Estate Planning & Probate in Essex County, New Jersey
Essex County estate questions split two ways—planning so your family skips probate, or settling an estate that is already in it. This page points you to the right path—planning ahead, or settling an estate at the Surrogate's Court.
The Probate Process in Essex County
Probate is the court-supervised process of settling someone's estate after they die — validating the will, paying debts and taxes, and transferring what's left to the heirs. In Essex County, probate runs through the Surrogate's Court at 495 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., 2nd Floor, Newark.
Full Essex Countyprobate guide: cost, how to file & attorneys →Probate Court Record
Surrogate's Court
Essex County
Address
Phone
Hours
Recording Deeds & Property Documents
Recording Office Record
Register of Deeds and Mortgages
Essex County · Register · Juan M. Rivera, Jr.
Address
Phone
Hours
E-recording
$30 for the first page plus $10 for each additional page.
Full recording details →Verified September 7, 2026 · Source
Local Procedures at the Surrogate's Court
Do not remove staples from original will or codicil when submitting. All visitors must pass through security screening. Weapons and cellphones not permitted in courthouse.
New Jersey Estate Planning Articles
Articles about estate planning, probate, and trusts relevant to families in Essex County.
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