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Surrogate's Office

The New Jersey Constitution provides that there shall be a Surrogate elected in each county for a five-year term. The Surrogate’s Office functions as a Court with jurisdiction over uncontested probate matters such as wills, guardianships, and the trusteeships. Other responsibilities of the Surrogate include matters pertaining to adoptions, but not the actual adoption proceedings, which are conducted in the Family Court; and, maintenance and management of the Surrogate’s Intermingled Minor’s Fund, which is comprised of minor’s personal injury judgments and settlements, and in relevant cases, the inheritance proceeds of minors not provided for by trust agreements.

Under the authority of the Assignment Judge, the Surrogate serves as both Judge of the Surrogate’s Court and Deputy Clerk of the Superior Court in those matters within his jurisdiction.

The County of Morris continues to fund the Surrogate’s Office which may be contacted at 973-285- 6500.

SUSSEX COUNTY SURROGATE’S OFFICE

• Probate Wills
• Appoint Administrators
• Provide Affidavits of Spouse or Next of Kin
• Appoint Trustees
• Appoint Guardians
• Surrogate’s Intermingled Trust Fund
• Process Adoptions
• Issue Letters of Conservatorship
• Process Contested Probate Matters
• Maintain Surrogate Records from the Early 1800's
• Film and Record all Surrogate and Superior Court Probate Proceedings
• Aid in Genealogy and Title Research
• Officiate Wedding Ceremonies

Hall of Records
3 High Street
Newton, N.J. 07860
Phone:973-579-0920
Fax: 973-579-0909

Office Hours:Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Appointments recommended

Special arrangements can be made for anyone requiring assistance as part of the Surrogate’s Outreach Program.