Bergen County
Surrogate’s Court
Proudly serving our friends, neighbors, and families throughout Bergen County with compassionate guidance, clear communication, and personalized care.
Before your visit
Please submit your required documents before meeting with a Surrogate Clerk.
Submit your documents
Send or drop off your required documents before scheduling an appointment.
Wait for a clerk to contact you
A Surrogate Clerk will contact you to schedule your appointment.
Complete your appointment
Meet with a clerk in person.
How can we help?
Our office provides a range of services to assist you with estate administration, guardianship and related matters.
Probate / Estate
Probate is the court process that validates a will, appoints the executor, and authorizes the distribution of the deceased person’s assets according to the will.
Last Will and Testament
A Last Will and Testament helps ensure your wishes are followed, provides clear instructions for distributing your assets, and allows you to name an executor and guardians for minor children.
Intestacy without a Last Will and Testament
Intestacy occurs when a person dies without a valid Last Will and Testament, requiring the estate to be administered according to New Jersey law.
Power of Attorney
A Power of Attorney (POA) is a legal document that authorizes someone you trust to act on your behalf and handle financial, legal, or other important matters.
Guardianship
Adult guardianship is a legal process for individuals who are unable to manage their personal or financial affairs due to incapacity, with the Bergen County Surrogate assisting with the filing of required court documents.
Advance Directives
An Advance Directive is a legal document that outlines your wishes for future medical care if you become unable to communicate or make decisions for yourself.
Information fact sheets
We have provided links to downloadable information fact sheets with renunciation forms attached, which are essential documents in creating any case in our system. It is important that you choose the correct form(s) depending on whether or not there was a last will & testament.
We’re here to help
If you have questions or need assistance, please contact our office for guidance on documents, forms, fees and next steps. Our team is ready to help you.