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probate courts

Probate courts are usually trial courts with the authority to hear only matters relating to wills, estates, probate, guardianships, and conservatorships. Courts dedicated to these matters are usually located in populous counties and are said to have exclusive jurisdiction (authority) over such matters within the county.

In New Jersey, probate matters are not handled by separate probate courts as in some other states. Instead, these matters fall under the jurisdiction of the Surrogate's Courts, which operate in each of New Jersey's 21 counties. The Surrogate, an elected county official, oversees the probate of wills and the administration of estates. The Surrogate's Court also handles guardianship matters for minors and incapacitated individuals, as well as conservatorships. While the Surrogate's Court has authority over these matters, more complex cases, such as contested wills or disputes over estate administration, may be transferred to the Superior Court, Chancery Division, Probate Part. The jurisdiction of these courts is generally exclusive within their respective counties for the matters they handle.

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Courts

probate courts

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Courts

probate courts