Bergen County, New Jersey

Probate in Bergen County, New Jersey

Bergen County probate filings are heard at the Hackensack courthouse under New Jersey law (N.J. Stat. Ann. §§ 3B:1-1 et seq.). The process below applies statewide; specific court fees and forms are available from the Bergen County Clerk.

Bergen County probate at a glance

County seat
Hackensack
Court
Surrogate's Court (county)
Population (est.)
957,736
Typical timeline
24–52 weeks
Filing fee
$100–$350
Small-estate threshold
$50,000
Statute
N.J. Stat. Ann. §§ 3B:1-1 et seq.

For exact fees + forms, check the Bergen County Clerk’s office or the state source: www.njcourts.gov.

New Jersey probate, step by step

  1. 1File application with the county Surrogate's Court
  2. 2Surrogate issues letters testamentary or of administration
  3. 3Mail notice of probate to beneficiaries within 60 days
  4. 4Pay debts, New Jersey inheritance/estate taxes, and allowances
  5. 5File informal accounting and distribute the residue

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Other New Jersey counties

This page is informational and is not legal advice. Probate procedure varies by county. Consult a licensed New Jersey probate attorney for advice specific to your situation.