Probate in New Jersey, handled for you
New Jersey settles estates through the County Surrogate's Court. The process is relatively accessible — New Jersey does not strictly require an attorney for an ordinary, uncontested estate. A small-estate affidavit is available for estates under $50,000. Kindred handles the administration for one flat fee.
New Jersey lets you handle an uncontested probate without a lawyer. New Jersey does not strictly require an attorney for an ordinary, uncontested estate. The County Surrogate assists families with the process. Kindred handles the administrative work; if anything is contested, we flag it so you can bring in an attorney of your choosing.
The four things families ask first
Hourly / flat fee
Read moreA typical New Jersey probate runs about 8 to 14 months.
Read more$50,000
Read moreCounty Surrogate's Court, in the county where the person lived
What it could cost in New Jersey
≈ 45 hours of admin and legal work, all billed at lawyer rates.
Kindred + your attorney
Estimated difference vs. a full-service firm
$5,500
+ about 150 hours of your own time
Full-service estimated at $250–$400/hr for ~45hours; the attorney figure is an illustrative fixed fee. Illustrative only — not a quote or legal advice. Figures vary by estate. We're not a law firm; an independent attorney always handles the legal work.
Frequently asked
Do I need a lawyer for probate in New Jersey?
Not strictly — New Jersey does not require an attorney for an ordinary, uncontested estate, and the County Surrogate assists families. Kindred handles the administrative work for a flat fee. If a dispute arises, we flag it so you can bring in an attorney of your choosing. Kindred is not a law firm.
How much does probate cost in New Jersey?
No statutory percentage fee — attorneys typically bill $250-$450/hour or a flat fee. Surrogate's fees run about $150-$300+ depending on estate size. Estates under $50,000 can use a small-estate affidavit. These are illustrative figures.
How long does probate take in New Jersey?
Typically 8 to 14 months. Creditors have 6 months from publication of notice to file claims. Estates above $2 million may need additional time for state tax filings.
Last verified July 2026. Figures are illustrative and vary by estate — not a quote or legal advice. Kindred is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice; we handle the administrative work and coordinate an independent attorney where one is legally required.
You don't have to carry this alone.
Tell us about the estate on a free, no-obligation call. We'll map out exactly what needs to happen — and how we'd take it off your plate.
Start with fixed-fee Estate Setup, then choose the right package.
Tell us about your situation
Has the person passed away?
Your relationship to them