judges and Coordinators, Learn More About New Jersey Recovery Courts, New Jersey Adult Drug Court Program New Jersey Statistical Highlights Recovery Court Program Statistics Drug Court Success (Booklet) Recovery Court Success (Booklet) Drug Court Success (Video) Recovery Court Success (Video)
- Adult Probation Supervision, Probation is a court sentence that allows certain clients to stay in the community under the supervision of a probation officer. Probation Services also Juvenile Probation Supervision supervises juveniles who have been found delinquent and Child Support Collections and Enforcement enforces child support orders . , Overview, Probation is part of the court system; a criminal or municipal sentence for adults; a program to supervise clients who have been diverted through pretrial intervention or conditional discharge; an opportunity to remain in the community when guidelines are met; a system of supervision and services to help clients reach their goals; and an opportunity for self-improvement for clients to become responsible and law-abiding people. In general, clients must: Fines, Restitution and Community Service pay fines and restitution to the court; Community Service perform community service; report regularly to their probation officer; expect home visits from their probation officer; stay sober and take drug tests; undergo counseling for Behavioral Health/Substance Abuse substance abuse or Mental Health Supervision mental health issues; Participants are urged to Department of Labor and Workforce Development work, get job readiness training or enroll in school if their substance-use disorder is stable. Probation clients can be connected to employment and job training through the "JOBS" Program Judiciary Opportunities for Building Success “JOBS” Program . Probation officers help clients successfully complete their conditions of supervision. Probation officers also help clients find the services they need, such as job placement or counseling services; and track the progress of each client and report back to the court on each case., Violations of Probation, The probation officer will use sanctions and incentives to encourage compliance with the terms of the sentence and the conditions of probation. If a client does not comply, the probation officer will file a violation of probation (VOP). If a VOP is filed, the client’s probation could be revoked and the client could go to jail. Behavioral Health/Substance Abuse Resources Behavioral Health/Substance Abuse Resources Probation Division Managers Vicinage Probation Contact Information, Customer Service, How to contact the Probation Ombudsman, 609-815-3810 ext. 16357 ProbationHelp.Mailbox@njcourts.gov, What is an Ombudsman?, The goal of the Probation Ombudsman is to provide information and assistance with probation and court procedures and to respond to questions from Probation clients and the public. The Probation Ombudsman cannot represent clients or court users, nor provide legal advice. The Probation Ombudsman attends and coordinates community events, county fairs and other events to familiarize the public with information about Probation and the court system, as well as build public trust and confidence in the courts. Upcoming Events See the list of upcoming court seminars and public events, Contact the Probation Ombudsman, If you have customer service issues; If you have a complaint; If you need contact information; or If you have a question about reporting instructions. The Probation Ombudsman will make inquires to help resolve your concerns., What Can the Probation Ombudsman Do For You?, The Probation Ombudsman works with all parts of probation supervision including Adult, Juvenile and ISP/JISP to: provide probation client assistance; provide information to the public; engage in community outreach; investigate and resolve complaints; conduct workshops; and answer questions about probation., What the Probation Ombudsman CANNOT Do For You, give legal advice or recommend a lawyer; give an opinion about what will happen if you do not report as directed; talk to your probation officer or the judge for you; or change any of your conditions of probation. See all Ombudsman Directory Judiciary Ombudsman Offices . Visit the Judiciary Ombudsman Program Judiciary Ombudsman Program and read the Judiciary Ombudsman Program Ombudsman Program brochure to learn more. You can also Tell Us How We Are Doing take our survey ., Moving Out of State, You must make arrangements to transfer your probation supervision before you move to another state. The Interstate Compact for Adult Offender Supervision Interstate Compact for Adult Offender Supervision (ICAOS) helps protect the public and provide offenders with their best possible opportunity for success. The ICAOS website provides clients, their families, and their friends with helpful information and resources to prepare themselves for the interstate transfer process. Answers to questions like "can I travel out-of-state for work while I am on probation," and "can I go a to long-term treatment facility out-of-state while I am on probation" can be found here., Resources, General Resources Call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 800-273-8255 1-800-273-8255 if you want to talk to someone. Call the New Jersey Division of Child Protection & Permanency New Jersey Division of Child Protection & Permanency at 1-877-NJ-ABUSE if you suspect a child is being abused. You can Expunging your Court Record request expungement of a juvenile record. Perform Care Perform Care helps families across New Jersey with Behavioral Health, Intellectual/Developmental Disability Services, and Substance Use Treatment. Their service number is 1-877-652-7624 1-877-652-7624 . The NJ Coalition to End Domestic Violence Teen Dating Violence Webinars NJ Coalition to End Domestic Violence provides Teen Dating Violence webinars for both teens and their parents. , Behavioral Health Resources, *In case of emergency: If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call 911 right away. This list of Emergency Crisis Centers Emergency Crisis Centers provides locations by county. Find a center near you. Find a Community-Based Mental Health Agencies by County Community Based Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment Agency in your county. These organizations provide Homeless Services homeless services . Visit the Advocacy and Family Support National Alliance of Mental Illness New Jersey for advocacy and family support. The Mental Health Association in New Jersey Mental Health Association in New Jersey can also provide information and resources. Veterans in need of services can ask about additional help at Veteran Services Veteran Services, Batterer's Intervention Services, Use the links below to find batterer's intervention services in your area Department of Children and Families Domestic Violence Services Department of Children and Families Domestic Violence Services . This department provides domestic violence programs throughout the state. They also fund the: NJ Coalition to End Domestic Violence (NJCEDV) NJ Coalition to End Domestic Violence (NJCEDV) 24-Hour Helpline: 800-572-7233 800-572-7233, Substance Abuse Resources, **If you or someone you know is experiencing a drug overdose or alcohol poisoning call 911 right away. The NJ Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services NJ Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services department provides programs that could help. Get informed on opioid overdose basics from the Harm Reduction Coalition Opioid Overdose Basics Harm Reduction Coalition. The Harm Reduction Coalition Opioid Overdose Basics Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) can help you find treatment services and additional information. The National Institute on Drug Abuse National Institute on Drug Abuse leads federal research on drug use and its consequences. Narcan/Naloxone Narcan/Naloxone, Municipal Court/Conditional Discharge, Probation officers also supervise adults sentenced to probation in municipal court. Clients sentences in municipal court must report to the Vicinage Vicinage Chief Probation Officers Contact List Probation Division to review and sign their conditions of probation. Probation officers will review the reporting requirements with them and then monitor their compliance during their term of probation., Conditional Discharge Requirements:, Report to your county probation division and take a drug test. You will be assigned a probation officer. The officer will tell you where to go in order to pay any fines, fees and restitution. If your drug test is negative, you will not be required to report to your probation officer again., Probation Requirements, Report to your county probation division and take a drug test. You will be assigned a probation officer. The officer will tell you where to go in order to pay any fines, fees and restitution. If your drug test is negative, you will not be required to report to your probation officer again. Your case will be reviewed about 30 days before your term is completed to make sure that all monies have been paid and you have not picked up any new charges. If you have successfully met these requirements, a notice will be sent to the municipal court to dismiss the case. Probation Division Manager Contact List Vicinage Probation Contact Information Municipal Courts Directory Municipal Court Contact Information Behavioral Health/Substance Abuse Resources Behavioral Health/Substance Abuse Resources, Domestic Violence Supervision, If you are on probation as a result of a domestic violence case, a specially trained probation officer will supervise you, track your progress, and help you find the services you need. In addition to probation standard conditions, you might have to attend batterers counseling and you might have increased reporting. Frequent contact with your probation officer at the reporting office and at home Batterers counseling might be required Drug testing might be required Drug, alcohol and psychological counseling when necessary Participants are urged to Department of Labor and Workforce Development Career Services work, get job readiness training or enroll in school if their substance-use disorder is stable., Contacting your probation officer, Your probation officer will give you the contact information. If you cannot find it, contact your local Probation Division Manager Contact List probation division for help, ., Batterer's Intervention Services, Use the links below to find batterer's intervention services in your area NJ Department of Children and Families Domestic Violence Services NJ Department of Children and Families Domestic Violence Services NJ Coalition to End Domestic Violence (NJCEDV) NJ Coalition to End Domestic Violence (NJCEDV) 24-Hour Helpline: 800-572-7233 800-572-7233, Visiting and moving out of state, You will need permission from your probation officer to leave the state. You might not be allowed to move to another state. Your probation officer will be able to tell you how to determine your eligibility. Behavioral Health/Substance Abuse Resources Behavioral Health/Substance Abuse Resources Probation Division Manager Contact List Vicinage Probation Contact Information, Mental Health Supervision, *In case of emergency: If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call 911 or an Primary Screening Service in Each County emergency crisis center right away. If you are on probation and have mental health concerns, you might be eligible for specialized supervision. A specially trained probation officer will supervise you, track your progress, and help you find the services you need. Ask your probation officer if you qualify., Mental health supervision provides:, Smaller caseloads, more individualized attention, and more field visits; Focus on treatment and social services; and Coordination with treatment providers and families to build a strong support network., Selection process for the adult mental health supervision caseload, You can speak to your probation officer if you think you will be more successful on probation with a specialized probation officer who understands mental health concerns. Also, your probation officer might speak with you if he or she thinks you will benefit from extra probation support. In order to be considered for this caseload, you must complete a mental health assessment or provide a copy of an assessment completed within the past year. If you are not receiving mental health treatment and want a referral, you can ask your probation officer to provide one or you can find a Directory of Mental Health Services Community Based Mental Health Agencies by County on your own., Mental Health Services, advocacy and support resources, Social Security Administration Information Social Security Administration Information Homeless Services Homeless Services NJ Career Connections/Vocational Rehabilitation Services NJ Career Connections/Vocational Rehabilitation Services National Alliance on Mental Illness New Jersey National Alliance on Mental Illness New Jersey Mental Health Association in NJ Mental Health Association in NJ Behavioral Health/Substance Abuse Resources Behavioral Health/Substance Abuse Resources Probation Division Manager Contact List Vicinage Probation Contact Information New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, Sex Offender Supervision, If you are on probation as a sex offender, a specially trained probation officer will supervise you, track your progress, and help you find the services you need., Sex offender registration, Most sex offenders must register with local law enforcement. Failure to register could result in criminal charges. New Jersey Sex Offender Internet Registry Important information for sex offenders from the NJ State Police, Internet Monitoring and Computer/Device Restrictions, You might not be allowed to access the Internet as part of your conditions of probation. Your probation officer might check your computer, laptop, cell phone, or other devices that connect to the Internet. Your probation officer will speak to family members or anyone that you live within your home. You will have to pay for the cost of Internet monitoring. You will not be allowed to have Apple devices while you are on probation. You can ask your probation officer any questions you have about Internet monitoring., Other requirements of probation for sex offenders, Frequent contact with your probation officer at the reporting office and at home get a Department of Labor and Workforce Development Career Services job, take job training, or finish their high school education; Drug testing might be required and Behavioral Health/Substance Abuse Resources Drug, alcohol and psychological counseling when necessary, Visiting and moving out of state, You must speak to your probation officer before making plans to leave the state. You might have to register as a sex offender in the state you are visiting. Your probation officer can give you more information. Behavioral Health/Substance Abuse Resources Behavioral Health/Substance Abuse Resources Probation Division Manager Contact List Vicinage Probation Contact Information, Victim Information, Restitution A victim or the family of a victim of a crime committed in New Jersey can be repaid for losses and expenses that resulted from the crime. This repayment is called restitution. Any convicted person might have to pay restitution to the victim or the victim's family as part of their sentence. The victim’s expenses could include lost wages, medical bills, funeral costs, the value of stolen or damages property, loss of business, and other related debts. When restitution is ordered, the judge decides how much money is to be paid, to whom, and over what time period. The judge will consider if the offender has other debts, such as child support or restitution for other crimes, and if the offender is employed. The judge will set up a payment plan. Payments are made to Probation Services and then Probation Services will send checks to the victims. Probation Services will need to know the victims’ current address in order to send payment. Restitution: Information for Victims Read more about restitution ., Restitution payments, Restitution checks are paid at least once a month as long as the client is making timely payments to probation., How to tell if your check is for restitution, If you have received a check from the State of New Jersey Judiciary and are unsure of its purpose, the client’s name and reference number (i.e. Client ID), and the Court's phone number will be printed on the top of the payment statement for any questions you may have., If restitution checks stop coming, Restitution checks are sent based on the payments received from the person placed on probation. As long as enough funds are received, restitution checks will be generated. The court must have your current address in order to send your payment. Contact your Probation Division Manager Contact List local probation office if your address changes, Victim of Crimes Compensation Office (VCCO), Victims or their families also can receive compensation from the New Jersey Victims of Crime Compensation Office (VCCO). The VCCO can repay victims or their families for out-of-pocket medical expenses, lost wages, and funeral costs only after other sources such as insurance, health benefits, welfare, or Social Security have paid their share of the expenses. VCCO does not cover property loss or pain and suffering. For information on filing claims, contact: NJ Victim of Crimes Compensation Office 50 Park Place, 5th floor Newark, NJ 07102 1-877-658-2221 1-877-658-2221, Victims’ Involvement in the intensive Supervision Program (ISP), ISP clients make payments to the Victims of Crime Compensation Office, if ordered. All victims are invited to attend ISP hearings and to give the judges their view about your release. Victims often support release into the program, since entry to the program means payment to the victims, if ordered. Victims can choose to volunteer to become part of the ISP client’s case
- News and Media, Read the latest news from the New Jersey Judiciary. , Judiciary Office of Communications, Communications and Community Relations, 609-815-2910 , Peter McAleer, , Director, Communications and Community Relations, MaryAnn Spoto, , Manager, Communications Stay informed! Create an account to receive notifications about Press Releases, Supreme Court Opinions, Notices to the Bar, and Emergency Closings. Find out what information is public under 1:38-Public Access To Court Records and Administrative Records Court Rule 1:38 and request court records. Are you seeking permission to Request for Permission to Photograph, Electronically Record or Broadcast a Court Proceeding record or take photos of a court event? View the Supreme Court Guidelines on Electronic Devices in the Courtroom Supreme Court Guidelines on Electronic Devices in court. Do you want to Copies of Court Records request court records ? You can also Publications Order Form order copies of some of our most popular brochures. View livestreams of New Jersey Supreme Court Webcast Supreme Court , Appellate Livestreams Appellate , NJ Courts Court Sessions Superior Court and election proceedings ., Please Note:, Court sessions, whether in-person or virtual, are solemn proceedings and should be treated as such. Observers of virtual court proceedings should remain on mute unless directed to speak by a judge or court staff. Interruptions to court proceedings, and comments or questions by observers at any time, will not be tolerated and may result in the loss of the right to observe remote court proceedings in the future., Press Releases, Search Apply Filters 2025 June 27 Larry Ashbridge Named Director of Office of Probation Services 2025 June 25 Registration Opens for Municipal Court Administrative Certification Program 2025 June 19 Union Vicinage to Hold Recovery Court Graduation Ceremony 2025 June 13 Atlantic County Recovery Court to Celebrate Graduates 2025 June 12 Morris/Sussex Vicinage to Hold 12th Annual Military Appreciation Day Ceremony 2025 June 6 Hudson Vicinage to Hold 35th Recovery Court Graduation 2025 June 3 Supreme Court Order – In the Matter of Robert M. LePore, Judge of the Municipal Court 2025 June 2 Superior Court Judges to Conduct Primary Election Hearings 2025 May 30 Lawyers’ Fund for Client Protection Announces First-Quarter Deadlines for Claims 2025 May 28 Jason Corter Named Director of Trial Court Services 2025 May 14 Middlesex Vicinage Seeks Volunteers for Child Placement Review Board 2025 May 12 Morris/Sussex Vicinage to Hold Recovery Court Graduation Ceremony for Sussex Participants 2025 May 12 Superior Court Judge Michael V. Cresitello Jr. Appointed to Lead Somerset/Hunterdon/Warren Vicinage 2025 May 9 Aliem Jumpp Appointed Deputy Clerk for Administrative Services for the Appellate Division 2025 May 8 Passaic Vicinage to Hold Recovery Court Graduation 2025 May 6 Atlantic/Cape May Vicinage to Host Annual Resource Fair 2025 May 6 Media Advisory 2025 May 6 Somerset/Hunterdon/Warren Vicinage to Celebrate Law Day 2025 May 2 Lawyers’ Fund for Client Protection Awards Over $75,000 in 11 Claims 2025 May 2 Camden Vicinage to Celebrate Law Day 2025 Pagination 1 Go to page 2 2 Go to page 3 3 Go to last page 15 Last page Go to next page > Next page Showing 1 to 20 of 290 items
- Affordable Housing Dispute Resolution Program, Body, Contact Information, Program Membership Roster, As provided by L. 2024, c. 2, the Administrative Director of the Courts has appointed the following retired judges to serve on the Affordable Housing Dispute Resolution Program ("Program"): Judge Thomas C. Miller (chair) Judge Ronald E. Bookbinder Judge Thomas F. Brogan Judge Stephan C. Hansbury Judge Mary C. Jacobson Judge Julio L. Mendez Judge Paulette M. Sapp-Peterson, Staff Contact Information, Melissa Czartoryski, Chief 609-815-2900 ext. 55358 Theresa Kries, Secretary 609-815-2900 ext. 54906, Guidelines and Resources, l-2024-c2-affordablehousing P.L. 2024, c. 2 Establishes the Affordable Housing Program An alternative dispute resolution program with retired judges to resolve cases regarding the Fair Housing Act (FHA) Promotes transparency by publishing case details to the Judiciary website., Affordable Housing Calculations – Department of Community Affairs, https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__nj.gov_dca_dlps_4th-5FRound-5FNumbers.shtml&d=DwMFAg&c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&r=zi8js3xg81e1K-mKuXHGdhKlVC5FjkCug3k2KDh_xCw&m=eMUBC7RC2Uu-v-7vZxSJsqcpPgakfayL9veTouVvFkfCwQt2EzIeUeYlGQco6CUo&s=-FevvuhCXJEUAAg3ebTHkn-TxmTSjDREUFXyzSSbStc&e= New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) | 2025 to 2035 Affordable Housing Calculations IN THE MATTER OF THE APPLICATION OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF PRINCETON, ET AL. In the Matter of the Application of the Municipality of Princeton L-1550-15 (Law Div. March 8, 2018) Supplement to Directive #14-24 - Superseding Addendum (Required Elements of Housing Element and Fair Share Plan Supplement to Directive #14-24 - Superseding Addendum (Required Elements of Housing Element and Fair Share Plan Directive #14-24 Administrative Directive #14-24 – Affordable Housing Dispute Resolution Program - Implementation, Timeframes, Jan. 31, 2025, : Municipality must adopt binding resolution on fair share obligations and file an action with the Program within 48 hours., Feb. 28, 2025, : Deadline for filing a challenge to a municipal resolution on fair share obligations., March 31, 2025, : Deadline for Program decision on fair share obligations., June 30, 2025, : Municipality must adopt binding resolution on Housing Element and Fair Share Plan., Aug. 31, 2025, : Deadline for filing a challenge to municipal resolution on Housing Element and Fair Share Plan., Dec. 31, 2025, : Deadline for Program decision on Housing Element and Fair Share Plan., Notices to the Bar , Notice - Affordable Housing Dispute Resolution Program - Supplement to Directive #14-24 - Superseding Addendum (Required Elements of Housing Element and Fair Share Plan Notice - Affordable Housing Dispute Resolution Program - Supplement to Directive #14-24 - Superseding Addendum (Required Elements of Housing Element and Fair Share Plan Notice - Affordable Housing Dispute Resolution Program - Administrative Directive #14-24; Rule Relaxation Order; Judiciary Affordable Housing Webpage Notice - Affordable Housing Dispute Resolution Program - Administrative Directive #14-24; Rule Relaxation Order; Judiciary Affordable Housing Webpage Notice - Affordable Housing Dispute Resolution Program (L. 2024, c. 2) - Appointment of Members Notice - Affordable Housing Dispute Resolution Program (L. 2024, c. 2) - Appointment of Members , Municipal Filings by County, Select County Atlantic Cape May Bergen Burlington Camden Cumberland Gloucester Salem Essex Hudson Mercer Middlesex Monmouth Morris Sussex Ocean Passaic Hunterdon Somerset Warren, Affordable Housing Case Filing, Email The subscriber's email address. Sign up to receive alerts when new affordable housing case documents are filed. Subscribe Manage existing
- Collecting Money in a Civil Case, Body, Collecting a Judgment, If you were awarded a judgment in civil court, you are a judgment creditor. You should contact the person who owes you the money, the judgment debtor, to talk about payment., Note: 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. This page is for collecting money awards from civil cases with a “J” or “DJ” docket number (typically $20,000 or more). For claims of $5,000 or less, please visit our Small Claims Self-Help small claims page . For claims between $5,000 and $20,000, please visit our Self-Help Special Civil Collecting Your Money - Special Civil special civil part page. (These are cases with either a “SC,” “DC,” or “L” docket number.) Read our brochure on Collecting a Money Judgment - brochure How to Collect a Money Judgment ., Writs of Execution, A writ of execution is a court document that gives a sheriff the right to collect money from a judgment debtor’s income or assets. There are several ways to levy the debtor’s income or assets., Wage Execution, Use the 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 Appendix XI-J - Wage Execution 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 Notice of Application for Wage Execution - Appendix XI-I Notice of Application for Wage Execution to the debtor by regular and certified mail. A copy of the application and proof of service must be filed with the Civil Division Manager’s office in the county where the case was heard. You need to include the $50 filing fee as a check or money order made payable to Treasurer, State of New Jersey . If the debtor objects to the wage execution, the court will schedule a hearing immediately. If the debtor does not object or the court does not allow the objection, the court issues an order for the sheriff to deliver a wage execution to the debtor's employer. The employer will hold back a portion of the debtor's wages and send this money directly to the officer. Contact the county sheriff’s office for their fees. You cannot collect judgments from: Welfare benefits. Social Security. SSI. Veteran’s benefits. Unemployment benefits., Bank Levy (taking funds from a bank account), A bank levy is when a sheriff is authorized to take funds from the debtor’s bank account(s) to pay you. The first step in this process is to complete a Writ of Execution - Appendix XII-D bank levy writ of execution . For awards from civil cases with “J” docket numbers, send the writ to the Civil Division Manager in the county where the case was filed. For “DJ” docket numbers, the writ is issued upon request from the Clerk of Superior Court in Trenton. The court fee for a writ of execution is $50. Once the writ is issued, submit to the sheriff’s office with the sheriff’s fee. Contact the sheriff’s office for their fees. You need to include: The name of the bank. The address of the bank. The last four digits of the account number (do not list the full number). The sheriff will notify the bank and the account will be frozen. Once the funds are frozen you can file a motion to turn over funds. This must be submitted to both the court and the sheriff. If the debtor does not object, the judge will sign the order. If the debtor objects, the court will hold a hearing. Once the judge signs the order, you must send the order to: The sheriff of the county where the bank is located. The bank. The debtor. The sheriff can then go get the money from the account., 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 copy of the title, or A certified 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 asking 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, the sheriff cannot use this method., Execution Against Real Estate, The final method is to ask the court for permission to sell real estate. This process is complicated, and you might want to consult an attorney. The process is also expensive because it requires: A costly title search. Publication of the sale in the newspaper. Payment of sheriff’s fees., Recording a Foreign Judgment in New Jersey, Use the packet, Docketing Foreign Judgments, How to File a Judgment Obtained from a Foreign Jurisdiction., If you were awarded a judgment in another state, you can request that it be enforced in New Jersey. You need to provide the foreign judgment with an affixed seal from the issuing court. You also need to attach an affidavit attesting to your status as judgment creditor. You can send the request by regular mail, certified mail or in-person deliver. Include a check or money order of $35 made payable to Treasurer, State of New Jersey. You can mail the information and fee to: Judgment Processing Service, Superior Court Clerk's Office, Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex P.O. Box 971 Trenton, New Jersey 08625-0971, Ways to Find Debtor Assets, Information Subpoena, If you do not have the debtor’s financial information, you can get an Information Subpoena - Appendix XI-L information subpoena from any New Jersey Special Civil Part office. An information subpoena is a court document with written questions about the debtor’s assets. You can use an information subpoena to request information about: Checking and savings accounts. What personal assets the debtor owns. Where the debtor works. You need to serve the subpoena to the debtor by regular and certified mail. It must include a return receipt request. The debtor must answer and return the information subpoena within 14 days from when it was served. Information subpoenas cannot be served more than once in six months without court approval. If the debtor fails to answer the subpoena, he or she becomes subject to contempt sanctions enforceable by the court. If the debtor does not fully answer the subpoena within 21 days of receipt, you can request a court order allowing you to subpoena banking institutions, employers, or businesses that owe the debtor money. You need to submit the application supported by a certification to the court. If the court signs the order, you can begin serving the subpoenas to relevant parties., Court Order for Discovery, Another option is to request a court order of discovery. Use the packet How to File a Motion in the Superior Court of New Jersey - Law Division - Civil Part How to File a Motion in the Superior Court of New Jersey . The petition needs to include the amount due. If approved, the court issues an order requiring the debtor, or anyone with information about the debtor’s assets, to answer questions at a specified place and time. This order can only be issued once per year. You can serve a copy of the order to the debtor or relevant parties by certified and regular mail. It must include a receipt for request and be served at least 10 days prior to the appearance date. If any parties fail to show or answer specified questions, they will be subject to enforceable contempt sanctions., If the money is not collected (liens), Writs for wage executions can last for 20 years, but other writs expire in two years. After two years, the judgment creditor can choose to: Request a new writ of execution from the court by following the same procedures used the first time, allowing the special civil officer to keep trying to get the money; OR Request to have the judgment recorded as a lien against any real estate the debtor owns. 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, request 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:, Superior Court Clerk's Office, Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex P.O. Box 971 Trenton, New Jersey 08625-0971, Filing Fee Schedule , Judgments $35 Docketed Judgments $35 Satisfaction of Judgment $50 Writs of Execution $50 Subordination, Assignment, Postponement of Judgment $35 Checks or money orders should be made payable to Treasurer - State of New Jersey . Attorneys may use their Judiciary Collateral Account to pay any fees. Cash is not accepted., Fee Waiver Request., If you believe that you should be exempt from filing fees due to your financial circumstances, use the How to File for a Fee Waiver – All Courts filing fee waiver request form . This form should accompany your document(s). The form and the documents should be submitted to the, General Equity Judge, in the county in which the property is located. Once the judge has made a determination, your documents will be forwarded to the Superior Court Clerk's Office for filing. If the judge denies the fee waiver request, you will be notified to submit the fee before the documents can be filed., Warrants to Satisfy a Judgment, If a judgment has been satisfied, the plaintiff should prepare a Warrant to Satisfy Judgment warrant to satisfy a judgment form and submit it to court. This is required so the court can process the judgment as satisfied and close the case., Statewide Judgment Processing Services, The Judgment Processing Services Team enters on the civil judgment and order Docket judgments from the Law Division (civil Part and special civil part). This includes entering orders from the Chancery Division (Family Part and Probate Part, the Criminal Division, and municipal courts. The team also processes: Amended Judgments. Orders to Vacate. Orders to Revive Judgment. Certificates of Debt. Substitution of Attorney documents. Judgments from other states (Foreign Judgments). Other New Jersey state agencies against individuals. All initial filings are recorded in the vicinages/local courts for proper stamping and entry. Once recorded in the vicinage, the plaintiff submits the judgment to the Superior Court Judgment Processing Services Team in Trenton, where it is docketed as a statewide lien. All inquiries can be directed to Customer Service by calling 609-421-6100 . All filings should be sent to:, Address for regular mail, :, Superior Court Clerk's Office, Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex P.O. Box 971 Trenton, New Jersey 08625-0971, Address for messenger service, :, Superior Court Clerk's Office, Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex 25 Market Street Trenton, New Jersey 08625, NOTE, : Any mail sent through the U.S. Postal Service, including certified and U.S. Express Mail, must say P.O. Box 971 or it will not be received. Any mail sent through private carriers must include the street address.
- Civil Practice Division, The Civil Practice Division develops and implements policies and best practices to advance the goals and mission of the Judiciary in the civil part, special civil part, general equity and probate part matters. The office supports the local civil divisions in each Superior Court and coordinates the implementation of civil court rules. Body Visit our Self-Help Center Self-Help Center if you are representing yourself in court., Contact Information, Taironda E Phoenix, Assistant Director, Civil Practice Division 609-815-2900 ext. 54900 The following statewide directories are available: Civil Division Manager Conference Contact List Civil Division Managers Civil Division Offices Vicinage Civil Division Main Numbers Special Civil Offices Vicinage Special Civil Part Main Numbers Civil Division Presiding Judges Civil Presiding Judges Special Civil Part Supervising Judges Special Civil Part Supervising Judges General Equity Presiding Judges General Equity Presiding Judges Committee of Complex Business Litigation Judges Committee of Complex Business Litigation Judges Designated Mt. Laurel Judges Designated Mt. Laurel Judges Designated Open Public Records Act (OPRA) Judges Designated Open Public Records Act (OPRA) Judges Probate Part Judges Committee Probate Part Judges Committee County Surrogates County Surrogates, Programs and Services, Visit the Multi-county Litigation Center Multicounty Litigation Center for information about the centralized management of certain product liability cases. Learn more about the CDR Program Complementary Dispute Resolution (CDR) Program , including Civil Arbitration arbitration , Civil Mediation mediation , and other programs to expedite and assist in the resolution of civil cases without a trial. The Complex Business Litigation Program Complex Business Litigation Program helps streamline the resolution of certain complex business cases and has produced a Business Opinions body of law to help guide future litigation. Find Adult Guardianship resources for guardians of incapacitated adults and information on the Judiciary's Guardianship Monitoring Program. Refer to the Post Judgment and Pre-Judgment Interest Rates post-judgment and prejudgment interest rates . , Involuntary Civil Commitments, Review the latest Involuntary Civil Commitments Resource Binder Involuntary Civil Commitment Resource Binder and Civil Appendix Appendix for information on involuntary commitments., Online Tools, The civil division offers several online tools. These were developed to help attorneys and the public access important information. Key online tools include: eCourts eCourts can be used by attorneys in civil, special civil, and landlord tenant matters. https://proddrupal.njcourts.gov/self-help/jeds Judiciary Electronic Document Service (JEDS) can be used for chancery, judgment processing, and small claims. The mediator search tool mediator search tool lets users search for a mediator by name, location, area of expertise, and hourly rate. Most mediators provide the first two hours at no charge. Use the Motion calendar search tool motion calendar search tool to find scheduled motions. The Discovery end date search discovery end date search can be helpful in planning litigation. The discovery end date is when the discovery period ends in a case. Use the Model Civil Jury Charges System Automated Model Civil Jury Charges System (MCJCAS) to build jury charges for a particular case. The Civil and Foreclosure Public Access civil case public access portal allows inquiry-only access to docket information.
- Civil Court Self-Help, Learn how to represent yourself in a civil case. Body, Civil Court Overview, Plaintiffs file cases civil court if they believe they should be paid money for financial harm caused by one or more defendants. A civil case is filed if the plaintiff seeks more than $20,000 from the plaintiff. Plaintiffs seeking $20,000 or less file in the special civil part. Plaintiffs seeking $5,000 or less can file a small claims case. Both specialized systems include lower fees and faster resolution. The civil division of Superior court also resolves cases other than lawsuits for money. Some of the most common disputes include: Lawsuits for non-monetary relief. Breach of contract and contract disputes. Auto negligence. Products liability. Age, race, or gender discrimination. Medical malpractice. Bankruptcy. Landlord Tenant disputes. Court staff can help you decide which forms you will need based on the type of case you want to file. , Do I Need a Lawyer?, 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 Legal Services of New Jersey regional legal services offices or may be reached at Regional Legal Services Office Telephone Number 732-572-9100 . The NJ State Bar Association also maintains a list of County Bar Associations 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 Lawsuit (Plaintiffs), You can file a lawsuit in the civil division of the New Jersey Superior Court. If the lawsuit is for $5,000 or less, file with Small Claims Court small claims . If your lawsuit is for an amount between $5,000 and $20,000, file with the Special Civil Court special civil part When filing a lawsuit, you need to complete the packet “How to File a Complaint in the Superior Court of New Jersey Law Division – Civil Part” . The packet includes instructions for filing and the complaint form. The complaint needs to name the party or parties you are filing against. State the specific reason(s) for the lawsuit and the desired monetary relief. Most lawsuits are decided by a judge, but you can request a jury trial in the complaint form. Documentation you need to include when filing the complaint: Civil Case Information Statement (CIS) - Appendix XII-B1 Civil Case Information Statement (CIS) . Check or money order of the court fee ( Filing Fees & Waivers see fees and waivers ). The original complaint and CIS plus 2 copies of each. Self-addressed envelope for the court to send a Track Assignment Notice (TAN) and Summons. You can send the packet by certified mail or deliver it in person. Send the packet to your Directory of Superior Court Civil Division Offices county’s civil division . The court will send file stamped copies of your documents, the TAN and the summons back to you. You must serve copies of those documents to everyone named in the lawsuit as soon as possible. , Defending Yourself in Civil Court (Defendant), If you received a summons for a lawsuit, you have 35 days to respond. After this time, you could lose the case by default judgment. To respond to a lawsuit summons, you need to complete the packet How to File an Answer to a Complaint in the Superior Court of New Jersey - Law Division - Civil Part “How to File an Answer to a Complaint in Civil Court.” It includes the instructions and answer form. When sending the answer to the court, you need to include: The reason(s) you are disputing the plaintiff’s complaint. The Civil Case Information Statement (CIS) - Appendix XII-B1 Civil Court Information Sheet (CIS) . A check or money order for the filing fee ( Filing Fees & Waivers see fees and waivers ). Two copies of the answer form and CIS. If you wish to countersue the plaintiff, How to Answer a Complaint in the Special Civil Part with a Counterclaim, Cross-claim and/or Third Party Complaint include the counterclaim with your answer and CIS. If you wish to join the suit against another named defendant, include the cross-claim. You can consult staff in the Directory of Superior Court Civil Division Offices civil division of Superior Court where the case was filed for more information on counterclaims and cross-claims. Deliver the packet or send it by certified mail to the court where the complaint was filed. , Filing Fees & Waivers, To file a lawsuit complaint $250 To file an answer to a complaint $175 To file a motion in a civil suit $50 All checks must be made payable to Treasurer, State of New Jersey . What is a fee waiver? You may be able to file your case without paying the filing fee if you qualify. How to File for a Fee Waiver – All Courts Complete the Fee Waiver form and submit the required documents to the court to see if you meet the guidelines. You can apply for a fee waiver in any NJ state court: Supreme Court, Appellate Division, Superior Court and Tax Court., Court filing and copy fees might be waived for litigants who, Have income at or below 150 percent of the current poverty level (based on the number of people in the household; AND Have no more than $2,500 in liquid assets such as cash or bank accounts., When to file an application for a fee waiver, Under Court Rule 1:5-6 - Filing Court Rule 1:5-6 , the court clerk cannot file your case unless the required fee is included. In order to keep your case moving forward as quickly as possible, a fee waiver request should be filed with the court at the same time that you file your court case., You can apply for a fee waiver even if you have a lawyer., You may still request a fee waiver if your attorney either works for Legal Services of New Jersey or an associated regional program; OR works for a public interest or legal services organization, law school clinic or pro bono program that has been certified for fee waiver status by the Supreme Court under Court Rule 1:21-11 - Definitions and Certifications Regarding Pro Bono Practice Court Rule 1:21-11 ., Applying for a fee waiver in an appeal of a Superior Court case, To apply for a fee waiver in the Appellate Division of Superior Court, you must submit your application in the Superior Court in the county where your case was first filed. If your application is denied in Superior Court, you then have 20 days to apply for a fee waiver in the Appellate Division., Applying for a fee waiver in an appeal of an agency determination, Fee waivers in appeals of administrative agency decisions should be filed directly with the Appellate Division of Superior Court in Trenton., If you win more than $2,000 in your court case, you will be required to pay back the filing fee for your case., The public usually has the right to view fee waiver applications that have been filed with the court., You may only file an application for a fee waiver for yourself. You may not apply for a fee waiver for anyone else, even if you have a Power of Attorney., More Information, Rule 1:5-6. Filing Court Rule 1:5-6 Fee Waivers Based on Indigence (Directive 03-17) Directive 03-17 – Fee Waivers Based on Indigence, Preparing for Court, Once the answer is filed, the discovery period begins. During discovery, you can review all evidence from the plaintiff. Likewise, the plaintiff and their legal team can review your evidence. Cases are assigned to one of four tracks based on their complexity. More complex cases have a longer discovery period. During any point of discovery, dispute resolution, or the trial, both sides can file motions with the court. The party filing the motion is called the moving party. Use the packet How to File a Motion in the Superior Court of New Jersey - Law Division - Civil Part “How to File a Motion (Superior Court – Law Division – Civil Part)” to request a specific ruling or order. The packet includes instructions and the necessary forms to request the motion. Examples of motions include: Motion to dismiss the complaint. Motion for entry of default. Motion to vacate a default judgment. Motion for summary judgment. Motion to compel discovery. Deliver or send the completed forms along with the fee to the civil court for your lawsuit. To dispute a motion requested by the other party, complete the How to File a Response to a Motion in the Superior Court of New Jersey - Law Division - Civil Part response packet . The response must be filed at least eight days prior to the return date on the motion. If the motion was for summary judgment, you must file the response at least 10 days prior to the return date on the motion. Prior to court, both parties will likely be referred to a Civil CDR Program Information dispute resolution process . The judge or either party can request dispute resolution. In some cases, the judge will mandate a dispute resolution program. The most common programs are Civil Mediation civil mediation and Arbitration arbitration . In mediation, a neutral third party helps both parties reach a settlement on their terms. In arbitration the neutral third-party makes a decision on the case. Use the Civil Search Portal Civil Search Portal to find a mediator, find out when your motion will be heard, and see your discovery end date. Dispute resolution typically resolves most cases. In fact, only 2% of civil cases ever go to trial. The programs help expedite the process and often save both parties on court and attorney fees. However, if dispute resolution fails the case will escalate to a trial. During trial, both sides will present evidence and make oral arguments. The judge will make a final judgment on the case. If a jury trial was requested, the jury will decide the case. Either party can Superior Court, Tax Court, and State Agency Appeals appeal the final judgment with the Appellate Court ., Collecting Your Money, If you were awarded a judgment in civil court, you are a judgment creditor. You should contact the person who owes you the money, the 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 your debt will be paid., Fees and other costs for 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. Mileage: 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 the How to Enforce and Collect a Judgment How to Collect a Money Judgment brochure. 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 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 four 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 a 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 years. 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 .
- Guardianship Self-Help, Body, Adult Guardianship in New Jersey, Court-appointed guardians oversee adults who are not able to make decisions or care for themselves. They need to have legal authority to make decisions for the person under guardianship (also called “incapacitated person”). Only the courts can grant that power. Adult guardianship cases are filed with the county Surrogate’s Office and heard in Superior Court. Reasons why someone may need a guardian include: Mental illness Intellectual disability. Physical illness or disability. Chronic drug use. Chronic alcoholism. There are three types of guardianship:, Guardianship of the person and estate., The guardian takes care of the well-being and finances of the person under guardianship., Guardianship of the person only., The guardian only takes care of the well-being of the person under guardianship., Guardianship of the estate only., The guardian only manages the financial affairs of the person under guardianship. The court decides if the person needs general or limited guardianship., General Guardianship, . The guardian can exercise all rights and powers on behalf of the person under guardianship., Limited Guardianship, . The guardian’s role is less intrusive and more individualized, so that the person under guardianship can make some decisions for themselves. Guardians have important responsibilities. They must follow all court rules and file periodic reports. Learn more with the Guardianship of the Person Guardianship of the Person , Guardianship of the Estate Guardianship of the Estate , and Guardianship Reporting Forms brochures. You can also watch a Tutorial on court-appointed guardianship tutorial on court-appointed guardianship . Volunteers in the Guardianship Monitoring Program (GMP) Guardianship Monitoring Program (GMP ) help the court by reviewing the periodic reports filed by guardians. The GMP is part of the court’s role in looking after persons under guardianship., Do I need a lawyer?, 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 Legal Services of New Jersey regional legal services offices or may be reached at Regional Legal Services Office Telephone Number 732-572-9100 . The NJ State Bar Association also maintains a list of County Bar Associations county referral services that might be helpful., Things to think about before you represent 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 Become a Guardian, A person applying to the court for guardianship needs to prove the person is incapacitated. They are an alleged incapacitated person (AIP) until the court reaches a decision in the case. File your case with New Jersey Surrogates county surrogate in the county where the AIP Lives. Do you need a guardianship of the estate? Does the AIP have: Income from earnings or pension, Real property, or Stocks, bonds, etc. In many cases, guardianship of the estate is, not required if, : The AIP has no assets or real property. The AIP is only collecting Social Security Benefits. Some AIPs are eligible for Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) benefits. There are If the AIP is Eligible for DDD Benefits special filing instructions for these cases. For standard guardianship cases, you will need:, Certification of Physician or Psychologist , (2). A doctor must certify as to the AIP’s condition. A second doctor or psychologist also needs to certify as to their condition. They must conduct personal examinations of the AIP within 30 days of filing the application for guardianship. You will complete the top section of the form. The health professional(s) will complete the rest of the form., Adult Guardianship Case Information Statement (CIS)., This form outlines the details of the case. Instructions are provided with the form., Verified Complaint Form., This document describes why the AIP cannot make decisions or care for themselves and asks the court to find them incapacitated and appoint a guardian for them., Certification of Assets., This form lists all property and income of the AIP. It is required even if you are not seeking guardianship of the estate., Certification of Criminal and Civil Judgment History, . This form describes the proposed guardian’s criminal and civil judgment history, if any. Having a criminal or civil judgment history does not automatically prevent someone from serving as guardian. The court can use this information and other factors to help decide who should serve as guardian., Order Fixing Guardianship Hearing Date., The court needs to set a court date and assign an attorney for the AIP. You will complete the top section identifying yourself as plaintiff. Leave the docket number blank. The court will assign a docket number. The judge will set the date, assign counsel for the AIP, and return the completed form to you., Judgement of Incapacity and Appointment of Guardian(s) of the Person and Estate OR Judgment of Incapacity and Appointment of Guardian(s) of the Person, . Choose the appropriate form if you are seeking to be guardian of the estate or not. You will complete the top section. The judge will complete the rest of the judgment if approved. The attorney representing the AIP typically works pro bono. If the attorney is to be paid, you can use the AIP’s assets to pay the fees. If their assets are insufficient, you will have to pay the fees., If the AIP is Eligible for DDD Benefits, Choose which packet applies: How to Apply for Guardianship of the Person and Estate (Property) of an Individual Eligible for Services from the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) How to Apply for the Guardianship of the Person and Estate. Adult Guardianship - How to Apply for Guardianship of the Person of an Individual Eligible for Services from the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) How to Apply for the Guardianship of a Person Only. Complete the forms in the appropriate packet. Detailed instructions are provided. A doctor or psychologist must examine the AIP. They need to sign an affidavit certifying as to the AIP’s condition. They need to personally examine the AIP within six months of filing. A second document is needed to support the case. It can be: An affidavit from the DDD program administrator. An affidavit from a designee of the DDD. An affidavit of a second doctor or psychologist. A copy of the person’s Individualized Education Program. It must include any medical or other reports. It cannot be older than two years prior to filing. An affidavit from a licensed care professional., File Your Case, Attach the required certifications to the forms. Make at least 2 copies of all forms. Keep a set of copies for your records. Include the originals and one copy of each when you file. Include a fee of $200. Send the fee, completed forms and copies to the NJ County Surrogates county surrogate . You can deliver them in person or by mail., After You File, The court will appoint an attorney to represent the AIP. The judge sets a court date. The attorney will interview the AIP and others involved in the AIP’s care. They then write a report for the court. If the AIP contests the guardianship, the attorney may file an answer to the complaint instead of a report. During the hearing, you will present your case. You need to prove that the AIP is incapacitated and needs a guardian. If you succeed, the judge will complete the written judgment naming the guardian. Keep the written judgment in your records., Obtaining Letters of Guardianship, You cannot act as guardian until you qualify with the NJ County Surrogates county surrogate . You must qualify within 30 days of the judgment. To qualify: Sign papers from the county surrogate, including an Acceptance of Guardianship. Acknowledge receipt of guardianship training guide(s). Acknowledge completion of guardian background screening, if it applies to you. Post a surety bond**, if ordered by the judge., Letters of Guardianship, are issued after you qualify. These letters give you the power to act as guardian. Keep the letters in your records. Do not give them out. You can use short certificates to prove you are a legal guardian. Examples include providing short certificates to doctors or banks. You can purchase short certificates from the county surrogate. ** Surety bonds protect the ward’s assets. If a guardian steals or misuses the assets, the bond covers their loss. Guardians will still be legally liable for any improper use of funds., Payment for Guardians, Guardians of the estate are entitled to compensation for their efforts. The commission structure is based on the total value of the estate. In addition, guardians can receive a percentage of any income. Guardians can also apply to court to cover: Out-of-pocket costs related to guardianship. Court fees and other required fees. Attorney fees for reasonable actions. Paying for professional services (doctors, housecleaners, etc.) Guardians: Cannot receive fees or other payments from the person under guardianship unless specifically ordered by the court. Cannot receive gifts from the person under guardianship without prior court approval. Guardians can also ask the court for permission to make gifts on behalf of the person under guardianship. It is very important to keep detailed financial records. You will need to include this information in your periodic reports to the court. You might need to show proof of expenses. The court can request more information on spending. Friends and family members of the person under guardianship can ask the court to look into your spending. Keep all receipts, invoices, etc. for your records., Concerns About a Guardianship, The friends and family of the person under guardianship have the right to check up on the guardianship. They can check to see if the person is being treated fairly. They can ask the court to review financial records. The guardian has a responsibility to show they are doing the right thing. Use the Adult Guardianship - How to File a Motion in a Guardianship Case Motion Kit to file with the court once guardianship goes into effect. Any party-in-interest can file a motion. This includes the guardian themselves, the ward, or friends and family. You can file a guardianship motion if you want to: Modify guardianship protection (such as reducing the amount of a surety bond).. Modify reporting requirements. Review a guardian’s conduct. Review a guardianship., Guardianship Reporting Requirements, Most guardians are required to periodically file reports with the court. The written judgment states your reporting requirements, including when you need to report and which forms to use. Begin with the Adult Guardianship - Reporting Forms - Introductory Instructions Introductory Instructions . You should also learn the Adult Guardianship - Terms and Procedures Guardianship Terms and Procedures . These documents will help you learn the ins and outs of reporting. All periodic guardian reports must include the Report of Guardian Adult Guardianship - Report of the Guardian Cover Page Cover Page . Save this form. The Adult Guardianship - Report of Well-Being Report of Well-Being states the overall care of the person under guardianship. You need to answer the questions about the person under guardianship to the best of your ability. The report needs to include the Adult Guardianship - Certification of Examining Professional Certification of Examining Professional ., Guardianship of the Estate Reporting, Guardians of the estate need to file more involved reports. Typically, you must file the Adult Guardianship - Guardian Inventory Guardian Inventory within 90 days of the written judgment. This document lists all assets and income of the person under guardianship. In most cases, the Guardian Inventory only needs to be filed once. You will need to complete one of two forms: Adult Guardianship - EZ-Accounting Form EZ Accounting Form. Adult Guardianship - Comprehensive Accounting Form Comprehensive Accounting Form ., Copy of Social Security Representative Payee Report, . The judgment will say which form to use, how often to file the report, and when the report is due. Reports typically require a fee of $5 per page made payable to the county Surrogate. Contact the county Surrogate’s Office for payment details. For questions about how to complete periodic guardian reporting forms, contact the , Civil Practice Division, at 609-815-2900 ext. 54900 or NJGuardianship.Mailbox@NJCourts.gov . For questions regarding how to file guardian reporting forms, contact the appropriate New Jersey Surrogates County Surrogate's Office.
- General Jury Information, Body, ADA Accommodation Requests and Information, If an ADA accommodation or ASL interpreter is needed for your summons date and you would like additional information on the types of accommodations offered or how to request an accommodation, click ADA Title II Get Help Request an ADA Accommodation for assistance., Courthouse Closings/Inclement Weather, For court closings and inclement weather, all jurors should check the Court Closing Info State Court Closing Information page before reporting to the courthouse. , Employed by State/Government Agencies, If you are employed full time by a State of New Jersey agency, you will not get paid for your jury service as outlined with N.J.S.A. 2B:20-16. Your state agency employer will continue to pay your regular wages during your service. If you are unsure if you work for a state or government agency, contact your Jury Office Contact Info local jury management office . Participants who are employed by a state agency should provide this information when completing the paper or New Jersey Jury Service Qualification Questionnaire online questionnaire as well as notifying the jury management office when reporting for service. If a check is issued to you in error, you will be required to return it to the Jury Management Office directly., Employers Are Not Required to Pay Staff During Jury Service, In New Jersey there is no statutory requirement that a private employer pay your salary during juror service. It is in your best interest to speak with your employer before your summons date to determine whether your employer offers juror pay and for the number of days provided for jury service. , Employers Cannot Penalize You for Jury Service, N.J.S.A. 2B:20.17 prohibits an employer from penalizing you because you serve as a juror. Penalties for a violation of this statute include the possibility of a criminal charge, as a disorderly person’s offense, and a possible civil action for monetary damages and for reinstatement of employment. , Juror Qualification, N.J.S.A., 2B:20-1 establishes six criteria for a person to qualify for jury service, : be a resident of New Jersey; be a citizen of the United States; be physically and mentally able to perform the functions of a juror (noting that the Judiciary will provide accommodations consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act); have no conviction for an indictable offense Examples of persons who would be disqualified are anyone who was convicted of, or pled guilty to, a crime in federal court or Superior Court; or anyone currently in the Pretrial Intervention Program (PTI). Examples of persons who would qualify to serve jury duty are anyone whose only convictions are in municipal court (most traffic violations fall into this category, as do most shoplifting charges;) or anyone who has been accused of a crime but has not yet been convicted or has yet to enter a guilty plea. Also, traffic offenses, juvenile and DWI related offenses that occurred in New Jersey are not grounds for disqualification. You are not disqualified with respect to criminal record if you successfully completed a PTI for an offense and have not been convicted or pled guilty to another disqualifying offense. be at least 18 years of age; and be able to read and understand the English language, Juror Scams, The Judiciary will, never, ask for, personal information, or, payments, over the phone or by email. Contact your Jury Management Office Contact List local jury management office if you have any concerns. The Judiciary will, never, request personal identifiers (such as social security numbers) or payment (credit card, checking, savings account information, etc.) for a fine for not going to jury duty over the phone or by e-mail. If you receive suspicious communication concerning jury duty, hang up and call or e-mail your Jury Management Office Contact List local jury management office . If you believe you have been the victim of a jury duty scam, contact your local jury management office and law enforcement in your county., Phone Use in the Courtroom, Cellphone use in the courtroom is not permitted. You, must not, take any photographs or digital images, including ZOOM displays, or make any audio or video recordings of any kind. This includes broadcasting or posting any proceedings during your time in the courthouse. If you are found to have violated this directive by creating a photograph, digital image, audio, video, or other recording, you may be subject to punishment under New Jersey law. Phones must be concealed at all times. Exposed phones will be confiscated. , Types of Jury Service & Payments, Petit Jury Service, Questionnaires are required to be completed, four days, before the date of service. Petit jury is for civil and criminal trials. Petit jurors listen to evidence presented by both parties during a trial and return a verdict. The role of a juror is to listen to all the evidence presented and render a verdict at the end of the trial. 12 jurors are typically selected for a civil or criminal trial. Jurors are paid, $5, for the first three days of attendance and, $40, for each day after. Juror Service Video Watch a video about jury service., Grand Jury Service, Questionnaires are required to be completed, four days, before the date of service. Grand jury examines allegations against a person or persons charged with a crime. Grand jury does not determine guilt or innocence, but whether there is probable cause to believe that a crime was committed. The role of a grand juror is to determine whether there is enough evidence to charge someone with a crime. 23 jurors are selected to be on a panel. Depending upon the county, the term of service for a panel can be from eight weeks to 20 weeks long. Jurors are paid , $5 , for each day they attend., State Grand Jury Service, Questionnaires are required to be completed, 35 days, before the date of service. State Grand Jury is a statewide program with jurors summoned from every county in New Jersey. If you are one of the 23 jurors selected, you will serve one day per week for, 16 to 20 weeks., State Grand Jury is managed by the Mercer County Jury Management Office. Jury selection will be held virtually, and a Zoom link will be emailed to you the day before your summons date. If you are selected as a juror, you will be required to appear at:, Richard Hughes Justice Complex, Administrative Office of the Courts 25 Market Street 4th Floor Trenton, NJ 08625 Jurors are paid, $5, for each day they attend., Items Not Permitted in the Courthouse, To ensure everyone’s safety, all persons visiting the courthouse, including jurors, litigants, attorneys, employees, vendors, and other visitors, are subject to security screening when entering. Please allow sufficient time to pass through the court’s security system, as you will be required to walk through metal detection equipment. Illegal items will be confiscated and may subject you to prosecution., Prohibited Items, : Weapons of any kind Firearms Knives of any size Sharp objects, scissors, or cutting tools of any type Pepper spray Aerosol sprays or containers E-cigarettes or similar items Audio/visual equipment, including cameras, unless you have prior written permission from the court.
- Name Change, Name change requests in NJ should be filed in civil court if:, You are over the age of 18. You are not changing your name as part of a change in your marital status. Use the packet titled How to Ask the Court to Change Your Name - Adults Only How to Ask the Court to Change Your Name—Adults Only. , Name change requests in NJ should be filed in family court if:, You want to request a name change for a child under the age of 18. You want to change your name at the same time you are requesting a name change for your child under the age of 18. Use the packet titled 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. , Name change after divorce., To resume your maiden name as a result of a divorce, you can file a motion in family court as part of a pending or post-judgment divorce case. If your judgment of divorce stipulates that you can resume your maiden name, you do not need to file any other motion. You can apply for a new social security card free of charge with the Social Security Administration office., Name change after marriage., A name change as a result of a recent marriage do not require a court order. You can apply for a new social security card free of charge with the Social Security Administration office., Errors on official documents., Contact the State Registrar of Vital Statistics Vital Statistics for corrections on these documents: birth certificate marriage license civil union domestic partnership, Do I need a lawyer to file a name change?, 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 Legal Services of New Jersey regional legal services offices or may be reached at Regional Legal Services Office Telephone Number 732-572-9100 . The NJ State Bar Association also maintains a list of County Bar Associations county referral services that might be helpful., Things to think about before you represent 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.
- 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 . Six 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.
- Civil eCourts Access for Self-Represented Litigants, You can request direct access to your case in the eCourts system if you do not have a lawyer. Direct access lets you see confidential records and real-time updates on case filings and court proceedings. Direct access can be given for these case types: -Lawsuits for more than $20,000 (Docket number starts with "L") -Landlord Tenant cases (Docket number starts with "LT") -Foreclosure (Docket number starts with "F") Create eCourts Account for direct access to your case First-time eCourts User Log in to eCourts Account for direct access to your case Returning eCourts User Create eCourts Account Log in to eCourts, Instructions, Once you have created an account, you can follow the eCourts - Self Represented Litigants – Access to Your Case user guide to access your case. (Note: The user guide is in English only)., Need Help?, Statewide Ombudsman Directory Contact your local ombudsman if you have any questions.
- Videoconference Instructions, New Jurors should check their county's reporting page ( Reporting Information | NJ Courts Reporting Information | NJ Courts ) to determine if they need to report virtually or in-person. Jurors reporting virtually will be sent a Zoom link the day before the summons date. Please read below for further instructions on using Zoom. Body, Add Zoom to your device., Zoom will work with any Mac or Windows computer or laptop. It also will work with any iOS or Android mobile device, such as a smartphone or tablet. To make sure the virtual jury selection process goes smoothly, please: Install the latest version of Zoom on your computer, laptop or mobile device (smartphone or tablet). Test Zoom before your jury selection day and report any issues to your Jury Management Office Contact List local jury management office . Make sure your name in Zoom matches your driver’s license or other official ID. Make sure your audio and video both work., Test Zoom before your reporting date., You can print the step-by-step instructions below to help you with test. Instructions for testing Zoom that is installed on computers and laptops Instructions for testing Zoom that is installed on computers and laptops . Instructions for testing Zoom using a web browser on computers and laptops Instructions for testing Zoom using a web browser on computers and laptops . iOS instructions for testing iPhones and iPads Instructions for testing Zoom on iPhones and iPads . Android instructions for testing Android cell phones and tablets Instructions for testing Zoom on Android cell phones and tablets ., Review Zoom checklist., I have a computer, laptop, or mobile device (smartphone or tablet) with a good connection to power and to the Internet. My computer, laptop, or mobile device has working speakers and camera OR I have a separate webcam. I have tested my microphone and speakers with Zoom and both are working. I have downloaded and installed the latest version of the Zoom Client for Meetings from https://zoom.us/download https://zoom.us/download for my computer or laptop, or I have downloaded the Zoom app from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store for the mobile device I will use for jury selection. I have performed a Zoom test by visiting https://zoom.us/test https://zoom.us/test and followed the guide in the left menu (called Testing Zoom) to test the device I will be using. I am familiar with the Zoom screen options and know how to use the video on/off and mute/unmute buttons. If you are using headphones or a webcam, make sure they are plugged in before you test. My name in Zoom is the same as my driver’s license or other official ID. I have removed all personal photos and other personal items from my background so that they will not show during jury selection. I have found an area of my home with minimum background noise., Troubleshooting, Visit https://zoom.us/support https://zoom.us/support for how-to guides and tutorials. If you are unable to solve your technical issue or have further questions, contact your local Jury Management office. If you did not get the Zoom meeting invite, check your email’s spam filter. If you don’t see the invite there, contact your Link to Jury Management Office Page local jury management office . After you join the Zoom meeting, you will be in the waiting room. You will not see anyone else in the waiting room. This is normal. The Zoom moderator court staff will let you into the meeting when they are ready. To rename yourself in Zoom while using a computer or laptop: While in a test Zoom session ( https://zoom.us/test https://zoom.us/test ) click on "Participants'". Move your mouse over your name, choose "More," then "Rename." Enter your name as it appears on your driver’s license or other official ID, check "Remember my name for future meetings," then click "OK." To rename yourself in Zoom while using a mobile device: While you are in a test Zoom session ( https://zoom.us/test https://zoom.us/test ), tap on "Participants." Find your name in the list of participants. Tap on your name and select "Rename." Type in your name as it appears on your driver’s license or other official ID, then tap "Done."
- Appeals, An appeal is a request that a higher court revers or modify some part of a lower court decision. The appellant needs to show the higher court that the lower court made a mistake in applying the law. Generally, new evidence cannot be introduced in an appeal. Do I need a lawyer to file my appeal? Appeals require in-depth knowledge of laws and legal processes. 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 Legal Services Offices regional legal services offices . The NJ State Bar Association also maintains a list of https://njsba.com/resources/county-bar-associations/ county referral services that might be helpful., Things to think about before you represent 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.
- Civil Mediation, Parties in civil cases can use mediation to reach a solution to their dispute instead of having the court decide the case. Body, Litigant Resources, What is Civil Mediation? , A mediator helps the plaintiff and defendant reach an agreement on some or all of their issues. Mediators do not issue a decision on a case. Their job is to help both parties find common ground for a settlement. Statewide Mediation (Non-Foreclosure) Program - brochure Read the brochure and Statewide Civil Mediation Program - Frequently Asked Questions visit our FAQ to discover more about mediation. The Civil Mediation Program Resource Manual Civil Mediation Program Resource Manual contains detailed information about the program. During mediation, the parties get to: Express their feelings and diffuse anger. Clear up misunderstandings. Discover underlying interests or concerns. Find what they agree on. Use common ground to reach a solution. Use the Civil Mediators Search Civil Mediators Search to find a mediator for your case. , Surveys , Mediation surveys help improve the program. Please complete the survey after your mediation. Survey Online Form Title Attorney Survey Monkey Statewide Attorney Questionnaire (Sample Form) 10524 Litigant Survey Monkey Statewide Litigant Questionnaire (Sample Form) 10525 Mediator Survey Monkey Statewide Mediation Case Information Form (Sample Form) 10526 , Mediator Resources, CLE Opportunity for Mediators:, New Jersey Association of Professional Mediators (NJAPM) is hosting a 40-Hour Civil Mediation Training in Fall 2025. The fee for the 40-hour mediation training is $1,525. Registration is required. Learn more about the course Learn more about the course and register in advance register in advance . For more information about the 40-Hour Mediation Training requirement please, see 1:40-12(b) Court Rule 1:40-12(b)(5) . All mediators should use the Mediator’s Tool Box Mediator’s Tool Box . Mediators need to know the 1:40-Complementary Dispute Resolution Programs CDR (Rule 1:40) and rules on compensation. Before mediation, you and the parties need to sign a disclosure. After the mediation session, you need to submit a completion form. CN Title 11183 Disclosure Concerning Continuation of Mediation and Mediation Preparation Time Disclosure Concerning Continuation of Mediation and Mediation Preparation Time 10827 Completion of Mediation Form Completion of Mediation Form, How to Become a Mediator , Potential mediators need to apply. Use the application form: CN TITLE 10523 Application for Admission to the Roster of Mediators Application for Admission to the Roster of Mediators If approved, you will be added to the Roster of Mediators. All mediators should know the Standards of Conduct. , STANDARDS OF CONDUCT FOR MEDIATORS IN COURT-CONNECTED PROGRAMS , [, As Adopted by the Supreme Court January 4, 2000, ] Preamble, Scope and Purpose These standards of conduct are intended to instill and promote public confidence in the mediation process and to be a guide to mediators in discharging their professional responsibilities. Public understanding and confidence are vital to a strong mediation program. Persons serving as mediators are responsible for conducting themselves in a manner that will merit the confidence of parties, members of the bar, and judges. These standards apply to all mediators when acting in state court-connected programs. Definition of Mediation Mediation is a process in which an impartial third party neutral (mediator) facilitates communication between disputing parties for the purpose of assisting them in reaching a mutually acceptable agreement. Mediators promote understanding, focus the parties on their interests, and assist the parties in developing options to make informed decisions that will promote settlement of the dispute. Mediators do not have authority to make decisions for the parties, or to impose a settlement. Principle Of Self-Determination A mediator shall proceed with the understanding that mediation is based on the fundamental principle of self-determination by the parties. Self-determination requires that the mediation process rely upon the ability of the parties to reach a voluntary agreement without coercion. A mediator shall inform the parties that mediation is consensual in nature, that the mediator is an impartial facilitator, that any party may withdraw from mediation at any time as specified in Complementary Dispute Resolution Programs R.1:40-4(a) through (h) , and that the mediator may not impose or force any settlement on the parties. The primary role of a mediator is to facilitate a voluntary resolution of the dispute, allowing the parties the opportunity to consider all options for settlement. Because a mediator cannot personally ensure that each party has made a fully informed choice to reach a particular agreement, a mediator should make the parties aware of the importance of consulting other professionals, where appropriate, to help them make informed decisions. Impartiality A mediator shall always conduct mediation sessions in an impartial manner. The concept of mediator impartiality is central to the mediation process. A mediator shall only mediate a dispute in which there is reason to believe that impartiality can be maintained. When a mediator is unable to conduct the mediation in an impartial manner, the mediator must withdraw from the process. When disputing parties have confidence in the impartiality of the mediator, the quality of the mediation process is enhanced. A mediator shall therefore avoid any conduct that gives the appearance of either favoring or disfavoring any party. A mediator shall guard against prejudice or lack of impartiality because of any party's personal characteristics, background, or behavior during the mediation. A mediator shall advise all parties of any circumstances bearing on possible bias, prejudice, or lack of impartiality. Conflicts Of Interest A mediator must disclose all actual and potential conflicts of interest reasonably known to the mediator. After disclosure, the mediator may proceed with the mediation only if all parties consent to mediate. Nonetheless, if the mediator believes that the conflict of interest casts doubt on the integrity of the mediation process, the mediator shall decline to proceed. A mediator shall always avoid conflicts of interest when recommending the services of other professionals. If requested, a mediator may provide parties with information on professional referral services or associations that maintain rosters of qualified professionals. Related Matters: A mediator who has served as a third party neutral, or any professional member of that mediator's firm/office, shall not subsequently represent or provide professional services for any party to the mediation proceeding in the same matter or in any related matter. Unrelated Matters: A mediator who has served as a third party neutral, or any professional member of that mediator's firm/office, shall not subsequently represent or provide professional services for any party to the mediation proceeding in any unrelated matter for a period of six months, unless all parties consent after full disclosure. Competence A mediator shall only mediate when the mediator possesses the necessary and required qualifications to satisfy the reasonable expectations of the parties. A mediator appointed by the court shall have training and education in the mediation process, and shall have familiarity with the general principles of the subject matter involved in the case being mediated. A mediator shall have information available for the parties regarding the mediator's relevant training, education, and experience. A mediator has an obligation to continuously strive to improve upon his or her professional skills, abilities, and knowledge of the mediation process. Confidentiality To protect the integrity of the mediation, a mediator shall not disclose any information obtained during the mediation unless the parties expressly consent to such disclosure, or unless disclosure is required by applicable rules or law. A mediator shall not otherwise communicate any information to the court about the mediation, except: (1) whether the case has been resolved in whole or in part; or (2) whether the parties or attorneys appeared at a scheduled mediation. Consistent with Mediation – General Rules Rule 1:40-4 , a mediator shall: Preserve and maintain the confidentiality of all mediation proceedings and advise the parties of the Rule's provisions; Prior to the commencement of mediation, reach agreement with the parties concerning the limits and bounds of confidentiality and non-disclosure; Conduct the mediation so as to provide the parties with the greatest protection of confidentiality afforded by court rule and mutually agreed to by the parties; Maintain confidentiality in the storage and disposal of all records and remove all identifying information when such information is used for research, training, or statistical compilations, except minimum identifiers necessary to link research documents; and Not use confidential information obtained in a mediation outside the mediation process. Quality Of The Process : A mediator shall conduct the mediation fairly, diligently, and in a manner consistent with the principle of self-determination by the parties. To further these goals, a mediator shall: Work to ensure a quality process and to encourage mutual respect among the parties, including a commitment by the mediator to diligence and to procedural fairness; Assess the case and determine that it is appropriate and suitable for continuing the mediation; Provide adequate opportunity for each party in the mediation to participate fully in the discussions, and allow the parties to decide when and under what conditions they will reach an agreement or terminate the mediation; Not unnecessarily or inappropriately prolong a mediation session if it becomes apparent to the mediator that the case is unsuitable for mediation, or if one or more parties is unwilling or unable to participate in the mediation process in a meaningful manner; Only accept cases when the mediator can satisfy the reasonable expectations of the parties concerning the timetable for the process, and not allow a mediation to be unduly delayed by the parties or their representatives; and Where appropriate, recommend that parties seek outside professional advice or consider resolving their dispute through arbitration, counseling, neutral evaluation, or other processes. Fees For Service: A mediator shall fully disclose and explain any applicable fees and charges to the parties. Payment for mediation services shall be in accordance with Mediation – General Rules Rule 1:40-4 of the Rules of Court. Fees charged by the mediator shall be reasonable, taking into account, among other things, the subject area and the complexity of the matter, the expertise of the mediator, the time required, and the rates customary in the community. A mediator shall provide parties with sufficient information about fees in writing at the outset of a mediation. A mediator shall not enter into a fee agreement in which the amount of the fee is contingent upon the result of the mediation or the financial amount of the settlement. Source : Standards adopted by Supreme Court January 4, 2000. Contact your Arbitration and CDR Point Persons point person from the Committee for more information New mediators also need to complete the Mentoring program mentoring program. Mediator Mentors have specific guidelines to follow: Following the successful completion of a qualified mediation course of at least forty (40) hours, each applicant for admission to the Roster of Mediators for Civil, General Equity and Probate Cases should attend and observe at least two (2) Superior Court Law Division– Civil Part or Chancery Division–General Equity or Probate Part Mediation – General Rules R. 1:40-4 and Mediation of Civil, Probate, and General Equity Matters -6 mediations of at least five (5) hours total duration. In the event that the two (2) mediation sessions were less than five (5) hours in duration, the applicant, in order to fulfill this requirement, would be required to attend additional sessions until the time requirement is met. The mediator mentor shall be an approved mediator on the Roster of Mediators for Civil, General Equity and Probate Cases who shall certify that they have completed at least fifteen (15) mediations under Mediation – General Rules R. 1:40-4 and Mediation of Civil, Probate, and General Equity Matters -6 or comparable mediation program. The approved mediator mentors list shall be published on the Judiciary’s website. The mediator mentor, in addition to permitting the applicant to fully observe all aspects of the process, shall meet with the applicant to describe the process and approach in advance of the session and to brief the applicant after the session, intending that this process be part of the education. The mediator mentor shall make available the submissions of the parties and include the applicant on the telephonic conference call. The mediator mentor shall, no later than the telephonic conference call, obtain the parties’ consent to the applicant’s attendance during the mediation process. The applicant shall be firmly bound by the standards of mediator conduct, including without limitation, the confidentiality of the process, the conflict-of-interest provisions, as well the reasonable expectation of the parties. There shall be no charge to the applicant, nor a fee collected by the applicant, for the sessions. Following completion of the required mentoring sessions, the applicant shall certify his/her compliance to the Civil Practice Division of the Administrative Office of the Courts by providing the name(s) of mentor(s), dates of each session, number of hours of each session, and the case names/docket numbers You can change or update your roster status if anything changes: CN Title 10826 Civil Mediator Roster Change / Update Form Civil Mediator Roster Change / Update Form Mediator Mentors For Civil Roster Applicants Mediator Mentors Civil Roster, Frequently Asked Questions, How much does mediation cost? Under Mediation – General Rules Court Rule 1:40-4(b) , any mediator who is on the roster will provide the first two hours on a case, including an initial one hour session, without charge before a party may opt out of mediation. Thereafter, mediators will generally be paid their market rate fee which is to be shared by the parties. Fees will be waived in any case covered by Proceedings by Indigents Court Rule 1:13-2(a) . Any mediator selected by the parties who is not on the roster may negotiate a fee with the parties from the outset and need not provide the free time. What are some of the advantages of mediation? Some advantages of mediation include: confidentiality; the result may benefit both or all sides and thus present a win/win solution; the outcome can be tailored to meet the unique needs of the case and the particular parties; specially trained mediators assist the parties in fashioning more creative solutions not customarily occurring with other CDR techniques; and mediation can be a more cost-efficient, less formal and more meaningful alternative to the traditional trial process. What happens in mediation? There are certain ground rules the mediator will ask participants to follow. The first, and most important, is that with a few exceptions covered in Mediation – General Rules Court Rules 1:40-4(c) and (d) , what goes on in mediation is confidential. That is, what is said in mediation cannot be discussed outside of the mediation process unless the parties consent. Prior to mediation, the mediator will usually ask the attorneys to prepare a brief summary of the issues in dispute. Then, at the mediation session, the mediator will ask attorneys and their clients to make brief presentations about the issues from their own perspectives. After that, the mediator will help the parties to explore areas of possible compromise and to develop a solution that meets everyone’s interests. Sometimes, the mediator may meet with the parties separately for a private discussion that might help move the parties toward a resolution. If an agreement is reached, a document will be prepared detailing the terms of the agreement. Thereafter, the mediator will notify the court that the case can be dismissed. If the case is not resolved, the mediator will advise the court, and the case will remain on the docket. What kinds of cases could benefit from mediation? Mediation has been used successfully in a broad range of cases which exhibit characteristics such as: the parties have an ongoing business or personal relationship or have had a significant past relationship; communication problems exist between the parties; the principal barriers to settlement are personal or emotional; parties want to tailor a solution to meet specific needs or interests; cases involve complex technical or scientific data requiring particular expertise; the parties have an incentive to settle because of time, cost of litigation, or drain on productivity; the parties wish to retain control over the outcome of the case; or the parties seek a more private forum for the resolution of their dispute. While there is not any case type that could not potentially benefit, commercial, construction, environmental, Law Against Discrimination (LAD) cases, and certain General Equity and Probate cases are particularly suited to mediation because they tend to exhibit some of the characteristics described above. What about pretrial discovery? Generally, pretrial discovery is not stayed while a case is in mediation. The case will be placed on the trial calendar at the end of the discovery period. If, however, the court determines that a stay of discovery is necessary, the court shall only provide for a stay of discovery by court order. Even if formal discovery is stayed, the mediator is authorized to facilitate the informal exchange of information materials needed to enhance the effectiveness of the mediation process. At what time in the court process should a case be referred to mediation? The earlier that a case can be referred to mediation, the greater the likelihood that parties can resolve their dispute at a cost savings to themselves and the court. Parties should feel they have enough information to discuss the dispute, which may mean that some information exchange should be completed. Mediators also can help the parties determine how much informal discovery is needed. Even if discovery has been completed, settlement negotiations have been unsuccessful, or the parties are close to a trial date, the mediation process may still help the parties reach a mutually acceptable agreement. What is mediation? Mediation is a dispute resolution process in which an impartial third party - the mediator - facilitates negotiations between the parties to help them reach a mutually acceptable settlement. The major distinction of mediation is that a mediator does not make a decision about the outcome of the case. The parties, with the assistance of their attorneys, work toward a solution with which they are comfortable. What are the roles of counsel and litigants in mediation? The goal of mediation is to reach an amicable resolution. Attorneys and parties are required to make a good faith effort to cooperate with the mediator and engage in constructive dialogue toward this end. Attorneys should prepare their clients prior to mediation by explaining what will happen, and particularly what the roles of both attorneys and clients are. They should also agree on who will be the principal spokesperson in presenting the party's view early in the mediation session. Throughout the process, attorneys act as advocates for their clients' interests. For example, attorneys may make brief opening summaries of the issues as they see them, but clients should also be given an opportunity to speak. In mediation, understanding is often promoted when the parties explain their positions directly to each other. When it comes to discussing terms of settlement, the litigants must play an active part, for it is their case and their settlement. During this process, attorneys should provide counsel on the advisability of settlement options, suggest options and be available for any further consultation with their clients. What if the case is not resolved in mediation? Sometimes the parties are unable to reach agreement or only agree on certain aspects of the dispute. If certain aspects of the dispute remain unresolved, the parties can submit that portion to an expert for an opinion (binding or non-binding) or use some other creative means. The case also can be returned to court and continue on track towards trial. Even in these cases, the mediation process may have helped the parties clarify their positions and also move toward settlement. How is a mediator selected for a case? A roster of mediators is maintained by the court system and is posted on the Judiciary’s website at Civil Mediation njcourts.gov in a searchable format. When a case is referred to mediation, the parties have 14 days to select a mediator whom they feel is suitable, whether on the roster or not. If the parties do not select a mediator in a timely manner, the court-appointed mediator named in the Order of Referral will serve as the mediator. Court-appointed mediators have been approved for inclusion on a roster after careful screening to ensure that they meet educational, training and mentoring requirements set forth in Mediators and Arbitrators in Court Annexed Program Court Rule 1:40-12 . How does a case get into mediation? Appropriate cases for referral to mediation can be identified by judges, court staff, or the parties themselves, at any point in the life of a case. A form of order for referral is prepared and signed by the judge. Parties desiring their case to be referred to mediation should contact the Civil Division Manager in the county in which the case is pending.
- Guide to Completing Appeals Forms, The Appellate Division of Superior Court reviews cases from trial courts, the Tax Court, and state agencies. The How to Appeal a Trial Court, Tax Court, or State Agency Decision Self-Help Kit How to Appeal a Trial Court, Tax Court, or State Agency Decision kit is most used in appeals., What You Need to Know Before Filing, Appeals can be expensive and time-consuming. The process can take more than a year. The Appellate Division can only review your case if it has jurisdiction. It does not have jurisdiction until the trial court or agency issues a final judgment or order. Oral decisions cannot be appealed. You will need to include a copy of the final judgment or order in your appeal. Appeals from final judgments of courts shall be filed within 45 days of their entry, except for the exceptions listed at R. 2:4-1. Appeals from final agency decisions shall be filed within 45 days from the date of service of the decision or notice of the action taken. See R. 2:4-1 for filing deadlines in other matters. If you want to appeal some part of your case before a final order is issued, you can file a motion for leave to appeal. Appeals can only be about legal errors in your case. Disagreeing with the outcome of a case is not grounds for appeal. You will need to buy a transcript or recording of your case. You can obtain it before filing or include the request with your appeal. Appellate court opinions are published online. The public will be able review your case details. Businesses must be represented by an attorney to file an appeal. Sole proprietors are the only business owners who can represent themselves in court. To file an appeal, you will need: The completed appeal forms. Research on the laws and legal precedence pertaining to your case. Understanding of the Rules of Court. Written brief(s) following the strict standards stated in the court rules. Funds for filing the appeal, motions, and court transcripts., Costs:, Filing a Notice of Appeal $250 Filing a motion for leave to appeal $ 50 Court Transcripts Typically, over $1,000 per full day of trial. What is a fee waiver? You may be able to file your case without paying the filing fee if you qualify. How to File for a Fee Waiver – All Courts, Complete the Fee Waiver form, and submit the required documents to the court to see if you meet the guidelines. You can apply for a fee waiver in any NJ state court: Supreme Court, Appellate Division, Superior Court and Tax Court., Court filing and copy fees might be waived for litigants who, Have income at or below 150 percent of the current poverty level (based on the number of people in the household; AND Have no more than $2,500 in liquid assets such as cash or bank accounts., When to file an application for a fee waiver, Under Rules of Court - 1:5-Service And Filing Of Papers, Court Rule 1:5-6, , the court clerk cannot file your case unless the required fee is included. In order to keep your case moving forward as quickly as possible, a fee waiver request should be filed with the court at the same time that you file your court case., You can apply for a fee waiver even if you have a lawyer., You may still request a fee waiver if your attorney either works for Legal Services of New Jersey or an associated regional program; OR works for a public interest or legal services organization, law school clinic or pro bono program that has been certified for fee waiver status by the Supreme Court under ROC - Definitions and Certifications Regarding Pro Bono Practice, Court Rule 1:21-11, ., Applying for a fee waiver in an appeal of a Superior Court case, To apply for a fee waiver in the Appellate Division of Superior Court, you must submit your application in the Superior Court in the county where your case was first filed. If your application is denied in Superior Court, you then have 20 days to apply for a fee waiver in the Appellate Division., Applying for a fee waiver in an appeal of an agency determination, Fee waivers in appeals of administrative agency decisions should be filed directly with the Appellate Division of Superior Court in Trenton., If you win more than $2,000 in your court case, you will be required to pay back the filing fee for your case. , The public usually has the right to view fee waiver applications that have been filed with the court. , You may only file an application for a fee waiver for yourself. You may not apply for a fee waiver for anyone else, even if you have a Power of Attorney. , More Information , Rule 1:5-6. Filing, Court Rule 1:5-6 , Directive 03-17 – Fee Waivers Based on Indigence, Directive 03-17 – Fee Waivers Based on Indigence , Legal Representation, Appeals require in-depth knowledge of laws and legal processes. 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 NJSBA - County Referral Services county referral services that might be helpful. If you are appealing your criminal case, you might qualify for a lawyer at public expense. Complete the Notice of Motion form and the Certification of Service (Forms D and E in the standard How to Appeal a Trial Court, Tax Court, or State Agency Decision, How to File an Appeal, kit) For indictable cases, make copies of the forms and send the signed originals to: Office of the Public Defender Appellate Section 31 Clinton Street P.O. Box 46003 Newark, New Jersey 07101 For non-indictable or quasi-criminal appeals, make copies and deliver the signed originals to the county counsel where the trial court case was heard. The Appellate Division Clerk's Office can give you basic guidance on the appeals process. We cannot help you with the following tasks: We cannot help you do the legal research that you will probably need before you can begin writing your appellate brief. We cannot help you assemble the documents that you will need for the appendix. We cannot help you write your procedural history, statement of facts, or legal arguments that will be required in your appellate brief., Forms and Instructions, Use the packet How to Appeal a Trial Court, Tax Court or State Agency Decision, How to Appeal a Trial Court, Tax Court, or State Agency Decision, to appeal those case types. This packet includes the forms listed below. Notice of Appeal, Notice of Appeal, Court Transcript Request Form and Instructions, Court Transcript Request, Appellate Civil Case Information Statement, Civil Case Information Statement, Appellate Criminal Case Information Statement, Criminal Case Information Statement, Appellate Notice of Motion, Notice of Motion, Certification of Service - Appellate, Certification of Service , If you are appealing a Board of Review decision, use the Board of Review Pro Se Kit, Board of Review Appeal Packet, instead. For appeals of community notifications under Megan’s Law, use this Notice of Appeal and Case Information Statement (CIS) for Appeals Involving Registration and Community Notification Laws (Megan's Law), Notice of Appeal and Case Information Statement, . An additional Supreme Court Emergent Matter Intake Form, request form, is required for emergent matters. For appeals of pretrial detentions, use the Pretrial Detention Appeal (PDA) – Expedited Information Form, PDA Expedited Information Form, and Instructions for Completing the Pretrial Detention Appeal (PDA)- Expedited Information Form, follow these instructions, . Municipal Court Appeals, Appeals of municipal court cases are heard in Superior Court, . See How to Appeal a Decision of a Municipal Court, instructions for municipal court appeals, ., Emergent Appeals, Read the Application for Permission to File Emergent Motion with Instructions, Guidelines for Entertaining Emergent Applications, before asking the Appellate Division to hear the appeal ahead of its other scheduled cases. If you believe your case meets the criteria for an emergent matter, you can submit the Application for Permission to File Emergent Motion (Form only), Application for Permission to File Emergent Motion, ., Where to File, Attorneys must file appeals in eCourts. Self-represented litigants can file by email, by mail, or in person. File by email AppInfo.Mbx@njcourts.gov File by mail, Appellate, Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex P.O. Box 006 Trenton, New Jersey 08625-0970 File in person, Appellate, Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex 25 Market Street Trenton, New Jersey 08625 Call, 609-815-2950, for more information., Email Instructions for Notice of Appeal, If you are using email, only send the notice of appeal, case information statement, copy of the order being appealed, transcript request form and any motions, along with a supporting certification explaining why the motion should be granted. Do not send exhibits or other documents at this time. Once your submission is reviewed, the court will send a letter asking for your original documents and required copies, payment, and any needed corrections. You must submit the documents to the court within 15 days of receiving the letter., Email Instructions for Motion for Leave to Appeal, If you are using email, only send the motion for leave to appeal, copy of order being appealed and the proof of service. Once your submission is reviewed, the court will send a letter asking for your original documents and required copies, payment, and any needed corrections. You must submit the documents to the court within 10 days of receiving the letter., Email Instructions for Motion to File as Within Time, If you are using email, only send the motion, copy of order being appealed, certification in support of motion and the proof of service. Once your submission is reviewed, the court will send a letter asking for your original documents and required copies, payment, and any needed corrections. You must submit the documents to the court within 15 days of receiving the letter. If you have a case manager and you have a filing under 15MB, please email your case manager (first name.lastname@njcourts.gov)., Deadlines, Deadlines for Filing Notice of Appeal, Appeal Type , Deadline , Superior Court Appeals 45 days after the signed final judgment is filed State Agency Appeals 45 days after notice of the agency's decision is received Termination of Parental Rights 21 days after the signed termination order is filed, Deadlines for Transcripts, Briefs, and Appendices , Who , What , How Many , When , Appellant Submits transcript request form One copy to the Appellate Division At the time the Notice of Appeal or Motion for Leave to Appeal is Filed. Court reporter or transcription agency Delivers transcript to appellant One copy to appellant; one copy to the Appellate Division Within 30 days of receiving deposit for standard transcript requests. Appellant Delivers transcript to respondent and to the Court One copy to respondent; three copies to the Appellate Division Within 10 days of receiving transcript, but no later than when the brief is filed. Appellant Delivers brief and appendix to the court and to respondent Two copies to each respondent; Five copies to the Appellate Division Within 45 days after receiving transcript. If no verbatim record was made, within 45 days of filing the appeal. Respondent Delivers reply brief and appendix to the court and to the appellant Two copies to the appellant; Five copies to the Appellate Division Within 30 days after receiving appellant's brief and appendix., Other deadlines:, Who , What , How Many , When , Appellant May choose to file a reply brief after respondent files a brief Two copies to the respondent; Five copies to the Appellate Division Within 14 days after receiving respondent's brief and appendix Respondent May choose to file a cross-appeal Two copies to the appellant; Five copies to the Appellate Division Within 15 days of receiving notice of appeal or order granting leave to appeal , The Appellate Division could issue its own scheduling order with different deadlines from those listed above. , Preparing Briefs and Appendices, Creating a brief is a vital part of your appeal. Use the Build-a-Brief Creator, Build-a-Brief Creator, for this process. For reference, use the Build-a-Brief Sample (Letter Brief Sample), Letter Brief Sample, or Appellate Formal Brief Sample, Formal Brief Sample., Review the Appellate Division Checklist for Brief, Appellate Division Checklist for Preparation of Brief, to ensure that your brief is complete before submitting. The court will not accept documents that do not meet the requirements set out in the Rules of Court. The brief must be typed or clearly handwritten, double spaced, on 8½" x 11" paper. All documents, including exhibits in the appendix, must be legible. Brief covers must be heavy paper or card stock. Do not use a plastic or glassine cover. Brief covers are color-coded: Appellant’s brief: White cover Respondent’s brief: Blue cover Appellant’s reply brief: Buff (light tan) cover All motion briefs: White cover All motion respondent briefs: Blue cover Staple or fasten the brief securely along the left margin or upper left-hand corner. The brief must include the name, address, and daytime phone number of the submitting party., Contents of Brief and Appendix, Briefs should include the following. Consult the Build-a-Brief Creator (dynamic PDF), Build-a-Brief, form for details. Procedural history: a short summary of each step in the case. Keep the history brief. Tell it like a story, but you do not need to give every little detail. List specific dates and documents that support your story. Statement of facts: a list of the facts that the court agreed were true. Refer to relevant items in the appendix whenever possible. Do not introduce new documents or evidence that were not part of the original case. Legal argument: a point-by-point argument of how the court erred when it applied the law to the facts of the case. Appendix should include the following: All pretrial orders, The original complaint that filed in the lower court or with the agency. The answer filed in the lower court or agency. The notice of appeal or the motion papers if the appeal is being heard on a motion for leave to appeal. If the exhibits are too bulky to include in the appendix, submit a letter to the Clerk's office, with a copy to the other party. The letter should itemize and identify the exhibits, including the approximate size and bulk of each. The clerk’s office will let you know if they need to be submitted. Enter the filing date of each document in the appendix at the head of the page. Only include documents that were provided to the court, and the dates they were filed Include a Table of Contents Create one table of contents if the brief and appendix are bound together. Create separate tables of contents if the brief and appendix are bound separately. For the brief, the Table of Contents should list the subheadings for the case history, the facts of the case, and for each new legal argument raised in the brief. For the appendix, the Table of Contents should list the starting page of each document included. Include page numbers. Start the brief on Page 1 and continue from there. Even if bound with the brief, start the appendix on Page 1a and continue from there. Page limits: , Party , Document , Maximum Pages , Appellant Brief 50 pages Respondent Brief 50 pages Appellant Reply brief 15 pages Respondent filing cross-appeal Brief 75 pages Appellant replying to cross-appeal Brief 50 pages Respondent Reply brief 15 pages There is a 200-page limit for any document submitted to the court. If necessary, break the document into multiple submissions of no more than 200 pages each., Motions, When filing a motion, you should fulfill the following requirements: A notice of motion stating the specific relief you are seeking. File an original and four copies. A supporting brief in which make your case and present your reasons for seeking the relief contained in the motion. There is a 25-page limit on motion briefs. Each document submitted with the motion should have the full case caption on it. Date and sign each document. You must deliver the papers to your adversary when filing a motion. You must submit proof of service before the clerk’s office can move the case forward. If you make a motion for an extension of time to file a brief, state the specific date when you can file the brief. You should begin preparing the brief in case the motion is denied, the requested date is changed, or the motion is approved with little time left. You are allowed to ask for one extension of up to 30 days without a motion, provided your adversary does not object. Send a letter that gives your reason for the request and state that your adversary does not object. Send a copy of the letter to your adversary. If the paperwork is in order, a motion is usually decided within four weeks., Oral Argument, Any party to an appeal may request oral argument. The request should be submitted to the clerk’s office within 14 days of the respondent’s brief being delivered. Motions are usually decided “on the papers.” Requests for oral argument are rarely granted for motions. Tell the court of any dates that you might be unavailable, such as a vacation, a medical procedure, or a special event. The clerk’s office will try to schedule oral argument around it. Oral argument is very brief. Use the time to focus the court’s attention to what is most important in the case. The judges will have read the briefs and researched the legal issues. Be prepared for them to ask you questions about the case and the law., Miscellaneous, No additional papers may be sent to the court. The one exception to this rule is that a party may serve and file a letter drawing attention to recent case law that might impact your case. The appellant may withdraw/dismiss the appeal, without consent, at any time before the first brief is filed. To withdraw/dismiss an appeal after the first brief has been filed, you must a file a stipulation of dismissal. The stipulation must be signed by all the parties to the appeal or their attorneys. All stipulations of dismissal are with prejudice and without costs, unless the court, on motion, allows otherwise.
- eCDR – Electronic Court Disposition Reporting, 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 12.06.24 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)