About Us
What we do
The Bergen County Surrogate’s Court helps families during some of life’s most important and often most difficult moments. Whether you need to probate a will, administer an estate (without a will), file for guardianship or an adoption, our team is here to make the process clear, accessible, and supportive.
The Surrogate’s Court is responsible for the following processes on behalf of Bergen County residents:
- Probate: Validating a Last Will and Testament and appointing an executor.
- Administration: Appointing an administrator when an individual dies without a will.
- Guardianship: Appointing guardians for minors; filing clerk for adult guardianships.
- Adoption: Filing clerk for adoptions.
- Recordkeeping: Maintaining wills and estate records from 1714 to present; and adoption and guardianship records.
About the Bergen County Surrogate’s Court
The Surrogate’s Court in New Jersey dates back to colonial times, when “Surrogate,” meaning “to substitute,” referred to Church of England officials managing wills and estates. Initially, the British Governor handled these matters, but by the late 1600s and early 1700s, laws required public recording of wills, and Surrogates were appointed by the Governor to assist. After East and West New Jersey unified in 1720, one Surrogate served the colony until individual counties formed their own courts; Bergen County has had a Surrogate since 1767. The 1844, New Jersey Constitution made the Surrogate an elected county official, with five-year terms, independent from the Governor.
Today, the Bergen County Surrogate’s Court continues this long tradition by maintaining wills and estate records dating back to 1714 and serving as a trusted resource for families throughout the county.
Inside the Surrogate’s Court
The Bergen County Surrogate acts as a Judge and also administers a Court which is almost certain to touch the lives of every person in the county at some time. From probating wills to appointing guardians and recording adoptions, the Surrogate’s Court is a central point of contact for many important legal and family matters.
Our front desk staff and clerks are dedicated to helping visitors.
We are honored to serve our community and grateful for the dedicated staff who work every day to care for our friends, neighbors, and families here in Bergen County.
Directions
Our office is located on the fifth floor of Two Bergen County Plaza, right next to the Bergen County Court House in Hackensack, New Jersey 07601.
Location
Two Bergen County Plaza, Suite 5000 Hackensack, New Jersey 07601