Each county in the State of New Jersey has a Surrogate's Court. The Surrogate is the Judge of Surrogate's Court, elected for a term of five years by the people of that county. Surrogate Nancy Fitzgibbons, as Sussex County Surrogate and Deputy Clerk of Superior Court, is responsible for the Sussex County probate records by maintaining a vault with records dating back to 1804. Title searchers, genealogists and local historians find these records invaluable to their research.
The Surrogate probates wills and appoints executors, administrators, trustees and guardians. Adoptions and contested Superior Court matters are also processed by the Surrogate. The Surrogate's intermingled Trust Fund administers accounts for children until they reach the age of eighteen.
If you require the services of Surrogate Court, call to make an appointment. Special arrangements can be made for any person requiring assistance. Home/Office visits may also be made by appointment. The Surrogate is also available to speak to any group upon request.
