Surrogate Court

The Surrogate Court was established by the New Jersey Constitution. It is governed by state statutes as the court in each county responsible for certain statutory and assigned duties and functions related to wills, guardianships of minors and incapacitated people. The office has its origins in English law, where the bishop of the region would appoint a substitute, or “surrogate”, to handle certain affairs. Eventually, this authority evolved from church officials to civil officials.

The functions of the Surrogate Court include probate of wills, administration, guardianships, trusts, adoptions, management/investment of minors’ funds, records, and wedding services. For more information about these services, click here.

The Surrogate Court also produces a monthly email newsletter with important information about a wide-variety of topics. To subscribe, please click here.