- 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)
- Supreme Court Board on Continuing Legal Education, Discover what you need to stay up-to-date on CLE requirements, Supreme Court Board on Continuing Legal Education, Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex 25 Market Street Floor 8- North Wing P.O. Box 965 Trenton, New Jersey 08625-0965 Phone:: 609-815-2930 SCTCLE.mailbox@njcourts.gov Approved Courses Catalog New CLE Requirement effective January 1, 2024: Newly admitted New Jersey attorneys required to meet the newly admitted attorney requirement must take 16 total credits in a minimum of 6 New Jersey new admit subject areas. A minimum of one credit must be taken in New Jersey attorney trust & business accounting fundamentals. New CLE Requirement—Diversity, Inclusion, and Elimination of Bias. Notice - Continuing Legal Education (CLE) - Judiciary Real-Time Virtual Courses on the Reduction, Interruption, and Elimination of Bias | NJ Courts Notice - Continuing Legal Education (CLE) - Judiciary Real-Time Virtual Courses on the Reduction, Interruption, and Elimination of Bias | NJ Courts New CLE Requirement effective Jan. 1, 2021: Five CLE credits in ethics and professionalism including two CLE credits focused on diversity, inclusion and elimination of bias are required each two-year cycle. The reporting forms provided on this website are ONLY for attorneys who are seeking reinstatement from the CLE Ineligible List and for attorneys who failed to complete their CLE and/or report completion with the current reporting requirement by the expiration of the grace period. Notice - New Jersey Attorney Electronic Registration and Payment Available Beginning January 6, 2025; Free CLE Training Sessions Offered Mandatory Electronic Attorney Registration GROUP 2 ATTORNEYS (BIRTH MONTH JULY THROUGH DECEMBER) ARE DUE TO REPORT COMPLIANCE WITH THE CONTINUING LEGAL EDUCATION (CLE) REQUIREMENT DURING THE 2025 ATTORNEY REGISTRATION PROCESS. Pursuant to BCLE Reg. 402:1, attorneys who report that they have not completed the CLE requirement by 12/31/2024 will be assessed a $50 noncompliance fee and given a grace period until 06/27/2025 to complete their CLE requirement. Upon completion of the CLE credits, they MUST return to this on-line registration system to report final compliance on or before 06/27/2025. After the expiration of the grace period, attorneys can no longer report CLE compliance through the on-line registration system. Those who fail to complete and/or report CLE compliance by the expiration of the grace period will be assessed an additional $50 noncompliance fee, for a total of $100, and be required to submit a reporting form provided by the Board, along with documentation proving compliance. Attorneys who remain noncompliant with the CLE requirement are subject to being declared administratively ineligible to practice New Jersey law. To be removed from the CLE Ineligible List, attorneys must make up all required credits for each compliance period that they are noncompliant and pay all required fees. Effective January 1, 2021, the number of total ethics and professionalism credits required during a compliance-reporting period will increase from four to five credit hours and must include at least two credit hours of coursework in diversity, inclusion, and elimination of bias. Diversity, inclusion, and elimination of bias programs and courses relevant to the practice of law may include, among other topics, implicit and explicit bias, equal access to justice, serving a diverse population, diversity and inclusion initiatives in the legal profession, and cultural competency in the practice of law or the administration of justice. Effective January 1, 2024, newly admitted New Jersey attorneys required to meet the newly admitted attorney requirement must take 16 total credits in a minimum of 6 New Jersey new admit subject areas. A minimum of one credit must be taken in New Jersey attorney trust & business accounting fundamentals. Effective January 1, 2024, the definition of live instruction has been amended to include certain types of alternative verifiable learning formats. Please review the Board’s Regulations for more explicit information. , Members of the Board, Chair: , Peter G. Verniero, Vice Chair:, Classie M. Colinet Jeffrey Epstein H. Mark Ellis, Ph.D. Theresa A. Lyons Daniel F. O’Brien Joshua H. Reinitz Rubin Sinins Katherine E. Suell, NJSBA Representative:, Maria P. Vallejo, NJ Commission on Professionalism in the Law Representative:, James J. Uliano, Acting Administrative Director of the Courts:, Michael J. Blee or designee (ex officio), Counsel:, Wendy L. Weiss
- Change a Court Order, Follow these steps to change a parenting time, custody, or visitation order. , Change a Non-Dissolution Court Order, Fill out the How to file a request to modify a Non-Dissolution "FD" Court Order previously issued by the court Application for Modification of Court Order or Cross-Application for Modification of a Court Order. Include the current address of the other party. This is very important. The other party will receive a Notice to Appear in court and a copy of your court papers. If the other party cannot be reached, your case might be dismissed or delayed. What to do if you cannot find the other party: If you are asking for child support, your county welfare office can help you locate the other parent. They receive federal funding to perform this service for child support recipients. If you are not asking for child support, you can complete the Certification of Diligent Search Kit Diligent Search Kit to show that you tried to find the other party. Your case cannot proceed until the other party is found. Fill out the Confidential Litigant Information Sheet Confidential Litigant Information Sheet Confidential Litigant Information Sheet . If you are asking for child support or a change to your child support order, fill out the Financial Statement for Summary Support Actions Summary Form for Financial Information . If you are married and are asking for spousal support or a change to your child support order, fill out the Family Part Case Information Statement Family Case Information Statement. Double check the forms. Do not leave any blank spaces. Write N/A if something does not apply to you. Make sure you sign them where it is required. Make a copy of the forms and keep them in a safe place. There are 3 ways to deliver the forms. Option 1: You can upload your forms on Judiciary Electronic Document Submission (JEDS) Judiciary Electronic Document Submission (JEDS) here. You can pay the $25 filing fee with a credit card. Fee Waivers Do you qualify for a fee waiver ? Option 2: You can deliver your forms to the Directory of Superior Court Family Division Offices county courthouse . Bring a $25 check or money order payable to Treasurer, State of NJ Option 3: You can mail your forms to the Directory of Superior Court Family Division Offices county courthouse . Include a $25 check or money order payable to Treasurer, State of NJ.
- Information for CLE Providers, Learn the requirements for becoming an approved CLE provider in New Jersey., Request Course Accreditation, The Board on Continuing Legal Education requires that all providers seeking course accreditation in New Jersey and approved service provider status in New Jersey submit their applications though its on-line computer tracking system. Through this system, providers can submit course approval requests, obtain New Jersey Certificates of Attendance, and request or renew approved service provider status. The provider CLE accreditation system has been updated to reflect the recent amendment to the ethics requirement to include diversity, inclusion and the elimination of bias (DIEB) credits. Providers are now required to provide the minutes specifically for DIEB instruction. Therefore, ethics minutes are now divided into two columns, one specifically for DIEB minutes of instruction and the other for total ethics minutes including DIEB minutes. For example, a course that is 200 minutes of total instruction, 50 minutes specifically for DIEB instruction and another 50 minutes in other ethics instruction, the provider would input in the respective columns: 200 total minutes, 50 DIEB minutes, and 100 total ethics minutes. First, register to submit courses for approval. Then, use your login credentials to enter new courses for accreditation. Register as a Provider Register as a Provider Existing Provider Login Existing Provider Login, Forms, Providers must submit both parts of the reporting form by Jan. 15 and July 15 each year: Bi-Annual Reporting Form Part 1 Biannual Reporting Form Part 1 Bi-Annual Reporting Form Part 2 (PDF format) Biannual Reporting Form Part 2 (PDF version) Bi-Annual Reporting Form Part 2 (Excel Format) Biannual Reporting Form Part 2 (Excel version) Use these established Continuing Legal Education (CLE) Law Codes law codes on the reporting forms. Provider Fees Per Course Approval $100 Late Fee (courses submitted later than 30 days after the course was presented) $150 Approved Service Providers (valid for a two-year period) Government Agencies Exempt Public Service Organization (only for CLE courses to train volunteers to provide pro bono service) Exempt upon request State Bar Association $400 Local and Specialty Bar Associations $300 Inns of Court $350 Others (including law firms and law school) If offering over a two-year period: 10 or fewer courses $ 400 11-20 courses $ 700 21-49 courses $ 1,250 50-99 courses $2,000 100+ courses $3,500
- Supreme Court Committees, The Supreme Court benefits from the input of individuals with diverse areas of expertise, experiences, and perspectives interested in assisting the Judiciary through service on committees and other groups. The Court continues to prioritize inclusivity in the composition of its committees, including as to race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, and all primary aspects of identity, as well as areas of legal practice, geography, and community involvement, in order to support robust discussion and comprehensive consideration of issues. Anyone interested in being considered by the Court for appointment should send an email to , Supreme Court Committees, at Comments.Mailbox@njcourts.gov . Please include the following in your email: your full name, address, email address, telephone number(s), your attorney ID (if applicable), the county or counties in which you practice (for attorneys), and a selection of the committee(s) in which you are interested. If possible, also include a resumé or link to an online profile with your email. Please explain in 2-3 sentences why you want to participate in a Supreme Court committee. See this Notice of the Bar - May 4, 2022 May 4, 2022 Notice for more information. Body, Advisory Committee on Judicial Conduct, The committee investigates and prosecutes Filing a Judicial Ethics Complaint ethics complaints filed against judges under Rules of Court Court Rule 2:15 ., Advisory Committee on Professional Ethics, This Committee accepts referrals from the Court and inquiries from members of the New Jersey bar concerning proper conduct for a member of the legal profession under the Rules of Professional Conduct and Court Rules. R. 1:19-1 et seq. It also operates the , Attorney Ethics Research Assistance Hotline, 609-815-2924 . , Address:, Advisory Committee on Professional Ethics, Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex P.O. Box 970 Trenton, New Jersey 08625 609-815-2924, Civil Practice Committee, The committee is responsible for examining and making recommendations for amendments and additions to Parts I, II, IV, and VI of the Court Rules, as well as related non-rule changes and responses to statutory amendments and new legislation related to court practice., Committee on Attorney Advertising, This Committee imposes discipline on attorneys for violation of the attorney advertising rules (RPC 7.1 through RPC 7.5) and issues advisory opinions to New Jersey lawyers regarding attorney advertising. R. 1:19A-1 et seq. Committee staff also operates the , Attorney Ethics Research Assistance Hotline, 609-815-2924 . Address:, Committee on Attorney Advertising, Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex P.O. Box 970 Trenton, New Jersey 08625, Committee on the Unauthorized Practice of Law, This Committee reviews grievances regarding unauthorized practice of law and also issues advisory opinions. R. 1:22-1 et seq., Contact:, Committee on the Unauthorized Practice of Law, Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex 25 Market Street P.O. Box 970 Trenton, New Jersey 08625 609-815-2900 ext. 54965, District Ethics Committees, The core of the disciplinary system is the 18 regional district ethics committees , which are staffed by volunteer attorney and public members. Volunteer attorney members investigate and prosecute cases of standard attorney misconduct before hearing panels consisting of volunteer attorney and public members. Findings of unethical conduct are then forwarded to the Disciplinary Review Board. District ethics committees meet monthly online or in a hybrid format. To volunteer, Application Form submit a volunteer application to the Office of Attorney Ethics. , District Fee Arbitration Committees, District fee arbitration committees, which comprise attorney and public volunteers, who promote public confidence in the judicial system by resolving disputes over the reasonableness of attorney’s fee. The program minimizes fee litigation in Superior Court and expedites the resolution of fee disputes. District fee arbitration committees monthly or in a hybrid format. To volunteer, Application form submit a volunteer application to the Office of Attorney Ethics. , Diversity, Inclusion and Community Engagement, The committee advises the Supreme Court on how the Judiciary can best assure fairness, impartiality and equal access to minority groups, including linguistic minorities; provides guidance to vicinage advisory committees on diversity, inclusion, and community engagement; and conducts studies and other research related to diversity, inclusion, and community engagement issues., Family Practice Committee, The committee considers family court procedures and recommends amendments to Part V of the Rules of Court to clarify and improve the procedures in the family courts., Jury Selection in Civil and Criminal Trials Committee, The committee provides oversight of jury selection practices in both civil and criminal trials and provides a ready forum for review of proposed changes that may be generated by court decisions, committee recommendations, or other sources. It is responsible for maintaining the Judiciary’s Bench Manual on Juror Selection., Lawyers Fund for Client Protection, Appointed by the court to five-year terms, the trustees meet monthly to consider reimbursement of claims of misappropriation of trust funds by former clients of lawyers who have been suspended or disbarred., Model Civil Jury Charges Committee, The committee prepares and updates model civil jury charges and related judges’ notes. Trial judges and litigants use the model charges to provide juries with accurate and understandable instructions on the law in civil cases., Model Criminal Jury Charges Committee, The committee develops the appropriate model language for judges to explain to juries the controlling legal principles and questions that they must decide., Municipal Court Practice Committee, The committee studies possible improvements and modifications to the Part VII Court Rules Governing the Municipal Courts and makes recommendations to the Supreme Court relating to these rules. The committee may also occasionally make non-rule recommendations to the court relating to municipal court practice., Outside Activities Advisory Committee, The committee has jurisdiction to provide guidance to Judiciary employees on the Code of Conduct for Judiciary Employees. The committee includes six judges, one Surrogate, four Judiciary employees, two practicing attorneys and three public members who serve two-year terms., Rules of Evidence Committee, The committee studies possible improvements and modifications to the New Jersey Rules of Evidence and makes recommendations to the Supreme Court relating to these Rules., State Domestic Violence Working Group, The working group advises the Supreme Court on systemic issues facing the court system in the area of domestic violence., Tax Court Committee, The committee includes members of the bench and tax bar, representatives of taxpayers' groups, local, county and state tax administrators, and others concerned with the administration and review of New Jersey tax laws. The committee examines Part VIII of the NJ Court Rules and proposes amendments and new rules to the Supreme Court., Gender in the Courts Committee, The committee monitors the nature and extent of systemic gender bias in the court system and provides training to the bench, bar and others on the subject of gender bias to help ensure fair treatment in the legal system.
- Judicial Conference on Jury Selection, Body, Conference Information, July 14, 2022 Notice re Juror Demographic Data Notice - Collection of Voluntary Juror Demographic Information - Initial Implementation in Bergen, Camden, and Middlesex Counties Notice – Collection of Voluntary Juror Demographic Information – Initial Implementation in Bergen, Camden, and Middlesex Counties July 12, 2022 Supreme Court Actions Notice – Jury Reforms – Supreme Court Action: (1) Administrative Determinations on the Report and Recommendations of the Committee of the Judicial Conference on Jury Selection; (2) Amendments to the Rules of Court; and (3) Authorization of a Pilot Notice – Jury Reforms – Supreme Court Action Supreme Court’s Administrative Determinations on the Recommendations Supreme Court’s Administrative Determinations on the Recommendations Order Adopting Rule Amendments and New Rule Order Adopting Rule Amendments and New Rule Order Authorizing the Attorney-Conducted Voir Dire (ACDV) Pilot Program Order Authorizing the Attorney-Conducted Voir Dire (ACDV) Pilot Program April 28, 2022 Recommendations Notice – Jury Reform – Recommendations of the Committee of the Judicial Conference on Jury Selection – Publication for Comment – Comments Requested by June 10, 2022 Notice listing the Recommendations and requesting Comments, with the three Subcommittee reports attached. April 28, 2022 letter from Senator Steven V. Oroho, Senate Republican Leader April 28, 2022 letter from Senator Steven V. Oroho, Senate Republican Leader April 25, 2022 letter to Senator Oroho from Administrative Director Glenn A. Grant April 25, 2022 letter to Senator Oroho from Administrative Director Glenn A. Grant Nov. 10 and Nov. 12, 2021 Conference, Judicial Conference Sessions (Video Recordings), Day 1, Chief Justice Rabner's Opening Remarks Chief Justice Rabner's Opening Remarks First Panel: Voir Dire in New Jersey First Panel: Voir Dire in New Jersey Second Panel: Jury Representativeness Second Panel: Jury Representativeness Third Panel: Peremptory Challenges & the Right of Civic Engagement Third Panel: Peremptory Challenges & the Right of Civic Engagement Fourth Panel: Supporting Juror Impartiality Fourth Panel: Supporting Juror Impartiality Chief Justice Rabner's Day 1 Closing Remarks Chief Justice Rabner's Day 1 Closing Remarks, Day 2, Acting Administrative Director Grant’s Day 2 Opening Remarks Acting Administrative Director Grant’s Day 2 Opening Remarks Fifth Panel: Juror Records & Demographic Data Fifth Panel: Juror Records & Demographic Data Sixth Panel: Toward Representative Juries Sixth Panel: Toward Representative Juries, Public Testimony (listed alphabetically by speaker), Hon. Barry T. Albin, Associate Justice The Reverend Dr. Charles Franklin Boyer, Founding Director, Salvation and Social Justice Hon. Andrew J. Bruck, Acting Attorney General Domenick Carmagnola, President, New Jersey State Bar Association Ryan P. Haygood, President & CEO, New Jersey Institute for Social Justice Hon. Joseph E. Krakora, Public Defender Aidan P. O’Connor, President, Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers of New Jersey Henal Patel, Board Director, New Jersey League of Women Voters Kathleen M. Reilly, President, New Jersey Association for Justice Ryan Richman, President, New Jersey Defense Association Akil Roper, Vice President & Assistant General Counsel, Legal Services of New Jersey Michele N. Siekerka, President & CEO, New Jersey Business & Industry Association Pastor Ronald L. Slaughter, St. James AME Church Hon. Esther Suarez, Hudson County Prosecutor & President, County Prosecutors Association of New Jersey Matthew J. Tharney, President, Trial Attorneys of New Jersey Karen Thompson, Senior Staff Attorney, American Civil Liberties Union of New Jersey Gregg L. Zeff, Legal Redress Chair, NAACP of New Jersey Chief Justice Rabner's Closing Remarks Chief Justice Rabner's Closing Remarks See conference agenda conference agenda, Guide to the Judicial Conference on Jury Selection, A Guide to the NJ Judicial Conference on Jury Selection - Print Version, Print Version (no hyperlinks), Online Version, A Guide to the NJ Judicial Conference on Jury Selection, Guide, Attachments, Attachment A Attachment A Attachment B Attachment B Attachment C Attachment C Attachment D Attachment D Attachment E Attachment E Attachment F Attachment F Attachment G Attachment G Attachment H Attachment H Attachment I Attachment I Attachment J Attachment J Attachment K Attachment K Attachment L Attachment L Judicial Conference on Jury Selection Gathering for Second Day Press Release - Judicial Conference on Jury Selection Gathering for Second Day (Nov. 11, 2021) Judicial Conference Assembles Supreme Court Justices, Experts, and Key Stakeholders to Improve Jury Selection Process Press Release - Judicial Conference Assembles Supreme Court Justices, Experts, and Key Stakeholders to Improve Jury Selection Process (Nov. 4, 2021) Notice - Judicial Conference on Jury Selection - Guide and Request for Comments Notice to the Bar and Public — Judicial Conference on Jury Selection - Guidance Document and Request for Public Comment (Oct. 19, 2021) Notice - Judicial Conference on Jury Selection – Preliminary Information and Invitation to Participate Notice to the Bar and Public — Judicial Conference on Jury Selection - Preliminary Information and Invitation to Participate (Sept. 28, 2021), Materials Presented at the Conference, First Panel: Voir Dire in New Jersey Voir Dire in New Jersey. Part 1. (Assignment Judge Lisa Thornton) Voir Dire in New Jersey. Part 1. (Assignment Judge Lisa Thornton) Voir Dire in New Jersey - Part 2. Attorney Conducted Voir Dire. (Public Defender Joseph E. Krakora) Voir Dire in New Jersey - Part 2. Attorney Conducted Voir Dire. (Public Defender Joseph E. Krakora) Second Panel: Jury Representativeness Jury Representativeness. Part 1. (Professor Nina Chernoff) Jury Representativeness. Part 1. (Professor Nina Chernoff) Jury Representativeness. Part 2. (Mary Rose, Ph.D.) Jury Representativeness. Part 2. (Mary Rose, Ph.D.) Third Panel: Peremptory Challenges & the Right of Civic Engagement Peremptory Challenges and the Right of Civic Engagement. Part 1. (Howard Berchtold. Will Snowden.) Peremptory Challenges and the Right of Civic Engagement. Part 1. (Howard Berchtold. Will Snowden.) Peremptory Challenges and the Right of Civic Engagement. Part 2. (Gregg Zeff.) Peremptory Challenges and the Right of Civic Engagement. Part 2. (Gregg Zeff.) Fourth Panel: Supporting Juror Impartiality (Judge Hany Mawla, Judge Edward McBride, Jr., Prosecutor Camelia Valdes) Fourth Panel. Supporting Juror Impartiality Fourth Panel. Supporting Juror Impartiality Fifth Panel – Juror Records and Demographic Data Juror Records & Demographic Data Juror Records & Demographic Data Sixth Panel – Toward Representative Juries No Materials, Speakers, Opening Keynote Eddie S. Glaude Jr. is an intellectual who speaks to the complex dynamics of the American experience. His most well-known books, Democracy in Black: How Race Still Enslaves the American Soul , and In a Shade of Blue: Pragmatism and the Politics of Black America , take a wide look at black communities, the difficulties of race in the United States, and the challenges our democracy face. He is an American critic in the tradition of James Baldwin and Ralph Waldo Emerson. In his writings, the country’s complexities, vulnerabilities, and the opportunities for hope come into full view. Hope that is, in one of his favorite quotes from W.E.B Du Bois, “not hopeless, but a bit unhopeful.” He is the James S. McDonnell Distinguished University Professor and chair of the Department of African American Studies, a program he first became involved with shaping as a doctoral candidate in Religion at Princeton. He is the former president of the American Academy of Religion. His books on religion and philosophy include An Uncommon Faith: A Pragmatic Approach to the Study of African American Religion , African American Religion: A Very Short Introduction and Exodus! Religion , Race and Nation in Early 19th Century Black America , which was awarded the Modern Language Association’s William Sanders Scarborough Book Prize. Glaude is also the author of two edited volumes, and many influential articles about religion for academic journals. He has also written for the likes of The New York Times and Time Magazine . Known to be a convener of conversations and debates, Glaude takes care to engage fellow citizens of all ages and backgrounds – from young activists, to fellow academics, journalists and commentators, and followers on Twitter in dialogue about the direction of the nation. His scholarship and his sense of himself as a public intellectual are driven by a commitment to think carefully with others in public. Glaude’s most recent book, Begin Again: James Baldwin’s America and Its Urgent Lessons for Our Own , was released on June 30, 2020. Of Baldwin, Glaude writes, “Baldwin’s writing does not bear witness to the glory of America. It reveals the country’s sins, and the illusion of innocence that blinds us to the reality of others. Baldwin’s vision requires a confrontation with our history (with slavery, Jim Crow segregation, with whiteness) to overcome its hold on us. Not to posit the greatness of America, but to establish the ground upon which to imagine the country anew.” Some like to describe Glaude as the quintessential Morehouse man, having left his home in Moss Point, Mississippi at age 16 to begin studies at the HBCU. He holds a master’s degree in African American Studies from Temple University, and a Ph.D. in Religion from Princeton University. He began his teaching career at Bowdoin College. In 2011 he delivered Harvard’s Du Bois lectures. In 2015 he was awarded an honorary doctorate from Colgate University, delivering commencement remarks titled, “Turning Our Backs” that was recognized by The New York Times as one of the best commencement speeches of the year. He is a columnist for Time Magazine and a MSNBC contributor on programs like Morning Joe , and Deadline Whitehouse with Nicolle Wallace . He also regularly appears on Meet the Press on Sundays. First Panel, Hon. Joseph F. Lisa, P.J.A.D. (Ret.), After twenty-two years in private practice, Judge Lisa was appointed to the Superior Court in May 1991. He served in the Civil and Criminal Divisions in the Gloucester/Cumberland/Salem Vicinage. He was the Presiding Criminal Judge in the Vicinage from 1994 to 2000, and he served as the Statewide Chair of the Conference of Criminal Presiding Judges from 1996 to 2000. In January 2001, Judge Lisa was assigned to the Appellate Division. He retired from active service in September 2011. During his last three court terms, he was a Presiding Judge of the Appellate Division. Judge Lisa is presently serving in the Appellate Division on recall status, conducting CASP conferences, sitting on occasional plenary calendars, and presiding over Special Master proceedings assigned to him by the Supreme Court. During his judicial tenure, Judge Lisa chaired the Ad Hoc Committee on Bail Forfeiture, the Special Supreme Court Committee on Peremptory Challenges and Jury Voir Dire, the Supreme Court Committee on Jury Selection in Civil and Criminal Trials, and the Megan's Law Three-Judge Disposition Committee. He also served as a member of the Commission on Professionalism in the Law, the Criminal Practice Committee, and the Trial Judges' Committee on Capital Causes. Judge Lisa received his bachelor's degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 1966, and his law degree from Georgetown University Law School in 1969., Hon. Lisa P. Thornton, A.J.S.C., Judge Lisa P. Thornton was appointed to the Superior Court bench in January of 2008. She has served as the Supervising Special Civil Part Judge, Presiding Judge of the Family Part and in 2014 was appointed to serve as the Assignment Judge for the Monmouth Vicinage. Prior to her appointment to the bench, Judge Thornton served as Chief of Staff for the Department of Law and Public Safety where she assisted the Attorney General with the overall management and oversight of the Department and its approximately 9,000 employees. Unrivaled in depth, and complexity, the New Jersey Department of Law and Public Safety is responsible for protecting citizens’ civil and consumer rights, promoting highway traffic safety, maintaining public confidence in the alcoholic beverage, gaming and racing industries and providing legal services and counsel to other state agencies. As Chief of Staff, Judge Thornton spearheaded a statewide criminal justice initiative that addressed prevention, enforcement and re-entry. Prior to serving as Chief of Staff for the Department of Law and Public Safety, Judge Thornton served as Senior Counsel to Governor Jon Corzine in 2006. Assigned to the Authorities Unit, responsible for monitoring public boards and commissions, she advised the Governor on a variety of issues including healthcare, education, public finance and transportation. From 2002 through 2006 Judge Thornton served as Special Deputy Commissioner for the Department of Banking and Insurance where she helped develop reforms that resulted in the vibrant auto insurance market that New Jersey consumers currently enjoy. From 1999 to 2001, Judge Thornton served as a Municipal Court Judge in Neptune, NJ. She was a Senior Trial Attorney with Prudential Financial from 1992 to 2002. Judge Thornton received her undergraduate degree from Rutgers University, Douglass College, and her J.D. degree from Rutgers School of Law – Newark. , Joseph E. Krakora, Public Defender, Joseph E. Krakora was originally sworn in as Public Defender in 2011 and is currently serving his second five year term. Under his leadership, the New Jersey State Office of the Public Defender has built a reputation as one of the best offices in the country. Mr. Krakora has recruited talented attorneys from diverse backgrounds, expanded the office’s training programs, and upgraded the agency’s technology and facilities. He has become an influential stakeholder in New Jersey’s justice system on many issues, having spearheaded the pretrial release reform that eliminated monetary bail, advocated for sentencing reform on New Jersey’s Sentencing Commission, and directed the filing of three successful Orders to Show Cause in the Supreme Court for release of jail and prison inmates during the pandemic. Mr. Krakora joined the NJOPD in 1986 and has held numerous positions in the agency since that time. He spent a number of years as both a staff attorney and a manager in the Essex Region where he developed a reputation as one of the top criminal defense attorneys in New Jersey gaining recognition for numerous acquittals in high profile cases. He served as the agency’s Assistant Public Defender and Director of Capital and Special Litigation from 2002 until 2010. In that capacity he served on the Death Penalty Study Commission as a strong advocate for its abolition and handled numerous death penalty cases until the abolition of the death penalty in December 2007. Mr. Krakora is a graduate of Princeton University and Cornell University School of Law. Professional Highlights Started with the OPD Essex Trial Region in 1986 Served as the First Assistant Deputy in Essex overseeing defense of all homicide cases Represented approximately 30 clients facing death penalty and tried 11 capital cases to verdict Served as Director of Capital Litigation for the Office of the Public Defender Represented the OPD on Death Penalty Study Commission that recommended abolition Featured in 4 front page NJ Law Journal articles after acquittals on high profile cases Handled State v. Henderson litigation at the remand hearing and before the NJ Supreme Court Member of Criminal Disposition and Sentencing Commission (CDSC) Spearheaded CDSC’s recommendations for reforms including elimination of mandatory minimums for drug offenses and juvenile resentencing Filed 3 successful Orders to Show Cause directly in the Supreme Court during the pandemic: Leading to the Consent Order that resulted in the release of approximately 700 county jail inmates serving sentences Establishing right to due process for State prison inmates eligible for release under Executive Order 124 Requiring trial courts to consider the impact of the pandemic as a changed circumstance during hearings on motions to reconsider pretrial detention orders, Hon. Carmen Messano, P.J.A.D. (Moderator), Carmen Messano was appointed to the bench in 1997, after serving from 1991 to 1997 as the Hudson County Prosecutor. He has served on the Appellate Division since 2006 and currently serves as the Presiding Judge for Administration. Prior to that, Judge Messano served in all three divisions of the trial court and was Presiding Judge of the Civil Division in Hudson County. Judge Messano has served on the Civil Practice Committee, and has chaired the Supreme Court's Committee on the Rules of Evidence for the last twelve years. He is a Magna Cum Laude graduate of Lafayette College, where he majored in Government and Law and was a member of Phi Beta Kappa. The judge is a 1977 graduate of Boston College Law School. Second Panel, Professor Nina W. Chernoff, CUNY School of Law, Nina Chernoff is a Professor at the CUNY School of Law. Professor Chernoff’s research focuses on the jury, primarily the right to a jury selected from a fair cross-section of the community. Her scholarship includes No Records, No Right: Discovery and the Fair Cross-Section Guarantee (2016); Wrong About the Right: How Courts Undermine the Fair Cross-Section Guarantee by Confusing it With Equal Protection (2012); Black to the Future: The State Action Doctrine & The White Jury (2019); and Preempting Jury Challenges: Strategies for Courts and Jury System Administrators, with Dr. Joseph B. Kadane (2012). Professor Chernoff also works with courts committed to assembling diverse jury pools. For example, she gave the keynote presentation at the Washington State Supreme Court’s symposium on Jury Diversity in Washington: A Hollow Promise or Hopeful Future?, and is currently a consultant to the New Jersey Judiciary. Professor Chernoff also works with attorneys and communities seeking to diversify their jury pools through advocacy or litigation. For example, she recently helped write a letter recommending improvements to the jury plan of the United States District Court for the Southern District of California. Prior to joining CUNY’s faculty, Professor Chernoff was an Acting Assistant Professor of Lawyering at New York University Law School. Before entering academia, she was a staff attorney in the Special Litigation Division of the Public Defender Service for the District of Columbia (PDS). Prior to PDS, she was a staff attorney and Zubrow Fellow at Juvenile Law Center and served as a law clerk for the Honorable Thomas L. Ambro, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. Professor Chernoff graduated from Georgetown University Law Center, magna cum laude, in 2003; she received her M.S. with distinction in Justice, Law & Society from the School of Public Affairs at American University in 2000, and her B.A. in Sociology from Bryn Mawr College in 1997., Professor Mary R. Rose, University of Texas at Austin, Mary Rose received an A.B. in Psychology from Stanford University and a Ph.D. in social psychology from Duke University. Formerly a research fellow at the American Bar Foundation, she is currently Professor of Sociology at the University of Texas at Austin, where she teaches courses on social science and law as well as social psychology and research methods. Her research examines lay participation in the legal system and perceptions of justice, and she has written on a variety of topics including the effects of jury selection practices on jury representativeness and citizens’ views of justice, jury trial innovations, civil damage awards, and public views of court practices. She is also an investigator on the landmark study of decision making among 50 deliberating juries from Pima County, Arizona. She has served on the editorial boards of Law & Social Inquiry, Law & Society Review, Criminology, Social Psychology Quarterly, and Law & Human Behavior and is a former trustee of the Law & Society Association. Her research has been cited in numerous court cases, including three U.S. Supreme Court cases: Miller-el v. Dretke (Breyer, J., concurring); Exxon Shipping Co. v. Baker and Ramos v. Louisiana., Hon. David H. Ironson, J.S.C. (Moderator), Judge David H. Ironson serves in the Criminal Division in the Morris/Sussex Vicinage. He was appointed to the bench in 2008 and has been assigned to the Civil and Criminal divisions. Judge Ironson graduated from Seton Hall Law and the University of Maryland. He currently serves as Chair of the Supreme Court Committee on Jury Selection in Civil and Criminal Trials and also served as co-chair of the Judiciary Working Group on Juror Impartiality. Third Panel, William C. Snowden, The Juror Project, Will Snowden is the proud son of Billy Ray and Kay Snowden who were not only Milwaukee public school teachers, but also taught Will why speaking up and speaking out is important. Will plays the cello, really enjoys dancing but isn’t that good at it, and before his current work as the director of the Vera Institute of Justice in New Orleans, he was a New Orleans public defender for five years where he developed a passion and focus for all things related to jury service. Will started The The Juror Project Juror Project to increase diversity of jury panels and improve people’s perspective of jury duty. Will graduated from Seton Hall University School of Law in 2013., Gregg L. Zeff, NAACP of New Jersey, Gregg L. Zeff began practicing civil rights law back in 1988 protecting the rights of prisoners and victims of police misconduct. Since then, his practice has turned toward protecting the rights of all people. Representative clients include, public service, such as police, firefighters, correctional officers, and other civil servants, all aspects of education, including provosts, deans, professors, principals, teachers, students, and custodians. Laborers, including, factory workers, food service workers, railroad workers, office workers. truck drivers, casino workers Professionals, including, executives, doctors, nurses, hospital workers, pharmacists, lab technicians, lawyers, engineers, computer programmers, scientists, social workers and many others. When people fall victim to wrongful employment practices such as racial discrimination, sexual discrimination, retaliation and whistleblowing activities, Zeff Law Firm is there to help. Zeff has picked juries and jury trials in 3 states. He works extensively in the New Jersey State and Federal Courts as well as the Pennsylvania State and Federal Courts mostly on behalf of plaintiffs in civil rights and employment litigation. Gregg L. Zeff is the sole shareholder of the Zeff Law Firm, LLC. As a graduate of Delaware Law School of Widener University, he has earned a reputation in New Jersey as an experienced, aggressive representative who is there for his clients when they need support. When you face unlawful treatment you can trust Zeff Law Firm to help you fully understand the legal options you have available for your case. As an affiliate of numerous community groups and committees including NAACPNJ, Legal Redress Chair, State of New Jersey NAACP, Legal Redress Chair, Pennsylvania State Conference, President, Social Justice Law Project, New Jersey Criminal Sentencing, and Disposition Commission Member, Gregg L. Zeff understands how to help enforce lawful behavior and protect human rights., Howard H. Berchtold, Jr., Trial Court Administrator (Moderator), Howard Berchtold is the Trial Court Administrator for the Superior Court of New Jersey, Atlantic and Cape May Counties, a judicial district of both limited and general jurisdiction, with 44 judges and 525 plus staff members, serving in this capacity since 2006. As the highest-ranking staff executive, Mr. Berchtold overseas all court operations, including financial management, human resources, information systems, case management, probation services, jury utilization, facilities, equipment, records management, community outreach and statistical analysis. Beginning his judiciary career in 1981, Mr. Berchtold held numerous positions in the same district, including Jury Manager, Municipal Division Manager, and Assistant Trial Court Administrator. Mr. Berchtold has served on various statewide committees and boards over the years. Among them are the Strategic Planning Committee for State Unification, the Task Force for Municipal Court Improvement, the Municipal Court Administrator Certification Board, the Advisory Group on Self-Representation, Access and Fairness Committee and the Joint Committee on Criminal Justice Reform. Currently, he sits on the Judicial Council’s Budget & Planning Committee, the Judiciary’s Administrative Council, the Council’s Education and Training Committee, the Hiring Review Board, and the Drug Court Advisory Committee. Mr. Berchtold is a former faculty member of Widener University Law Center, served on the Board of Advisors for the University’s Court Administration Certification Program, and currently sits on the Advisory Board for Criminal Justice Graduate Studies at The Richard Stockton University of New Jersey. He is a 1986 Fellow of the Institute for Court Management and is the 2012 recipient of the ICM Fellows Star Award. Serving on the Institute’s faculty for over 25 years, he is certified faculty for caseflow management and also is a Facilitator/Faculty member for the Fellows Masters class. He is currently a member of the ICM Advisory Council. Starting in 2019, he has served as faculty for the District of Columbia Courts Management Training Program. An active member of the Mid-Atlantic Association for Court Management since its inception, Mr. Berchtold served as President in 2008. He is also an active member of the National Association for Court Management, often honored to present at their annual conferences. Most recently, Mr. Berchtold has become active with the National Association of Presiding Judges and Court Executive Officers. In 2019, Mr. Berchtold was honored to be inducted into the Warren E. Burger Society. Fourth Panel, Andrew J. Bruck, Acting Attorney General, Andrew J. Bruck was appointed by Governor Philip D. Murphy as Acting Attorney General in July 2021. He joined the Office of the Attorney General in January 2018 and served as Executive Assistant AG and then First Assistant AG. Previously, Bruck spent five years at the U.S. Department of Justice, where he served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in Newark, New Jersey and held several roles in the office of U.S. Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates, including Senior Counsel and Acting Chief of Staff. Before that, Bruck worked as a litigation associate in the New York office of Davis Polk& Wardwell and clerked for Chief Justice Stuart Rabner of the New Jersey Supreme Court. A graduate of Princeton University and Stanford Law School, Bruck is a New Jersey native who currently resides in Trenton with his husband Adam and daughter Libby. Bruck is the first member of the LGBTQ+ community to serve as New Jersey’s chief law enforcement officer. Since assuming office, Acting Attorney General Bruck has prioritized three initiatives: Racial Justice Gun Violence Policing Policy, Hon. Glenn A. Grant, Administrative Director of the Courts, The Honorable Glenn A. Grant, J.A.D., was appointed by Chief Justice Stuart Rabner as Director of the New Jersey Administrative Office of the Courts on September 1, 2008. Under the leadership and direction of the Chief Justice, he provides the day-today management of the court system. He collaborates with the Chief Justice to oversee a court staff of 9,000+ employees, including 460 Superior Court Judges. He is also responsible for overseeing the state municipal courts, comprised of approximately 350 municipal judges and 2,500 administrative staff. The Administrative Director is a constitutional position and Judge Grant is the eighth person to hold the position and the first minority appointed to lead the New Jersey court system. He joined the bench in 1998, serving as a Family Judge in the Essex vicinage. Prior to the appointment to his current position, Judge Grant served as Presiding Judge of the Family Part. He was temporarily assigned by former Chief Justice Poritz to serve as Acting Chief Judge of the Newark Municipal Court in order to address management and other operational issues. As Administrative Director, Judge Grant serves as a member of the Judicial Council, the policy-making body of the New Jersey Courts. He also chairs or is a member of several New Jersey Supreme Court committees, including the Advisory Committee on Access and Fairness and the Joint Committee on Criminal Justice Reform. Judge Grant has recently chaired the Working Group on Municipal Courts and the Judiciary Special Committee on Landlord Tenant. He currently serves as Chair of the Judiciary Opportunities for Building Success (“JOBS”) program. Prior to his judicial career, Judge Grant served as corporation counsel and business administrator for the City of Newark. He received his bachelor’s degree in political science from Lehigh University and his law degree from Catholic University. He studied Executive Management at Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of government., Alexander Shalom, ACLU of New Jersey, Alexander Shalom is Senior Supervising Attorney and Director of Supreme Court Advocacy at the ACLU-NJ. Alex primarily litigates cases on issues that disproportionately impact people of color. He appears in state and federal trial and appellate courts on cases addressing a wide range of issues. He has appeared more than seventy times before the New Jersey Supreme Court on cases focusing on issues including pretrial justice, the right to counsel, sentencing, search and seizure, and public access to police records. As Director of Supreme Court Advocacy, he oversees the ACLU-NJ’s work before the State Supreme Court, where they appear more often than any other non-governmental organization. Before joining the ACLU-NJ, Alex worked as an Assistant Deputy Public Defender in Essex County. Prior to that, he served as capital cases clerk for Hon. Deborah J. Poritz, Chief Justice of the New Jersey Supreme Court. , Lee A. Solomon, Associate Justice (Moderator), Lee A. Solomon, Esquire is an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of New Jersey. He was nominated by Governor Christopher J. Christie and confirmed by the Senate on June 19, 2014. Prior to being appointed, Lee served as the Assignment Judge of the Camden County, New Jersey, Superior Court, in which he was also nominated by Governor Christie and confirmed by the Senate to return to the bench on December 15, 2011, and initially was assigned to hear cases in the Civil Division. He was Presiding Judge of the Criminal Division before becoming the Assignment Judge. Lee spent two years, between February 2010, and December 2011, as President of the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) and a member of Governor Christie’s Cabinet. The BPU has jurisdiction over utility rates and facilities, and works to ensure consumer access to safe, reliable, and efficient services at reasonable costs. Before serving as BPU President, Lee had been a Camden County Superior Court Judge. He was appointed by Acting Governor, Senate President, Richard J. Cody, confirmed by the Senate, and sworn in as a member of the Court on January 13, 2006. He began in the Family Division before being assigned to the Criminal Division. Previously, Lee served as the Deputy United States Attorney for the Southern Vicinages, District of New Jersey. On June 4, 2002, he was sworn in by Christopher J. Christie, U.S. Attorney, District of New Jersey. Lee led the U.S. Attorney’s Offices in Camden and Trenton. He managed a staff of forty-seven Assistant U.S. Attorneys and support personnel. The office handled approximately 950 cases per year. Prior to his appointment to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Lee served five years as the Camden County Prosecutor and one year as Acting Prosecutor. In this position, he directed an office with a staff of more than 260 and the State’s third largest caseload. During that time, Lee served on the Board of the National District Attorneys Association and as Chairperson of the New Jersey Juvenile Justice Advisory Council. In November of 1998, the New Jersey Attorney General appointed Lee as the Monitor of the Camden City Police Department. He then reorganized the 390 member force and continued its supervision until leaving the post of Camden County Prosecutor. Before his prosecutorial appointment, Lee served five years in the New Jersey General Assembly. He served as Vice-Chairman of the Environmental Quality Committee and as a member of the Assembly Policy & Rules Committee. In addition, Lee served as Vice-Chairman of the Assembly Judiciary Committee, Vice-Chairman of the Law and Public Safety Committee, and Chairman of the Subcommittee on Criminal Justice. Earlier, Lee served two years as a member of the Camden County Board of Chosen Freeholders. As Chairman of the Finance Committee for the Freeholder Board, Lee Solomon wrote the first budget that reduced the tax rate for county taxpayers. Lee also was the Chairman of the Public Safety Committee, which was responsible for the Camden County Park Police and the Fire Marshal’s Office. From 1986 to 1994, Lee served as a member of the Haddon Heights Borough Council. Fifth Panel, Hon. Edward J. McBride, Jr., P.J.Cr., Edward J. McBride, Jr., was appointed to the Superior Court of New Jersey and began his service on the bench in Camden County on February 1, 2010. He served in the Criminal Division until September 1, 2011, when he began serving in the Family Division. On November 20, 2013, he was assigned again to the Criminal Division and designated as Presiding Judge. Judge McBride currently chairs the Conference of Criminal Presiding Judges. He chaired the Supreme Court Committee on Criminal Practice during its 2018-2019 and 2020-2021 terms and served as the co-chair of the Working Group on Juror Impartiality. , Camelia M. Valdes, Passaic County Prosecutor, Camelia M. Valdes is the Passaic County Prosecutor. When Ms. Valdes was nominated on May 16, 2009 by Governor Jon S. Corzine and confirmed by the New Jersey State Legislature, she became the first Latina county prosecutor in the State of New Jersey, the first woman prosecutor in Passaic County, and the first lead prosecutor of Dominican ancestry in the United States. As the chief law enforcement official in Passaic County, Ms. Valdes is responsible for the management of approximately 185 assistant prosecutors, detectives, victim advocates and support staff, a $20 million office budget and the oversight of 16 municipal police departments, the police departments of William Paterson and Montclair State Universities and the Passaic County Sheriff’s Department. Ms. Valdes is a career prosecutor. She served as a Municipal Prosecutor in the City of Newark, a Deputy Attorney General in the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office, an Assistant Governor’s Counsel to Governor Christine Todd Whitman and Acting Governor Donald T. DiFrancesco, and as an Assistant United States Attorney in the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Newark. Her experience has ranged from investigating and prosecuting municipal offenses to complex federal crimes that included human trafficking, health care fraud, financial offenses, and violent crimes. Born to Dominican parents in the Bronx and raised in Newark, New Jersey, Ms. Valdes is a product of the Newark Public Schools. She received her undergraduate degree in sociology from Seton Hall University in 1993, her law degree from Rutgers Law School-Newark in 1996 and her LL.M. in Trial Advocacy from Temple University in May 2001. As the proud mother of two teenagers with autism, Isabela and Elsa, ages 17 and 15, Ms. Valdes endeavors to raise awareness about autism., Hon. Hany A. Mawla, J.A.D. (Moderator), Hany A. Mawla is a Judge of the Appellate Division. He was formerly the Presiding Judge of the Family Division for Vicinage XIII Somerset, Hunterdon, and Warren Counties and the Civil and Supervising Judge for the Special Civil Part for Vicinage XIII. Prior to joining the bench, Judge Mawla was a partner in the litigation department of the law firm of Greenbaum, Rowe, Smith & Davis LLP. He is the Chair of the New Jersey Supreme Court Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Engagement Committee, Vice-Chair of the Supreme Court Advisory Committee on Access and Fairness, a member of the New Jersey Supreme Court Family Practice Committee and Chair of its dissolution subcommittee. He has lectured for the New Jersey Institute for Continuing Legal Education, the New Jersey Association for Justice, and the New Jersey Judicial College. Judge Mawla received his undergraduate degree from Rutgers University, law degree from Seton Hall University School of Law, and an Honorary Degree from Raritan Valley Community College where he was a lecturer. He received the Justice Thurgood Marshall Award and the Distinguished Service Award from the New Jersey State Bar Association. Judge Mawla is a Fellow of the American Bar Foundation. Sixth Panel, Hon. Robert M. Brutinel, Chief Justice, Supreme Court of Arizona, Chief Justice Brutinel became Chief Justice on July 1, 2019. He was appointed to the Arizona Supreme Court in November of 2010 and was elected as Vice Chief Justice in January 2018. Prior to his appointment, Justice Brutinel served as the Presiding Judge of the Yavapai County Superior Court, where he presided over cases involving civil, criminal, juvenile, mental health, drug court, probate and domestic relations matters. Justice Brutinel currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Conference of Chief Justices and has served on the Arizona Supreme Court Committee on Juvenile Courts, the Arizona Supreme Court Commission on Technology, the Arizona Commission on Judicial Conduct, the Supreme Court Arizona Judicial Council, the Arizona Character Education Commission, and the Governor’s Children’s Cabinet. Justice Brutinel is a past president of the Arizona Judges Association and the Yavapai County Bar Association and has served as an Advisory Board Member for the Arizona Department of Juvenile Corrections. In 2010 Justice Brutinel was chosen as the National Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Judge of the Year. Justice Brutinel graduated from Arizona State University with a B.S. in Economics in 1979. He received his law degree from the University of Arizona in 1982 and an LL.M. in Judicial Studies from Duke University in 2018. Justice Brutinel was admitted to practice law in Arizona in 1982. Prior to serving as a judge he practiced law in Prescott, Arizona, primarily in the areas of business and real estate, and Indian Law., Hon. Steven C. González, Chief Justice, Supreme Court of Washington, Chief Justice Steven C. González was sworn in as the Supreme Court’s 58th Chief Justice on January 11, 2021. He was appointed to the court effective January 1, 2012, and subsequently won two contested races for six-year terms starting in 2013 and 2019. Before joining the Supreme Court, Chief Justice González served for ten years as a trial judge on the King County Superior Court hearing criminal, civil, juvenile, and family law cases. Passionate about access to justice, he has served on several boards and commissions coordinating access to justice efforts across Washington state. He served as Chair of the Supreme Court’s Interpreter Commission for eight years, supporting efforts to enhance language access across the state, including amendments to general rules that address remote interpreting as courts respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and set protocols for team interpreting. Chief Justice González’s work has earned him numerous awards and honors including, the “2022 Spirit of Excellence Award” from the American Bar Association’s Commission on Racial and Ethnic Diversity in the Profession; the "2012 Difference Makers Award" from the American Bar Association’s Solo, Small Firm and General Practice Division, the Justice CZ Smith Trailblazer Award and the Exceptional Member Award from the Latina/o Bar Association of Washington, and "Judge of the Year" awards from the Washington State Bar Association, the Washington Chapter of the American Board of Trial Advocates, and the Asian Bar Association of Washington in 2011. Chief Justice González earned a J.D. from U.C. Berkeley School of Law and Honorary Doctor of Laws Degrees from Gonzaga University School of Law in 2011 and the University of Puget Sound in 2015., Hon. Richard A. Robinson, Chief Justice, Supreme Court of Connecticut, The Honorable Richard A. Robinson was born December 10, 1957 in Stamford, Connecticut. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of Connecticut in 1979 and a Juris Doctor degree from West Virginia University School of Law in 1984. He was admitted to the West Virginia Bar and the Connecticut Bar, and is a member of the U.S. District Court, Northern District of West Virginia and the U.S. District Court, Connecticut. From 1985 - 1988, Justice Robinson was Staff Counsel for the City of Stamford Law Department. In 1988, he became Assistant Corporation Counsel in Stamford where he remained until his appointment as a Judge of the Superior Court in 2000. He remained a Superior Court Judge for the next seven years during which time he served as Presiding Judge (Civil) for the New Britain Judicial District (May 2003 - September 2006); Presiding Judge (Civil) and Assistant Administrative Judge for the Ansonia/Milford Judicial District (September 2006 - September 2007); and Presiding Judge (Civil) for the Stamford Judicial District (September 2007 - December 2007). He was appointed as a Judge of the Connecticut Appellate Court on December 10, 2007, a Justice of the Supreme Court on December 19, 2013 and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court on May 3, 2018. Justice Robinson’s career is complemented by an array of public and judicial service. He served as President of the Stamford Branch of the NAACP (1988-1990); General Counsel for the Connecticut Conference of the NAACP (1988 - 2000); President of the Assistant Corporation Counsel’s Union (AFSCME) (1989 - 2000); Commissioner of the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (1997 - 2000); Chair of the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (1999 - 2000); New Haven Inn of Court member (2002 - present); Judicial Education Curriculum Committee member (2002 - 2014); Judicial Education Committee member (2003 - 2014); Faculty at several Judicial Institutes as well as spring and fall lectures (2003 - present); Civil Commission member (2005 - 2014); Court Annexed Mediator (2005 - 2014); Lawyers Assistance Advisory Board member (2007 - present); Bench-Bar Foreclosure Committee (2007 - 2014); Legal Internship Committee (2013 - 2017); Chairperson of the Advisory Committee on Cultural Competency (2009-present); Chairperson of the Rules Committee (2017- present); Connecticut Bar Association Young Lawyers Section Diversity Award (2010); Connecticut Bar Association's Henry J. Naruk Judiciary Award for Integrity (2017); NAACP 100 Most Influential Blacks in Connecticut; Connecticut Bar Foundation James W. Cooper Fellows, Life Fellow; Discovering Amistad National Advisory Board; Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities’ Alvin W. Penn Award for Excellence in Leadership (2018); Ebony Magazine Power 100 Award (2018); Quinnipiac School of Law Black Student Association Thurgood Marshall Award (2019); ABOTA Judicial Excellence Award (2019); Connecticut Bar Foundation Distinguished Service Award (2020); National Board of Directors of the Conference of Chief Justices (2019 - present); Conference of Chief Justices Civil Justice Board of Directors (2020 - present); National Judicial Task Force to Examine State Courts’ Response to Mental Illness (2020 - present)., Hon. Stuart Rabner, Chief Justice (Moderator), Chief Justice Stuart Rabner was sworn into office on June 29, 2007 after being nominated by Governor Jon S. Corzine and confirmed by the Senate. He is the eighth Chief Justice to lead the New Jersey Supreme Court since the 1947 Constitution. Born on June 30, 1960, Chief Justice Rabner was raised in Passaic. He graduated summa cum laude from the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs at Princeton University in 1982. He graduated cum laude from Harvard Law School in 1985. He was a law clerk to U.S. District Court Judge Dickinson R. Debevoise before joining the U.S. Attorney's Office in Newark in 1986. After beginning his career as an assistant U.S. attorney, Chief Justice Rabner worked in a number of positions including first assistant U.S. attorney and chief of the terrorism unit. He was chief of the office's criminal division when he was named chief counsel to Governor Corzine in January 2006. He was named New Jersey attorney general in September 2006 and served in that position until his nomination to the Court. Chief Justice Rabner and his wife, the former Deborah Wiener, have three children. Endnote, Hon. Morris Hoffman, Colorado State District Court Judge (Ret.), Morris Hoffman was a district judge in the state of Colorado from February 1991 through his retirement in May 2021. During the course of his 30 years on the bench, he sat in each of his court’s three divisions (divorce, civil, and criminal), acting as the presiding judge for many years in the civil and criminal divisions. In addition to innumerable civil bench trials, he presided over a total of 426 civil and felony criminal jury trials. He also presided over the Denver statutory grand jury for more than 10 years. He was a member of the Colorado Supreme Court’s Multidistrict Litigation Panel for 18 years, and served as its chair the last 8 years. He was also a member of the Colorado Supreme Court’s Advisory Committee on the Rules of Criminal Procedure for 20 years. He has taught jury history and selection, law and the biology of human nature, and law and neuroscience at the law schools at the University of Colorado, Boulder, and the University of Denver. He is a member of the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation’s Research Network on Law and Neuroscience, and a research fellow at the Gruter Institute for Law and Behavioral Research. He has published dozens of law review articles in the areas of criminal law, the jury, jurisprudence, and law and neuroscience, as well as several science papers focusing on the neuroscience of punishment. He has also published several law-related op-eds in national newspapers, including The New York Times and the Wall Street Journal. His book, The Punisher’s Brain: An Evolutionary History of Judge and Jury, was published in 2014 by the Cambridge University Press as part of the Cambridge Studies in Economics, Choice and Society. He lives in Denver with his wife Kate. They have two grown sons, two granddaughters, and a new black dog., Case Law, Batson v. Kentucky, 476 U.S. 79 (1986) Batson v. Kentucky, 476 U.S. 79 (1986) State v. Gilmore, 195 N.J. Super. 163 (App. Div. 1984) State v. Gilmore, 195 N.J. Super. 163 (App. Div. 1984) State v. Gilmore, 103 N.J. 508 (1986) (reprinted from Westlaw with permission of Thomson Reuters) State v. Gilmore, 199 N.J. Super. 389, 394 (App. Div. 1985), aff'd, 103 N.J. 508 (1986) State v. Gilmore, 103 N.J. 508 (1986) (reprinted from Westlaw with permission of Thomson Reuters) State v. Gilmore, 103 N.J. 508 (1986) (reprinted from Westlaw with permission of Thomson Reuters) State v. Edwin Andujar State v. Andujar, 247 N.J. 275 (2021) State v. Wildemar A. Dangcil State v. Dangcil, ___ N.J. ___ (2021), Additional Resources, April J. Anderson, Peremptory Challenges at the Turn of the Nineteenth Century: Development of Modern Jury Selection Strategies as Seen in Practitioners’ Trial Manuals Peremptory Challenges at the Turn of the Nineteenth Century: Development of Modern Jury Selection Strategies as Seen in Practitioners’ Trial Manuals , 14 Stan. J. C.R. & C.L. 1 (2020) Hon. Mark W. Bennett Unraveling the Gordian Knot of Implicit Bias in Jury Selection: The Problem of Judge-Dominated Voir Dire, the Failed Promise of Batson, and Proposed Solutions Unraveling the Gordian Knot of Implicit Bias in Jury Selection: The Problem of Judge-Dominated Voir Dire, the Failed Promise of Batson, and Proposed Solutions , 4 Harv. L. & Pol’y Rev. 149 (2010) Nina W. Chernoff, No Records; No Right: Discovery & the Fair Cross-Section Guarantee No Records; No Right: Discovery & the Fair Cross-Section Guarantee , 101 Iowa L.R. 1719 Hon. James H. Coleman, Jr., The Evolution of Race in the Jury Selection Process The Evolution of Race in the Jury Selection Process , 48 Rutgers L. Rev. 1105 (1996) Aliza Plener Cover, Hybrid Jury Strikes Hybrid Jury Strikes , 52 Harv. C.R.-C.L. L. Rev. 357 (2017) (posted with permission of the Harvard Civil Rights – Civil Liberties Law Review). Whitney DeCamp and Elise DeCamp, It’s Still About Race: Peremptory Challenge Use on Black Prospective Jurors It’s Still About Race: Peremptory Challenge Use on Black Prospective Jurors , J. of Res. in Crim. and Delinq. 57 (2020) available at https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/0022427819873943 https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/0022427819873943 Daniel Edwards, Daniel Edwards, The Evolving Debate Over Batson’s Procedures for Peremptory Challenges, National Association of Attorneys The Evolving Debate Over Batson’s Procedures for Peremptory Challenges , National Association of Attorneys General (Apr. 14, 2020), Ann M. Eisenberg, Removal of Women and African Americans in Jury Selection in South Carolina Capital Cases , 1997-2012 , 9 Ne. U. L. Rev. 299 (2017) Roger Enriquez & John W. Clark III, Roger Enriquez & John W. Clark III, The Social Psychology of Peremptory Challenges: An Examination of Latino Jurors, 13 Tex. Hisp. J. L. & Pol’y 25 (2007). As originally published in Texas Hispanic Journal of Law & Policy. The Social Psychology of Peremptory Challenges: An Examination of Latino Jurors , 13 Tex. Hisp. J. L. & Pol’y 25 (2007). As originally published in Texas Hispanic Journal of Law & Policy. Equal Justice Initiative Resources Equal Justice Initiative Resources Equal Justice Initiative, Illegal Racial Discrimination in Jury Selection: A Continuing Legacy (2010) available at Equal Justice Initiative, Illegal Racial Discrimination in Jury Selection: A Continuing Legacy (2010) https://eji.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/illegal-racial-discrimination-in-jury-selection.pdf Equal Justice Initiative, Race and the Jury: Illegal Discrimination in Jury Selection (2021) available at Equal Justice Initiative, Race and the Jury: Illegal Discrimination in Jury Selection (2021) https://eji.org/report/race-and-the-jury/ Catherine M. Grosso & Barbara O’Brien Catherine M. Grosso & Barbara O’Brien A Stubborn Legacy: The Overwhelming Importance of Race in Jury Selection in 173 Post-Batson North Carolina Capital Trials, A Stubborn Legacy: The Overwhelming Importance of Race in Jury Selection in 173 Post-Batson North Carolina Capital Trials , 97 Iowa L. Rev. 1531 (2012). Hon. Morris B. Hoffman, Hon. Morris B. Hoffman, Peremptory Challenges Should Be Abolished: A Trial Judge’s Perspective, 64 U. Chi. L. Rev. 809 (1997) (Originally appearing in the University of Chicago Law Review, 64 U. Chi. L. Rev. 809. Reprinted with permission from the University of Chicago Law Review and the University of Chicago Law School.) Peremptory Challenges Should Be Abolished: A Trial Judge’s Perspective , 64 U. Chi. L. Rev. 809 (1997) (Originally appearing in the University of Chicago Law Review , 64 U. Chi. L. Rev. 809. Reprinted with permission from the University of Chicago Law Review and the University of Chicago Law School.) Liz McCurry Johnson, Liz McCurry Johnson, Accessing Jury Selection Data in a Pre-Digital Environment, 41 Am. J. Trial Advoc. 45 (2017). Accessing Jury Selection Data in a Pre-Digital Environment , 41 Am. J. Trial Advoc. 45 (2017). Jerry Kang et. al., Implicit Bias in the Courtroom , 59 UCLA L. Rev. 1124 (2012). Originally published by the UCLA Law Review; available at https://www.uclalawreview.org/implicit-bias-in-the-courtroom-2/ . Jerry Kang, Jerry Kang, Trojan Horses of Race, 118 Harv. L. Rev. 1489 (2005). Trojan Horses of Race , 118 Harv. L. Rev. 1489 (2005). Jerry Kang, Jerry Kang Judges Implicit Bias What Judges Can Do About Implicit Bias , 57 Court Review 78, © Jerry Kang. Jerry Kang, Jerry Kang Judges Implicit Bias Evidence What Judges Can Do About Implicit Bias: Evidence-Based Recommendations and Practices , © Jerry Kang. Justin D. Levinson, Forgotten Racial Equality: Implicit Bias, Decisionmaking, and Misremembering Forgotten Racial Equality: Implicit Bias, Decisionmaking, and Misremembering , 57 Duke L.J. 435 (2007). Nancy S. Marder, Nancy S. Marder, Justice Stevens Peremptory Challenge Justice Stevens, the Peremptory Challenge, and the Jury , 74 Fordham L. Rev. 1683 (2006). Hon. Theodore McMillian & Christopher J. Petrini, Batson v. Kentucky: A Promise Unfulfilled Batson v. Kentucky: A Promise Unfulfilled , 58 UMKC L. Rev. 361, 362 (1990). Kenneth J. Melilli, Kenneth J. Melilli, Batson in Practice: What We Have Learned about Batson and Peremptory Challenges, 71 Notre Dame L. Rev. 447 (1996). Batson in Practice: What We Have Learned about Batson and Peremptory Challenges , 71 Notre Dame L. Rev. 447 (1996). Caren Myers Morrison, Negotiating Peremptory Challenges , 104 J. Crim. L. & Criminology 1 (2014). New Jersey Judiciary Bench Manual on Jury Selection (2014) New Jersey Judiciary Bench Manual on Jury Selection (2014) Jeffrey J. Rachlinski et al., Does Unconscious Racial Bias Affect Trial Judges?, Does Unconscious Racial Bias Affect Trial Judges ? , 84 Notre Dame L. Rev. 1195 (2009). Vol. 84 NOTRE DAME LAW REVIEW, Page 1195 (2009). Reprinted with permission. © Notre Dame Law Review, University of Notre Dame. Report of the Special Supreme Court Committee on Peremptory Challenges and Jury Voir Dire (2005) Report of the Special Supreme Court Committee on Peremptory Challenges and Jury Voir Dire (2005) Mary Rose, Mary Rose, Final Report on New Jersey’s Empirical Study of Jury Selection Practices and Jury Representativeness (2021) Final Report on New Jersey’s Empirical Study of Jury Selection Practices and Jury Representativeness (2021) Mary R. Rose et al., Jury Pool Underrepresentation in the Modern Era: Evidence from Federal Courts: Jury Pool Underrepresentation in the Modern Era Jury Pool Underrepresentation in the Modern Era: Evidence from Federal Courts: Jury Pool Underrepresentation in the Modern Era , 15 J. of Empirical Legal Stud. 1 (2018). Hans Zeisel & Shari Seidman Diamond, The Effect of Peremptory Challenges on Jury and Verdict: An Experiment in a Federal District Court, The Effect of Peremptory Challenges on Jury and Verdict: An Experiment in a Federal District Court , 30 Stan. L. Rev. 491 (1978)., Public Comments , Comment Number, Date of Comment, Name of Commenter, (including law firm or other affiliation) Comment 001 10/28/2021 NJ Civil Justice Institute, by Anthony M Anastasio, Esq, President NJ Civil Justice Institute, by Anthony M Anastasio, Esq, President Comment 002 10/28/2021 Essex County Bar Association, by Eileen O'Connor, Esq, President Essex County Bar Association, by Eileen O'Connor, Esq, President Comment 003 10/28/2021 Berkeley Law Clinical Program, by Professor Elisabeth Semel Berkeley Law Clinical Program, by Professor Elisabeth Semel Comment 004 10/31/2021 Richard Gabriel, Decision Analysis, Inc. Richard Gabriel, Decision Analysis, Inc. Comment 005 11/02/2021 Middlesex County Bar Association, by Edward Testino, Esq, President Middlesex County Bar Association, by Edward Testino, Esq, President Comment 006 11/03/2021 Dr. Leslie Ellis, The Caissa Group LLC and Immediate Past President of the American Society of Trial Consultants Dr. Leslie Ellis, The Caissa Group LLC and Immediate Past President of the American Society of Trial Consultants Comment 007 11/05/2021 American Civil Liberties Union of New Jersey, by Senior Staff Attorney Karen Thompson American Civil Liberties Union of New Jersey, by Senior Staff Attorney Karen Thompson Comment 008 11/05/2021 New Jersey State Bar Association New Jersey State Bar Association Comment 009 11/08/2021 Retired Assignment Judge Alvin Weiss Retired Assignment Judge Alvin Weiss Comment 010 10/27/2021 NJ Public Defender Joseph Krakora NJ Public Defender Joseph Krakora Comment 011 11/10/2021 New Jersey Association for Justice New Jersey Association for Justice Comment 012 11/09/2021 Somerset County Bar Association Somerset County Bar Association Comment 013 11/12/2021 New Jersey Institute for Social Justice New Jersey Institute for Social Justice Comment 014 11/12/2021 NJ Acting Attorney General Andrew J. Bruck NJ Acting Attorney General Andrew J. Bruck Comment 015 11/15/2021 Warren County Bar Association Warren County Bar Association Comment 016 11/12/2021 County Prosecutors Association of New Jersey County Prosecutors Association of New Jersey Comment 017 11/16/2021 Trial Attorneys of New Jersey Trial Attorneys of New Jersey Comment 018 11/12/2021 New Jersey Defense Association New Jersey Defense Association Comment 019 11/12/2021 League of Women Voters of New Jersey League of Women Voters of New Jersey Comment 020 01/20/2022 New Jersey Civil Justice Institute New Jersey Civil Justice Institute
- Civil Motion Calendar, Instructions, First-time users must register with the New Jersey Courts to search civil mediators, civil motion calendars, and discovery end dates. After logging in, please proceed to the “Find a Case – Public Access” tile and select “Civil Search." If you already have a user ID and password to access eCourts, Evidence Submission, Judiciary Electronic Document Submission (JEDS) or Municipal Case Resolution, you must use those credentials. Attorneys must use their assigned attorney bar ID credentials to access the eCourts Civil Case Jacket. Returning Users RETURNING USERS First-Time User Registration FIRST-TIME USER REGISTRATION, Disclaimer, Certain records may not be available for public inspection in accordance with Federal and State statutes and the Rules Governing the Courts of the State of New Jersey or court order. Common examples of confidential records include those involving child victims of sexual abuse, cases involving trade secrets and records in any case ordered impounded by a judge. Confidential records and information will not be returned in your search results. The information displayed on this website is generated from computerized records in the custody and control of the New Jersey Judiciary and is intended for informational purposes only. The Judiciary provides this information as a public service and makes no warranties, either expressed or implied, regarding its accuracy, reliability, currency, completeness, or suitability for any particular purpose. Additionally, the Judiciary assumes no liability for the improper or illegal use of information obtained from its computerized systems. Attempts to interfere with the operation of the Judiciary's computerized systems or to alter records in the Judiciary's computerized systems is strictly prohibited and may result in criminal prosecution, civil penalties, or disciplinary action where appropriate. In addition, the Judiciary will seek indemnification, including costs and attorneys fees, for any claims brought in connection with the improper or illegal use of information obtained from its computerized systems.
- 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.
- Municipal Division Manager Conference Contact List, Taiwan Lamb Davis: Chair (Camden), Rebecca Muller: Vice Chair (Morris/Sussex), Name Address Contact Atlantic/Cape May Jetter, Brian Municipal Division Manager Atlantic/Cape May Mays Landing Criminal Court Complex 4997 Unami Blvd. Mays Landing, New Jersey 08330 Phone: 609-402-0100 ext. 47290 Fax: 609-826-7030 Bergen Wrigley, Brendis Montijo Municipal Division Manager Bergen Bergen County Justice Center 10 Main Street Suite/Room 309 Hackensack, New Jersey 07601 Phone: 201-221-0700 ext. 25080 Fax: 201-221-0631 Burlington Chack, Amy Municipal Division Manager Burlington Burlington County Court Facility 49 Rancocas Road Mount Holly, New Jersey 08060 Phone: 609-288-9500 ext. 38551 Fax: 609-826-7067 Camden Lamb-Davis, Taiwan Municipal Division Manager Camden Camden Adult/Juvenile Reporting Division 6 Executive Campus Cherry Hill, New Jersey 08002 Phone: 856-650-9100 ext. 43130 Fax: 856-379-2274 Cumberland/Gloucester/Salem Wolk, Ashley Municipal Division Manager Cumberland/Gloucester/Salem Municipal Division Office Gloucester County Justice Complex 70 Hunter Street Woodbury, New Jersey 08096 Phone: 856-878-5050 ext. 15206 Fax: 856-379-2487 Essex Abraham, Anu Municipal Division Manager Essex Essex County Veterans Courthouse 50 West Market Street Floor 7 Newark, New Jersey 07102 Phone: 973-776-9300 ext. 69028 Fax: 973-776-9332 Hudson Piizzi, Jennifer Municipal Division Manager Hudson Hudson County Administration Bldg 595 Newark Avenue Suite/Room 406 Jersey City, New Jersey 07306 Phone: 201-748-4400 ext. 60550 Fax: 201-356-2605 Mercer Jenkins, Sharanda Municipal Division Manager Mercer Mercer County Annex - 209 209 S. Broad Street Floor 4th Floor, Annex Trenton, New Jersey 08650 Phone: 609-571-4200 ext. 74015 Fax: 609-571-4024 Middlesex Schweitzer, Laura Municipal Division Manager Middlesex Municipal Division Middlesex County Courthouse PO Box 964 New Brunswick, New Jersey 08903-0964 Phone: 732-645-4300 ext. 88837 Fax: 732-565-2907 Monmouth Romano, Theresa Municipal Division Manager Monmouth Monmouth County Courthouse 71 Monument Street Freehold, New Jersey 07728 Phone: 732-358-8700 ext. 87241 Fax: 732-435-8340 Morris/Sussex Muller, Rebecca Municipal Division Manager Morris/Sussex Morris County Courthouse Washington and Court Streets Morristown, New Jersey 07960-0910 Phone: 862-397-5700 Fax: 862-397-5682 Ocean Sclama, Joseph Municipal Division Manager Ocean Ocean Vicinage Municipal Division 213 Washington St 213 Washington St Suite/Room 303 Toms River, New Jersey 08753 Phone: 732-504-0700 ext. 64330 Fax: 732-435-8428 Passaic Greten, Nicole Municipal Division Manager Passaic Passaic County Courthouse Annex 63-65 Hamilton Street Suite/Room 200 Paterson, New Jersey 07505 Phone: 973-653-2910 ext. 24069 Fax: 973-424-6890 Somerset/Hunterdon/Warren Marinaccio, Ellen Municipal Division Manager Somerset/Hunterdon/Warren 40 North Bridge Street 40 North Bridge Street Floor 1 Somerville, New Jersey 08876 Phone: 908-332-7700 ext. 13230 Fax: 908-332-7706 Union Gulino, Delsy Municipal Division Manager Union Albender Building 1143 East Jersey St Floor 2 Elizabeth, New Jersey 07201 Phone: 908-787-1650 ext. 21242 Fax: 908-659-5954 Showing 1 to 15 of 15 items
- 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 .
- 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.
- Directories, The following directories provide contact information for New Jersey Courts. Find the correct directory below. Court Services Contact Information Local Title I ADA Coordinators ADA Title I Coordinators Title II ADA Coordinator Directory ADA Title II Coordinators Administrative Office of the Courts Directory Administrative Office of the Courts Directory of Superior Court Civil Division Offices County Civil Division Offices Directory of Criminal Division Offices County Criminal Division Offices County Deputy Clerk's Offices/Lawyer Referral and Legal Services Offices County Deputy Clerk's Offices/Lawyer Referral and Legal Services Offices County Family Division Offices County Family Division Offices County Special Civil Part Officers County Special Civil Part Officers County Special Civil Part Offices County Special Civil Part Offices New Jersey Surrogates list County Surrogates Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Staff Listing EEO/AA Officer Jury Management Office Contact List Jury Managers Municipal Court Address listing Municipal Courts Addresses New Jersey TASC Programs or TASC Evaluators New Jersey TASC Programs or TASC Evaluators Ombudsman Directory Ombudsman Statewide Pro Bono Coordinators Statewide Pro Bono Coordinators, Division Manager Contact Information, Civil Division Manager Conference Contact Lis Civil Division Managers Criminal Division Manager Conference Contact List Criminal Division Managers Family Division Manager Conference Contact List Family Division Managers Finance Division Manager Conference Contact List Finance Division Managers Human Resources Division Manager Conference Contact List Human Resources Division Managers Municipal Division Manager Conference Contact List Municipal Division Managers Operations Division Managers Contact List Operations Division Managers Probation Division Manager Contact List Probation Division Managers, Judges Rosters and Contact Information, Assignment Judges and Trial Court Administrators Assignment Judges and Trial Court Administrators Civil Presiding Judges Civil Division Presiding Judges Complex Business Litigation Judges Complex Business Litigation Judges Criminal Division Presiding Judges Criminal Division Presiding Judges Designated Environmental Litigation Judges Environmental Litigation Judges Family Division Presiding Judges Family Division Presiding Judges Conference of General Equity Presiding Judges General Equity Judges Judicial Biographical Information of Judges Judges' Biographies Judges' Chambers Listing Judges' Chambers Designated Mt. Laurel Judges Mt. Laurel Judges Municipal Presiding Judges Municipal Presiding Judges Designated OPRA Judges OPRA Judges Probate Part Judges Committee Probate Part Judges Recovery Court Judges and Coordinators Contact List Recovery Court Judges and Coordinators Special Civil Part Supervising Judges Roster Special Civil Part Supervising Judges Tax Court Judges Directory Tax Court Judges
- eCourts, eCourts is the New Jersey Judiciary’s electronic case filing and management system. Body eCourts Login Attorneys in good standing can use eCourts to File documents and cases in civil, criminal, Tax Court, and appellate cases; Pay filing fees online using a JACS collateral account; Request transcripts; and Access electronic case jackets and files., Attorney Instructions for Activating eCourts, Step 1. Activate your attorney ID. Your attorney ID is activated the first time you use the Attorney Online Registration and Payment Center Attorney Online Registration and Payment Center to complete the annual attorney registration process. Step 2. Verify your attorney contact information. Verify the accuracy of your contact information in the, Attorney Online Registration and Payment Center Attorney Online Registration and Payment Center, , and make any necessary updates. The eCourts system uses this information to send correspondence and notifications. To update your attorney or attorney firm information. Step 3. Use the Judiciary account charge system (JACS) to create an account for paying filing fees. Be sure to complete the steps to link your firm ID to the account. The firm ID is not the bar ID. Assigned during the online registration process, the firm ID is a 9-digit ID that begins with an “F,” “H,” or “L.” JACS has instructions for how to link the firm ID to your account. If you cannot locate your firm ID, call 609-421-6100 for help. , Judiciary Account Charge System (JACS) Set up JACS account now, ., Step 4. User Agreement Sign the User Agreement . You will be asked to upload this into eCourts. Step 5. Access eCourts Once you have an attorney account and a linked JACS account, you can log into eCourts Civil, Criminal, and Appellate., eCourts Tax Court Registration, Attorneys must file a separate Attorney Access Verification Form verification form to use eCourts Tax. Send the completed form to TaxCourt.Mailbox@njcourts.gov with the subject line “Attorney Access Request.” You will receive a confirmation email from the , Tax Court, Clerk’s Office. Self-represented litigants must register before filing. Complete Registration Register for eCourts Tax Court. County boards of taxation, municipal clerks, and tax assessors must register before accessing eCourts accessing eCourts . eCourts County and Municipal Access Request Form Use this form and send to PublicAccess.Mailbox@njcourts.gov, Tips., Keep these things in mind when using eCourts: Make sure your email account accepts emails from eCourts so that court notices are not blocked or filtered into a spam folder. You must maintain the accuracy of your contact information. You can also update your attorney information to add an alternative email address to receive notifications. Sign documents electronically using this format: s/[Firstname Lastname] Follow standard paper processes for serving self-represented litigants and parties that have not entered a confirmed eCourts email address. Some Rules of Court have been relaxed to allow for electronic filing. While the courts have provided guidance to help eCourts users, we cannot provide legal advice. The Rules of Court remain in effect for all case types., eCourts Civil Notes, Who can file?, All New Jersey attorneys in good standing can use eCourts for civil matters., Mandatory case types., Attorneys are required to file via eCourts is special civil and foreclosure matters., File dates., Foreclosure, DC, and Law complaints and motions filed on weekdays by 11:59 p.m. will receive a filed date for the same day. Filings which occur Saturday, Sunday, Court Calendars, Schedules, and Agendas legal holidays, recess days will receive a filed date for the next business day., Do not file these documents in eCourts:, Sealed documents False Claims Act cases Structured settlements , eCourts Criminal Notes, Who can file?, Prosecutors, public defenders, and private attorneys in good standing can use eCourts for criminal matters to do not require a filing fee., Do not file these documents in eCourts:, Sealed documents Megan’s Law Expungements—use the Expunging Your Court Record expungement filing system to file requests for expungements. Gun permits Municipal appeals, eCourts Tax Court Notes, Who can file?, Self-represented litigants and New Jersey attorneys in good standing can use eCourts to file all documents in local property and state tax matters. County boards of taxation, municipal assessors, and municipal clerks can access case information through the Log in non-attorney login ., Do not file sealed documents in eCourts., eCourts Appellate Notes, Who can file?, New Jersey attorneys are required to use eCourts to file all documents in non-emergent appellate matters. Filers can use a credit card if they do not have an attorney JACS account. There will be an additional service fee for credit card payments. List Of Fees See filing fees. For help during business hours, contact the eCourts Appellate team at 609-815-2950 ext. 52590 or appellateT7.mailbox@njcourts.gov . For help with pretrial detention appeals, contact the pretrial detention appeals team at 609-815-2950 ext. 52580 or appellatepda.mailbox@njcourts.gov For Emergent matters, contact the , Appellate, Division emergent clerks between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. at 609-815-2950 and when prompted, press 1., How to file an appeal. Go to, the, Appellate Self-help page Appellate Self-help page to get instructions, forms, and guidance on preparing appellate briefs.
- Contested and Uncontested Divorces, Contested divorces are those in which the spouses disagree on one or more issues, such as: allegations stated in the grounds for divorce, custody, parenting time (visitation), child support, alimony, equitable distribution (splitting of assets and/or debts), or other matters. After both Plaintiff and Defendant have filed their papers with the court, court staff will schedule any necessary conferences or other court events such as: Case management conferences Custody and parenting time mediation Parent Education Workshop Matrimonial Early Settlement Panel and/or Economic Mediation Discovery Discovery , which is the exchange of documents and information that the parties will use in court The goal of these court events is to give the couple opportunities to settle as many issues between themselves as possible, rather than having the judge decide each issue. Couples are encouraged to try to develop a joint property settlement agreement if at all possible. Court staff will advise when additional paperwork is required, such as a: Case Information Statement, which has details about assets, liabilities, income, and expenses; or Custody/Parenting Time Plan, for cases with children., Contested Divorce Timeline and Costs, Depending on how complex and contested the divorce is, it could take serval months to complete. The specific timeline depends on factors in each individual case. Similarly, costs will depend on the nature of the case. For contested divorces, it is recommended that each spouse get their own attorney in order to better understand their rights and responsibilities. Uncontested divorces are those in which both spouses agree that they want to dissolve their marriage. In most instances, the court process for uncontested divorces can be completed in a much shorter time than for contested divorces., To file for an uncontested divorce:, Plaintiff should notify the court when filing that the divorce is uncontested. All Where to find divorce forms and instructions forms and the Filing Fees and Fee Waivers(Divorce) $300 Glossary filing fee are still required. Defendant should Where to file divorce appearance forms and instructions file an Appearance form stating that the defendant does not contest the divorce, but is prepared to appear before the court on whatever issues the two spouses will be resolving in the divorce. The Filing Fees and Fee Waivers(Divorce) $175 Filing fee filing fee is still required. The couple will prepare a joint property settlement agreement that includes plans for custody, parenting time, child support, alimony, equitable distribution, and any other financial matters. The agreement must be signed by both parties and notarized. The court will accept the agreement and make it a part of the divorce order when the divorce is granted.
- Special Civil Court, Lawsuits for amounts up to $20,000 are called special civil cases. They are filed in Superior Court, in the special civil part of the civil division., Essential Forms, The following forms are used to begin a case: CN Title 10542 How to Answer a Complaint in the Special Civil Part 10914 How To Request a Default Judgment in the Superior Court Of New Jersey - Special Civil Part (Small Claims and Regular Special Civil Part Cases) 10915 How to File a Motion to Dismiss the Complaint or to Strike the Answer for Failure to Answer Interrogatories in the Special Civil Part 12302 Special Civil Answer and Counterclaim, Cross-claim, Third Party Complaint - Appendix XI-Z 10541 How to Sue for an Amount of Money up to $20,000 11968 How to Answer a Complaint in the Special Civil Part with a Counterclaim, Cross-claim and/or Third Party Complaint These forms are used after a judgment is entered to help collect money: CN Title 10282 Collecting a Money Judgment - brochure 10546 How to Get Financial Information About Someone Who Owes You Money (Motion to Enforce Litigant’s Rights) 10548 How to Ask the Court to Order a Wage Execution in a Special Civil Part Case 11235 Writ of Wage Execution - Appendix XII-E 11236 Notice of Application for Wage Execution - Appendix XI-I 11711 How to Complete the Request for a Writ of Execution 11840 Information Subpoena - Appendix XI-L Use these from to defend yourself against collection: CN Title 12322 How to Object to a Wage Garnishment in a Special Civil Part Case 12323 How to Object to a Bank Account Levy in a Special Civil Part Case 10543 How to File a Motion in the Special Civil Part Examples: A person or company failed to comply with a written or oral contract. Your car was damaged in an accident. You paid money as a down payment and want it returned. Your property was damaged or lost. Merchandise you bought is defective. Work you paid for was faulty or not completed. You want to be paid for work you did. Someone wrote you a bad check. You gave a landlord a security deposit that was not returned. Cases not eligible: Malpractice claims against doctors, dentists, lawyers, or other professionals Claims for child support or alimony Cases involving wills and inheritance Claims seeking anything other than money from the Defendant defendant, Do I need a lawyer to file a lawsuit in the Special Civil Part?, The court system can be confusing, and it is a good idea to get a lawyer if you can. If you cannot afford a lawyer, you can contact the legal services program in your county to see if you qualify for free legal services. Legal Services of New Jersey maintains a directory of regional legal services offices. regional legal services offices. The NJ State Bar Association also maintains a list of county referral services list of county referral services that might be helpful., Things to think about before representing yourself in court, While you have the right to represent yourself in court, you should not expect any special treatment, help, or attention from the court. You must still comply with the Rules of the Court, even if you are not familiar with them. The following is a list of some things the court staff can and cannot do for you. Please read it carefully before asking the court staff for help. We can explain and answer questions about how the court works. We can tell you what the requirements are to have your case considered by the court. We can give you some information from your case file. We can provide you with samples of court forms that are available. We can provide you with guidance on how to fill out forms. We can usually answer questions about court deadlines. We cannot give you legal advice. Only your lawyer can give you legal advice. We cannot tell you whether or not you should bring your case to court. We cannot give you an opinion about what will happen if you bring your case to court. We cannot recommend a lawyer, but we can provide you with the telephone number of a local lawyer referral service. We cannot talk to the judge for you about what will happen in your case. We cannot let you talk to the judge outside of court. We cannot change an order issued by a judge., Filing a Special Civil Suit, How to Sue for an Amount of Money Up To $15,000 How to sue for an amount of money up to $20,000, This kit has all of the forms and instructions for self-represented litigants to file a special civil case for money Damages damages, Note: You must be 18 to file a court case. If you are under 18, your parent or guardian must filed the case for you., 8 steps to file a special civil case, Complete the Special Civil Part complaint (Form A in the Kit). Complete the top part only of Special Civil Part Summons (Form B in the Kit). Do not include personal identifiers such as social security numbers on the copy of the documents that you file with the court. Complete the forms, make a copy, and then Redact redact or black out the Personal Identifiers personal identifiers on the copies you will submit to the court. Include the current address of the person you are suing. Attach the Filing Fee filing fee or request a Fee Waivers fee waiver: Suing one defendant up to $5,000: $ 50 Suing one defendant for more than $5,000: $ 75 Each additional defendant: $ 5 Mail service fee for each defendant: $ 10 If requesting a jury trial: $100 Checks should be made payable to “Treasurer, State of NJ” Check forms to make sure they are complete. Sign the forms. Make copies of all of the documents you will submit to the court and put them in a safe place. , Check that you have redacted the personal identifiers on the copies you prepare for court, . , Upload the documents, into the Judiciary Electronic Document Submission (JEDS) system Judiciary Electronic Document Submission (JEDS) system . You can pay the fee with a credit card. You can upload the How to File for a Fee Waiver - All Courts fee waiver request form if needed. You also can mail the complaint , the summons and the fee to the Directory of Superior Court Special Civil Part Offices county Superior Court where the person or business is. Certified mail is recommended. The defendant can file a written Answer answer to the court within 35 days of getting the court summons. If the defendant files an answer, the court will send you a notice with a date to appear in court. If the defendant does not file an answer, you might be entitled to a Default Judgment default judgment Contact the court if you cannot come to court on your assigned date. Your case might be dismissed if you do not appear for trial., Serving the papers on the defendant, Your case cannot move forward unless the defendant receives the complaint and summons from the court. The court will mail the complaint and summons to the defendant(s). The defendant must then How to Answer a Complaint in the Special Civil Part file an answer. NOTE: You must give the court the correct address for the defendant or your case can not move forward., Defending yourself in a suit, If you are being sued in a special civil case You are the Defendant defendant in a lawsuit. You must file an Answer answer with the court. If you do not file an answer, a money Judgment judgment might be entered against you. You will receive a Summons summons from the court with the date and time to attend your trial. You must attend your trial on the date stated on the notice. If you do not attend your trial, a money judgment might be entered against you. If you cannot attend your trial on the date you were given, you must call the number on the notice or contact the Directory of Superior Court Special Civil Part Offices Special Civil Part office where the case was filed to ask for a new date., Do I need a lawyer to defend myself in a Special Civil Case?, The court system can be confusing, and it is a good idea to get a lawyer if you can. If you cannot afford a lawyer, you can contact the legal services program in your county to see if you qualify for free legal services. Legal Services of New Jersey has a list of Regional legal services offices. regional legal services offices. The NJ State Bar Association has a list of NJ NJ list of county referral services list of county referral services that might be helpful. Corporations, limited liability corporations and limited partnerships must be represented by an attorney if the lawsuit is more than $5000., Do not ignore the summons, . Even if you do not have a lawyer, it is better to try to defend yourself in court than to ignore the summons., Things to think about before representing yourself in court, While you have the right to represent yourself in court, you should not expect any special treatment, help, or attention from the court. You must still comply with the Rules of the Court, even if you are not familiar with them. The following is a list of some things the court staff can and cannot do for you. Please read it carefully before asking the court staff for help. We can explain and answer questions about how the court works. We can tell you what the requirements are to have your case considered by the court. We can give you some information from your case file. We can provide you with samples of court forms that are available. We can provide you with guidance on how to fill out forms. We can usually answer questions about court deadlines. We cannot give you legal advice. Only your lawyer can give you legal advice. We cannot tell you whether or not you should bring your case to court. We cannot give you an opinion about what will happen if you bring your case to court. We cannot recommend a lawyer, but we can provide you with the telephone number of a local lawyer referral service. We cannot talk to the judge for you about what will happen in your case. We cannot let you talk to the judge outside of court. We cannot change an order issued by a judge. How to Answer a Complaint in the Special Civil Part How to file an answer in the Special Civil Part. Defendants must file a written Answer answer to the complaint within 35 days of the date shown on the summons. Each defendant must file a separate answer. If you have evidence showing that you do not owe the amount claimed, such as receipts, attach copies of those papers to every copy of your answer. Keep copies of all the original documents and bring them to the trial. You also can choose to file a Counterclaim counterclaim, cross-claim or want to file a third-party complaint, 6 Steps for filing an answer to a lawsuit in the Special Civil Part, Complete the answer form and write your explanation why you think you do not owe the money that the person suing you is asking for. Do not include Personal Identifiers personal identifiers such as social security numbers on the documents filed with the court. Complete the forms, make a copy, and then Redact redact the personal identifiers on the copies you will submit to the court. Attach the filing fee of $30. Pay by credit card (for filings made through JEDS JEDS), use a check or a money order payable to "Treasurer, State of NJ." Check to make sure forms are completed and signed. Make copies of all documents you submit to the court and put them in a safe place. , Check that you have redacted the personal identifiers on the copies you prepare for court., Upload the documents, into the Judiciary Electronic Document Submission (JEDS) system Judiciary Electronic Document Submission (JEDS) system . You can pay the fee with a credit card. You can upload the How to File for a Fee Waiver – All Courts fee waiver request form if needed. You also can mail the documents to the Directory of Superior Court Special Civil Part Offices county Superior Court where the person or business is. Certified mail is recommended. You must also mail or bring your answer to the plaintiff and to any other parties in the case. If any party is represented by an attorney, send the information to the attorney instead. You will get a notice with a date to attend the trial.. Contact the court if you cannot attend the trial on your assigned date due to circumstances beyond your control. If you do not attend the trial, the court might find you in default and a money Judgment judgment might be entered against you. You might receive a list of questions, called Interrogatories interrogatories , from the plaintiff. You must answer the questions and return them to the plaintiff within 30 days. Read more about preparing for trial. Read more about preparing for trial., Filing Fees and Fee Waiver, Suing one Defendant defendant up to $5000: $50 Suing one defendant for more than $5000: $75 Each additional defendant: $5 All checks must be made payable to Treasurer, State of NJ, Do you qualify for a fee waiver?, You might not have to pay to file your cases if your income and assets are low enough. Fill out the Fee Waiver form and give it to the court along with the required documents. You can apply for a fee waiver in any NJ state court: Supreme Court, Appellate Division, Superior Court and Tax Court. How to File for a Fee Waiver - All Courts Request and learn more about fee waivers ., Preparing for Trial, Watch the Harris Announcement Video video on preparing for trial before you come to court. Both the plaintiff and defendant will be asked to give Testimony testimony at the trial. You can present witnesses. The court cannot accept written statements. You must have your witness available to testify on the trial date. Submit all of the documents you need to prove your side of the case at the trial using Electronic Evidence Submission Electronic Evidence Submission The court cannot use text messages or emails on your mobile phone. You must either submit them to the court in advance of the trial date, through Electronic Evidence Submission Electronic Evidence Submission or by mail, or bring them to the trial. You will be questioning your witnesses and the witnesses brought by the other person. Write down your questions and have them available on the trial date. Be prepared to present records of any transactions that may help you prove your case. That could be Cancelled checks, money orders, sales receipts Bills, contracts, estimates, leases Letters Photographs Other documents proving your claim, Interrogatories, The parties in a court case are able to ask each other for information about the evidence they will use at trial. The questions are called Interrogatories interrogatories. The interrogatories are sent directly to the other party and not to the court. If there is more than one defendant in a case, separate interrogatories can be sent to each of them., Deadlines, Plaintiff :, You have 30 days after receiving a defendant’s answer to send your interrogatories to that defendant. If you are suing for personal injury or automobile negligence, you must demand interrogatories in the complaint., Defendant, : You have 30 days after receiving a copy of the complaint to send your interrogatories to the plaintiff., All parties, : Whether you are a plaintiff or a defendant, all interrogatories must be answered within 30 days of when you received them. If you do not return your answers to the other parties within 30 days, the court might rule against you by suppressing your answer. If you miss the deadline, your filing is “stricken,” or removed, from the court record. You must pay a $25 fee within 30 days to have the case reinstated and your filing accepted. After 30 days, the restoration fee goes up to $75. After 45 days, the court might make the suppression order final, and then you will lose the case. Special Civil Part Interrogatories - Model Questions for Contract and Debt Collection Cases Where the Demand Exceeds $3,000 Use this kit for interrogatories for contract and debt collection cases over $5,000. How to Sue for Up To $5,000 in Small Claims Court Motor Vehicle Case Use these instructions if your case involves an auto accident or personal injury., Settlements, The court will ask that you try to settle your case so that you can avoid a trial. You might also want to contact the other party, or the other party’s lawyer, to talk about settling the case., Your day in court, The Plainiff plaintiff and the Defandant defendant must attend the trial at the time at the time and date stated on the summons, unless otherwise notified by the court. Be prepared to present all witnesses and evidence needed to present your case. On the day scheduled for trial, the court will help you try to settle your case through a settlement conference with a trained neutral third person. This person will try to help the plaintiff and the defendant reach an agreement. The neutral third person is not a judge. If a settlement cannot be reached, your case likely will be heard by the judge on the same day., If the plaintiff does not appear, the judge could dismiss the case., If the defendant does not appear, the judge could enter a Default default judgment and the defendant might have to pay all or part of the money claimed in the lawsuit., Appealing a Special Civil Case, Either Party party can Appeal appeal a decision in Special Civil court. You should consider whether the amount at stake in your case is worth the cost of filing an appeal., When to File file, The appeal must be filed in the Appellate Division of Superior Court , within 45 days of the court’s decision., Do I need a lawyer to file an appeal?, You do not have to have a lawyer to appeal your case. But the appeals process can be confusing. You will have to convince the appeals court that the judge made a mistake. It is a good idea to get a lawyer if you can., Things to think about before representing yourself in court, While you have the right to represent yourself in court, you should not expect any special treatment, help, or attention from the court. You must still comply with the Rules of the Court, even if you are not familiar with them. The following is a list of some things the court staff can and cannot do for you. Please read it carefully before asking the court staff for help. We can explain and answer questions about how the court works. We can tell you what the requirements are to have your case considered by the court. We can give you some information from your case file. We can provide you with samples of court forms that are available. We can provide you with guidance on how to fill out forms. We can usually answer questions about court deadlines. We cannot give you legal advice. Only your lawyer can give you legal advice. We cannot tell you whether or not you should bring your case to court. We cannot give you an opinion about what will happen if you bring your case to court. We cannot recommend a lawyer, but we can provide you with the telephone number of a local lawyer referral service. We cannot talk to the judge for you about what will happen in your case. We cannot let you talk to the judge outside of court. We cannot change an order issued by a judge., Steps to file an appeal, File a Notice of Appeal. Request a transcript [link forthcoming] of your case from the Appellate Division. You must have the official transcript in order for your appeal to be considered. Complete a Case Information Statement. Appellate Division Practice Checklist Use the Appellate Division Practice Checklist, Filing Fees, $250 must be submitted with the Notice of Appeal. This is the cost of the appeal., Do you qualify for a Fee Waiver fee waiver?, Did the special civil court waive your fee? If so, you can attach a copy of the order and a signed letter that says your finances have not changed since the case was filed. How to File for a Fee Waiver – All Courts Use the Certified Statement in Support of a Motion to Proceed as an Indigent If you did not receive a fee waiver in your small claims case, you can submit a How to File for a Fee Waiver – All Courts request for a fee waiver with your appeal ., Mail or bring your appeals documents to:, Appellate Division Clerk’s Office, Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex P.O. Box 006 Trenton, New Jersey 08625-0970, Send copies of your appeals document to:, All parties in the case who appeared in court The local Directory of Superior Court Special Civil Part Offices Special Civil Part office that handled your special civil case The Judge's Chambers Listing judge who decided your special civil case, Keep a copy of each document for yourself., Preparing your appeal You will need to prepare a Brief brief , which is a document that explains why your appeal should be granted. Questions about your appeal? Call the , Appellate Division Clerk’s Office, at 609-815-2950 ., Collecting Your Money, If you were awarded a Judgment judgment in Special Civil part, you are a Judgment Creditor judgment creditor . You should contact the person who owes you the money, the Judgment Debtor judgment debtor, to talk about payment., The court cannot guarantee payment, Although the court will try to help you collect the money owed to you, it cannot guarantee the debt will be paid., Fees and other costs for Writs writs of execution, The filing fee is $35., Other Costs:, Ten percent fee: The special civil part officer will charge the debtor an extra ten percent on top of whatever money is recovered for you. Service fee: $7 fee for the Special Civil Part Officer to deliver service of process (e.g., complaints, writs and wage executions) to defendant(s). Sales and Advertising: If the special civil part officer sells personal property to get the money you are owed, you might be charged for things like advertising the sale., Writ of Execution, Read our brochure, on Collecting a Money Judgment How to Collect a Money Judgment A writ of execution is a court document that gives a special civil part officer the right to collect money from a judgment debtor’s bank account or personal property. , Real estate cannot be used to collect money owed in the Special Civil Part., Seizing a motor vehicle, You must be able to show that the vehicle is registered in the debtor’s name. You will need either: A certified of the title, or A certified Lien Glossary lien search from the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. The debtor might have an outstanding loan or debt on the car. You must determine if there is value or equity in the debtor’s car before you ask a special civil part officer to take it. Other items that could be used to satisfy a writ include: Office or sports equipment Household items Jewelry Clothing The debtor can keep $1,000 worth of personal property and clothing. If the debtor does not have more than $1,000 worth of personal property, this method cannot be used by the special civil part officer to satisfy your judgment and to collect the money owed to you., Bank levy (taking funds from a bank account), Use packet, How to Ask the Court to Order a Bank to Turn Over Funds That Have Been Frozen How to File a Motion to Turn Over Funds You can ask a special civil part officer to collect the money from the debtor’s bank account if the account is in New Jersey. Special civil part officers are not required to search for the debtor’s bank accounts. You must provide the name of the bank, the address and , no more than the last 4 digits of the account number, , if possible. , Do not provide the Special Civil Part Office with the debtor’s entire active financial account number, . Provide it to the officer directly if necessary. After the money has been levied upon by the special civil part officer, it is considered frozen. You must then File file a Motion Motion to Turn over Funds with the court and serve a copy upon the debtor and the bank. If the court grants the motion, the judge will sign an order that the special civil part officer will deliver to the bank. The officer will take the money from the bank, deposit it into an official business trust account, and then mail a check to the creditor or creditor’s attorney by the 15th day of the following month., Execution against wages (garnishing a debtor’s salary), Use packet, How to Ask the Court to Order a Wage Execution in a Special Civil Part Case How to File a Wage Execution The judgment creditor can request an execution against a person's wages if the debtor works in New Jersey and earns more than $217.50 per week. To request a wage execution, send a How to Ask the Court to Order a Wage Execution in a Special Civil Part Case Notice of Application for Wage Execution to the debtor by regular and certified mail. File a copy of the application and a statement of how you mailed the application to the debtor with the Office of the Special Civil Part in the county where the case was heard. If the debtor objects to the wage execution, a hearing will be immediately scheduled by the court. If the debtor does not object or the court does not allow the objection, the court will order a wage execution to be delivered to the debtor's employer by the special civil part officer. The employer will hold back a portion of the debtor's wages and will send this money directly to the officer. The officer will deduct a 10 percent commission and send the rest to you., If the money is not collected, Writs for wage executions can last for 20 years, but other writs expire in two year. After two years, the debtor can choose to: Request a new writ of execution from the court by following the same procedures used the first time in order to have the special civil officer keep trying to get the money; OR Request to have the judgment recorded as a lien against any real estate owned by the debtor. Once the judgment is recorded in the Superior Court, the debtor cannot sell with clear title any real estate owned in New Jersey until the debt is paid. To get a lien, a Statement for Docketing from the Directory of Superior Court Special Civil Part Offices Special Civil Part Office where the case was heard. You can send the Statement for Docketing, plus a $35 filing fee payable to Treasurer, State of New Jersey , to, Appellate Division Clerk’s Office, Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex P.O. Box 006 Trenton, New Jersey 08625-0970, Frequently Asked Questions, What Happens on the Day Of Trial in Special Civil? The defendant and the plaintiff must come to court at the time and date stated on the trial notice, unless otherwise notified by the court. Bring all witnesses and evidence needed to present your case. On the day scheduled for trial, the court may help you settle your case through mediation with a trained mediator or a settlement conference with a neutral third person. This person will try to help the plaintiff and the defendant reach a satisfactory agreement. The mediator or neutral third person is not a judge. If a settlement cannot be reached, every effort will be made to have your case tried by the judge on the same day. If you win your case and need information on how to collect your judgment, you can find that information in our brochure entitled “ Collecting a Money Judgment - brochure Collecting a Money Judgment .” This brochure is available in any New Jersey Special Civil Part Office as well as on the Internet at Collecting a Money Judgment - brochure njcourts.gov . What Claims Are Typically Filed in Special Civil Part? Following is a general list of claims that may be filed in Special Civil: Breach of a written or oral contract. Return of money used as a down payment. Property damage caused by a motor vehicle accident. Damage to or loss of property. Consumer complaints for defective merchandise or faulty workmanship. Payment for work performed. Claims based on bad checks Return of a tenant’s security deposit. What Is the Fee for Filing a Complaint with Special Civil? The costs for filing a complaint in Special Civil are: $50 for a complaint where the amount claimed is $5,000 or less. $75 for a complaint where the amount claimed is more than $5,000. $5 for each additional defendant. The fee is $10 for each defendant served by certified and regular mail. $10 fee for a Court Officer to personally reserve complaint. $12 fee for each additional defendant reserved by a Court Officer. Make a check or money order payable to the Treasurer, State of New Jersey. An additional $100 fee is required for requests for a jury trial by six jurors. If you cannot afford to pay the filing fees, you may apply to the court to qualify as an indigent and your filing fees may be waived by the judge. Can I Appeal a Special Civil Court? If you, as a plaintiff or as a defendant, disagree with the court's decision, you may appeal the case to the Appellate Division of the Superior Court within 45 days from the date when the final decision is rendered. (The information is available on How to Appeal a Trial Court, Tax Court or State Agency Decision njcourts.gov ) You must file a Notice of Appeal, a copy of the Request for Transcript and a Case Information Statement within the 45 days with the Clerk of the Appellate Division (located at the Hughes Justice Complex, Trenton) and deliver copies to: All parties to the case who appeared in court. The Office of the Special Civil Part from which the appeal is taken. The judge who decided the case. You must pay a filing fee of $250 with the Notice of Appeal and deposit $300 with the Clerk of the Appellate Division within 30 days of the Notice of Appeal. This deposit may be used to pay settlement or court costs if the appeal is lost. If the appeal is successful, the deposit will be refunded. You also must obtain a transcript (a copy of the record of what happened in court) of the trial. The request for a transcript should be made to the Office of the Special Civil Part in the county in which the case was tried. You must deposit with the Clerk the estimated cost of the transcript (as determined by the court reporter, Clerk or agency preparing it) or $300 for each day or part of a day of the trial. You must file three copies of the transcript with the, Appellate Division Clerk’s Office, . Questions concerning an appeal should be directed to the, Appellate Division Clerk’s Office, at 609-815-2950 or to an attorney. What Claims Cannot Be Filed in Special Civil Part? Claims arising from professional malpractice (for example, alleged malpractice by a doctor, dentist or lawyer). Claims for support or alimony from a marital or domestic dispute. Claims arising from a probate matter. Please remember that if you believe you are entitled to damages greater than $20,000, but still wish to sue in Special Civil, you give up your right to recover damages over $20,000. The additional money, cannot, be claimed later in a separate lawsuit. Can I File an Answer to a Complaint with Special Civil? If you have been named as a defendant in a case, you must file a written answer to the complaint with the Office of the Special Civil Part in the county in which the complaint was filed within the number of days stated in the summons (35 days). You also must hand deliver, or send by regular mail, a copy of this answer to the plaintiff's attorney or send it by regular and certified mail to the plaintiff if they do not have an attorney. An answer packet for self-represented litigants, with accompanying instructions, is available in any New Jersey Special Civil Part Office and is available on the Internet at How to Answer a Complaint in the Special Civil Part njcourts.gov. If you believe that the plaintiff owes you money, you must add a counterclaim to the answer. If you believe that someone else named as a defendant in the complaint owes the money, you must add to the answer a cross-claim against that defendant. Finally, if you believe that a party not named in the complaint owes the money, you must add a third-party complaint to the answer. When filing an answer, be sure to give the following information: The docket number and caption of the case which appears on the complaint. Your full name, address and telephone number. The correct name(s) and address(es) of the plaintiff(s). The reason(s) you are disputing the plaintiff's claim. Include the amount of money for which you are suing, if you are including a counterclaim, cross-claim or third-party complaint with your answer. Do not provide any party’s “ confidential and personal identifiers”* in the answer or in any other submission to the court unless specifically required under law, court order, rule or administrative directive. You must complete the summons form if you are filing an answer, that includes a third-party complaint, (a new party is being added to the lawsuit by you). You must also pay the applicable service fees, as the court is required to serve the answer and third party complaint, on your behalf, upon the new party(ies) that you are adding to the lawsuit. You also must sign the answer, and pay the correct fling fees, when filing the answer with the Office of the Special Civil Part. If you do not respond to the complaint in writing within the number of days listed on the summons, a "judgment by default" may be entered against you. Through a judgment by default, the court decides the amount of money, if any, to be awarded to the plaintiff because you did not answer the complaint in time. If you have answered the complaint on time, the court will notify you by mail of the trial date. * A “ confidential personal identifier ” is defined as a social security number, driver’s license number, vehicle plate number, insurance policy number,, active, financial account number or, active, credit card number. You can provide the last 4 digits of a party’s, active, financial account if it is the subject of the lawsuit and cannot otherwise be identified. Where Do I File a Complaint with Special Civil? A complaint must be filed in the Office of the Special Civil Part in the county where at least one defendant lives or where the defendant's business is located. A business defendant is considered located in a county wherever it is actually doing business or in the county where its registered office is located. If there is more than one defendant, the complaint can be filed in the county where any of the defendants live or is located. If none of the defendants live or are located in New Jersey, the complaint must be filed in the county where the cause of the complaint occurred. A list of all of the Special Civil Part Offices, addresses and phone numbers in New Jersey is available on the Internet at Directory of Superior Court Special Civil Part Offices njcourts.gov . What Is the Fee for Filing an Answer in Special Civil? $30 for an answer. $50 for an answer with a counterclaim, cross-claim or third-party complaint where the amount is $5,000 or less. $75 for an answer with a counterclaim, cross-claim or third-party complaint where the amount is more than $5,000. Note: The Clerk will also charge an additional fee for serving the third-party complaint upon the new party(ies) that you are adding to the lawsuit. If you cannot afford to pay the filing fees, you may apply to the court to qualify as an indigent and your filing fees may be waived by the judge. Who May File a Complaint with Special Civil? To sue in the Special Civil Part, a person must be 18 years of age or older. If the person suing is under the age of 18, the claim must be filed by a parent or guardian. A plaintiff or defendant that is a corporation, partnership, (any business entity other than sole proprietors) must be represented by an attorney when the claim is greater than $5,000. An officer, trustee, director, agent or employee of a corporation may present or defend against a claim of $5,000 or less. How Do I Prepare for Trial in Special Civil?, Interrogatories, The Rules of Court provide for an exchange of information by the parties. Whether you are the plaintiff or the defendant, questions from the opposing party, called "interrogatories," must be answered within 30 days from the date you receive them., Plaintiff, If you are the plaintiff, you must prove your case. Arrange to have any witnesses and records you need to prove your case at the trial. A written statement, even if made under oath, cannot be used in court. . Only actual testimony in court of what the witness(es) heard or saw will be allowed. Prepare your questions in advance. Bring to court records of any transactions that may help you prove your case. Such records may include: Cancelled checks, money orders, sales receipts. Bills, contracts, estimates, leases. Letters. Photographs. Other documents proving your claim. If you are able to settle the case with the defendant before the trial date, call the Special Civil Part Clerk's Office immediately to confirm that the case should be marked settled., Defendant, If you are the defendant, you should prepare your side of the case as the plaintiff prepared his or her case. Bring all necessary witnesses and documents to court with you on the scheduled trial date. You must come to court at the time and date shown on the trial notice. If you do not, a default judgment may be entered against you and you may have to pay the money the plaintiff says you owe. If you are able to settle the case with the plaintiff before the trial date, call the court immediately to confirm that the case should be marked settled. What Is the Special Civil Part? Special Civil is a court in which you may sue a person or a business (the defendant) to collect an amount of money up to $20,000 that you believe is owed to you. If your claim is $5,000 or less, you may sue in the Small Claims Section. This segment on Special Civil explains how to file a complaint, answer a complaint, file an appeal and gives general information about Special Civil. It is not intended to provide or take the place of legal advice or to answer every question you have about this court. For legal advice about your rights, you should contact a lawyer. If you do not have a lawyer, you may contact the Lawyers' Referral Service of your County Bar Association. If you cannot afford a lawyer, you may contact the Legal Services Program in your county to see if you are eligible for free legal services. Special Civil is one of three sections within the Special Civil Part Court. The other two sections are Landlord Tenant and Small Claims. Special Civil is limited to cases in which the demand is $20,000 or less. If you believe you are entitled to recover more than $20,000, your case should be filed in the Law Division of the Superior Court. If you believe you are entitled to damages greater than $20,000, but still wish to sue in Special Civil, you give up your right to recover damages over $20,000. The additional money cannot be claimed later in a separate lawsuit How Do I File a Complaint with Special Civil? A Special Civil complaint form and accompanying instructions is available in any New Jersey Special Civil Part Office and is available on the Internet at How to Sue for an Amount of Money Up To $20,000 njcourts.gov . The summons and complaint can be filed through the mail or in person at the appropriate Special Civil Part Office (See “ Where Do I File a Complaint With Special Civil? Where Do I File a Complaint? ” Question). When filing a complaint, you, as the plaintiff, must: Give your full name, address and telephone number. To ensure proper service of the complaint, give the correct name(s) and address(es) of the person(s) or business(es) named as the defendant(s) in the complaint. It is important that the defendant(s) be properly identified as an individual, a sole proprietorship, a partnership or a corporation. State the amount of money for which you are suing. State the reason why the defendant(s) owes you money. State whether there is, at this time, another case involving both you and the other party(ies) and, if so, the name of the court. Do not provide any party’s *“ confidential and personal identifiers ” in the complaint or in any other submission to the court unless specifically required under law, court order, rule or administrative directive. Sign and date the completed form. Pay the correct filing and service fees when filing the complaint with the Office of the Special Civil Part. * A “confidential personal identifier” is defined as a social security number, driver’s license number, vehicle plate number, insurance policy number,, active, financial account number or, active, credit card number . You can provide the last 4 digits of a party’s, active, financial account if it is the subject of the lawsuit and cannot otherwise be identified. After you have filed a complaint, a trial date will not be set unless the defendant files an answer in writing, along with the proper fees, to the Office of the Special Civil Part within 35 days from the date the complaint was served upon that defendant. If the defendant responds in writing within the 35 days, a trial date will be scheduled. All parties will be notified by the court. If a defendant does not respond within the 35 days, the Court will enter a default. The plaintiff can apply to the Special Civil Part Office for the entry of a “judgment by default” within 6 months from the date that default was entered. After this six month period, they must file a motion in order to obtain the judgment by default. Through a judgment by default request, the court decides the amount of money, if any, to be awarded to a plaintiff because the defendant did not answer the complaint in time or come to court. You are required to submit an affidavit and other documents verifying the amount of your claim and prove to the Court that the individual defendant is not an active member of the U.S. military. Proof of military service does not apply to business defendants. A hearing may be held in court to allow you to prove your claim where the amount you claimed cannot be proved from your documents. A packet for self-represented litigants on how to apply for a default judgment is available in any New Jersey Special Civil Part Office and is available on the Internet at How to Request a Default Judgment njcourts.gov . If the complaint is for money damages caused by a motor vehicle accident and the judgment requires a defendant to pay more than $500, the defendant must pay within 60 days. If the defendant does not pay within the 60 days, the plaintiff may request, through the Office of the Special Civil Part, that the Motor Vehicle Commission stop the defendant's driving privileges until the judgment is paid. There is no fee for this request., Glossary, Answer : An Answer is a written response that explains why the defendant thinks they do not owe the money to the plaintiff in a court case. Appeal : An appeal is a written request asking a higher court to look at the decision of the judge and change that judge’s decision. Breach of Contract : A breach of contract is a failure to perform a promise that is a part of a written or oral contract. Brief : A brief is document submitted to the court to explain your side of the case. Certification : A certification is a written statement made to the court when you file papers, swearing that the information contained in the filed papers is true. Complaint : A complaint is a document in which you briefly tell the court the facts in your case and the relief you want the court to grant. Counterclaim : A Counterclaim is a claim added to defendant’s answer which asserts an affirmative claim for damages against the plaintiff. Damages : The amount of money the plaintiff sues for in a lawsuit is called damages . Default : When the defendant does not appear for trial to respond to the complaint or does not file an answer, a judge could rule in the plaintiff's favor. This is called a default . Also, if the plaintiff does not appear for trial, the court could dismiss the plaintiff's case. Defendant : The defendant is the person or business against whom a case is filed. Fee waiver : The court does not charge a filing fee for litigants who can prove that their income is no more than 150% of the current poverty level and that they have no more than $2,500 in cash and bank accounts. File : To file means to give the correct forms and fee to the court. Interrogatories : Interrogatories are written questions to the other party or parties in a lawsuit whose purpose is to get information that can be used at trial. Judgment : A judgment is the official decision of a court in a case. Judgment creditor : A person who is owed money as a result of a court order. Judgment debtor : A person who owes money as a result of a court order. Lien : A lien is the legal right of a creditor to claim a debtor’s property until a debt is paid. Litigant : A litigant is party in a court case, either suing or being sued. Motion : A motion is a written request in which you ask the court to issue an order, or to change an order it has already issued. Order : An order is a signed paper from the judge telling someone they must do something. Party : A party is a person, business or governmental agency involved in a court action. Personal Identifier : A personal identifier is any personal information that is unique to an individual, including Social Security number, military status, driver’s license number, license plate number, insurance policy number, active bank account and credit card numbers. This information could be used to steal someone’s identity or their money. All documents filed with the court are available for public inspection. , Therefore no personal identifiers should be included on documents filed with the court, Plaintiff : The plaintiff is the person who starts the lawsuit by filing the complaint. Proof Hearing : the judge or court can direct the plaintiff to submit written documents or tell their story in a proof hearing to support or prove the how much the defendant owes. Redact : To redact is to remove or to hide parts of a written document. Return Date : The return date is the date the plaintiff and defendant are told to appear in court. Service : Service is mailing or delivering copies of your papers to the lawyer for the other party or to the other party directly if they have no lawyer. Service of Process : Service of Process is the official delivery of the papers to the other party. Summons : A summons is the paper that notifies the defendant that he or she is being sued and briefly explains the steps they need to take once they have received this notice. Testimony : Testimony is an oral statement given by a witness at a trial or hearing. Tort : A tort is an act or failure to act that causes an injury or harm to another that forms the basis of a lawsuit for damages. Transcript : A transcript is a written record of everything that was said during a court hearing. Writ : A writ is a document issued by a court that orders a person, or organization to do something.
- District Fee Secretaries, District Fee Committee Secretary, District I, Atlantic, Cape May, Cumberland and Salem Counties, Kelly A. Dougherty, Law Offices of Michael Gaffney, LLC 1318 South Main Road, Suite 5B Vineland, NJ 08360 Phone: 856-777-5400 Fax: 856-777-5600, District IIA, Bergen County – North, Terrence J. Corriston, Secretary, District IIA Fee Arbitration Committee Breslin & Breslin 41 Main Street Hackensack, NJ 07601 Phone: 201-342-4015, District IIB, Bergen County – South, Michael J. Sprague, Secretary, District IIB Fee Arbitration Committee 25 Main Street, Suite 202 Court Plaza North Hackensack, NJ 07601 Phone: 201-342-3500, District IIIA, Ocean County, Lisa E. Halpern, Secretary, P.O. Box 726 Toms River, NJ 08753 Phone: 732-244-7719, District IIIB, Burlington County, Albert M. Afonso, Secretary, Afonso Archie Law, P.C. 21 Route 130 South Cinnaminson, NJ 08077 Phone: 609-416-1333, District IV, Camden and Gloucester Counties, Marian I. Kelly, Secretary, Popjoy & Kelly, LLC Two Echelon Plaza 221 Laurel Road, Suite 155 Voorhees, NJ 08043 Phone: 856-845-6181, District VA, Essex County – Newark, Michael J. Dee, Esq., Secretary, O’Toole Scrivo 14 Village Park Road Cedar Grove, NJ 07009 Phone: 973-239-5700, District VB, Essex County – Suburban Essex, Harvey S. Grossman, Secretary, 80 Main Street, Suite 530 West Orange, NJ 07052 Phone: 973-736-5858, District VC, Essex County – West Essex, Cheryl H. Burstein, Esq., Secretary, Mandelbaum Barrett PC 3 Becker Farm Road, Suite 105 Roseland, New Jersey 07068 Phone: 973-736-4600, District VI, Hudson County, Mary Ann R. Andrews, 4617 Bergenline Avenue-Second Floor Union City, New Jersey 07087 Phone: 201-223-6660, District VII, Mercer County, Rebecca R. Colón, Esq., Secretary, District VII Fee Arbitration Committee OSWALD & ZOSCHAK, P.C. 3500 Quakerbridge Road, Suite 107 Hamilton, New Jersey 08619 Phone: 609-844-0488 Fax: 609-844-0784 Email: rc@ozfamilylaw.com, District VIII, Middlesex County, Steven Nudelman, Esq., Secretary, District VIII Fee Arbitration Committee P.O. Box 5600 Woodbridge, NJ 07095 Phone: 732-476-3206 Fax: 732-476-2429 Email: DFACVIII_Secretary@greenbaumlaw.com, District IX, Monmouth County, Thomas F. Shebell, III, Shebell & Shebell, L.L.C. 600 Broad Street, Suite 100 Shrewsbury, NJ 07702 Phone: 732-663-1122, District X, Morris and Sussex Counties, Patricia Cistaro, Secretary, Cistaro Law L.L.C. 5 Cold Hill Road South Suite 15 P.O. Box 294 Mendham, New Jersey 07945 Phone: 973-813-8100, District XI, Passaic County, Candice L. Drisgula, Secretary, 1501 Hamburg Turnpike, Suite 305 Wayne, NJ 07470 Phone: 973-872-1200, District XII, Union County, Carol A. Jeney, Secretary, Jeney Jeney & O’Connor, LLC 1953 Westfield Avenue Scotch Plains, NJ 07076 Phone: 908-322-9191, District XIII, Hunterdon, Somerset and Warren Counties, Olivier J. Kirmser, Secretary, Kirmser Cunningham & Skinner 202 Halls Mills Road – P.O. Box 1675 Whitehouse Station, NJ 08889 Phone: 908-572-3173 908-572-3173
- Superior Court Clerk's Office, Body, Overview, The Superior Court Clerk’s Office manages several statewide functions for the Judiciary. This includes court record storage and retrieval, uncontested foreclosures, judgment liens, and the annual attorney registration and payment process., Michelle Smith, , Clerk of Superior Court Contact Us: Cisco Chat button Live Chat Available M-F 8:30-4:30 Mailing Address:, Superior Court Clerk's Office, Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex P.O. Box 971 Trenton, New Jersey 08625-0971 Hand Deliveries:, Superior Court Clerk's Office, Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex 25 Market Street Trenton, New Jersey 08625, Court Records, Court records are transferred to the Superior Court Records Center after they are resolved. Contact the Clerk's Office to Copies of Court Records request records from closed cases . The Clerk's Office also administers the Electronic Access to Court Records Electronic Access Program for online access to the Judiciary’s case management systems. Data Reports for Sale Case data reports also are available through the Clerk’s Office. Justices and Judges are required to file an annual Judicial Financial Reporting statement with the Administrative Director. To request a copy of a justice’s or a judge’s Judicial Financial Reporting statement, email your request to JFRReq.mailbox@njcourts.gov JFRReq.mailbox@njcourts.gov . Attorneys seeking to file a Certification of Attorney Regarding Cybersecurity Incident and Request for Restoration of Access to New Jersey State Judiciary Systems should fax that request to 609-826-7021., Foreclosure and Judgment Case Processing, All foreclosures are filed with the Superior Court Clerk’s Office. Uncontested foreclosures are processed by the Foreclosure In New Jersey Office of Foreclosure . See our Foreclosure Self-Help page foreclosure self-help page if you are representing yourself in a foreclosure. The Clerk’s Office oversees the collection of judgments awarded in all types of court cases. Visit our Self-help Collecting money in a Civil case self-help page if you are trying to collect a money judgment or if you are trying to get a warrant of satisfaction that a judgment has been paid., Attorney Registration and Payment, The Superior Court Clerk’s Office administers the annual Attorney registration and payment online attorney registration and payment process . This helps ensure that all attorneys can gain access to eCourts eCourts , can create a Judiciary Account Charges System (JACS) Judiciary Account Charges System (JACS) account, and are properly listed in the online Attorney Index Attorney Index., Bail Surety Program, The Superior Court Clerk’s Office maintains the Surety Bond Registry and registers all corporate insurance companies, their bail agencies and agents and guarantors of surety bonds. No surety bond for purposes of bail shall be accepted by any court unless the insurer has first filed with the Superior Court Clerk's Office a Bail Program Registration Form. In addition to the registration process, the Clerk’s Office handles the enforcement process. If a condition of a recognizance is breached, bail will be forfeited by court order. A notice will be sent to county counsel, the defendant, and any surety or insurer, bail agent or agency directing that a default judgment will be entered as to any outstanding bail, absent a written objection seeking to set aside the forfeiture, which must be filed within 75 days of the date of the notice. The notice shall also advise the insurer that if it fails to satisfy a judgment and until satisfaction is made, it shall be removed from the Bail Registry and its bail agents and agencies, guarantors, and other persons or entities authorized by the insurer to administer or manage its bail bond business in this State will have no further authority to act for it, and their names, as acting for the insurer, will be removed from the Bail Registry. To register an agency or agent with the Superior Court Clerk's Office, a corporate sponsor must complete and submit a Bail Program Registration Form Bail Program Registration Form . E-mail the completed registration form to SccoSuretyBond.Mailbox@njcourts.gov . For more information, call 609-421-6100, Superior Court Trust Fund, The Superior Court Trust Fund is a temporary depository for funds claimed in connection with litigation in the New Jersey Superior Court or of funds to be deposited under the jurisdiction of the New Jersey Supreme Court. Superior Court Trust Fund The Superior Court Trust Fund Practitioner's Guide is provided to assist individuals or attorneys seeking to deposit and withdraw funds from court. Attorneys and self-represented litigants who have interaction with the Trust Fund should be familiar with and comply with all applicable rules, statutes and regulations. Questions regarding the processing of Trust Fund work should be directed to SccoTrustfund.Mailbox@njcourts.gov or by calling 609-421-6100 Mailing Address:, SCCO Trust Fund, Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex P.O. Box 971 Trenton, New Jersey 08625-0971 Hand Delivery:, SCCO Trust Fund, Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex 25 Market Street Trenton, New Jersey 08625
- Appellate Livestreams, The “View Livestream” button will appear next to the case title once the oral argument starts. Not all oral arguments are livestreamed. 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 not livestreamed. No Appellate arguments scheduled for today.
- Annual Attorney Registration and Payment, All New Jersey attorneys must complete the online registration process at the beginning of the calendar year. Body Documents Related to the June 26, 2025 CLE on Resources for NJ Attorneys. June 2025 CLE Handout June 2025 CLE Handout June 2025 CLE Code Form June 2025 CLE Code Form, Registration and Payment Login, Log in Forgot User ID Forgot User ID? Forget Password? Forgot Password? Attorneys can use the online registration and payment system to Pay their annual assessment Activate their access to eCourts for civil, criminal, and appellate litigation Reset passwords and set up two-factor authentication Change their address, email, and phone number on file with the courts Change their status with regard to payment and pro bono exemptions , Two-factor authentication is required., The two-factor authentication system will use the most recent email address or cell phone number entered into the online registration system. Two-Factor Authentication View the User Guide or call 609-421-6100 for help during business hours., Fees, The fee is based on your calendar year of admission. Attorney Registration Fee Schedule View the fee schedule ., Pay online, There is no fee for ACH and JACs payments. Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover payments include a 3 percent service fee., Payments by employers, If your employer has agreed to pay on your behalf, you may opt for employer pay within the online system after you complete the registration portion of the process. Employers are allowed to pay as a convenience. It is ultimately the individual responsibility of the attorney. Therefore, it is important that you follow up with your employer and ensure that payment has been made to avoid ineligibility., First-time registrants, First-time users of the online payment system should refer to the Mandatory Electronic Attorney Registration notice that was mailed to their address of record. The bottom of the notice contains their user ID and temporary password. Log into the system, follow the prompts to create your unique security questions, and then activate your account., Forgotten Passwords, If needed, attorneys can Reset Password reset their passwords before logging in., Verify your information., Make any needed corrections to your contact information, including phone number, email, and mailing address. Name changes must be submitted as a name change affidavit to the Supreme Court. Download a Attorney Name Change Form name change form and follow the instructions for submission., Partial Payments , Use the online attorney registration system to remit payment only if you intend to either pay the entire balance due or claim a payment exemption for your entire period of ineligibility. If you want to claim a payment exemption for a partial period of ineligibility, please contact the, NJ Lawyers’ Fund for Client Protection (Hotline), at 855-533-3863, option 1, for assistance., Exemptions from Payment., Exemptions from payment are only as defined, without alteration. Exemptions from payment cannot be claimed solely by virtue of being prohibited from private practice, by being out-of-state, or by being exempt from pro bono counsel assignment. Upon certification of same, the following categories of plenary license holders shall be exempt from payment: At least since January 31 of the calendar year, completely retired from the practice of law. Employment, if any, is not in any way related to the practice of law. Does not draft or review legal documents, render legal assistance or advice, teach law or serve in a court system in any capacity, in any jurisdiction; At least since January 31 of the calendar year, on full-time active duty with the armed forces, AmeriCorps, or Peace Corps , and, not engaging in any way in private practice. Exemptions are automatically granted to those plenary license holders who are: Admitted in the current calendar year; Admitted to practice in New Jersey for 50 years or more. If you are in retired or military status, you must still file an annual registration, even if no payment is due. You must also inform the Judiciary immediately if you no longer qualify for the exemption. Please resume payment of the annual assessment and keep your address current in the online system., Plenary Admission in New Jersey in 1976 or earlier, No payment is due. Since you are in or beyond your 50th calendar year of licensure, your registration indicates automatic entitlement to the 50-year exemption. If you are also “retired completely from the practice of law” (see below) and wish to claim the retired exemption, execute the retired certification online or if previously granted an exception to online registration execute the certification on the paper form., Plenary Admission in New Jersey in 2025, You are required to complete your registration online. No payment is due for 2025 since you are in your first calendar year of admission., Retired Exemption, You may request the retired exemption online . You are entitled to the retired exemption only if, since January 31 of the current year, Your employment is not related to the practice of law; You do not draft or review legal documents; You do not render legal assistance or advice on the law; You do not teach law; and You do not serve in a judiciary in any capacity, in any jurisdiction. You may not claim this exemption by virtue of being out-of-state or exempt from pro bono assignment. Once you have certified to the retired exemption, you will remain in retired status until you inform the Judiciary otherwise. If you are currently in retired status, please respond to the other parts of the annual registration. For lawyers granted the retired exemption, the Supreme Court Clerk’s Office will only issue letters indicating your status and not certificates of good standing., Military Exemption. , You may request the military exemption online . You are entitled to the military exemption only if, since January 31 of the current year, you are on full-time active duty with the armed forces, the Peace Corps, or AmeriCorps, and you are not engaging in any way in private practice. You may not claim this exemption by virtue of being prohibited from private practice or exempt from pro bono assignment, nor does any other government employment entitle you to the exemption. Once you have certified to the military exemption, you will remain in military status until you inform the Judiciary otherwise. If you are currently in military status, please respond to the other parts of the annual registration., Out-of-State and Government Attorneys, Attorneys admitted in New Jersey but practicing in another jurisdiction, teaching law, or working for a governmental entity are not exempt. You must complete your registration and pay all required fees each year., Other Forms, CN Title 10957 Certification of Military Exemption 11005 Address Change for Billing 11620 Certification of Retirement 11621 Certification of Retirement - Legal Services Volunteer 11933 Exception Request Form - Electronic Attorney Registration and Payment, Programs funded, The annual assessment mandated by Supreme Court Rule provides revenue for Lawyers' Fund for Client Protection The Lawyer’s Fund for Client Protection ; The attorney discipline process, including the Office of Attorney Ethics Office of Attorney Ethics and the Disciplinary Review Board; Disciplinary Review Board ; The The Lawyers Assistance Program Lawyers Assistance Program The Board on Supreme Court Board on Continuing Legal Education Continuing Legal Education ; and The Board of Bar Examiners Board of Bar Examiners., Fee Schedules, 2025 Fee Schedule - New Jersey Licensed Attorneys, Admitted, Fee if received before due date: February 28, 2025, Fee if received after February 28, 2025 but before Ineligible List, 1976 or prior to 1976 Exempt from payment Exempt from payment - No late fee 1977 – 2021 $267 $307 2022 or 2023 $238 $278 2024 $ 35 $ 75 2025 Exempt from payment Exempt from payment - No late fee , 2025 Fee Schedule - Other than Non-New Jersey Licensed Attorneys, Fees, 2025 annual payment $267 Late fee (if paid after Feb. 28, 2025) $ 40 Fee for reinstatement from one year’s ineligible list $ 50 Fee for reinstatement from two or more year’s ineligible list $100 For questions, call the Lawyers' Fund for Client Protection: 855-533-3863 , option 1., CLE Noncompliance :, , A $50 noncompliance fee will be assessed by the , Supreme Court Board on Continuing Legal Education, Board on Continuing Legal Education, against attorneys who report they did not complete the required courses by the course completion deadline. An additional $50 (for a total of $100) will be assessed against attorneys who fail to complete their Continuing Legal Education courses within the grace period of June 27, 2025, or who fail to report CLE compliance at all, . Attorneys who remain noncompliant with the mandatory CLE requirement are subject to being declared administratively ineligible to practice New Jersey law, pursuant to Board on Continuing Legal Regulations BCLE Regulation 402:3 . To be removed from the CLE ineligible list, the noncompliant attorney must satisfy ALL outstanding CLE credit requirements and pay any required fees. *Even if you have not satisfied your CLE requirements or are CLE Non-Compliant, you are encouraged to complete your annual registration and payment by February 28, 2025 to avoid registration late fees. , Payment if admitted in Federal Court:, Attorneys admitted pro hac vice in Federal Court in New Jersey are similarly obligated to pay. L. Civ. R. 101.1(c)(2)., Reporting Pro Bono Exemptions, If you qualify for exemption from pro bono requirements, use the appropriate exemption code number in the pro bono section of the online annual registration form. The online form also asks you identify your “assignment vicinage” or county for pro bono assignments. Your assignment county must be related to the New Jersey county where you reside; the New Jersey county where you serve as corporate counsel; or the New Jersey county where you or your firm has an office that you work out of. You should select “out of state” or “out of country” if either of those applies., Attorneys on per diem or temporary assignments., Attorneys practicing law in New Jersey on a per diem basis or through a temporary employment agency are not eligible to claim an exemption from pro bono assignments. They are eligible to receive assignments only during the time that they are practicing law. Therefore, if an attorney receives an assignment when not actively practicing law, the attorney must immediately contact the office of the assignment judge of the assignment vicinage., Pro Bono Exemption Categories, Attorneys who work full time for any local, county, State or Federal agency or authority and who, by statute, rule, administrative directive, Executive Order, published Ethics Code or Opinion, are prohibited from the private practice of law, are exempt. All Supreme Court Justices, all Superior Court and Tax Court Judges, all Federal Court Judges, all Workers' Compensation Judges, all Administrative Law Judges, all retired Justices and Judges, all Surrogates and Deputy Surrogates, all Child Support/Domestic Violence Hearing Officers or Juvenile Referees, and all Municipal Court Judges are exempt. All attorneys working full time for the Administrative Office of the Courts or on the staff of any State or Federal Judge or any vicinage of the Superior Court or any Municipal Court, County Clerk, or Surrogate are exempt. Attorneys serving as part-time municipal court directors, administrators, deputy administrators and violations bureau clerks are also exempt. All County and full-time Municipal Prosecutors and Assistant Prosecutors, all attorneys working in the Office of Counsel to the Governor, the Attorney General and Deputy Attorney Generals, the Public Defender and Deputy Public Defenders, full-time Municipal Public Defenders, the Public Advocate and Deputy Public Advocates are exempt. Part-time Municipal Public Defenders and Public Defender Pool Attorneys are not exempt. All attorneys who work full time for criminal law enforcement or investigative agencies, such as but not limited to, police forces, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, County Sheriff, Federal Marshals, Casino Control Commission, or the Internal Revenue Service are exempt. Attorneys who are not currently practicing law, and those who are completely retired, are exempt. Attorneys are considered not practicing law or retired if the following applies: the attorney’s employment is not related to the practice of law, the attorney does not have to be an attorney to hold his or her position, the attorney does not review legal documents, the attorney does not render legal assistance or advice on the law, the attorney does not teach law, and the attorney does not serve in the judiciary in any capacity, in any jurisdiction. Attorneys who are ineligible to practice law in New Jersey under statute, Rule of Court, or court order are also exempt. An attorney who appears pro se or pro hac vice or as the guardian of a party in interest may still claim this exemption if those are the only legal services performed in New Jersey. Attorneys who serve as in-house counsel in New Jersey are not exempt. Attorneys employed full time by a Legal Assistance Organization, as described in R. 1:21-1 Who May Practice; Appearance in Court, R. 1:21-1(e, ) , or by a Legal Aid Society are exempt. Attorneys who certify that they have performed at least twenty-five (25) hours of qualifying pro bono service in New Jersey, for a certified pro bono organization or for a pro bono organization approved by the Supreme Court, within the calendar year ending on December 31, 2024, are exempt under this category. See, R. 1:21-11 Definitions and Certifications Regarding Pro Bono Practice R. 1:21-11 and R. 1:21-12 Madden-Exemption Based on Voluntary Qualifying Pro Bono Service R.1:21-12 . Additionally, attorneys who satisfy the same twenty-five (25) hour requirement by serving as a court-appointed attorney-trustee pursuant to R. 1:20-19, who serve as a court-appointed attorney in adult guardianship matters, who volunteer to handle Termination of Parental Rights Appeals as compensated Public Defender Pool Attorneys, or other pro bono service approved by the Supreme Court are also exempt under this category. Attorneys who are members of a District Ethics Committee, a Fee Arbitration Committee, the Disciplinary Review Board, the Disciplinary Oversight Committee, the Board of Trustees for the New Jersey Lawyers’ Fund for Client Protection, the Supreme Court Committee on the Unauthorized Practice of Law, the Supreme Court Committee on Attorney Advertising, the Advisory Committee on Professional Ethics, the Committee on Character or the Advisory Committee on Judicial Conduct and attorneys who are employed as peer counselors for the Judge Assistance Program are exempt. Attorneys who practice law out of state, who do not practice in New Jersey within the calendar year, are exempt. An attorney who appears pro se or pro hac vice or as the guardian of a party in interest may still claim this exemption if those are the only legal services performed in New Jersey. Attorneys who serve as part-time Municipal Prosecutors are exempt from all criminal and Quasi-criminal pro bono cases. However, they may still be assigned civil pro bono cases., Reporting Continuing Legal Education Credits, Attorneys must report their compliance with New Jersey’s Court 1:42-Continuing Legal Education Rule 1:42 regarding continuing legal education (CLE) as part of the continuing legal education process. Group 1 attorneys have birthdays that fall between Jan. 1 and June 30. Their compliance period starts on Jan. 1 in even numbered years and concludes on Dec. 31. of the following odd-number year. Group 2 attorneys have birthdays that fall between July 1 and Dec. 31. Their compliance period starts on Jan. 1 in odd numbered years and concludes on Dec. 31. of the following even-number year. The fee for noncompliance with the bi-annual CLE requirement is $50. Attorneys must pay an additional $50 if they fail to complete their CLE courses within the afforded grace period or who fail to report regarding CLE compliance at all. In addition, attorneys who remain noncompliant are subject to being declared administratively ineligible to practice law in New Jersey., Newly Admitted Group 1 Attorneys, If admitted to the New Jersey Bar during an odd year, follow the regular 24-credit, 24-month reporting cycle. You will report your CLE compliance in an even year. If admitted to the New Jersey Bar during an even year, your first reporting period will cover only the next (odd) year. You must earn 12 CLE credits during this period. You will report compliance with this requirement on your annual online registration during the following (even) year., Newly Admitted Group 2 Attorneys, If admitted to the New Jersey Bar during an even year, follow the regular 24-credit, 24-month reporting cycle. You will report your CLE compliance in an odd year. If admitted to the New Jersey Bar during an odd year, your first reporting period will cover only the next (even) year. You must earn 12 CLE credits during this period. You will report compliance with this requirement on your annual online registration during the following (odd) year. Supreme Court Board on Continuing Legal Education Learn more about continuing legal education requirements All persons certified as Foreign Legal Consultants under Certification and Practice of Foreign Legal Consultants R. 1:21-9 , those holding limited licenses as In-House Counsel under Rule 1:27-2. Limited License; In-House Counsel R. 1:27-2 , those holding limited licenses as Foreign In-House Counsel under Rule 1:27A-. Foreign In-House Counsel R. 1:27-2A , those registered as Multijurisdictional Practitioners under RPC 5.5-Lawyers Not Admitted to the Bar of This State and the Lawful Practice of Law RPC 5.5(b) , or those admitted pro hac vice in accordance with Rule 1:21-2. Appearances Pro Hac Vice R. 1:21-2 , shall make the same annual payment as licensed New Jersey attorneys in their 5th through 49th years., Pro Hac Vice, Pro Hac Vice, , Requirements , Rule 1:21-2. Appearances Pro Hac Vice Rule 1:21-2(a) ; Rule 1:20-1-Disciplinary Jurisdiction; Annual Fee and Registration 1:20-1(b) ; Rule 1-28-2-Payment to the Fund; Enforcement 1:28-2 and 1:28A-1-Purpose; Administration; Appointments 1:28B-1(e) . Attorneys seeking pro hac vice admission should send the following to the Lawyers’ Fund for Client Protection: A completed 2025 PHV form. (PHV forms for 2024 Pro Hac Vice Admission Form (PHV-24) 2024 and 2023 Pro Hac Vice Admission Form (PHV-23) 2023 2023 Pro Hac Vice Admission Form (PHV-23) are also available). A signed copy of the Court Order. If the judge requires payment before signing the order, please send a copy of the unsigned Order. Then, send a copy of the signed order when it becomes available. If you are appearing before a board or commission and there is no court order, indicate this in a cover letter and submit copies of your paperwork; A check payable to the NJ Lawyers' Fund for Client Protection in the amount of $267.00 for each attorney being admitted; Notification when each matter is concluded. An attorney's pro hac vice appearance continues until the matter is concluded, or there is a substitution of counsel, or the filing of a notice of withdrawal with the Court. The Fund must continue to seek payment until the attorney gives notice that either the matter, or the attorney's appearance in it, has formally concluded. Mail to:, NJ Lawyers’ Fund for Client Protection, Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex P.O. Box 961 Trenton, New Jersey 08625-0961 Courier and Express Mail only: Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex 25 Market Street Floor 5th floor, North Wing Trenton, New Jersey 08625, Notes, Attorneys licensed in New Jersey who maintain a bona fide office in any state or territory of the United States, Puerto Rico, or the District of Columbia need no longer be admitted pro hac vice to handle a matter in New Jersey . 1:21-1-Who May Practice; Appearance in Court Rule 1:21-1(a) . No additional fee is required. Attorneys who are ineligible to practice law in New Jersey due to nonpayment of fees are also ineligible for admission pro hac vice . They must first pay all fees due. The fee is assessed once per calendar year per attorney. Attorneys admitted for additional cases within the calendar year should update their case listing information via the Online Registration and Payment Center ; however, no additional fee is required. If a case continues into the next calendar year, the fee for that year will have to be paid. An attorney's appearance continues until either the matter is concluded or there is a substitution of counsel. Attorneys admitted pro hac vice in federal court in New Jersey are similarly obligated to pay. L. Civ. R . 101.1(c)(2). After initial admittance, subsequent annual payments can be made with a credit card or ACH debit in the Online Registration and Payment Center . Attorneys not currently appearing pro hac vice in any matter in New Jersey should complete the Certification for PHV attorney no longer appearing on a case. Certification for PHV attorney no longer appearing on a case ., In-House Counsel, In-house counsel working in New Jersey or performing New Jersey-related legal work in another U.S. jurisdiction are required to obtain limited licensing from the New Jersey Supreme Court. Read 1:27-2-Limited License; In-House Counsel Court Rule 1:27-2 . To learn more or to apply for admission, visit the New Jersey Board of Bar Examiners website. After initial admittance, subsequent annual payments can be made with a credit card or ACH debit in the Online Registration and Payment Center Online Registration and Payment Center . Payment can be made with a credit card or ACH debit. Additional Forms Additional forms for change of address, change in employment, or termination of employment, as needed can be found at Board of Bar Examiners web site: New Jersey Board of Bar Examiners Mail to:, NJ Lawyers’ Fund for Client Protection, Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex P.O. Box 961 Trenton, New Jersey 08625-0961 Courier and Express Mail only: Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex 25 Market Street Floor 5th floor, North Wing Trenton, New Jersey 08625, Foreign In-House Counsel, Foreign In-house counsel working in New Jersey or performing New Jersey-related legal work in another U.S. jurisdiction are required to obtain limited licensing from the New Jersey Supreme Court. Read 1:27-2A-Foreign In-House Counsel Registration R. 1:27-2A . To learn more or to apply for admission, visit the https://www.njbarexams.org/home Board of Bar Examiners website. All persons certified as Foreign Legal Consultants under 1:21-9-Certification and Practice of Foreign Legal Consultants R. 1:21-9 , those holding limited licenses as In-House Counsel under 1:27-2-Limited License; In-House Counsel R. 1:27-2 , those holding limited licenses as Foreign In-House Counsel under 1:27-2A-Foreign In-House Counsel Registration R. 1:27-2A , those registered as Multijurisdictional Practitioners under RPC 5.5-Lawyers Not Admitted to the Bar of This State and the Lawful Practice of Law RPC 5.5(b) , or those admitted pro hac vice in accordance with 1:21-2-Appearances Pro Hac Vice R. 1:21-2 , shall make the same annual payment as licensed New Jersey attorneys in their 5th through 49th years., Multijurisdictional Practice, Multijurisdictional practitioners can register under RPC 5.5-Lawyers Not Admitted to the Bar of This State and the Lawful Practice of Law RPC 5.5(b) . For admission as a multijurisdictional practitioner, submit a Designation of Clerk as Agent for Service of Process Designation of Clerk as Agent for Service of Process form to , Supreme Court Clerk's Office, P.O. Box 970 Trenton, New Jersey 08625-0970 An attorney no longer acting as, or appearing as, a multijurisdictional practitioner (MJP) in the State of New Jersey should complete the Certification Regarding Appearance as a Multijurisdictional Practitioner Multijurisdictional Practitioner Nonpayment Certificate form. After initial admittance, subsequent annual payments can be made with a credit card or ACH debit in the Online Registration and Payment Center Online Registration and Payment Center ., Detailed Registration System Instructions, Attorney Registration, Videos, Documentation, Help System/Release Notes(R/N), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AXDXhQb0k-c Confirm or Update Contact Information Attorney Registration – Confirm or Update Contact Information Attorney Registration – Confirm or Update Contact Information Attorneys Registration Release Notes RN.07.18.25 Attorney Registration – Login and Begin Annual Registration Attorney Registration – Login and Begin Attorneys Registration Release Notes – Full Volume Release Notes – Full Volume Attorney Registration – Registration Statement Attorney Registration – Registration Statement attyregprobono.pdf Attorney Registration – Pro Bono Attorney Registration – CLE Compliance Attorney Registration – CLE Compliance CLE – Application for a Waiver or Extension Attorney Registration – CLE Waivers and Extensions Attorney Registration – Payment Attorney Registration – Payment Attorney Registration – Certificates of Insurance in Attorney Search Attorney Registration – Certificates of Insurance in Attorney Search Attorney Registration – Certificates of Insurance Upload for Attorneys Attorney Registration – Certificates of Insurance Upload for Attorneys Uploading a Certificate of Insurance - Firms Attorney Registration – Certificates of Insurance Upload for Firms Attorney Registration – Certificates of Insurance Upload for Insurance Agents Attorney Registration – Certificates of Insurance Upload for Insurance Agents Attorney Registration - Application for Cert of Good Standing, Etc. Attorney Registration - Application for Cert of Good Standing, Etc. 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