This article explains how to access court records about a case either through an electronic database or by requesting documents from the court.

Are all court records available to the public?

No, some information is not available to the public even if it is part of a case. Here are a few examples. Records containing private information about adoption cases, other family cases involving children or cases involving domestic violence are not available. Also records containing information about juvenile delinquency cases, probation reports and victims statements are not available. New Jersey Court Rule 1:38-3 lists all of the types of records that are not publicly available.

What do I need to know about a case to access court records?

First, you will need to know if the case is open or closed. Then you will need to know the court that is hearing or heard the case. Finally, you will need to know the names of the plaintiff and defendant and the case number if you want documents from a civil case or the name of the defendant or defendants if you want documents from a criminal or municipal case.

What is the general procedure for requesting court records?

The New Jersey Courts has created a Records Request Form which you can download from Copies of Court Records (from NJ Courts). The form is divided into four sections. Part A asks for information about you. Part B asks for information about the location of the court records. Part C asks for information about the specific case. Part D asks to describe the records you would like to access.

How can I access records from a civil case?

Records from recent Special Civil Part, Foreclosure, Chancery and Civil Division cases are available at Civil Case Search (from NJ Courts) without making a records request. Otherwise use the Records Request form.

How can I access records from a criminal case?

Use the Records Request Form to request documents from a criminal case.

How can I access documents from a municipal court case?

Use the Records Request Form to request municipal court documents. Be sure to fill in the town name of the municipal court and either the complaint/ticket number or the name of the defendant.

How do I submit the form?

Once you have finished filling out the form, click on the “Submit Completed Request” button. (You will be sent to the Judiciary Electronic Documents Submission (JEDS) website to set up an account. After you set up an account, you will be able to upload your Record Request form. If you don’t have access to a computer, you can mail the Record Request form to Attention: Customer Access Superior Court Clerk's Office Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex P.O. Box 971 Trenton, New Jersey 08625-0971

How long will it take for me to get access to the records?

The NJ Courts website states that court employees “will work with you to come up with a reasonable timeframe for your request.”

How much will it cost to access the records?

Documents e-mailed to you are free. The cost for print copies is 5 cents per page for letter size pages and 7 cents per page for legal size pages. There are additional fees for certified and exemplified copies. Payment may be made by check or money order.

What if I have a question about the status of my request?

If you have a question about the status of your request, e-mail the Superior Court Clerk’s Office at [email protected] or call 609-421-6100.

This information last reviewed: Aug 6, 2024