How to Become the Legal Guardian of a Person Receiving
Services From the Division of Developmental Disabilities
(Superior Court of New Jersey, Chancery Division, Probate Part)

http://www.judiciary.state.nj.us/prose/10558.pdf
DESCRIPTION OF GUARDIANSHIP ACTION:
Guardianship over an incapacitated person over the age of 18 who is receiving services from
the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) can be obtained in one of two ways. The
first way is that the Commissioner of the Department of Human Services can initiate
proceedings when it is determined that an individual is in need of a guardian. The second
method is that a private citizen can petition the court to have a guardian named. This packet
contains instructions for a private citizen to follow to obtain the appointment of a legal guardian
over an incapacitated person receiving Division of Developmental Disabilities services.
NOTE: These materials have been prepared by the New Jersey Administrative Office of the
Courts for use by self-represented litigants. The guides, instructions, and forms will be
periodically updated as necessary to reflect current New Jersey statutes and court rules. The
most recent version of the forms will be available at the county courthouse or on the Judiciary’s
Internet site (www.judiciary.state.nj.us). However, you are ultimately responsible for the content
of your court papers.
Click Here for a List of Where to Send your Completed Forms:
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THINGS TO THINK ABOUT BEFORE YOU REPRESENT YOURSELF IN COURT
TRY TO GET A LAWYER
The court system can be confusing and it is
a good idea to get a lawyer if you can. If
you cannot afford a lawyer, you may contact
the legal services program in your county to
see if you qualify for free legal services.
Their telephone number can be found in
your local yellow pages under “Legal Aid”
or “Legal Services.”
If you do not qualify for free legal services
and need help in locating an attorney, you
can contact the bar association in your
county. Their telephone number can also
be found in your local yellow pages. Most
county bar associations have a Lawyer
Referral Service. The county bar Lawyer
Referral Service can supply you with the
names of attorneys in your area willing to
handle your particular type of case and
sometimes consult with you at a reduced
fee.
There are also a variety of organizations of
minority lawyers throughout New Jersey,
and also organizations of lawyers who
handle specialized types of cases. Ask
your county court staff for a list of lawyer
referral services that include these
organizations.
WHAT YOU SHOULD EXPECT IF YOU
REPRESENT YOURSELF

While you have the right to represent
yourself in court, you should not expect any
special treatment, help, or attention from
the court. You must still comply with the
court rules, even if you are not familiar with
them. The following is a list of some things
the court staff can and cannot do for you.
Please read it carefully before asking the
court staff for help.
-We can explain and answer questions
about how the court works.
-We can tell you what the requirements are
to have your case considered by the court.
-We can give you some information from
your case file.
-We can provide you with samples of court
forms that are available.
-We can provide you with guidance on how
to fill out forms.
-We can usually answer questions about
court deadlines.
-We cannot give you legal advice. Only
your lawyer can give you legal advice.
-We cannot tell you whether or not you
should bring your case to court.
-We cannot give you an opinion about what
will happen if you bring your case to court.
-We cannot recommend a lawyer, but we
can provide you with the telephone number
of a local lawyer referral service.
-We cannot talk to the judge for you about
what will happen in your case.
-We cannot let you talk to the judge outside
of court.
-We cannot change an order issued by a
judge.
KEEP COPIES OF ALL PAPERS
Make and keep for yourself copies of all
completed forms and any canceled checks,
money orders, sales receipts, bills, contract
estimates, letters, leases, photographs,
and other important documents that relate
to your case.
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DEFINITIONS OF WORDS THAT MAY BE USED IN THIS PACKET
Alleged Incapacitated
Person: The individual over whom the plaintiff is seeking a guardian.
Affidavit: An affidavit is a written statement of facts confirmed by an oath taken before a notary public
or other official authorized to administer oaths. See certification.
Certification: A certification is a written statement of facts confirmed by a certification that under
penalty of law all information contained is true to the best of your knowledge and belief. See affidavit.
County of
Settlement: The county of settlement is the county responsible for a share of the charge incurred for
services provided to persons unable to pay. Typically, this is the alleged incapacitated
person’s county of residence at the time of application for eligible DDD services. However, it
is possible for the county of residence and the county of settlement may be different. It
depends on the residential history of the alleged incapacitated person.
File: To file means to give the appropriate forms and fee to the court to begin the court’s
consideration of your request.
Judgment: A judgment is the official decision of a court in a case.
Order: An order is a signed paper from the judge telling someone they must do something.
Interested
Party: An interested party is a person or government agency that has an involvement with the
incapacitated person that is the subject of the court action. It includes the alleged
incapacitated person’s next-of-kin who are his closest relatives, the county of settlement (the
county adjuster) and the administrator of the Division of Developmental Disabilities program
providing services to the alleged incapacitated person.
Plaintiff: The plaintiff is the party who starts the lawsuit.
Proof of
Service: A proof of service is a sworn statement that tells the court who was given notice of the
complaint and supporting pleadings in your case. It also tells the court how those persons
received these documents.

Return Date: Return date is the date the plaintiff and defendant are told to appear in court.
Service: Copies of your papers are personally delivered to the alleged incapacitated person and mailed
to the parties in interest and the attorney appointed to represent the alleged incapacitated
person.
Verified
Complaint: A verified complaint is a document in which you briefly tell the court the facts in your case and
the relief you want the court to grant. This is filed by the plaintiff.
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IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON GUARDIANSHIP ACTIONS
EXAMINATION
The forms provided in this packet are for
guardianships being obtained for persons
receiving services from the Division of
Developmental Disabilities and is often
called a Title 30 guardianship.
TITLE 30 GUARDIANSHIPS
Title 30 requires that one medical
physician or psychologist examine or
evaluate the individual and submit a written
report under oath. A second report under
oath is submitted by the chief executive
officer, medical director or other Division of
Developmental Disabilities official having
administrative control over the functional
program or services. Typically the regional
DDD administrator supplies the report.
From now on this package calls the report
provider the “DDD official.” The DDD
official must agree that the individual is in
need of guardian based on the agency’s
knowledge of his/her functional level.
PLENARY AND LI MI TED
GUARDIANSHIPS
It is important to recognize that DDD
regulations require that a guardianship
recommendation must be founded upon a
sound clinic basis and every effort must be
made to seek a solution that is the least
restrictive and intrusive to the person’s life
and, thereby, preserve the
person’s autonomy to the maximum extent
possible. Therefore, limited guardianships
may be recommended by the DDD official
where the alleged incapacitated person
can express some, but not all, decisions. A
plenary (full) guardianship is appropriate
for those persons incapable of making or
expressing any decisions.
PROCEDURE
Once the verified complaint, physician or
psychologist and the Division of
Developmental Disabilities official’s
affidavits or certifications are filed with the
Surrogate, a hearing date is set to
determine the need for a legal guardian.
The court orders that the next of kin be
notified by certified and regular mail of the
hearing date and also appoints an attorney
for the alleged incapacitated person. The
court appointed attorney will conduct an
investigation including a meeting with the
alleged incapacitated person and the
proposed guardian. Based on his/her
findings, the court appointed attorney will
make a recommendation to the court.
Payment
for the attorney’s services may be paid out
of the incapacitated person’s Social
Security. Personal notice is also given to
the alleged incapacitated person stating
that the alleged incapacitated person and
the court appointed attorney may oppose
the request for guardianship.
If the court appointed attorney does not
dispute the need for a guardianship or the
fitness of the proposed guardian, the
appointed attorney may recommend to the
court that a hearing is not necessary. If a
hearing is required, the court appointed
attorney and the proposed guardian must
attend. The alleged incapacitated person
does not need to attend if the court
appointed attorney or the evaluating
physician or psychologist recommend that
it is not in the best interest of the alleged
incapacitated person to attend.
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JUDGMENT AND LETTERS OF
GUARDIANSHIP
Once the court enters the judgment, the
guardian(s) will be requested to appear in
the Surrogate’s Court to qualify and sign
the necessary papers. Letters of
Guardianship will be issued by the
Surrogate and mailed to the guardian(s).
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HOW TO FILE A GUARDIANSHIP ACTION WITH THE COUNTY SURROGATE
The numbered steps listed below tell you what
forms you will need to fill out, and what to do with
them.
Each form should be typed or clearly printed on 8
½” x 11" white paper only. Forms may not be filed
on a different size or color paper. The text must be
double spaced.
STEPS FOR FILING YOUR COMPLAINT FOR
GUARDIANSHIP.
STEP 1: Fill out the VERIFIED COMPLAINT TO
APPOINT GUARDIAN. (FORM A)
This complaint must be verified either by an
affidavit (oath before a notary public) or certification
(shown in Form A).
STEP 2: Have a physician or psychologist
complete a certification form. (FORM B or C)
If you choose to have a physician complete the
certification form use FORM B. If you want a
psychologist to complete a certification use FORM
C. The physician or psychologist who completes
these forms must be the person who examined the
alleged incapacitated person.
Note: The examination of the alleged
incapacitated person cannot be more than 30 days
prior to the filing of the Complaint.
STEP 3: Obtain a Certification from the New
Jersey DDD Official
The DDD official will complete a form verifying that
the individual is a current client of the Division of
Developmental Disabilities (DDD) and is receiving
services.
This form is not included in this packet.
Contact your county Surrogate for information on
how to contact the regional DDD office.
STEP 4: Fill out the ORDER FOR HEARING
(FORM D)
This form will allow the court to insert the date and
time of hearing and assign an attorney for the
alleged incapacitated person. A copy of this order
is served on the alleged incapacitated person, the
attorney appointed to represent the alleged
incapacitated person and the parties-in-interest
(next of kin, county adjuster and regional DDD
official).
STEP 5: Complete the top portion of the
Judgment Appointing Guardian. (FORM E)
If the judge grants your request, this is the document
that he or she will sign naming you as guardian.
STEP 6: Check your completed forms and Make
Copies.
Check your forms to make sure they are complete.
Remove all instruction sheets. Make sure you have
signed all the forms whenever necessary. Make at
least three copies. One set will be your records.
STEP 7: Pay the Filing Fee.
The filing fee to file these forms is $200, payable by
check or money order. Make the check payable to
the Surrogate of the county in which you are filing.
STEP 8: Deliver or Mail your completed forms
(FORMS A, [B or C] and D), along with the
Certification of the DDD Official, to the County
Surrogate.
DO NOT send in Forms F or G at this time. You
must wait until you get copies of the SIGNED
Order for Hearing (FORM D) from the court
before you complete these forms. You can
deliver your completed forms in person or you can
mail them. If you mail them, we recommend you mail
them certified, return receipt requested. This will
provide you with proof that you mailed your forms.
Your post office can tell you how to send out mail
certified, return receipt requested. The county you
mail your papers to is the county where the alleged
incapacitated person lives. When you deliver or mail
your completed forms to the Surrogate, you must
supply the court with a self-addressed stamped
envelope so that the court can send you certified
copies of the order.
STEP 9: Review copies of the Order for Hearing
returned from the court for instructions on how
to proceed.
The court will return copies of the Order for Hearing
to you. Once you receive these copies, you must
follow the court’s instructions in the Order for Hearing
to complete your paperwork properly.
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STEP 10: Fill out the NOTICE OF PENDING
HEARING. (FORM F)
Once you get the signed Order for Hearing from
the court, complete the Notice of Pending Hearing.
This will inform the alleged incapacitated person of
the time, date and place of the hearing to
determine whether they are incapacitated. This
form MUST be personally delivered to the alleged
incapacitated person at least 20 days prior to the
date of the hearing.
STEP 11: Arrange to serve the Complaint
(FORM A), Physician’s or Psychologist’s
Certification (FORM B or C), DDD Official’s
affidavit or certification and the signed Order
for Hearing (FORM D) on the alleged
incapacitated person and on the other
interested parties.
Once you get back the Order for Hearing signed by
the judge, you must personally deliver a copy of the
complaint (Form A), physician’s or psychologist’s
certification (FORM B or C), regional director’s
affidavit or certification and the signed order (Form
D) to the alleged incapacitated person. You must
deliver copies of the same forms to all other parties
by certified mail, return receipt requested, and by
regular mail. You must also forward copies of the
complaint and order to the court appointed
attorney.
STEP 12: Complete the PROOF OF SERVICE
Form (FORM G) and the Judgment (FORM E).
After service on the parties-in-interest is
accomplished, complete the Proof of Service form
and the Judgment and mail or deliver both forms to
the Surrogate to show that the papers have been
properly served. This must be filed at least 5 days
prior to the hearing. This document lists all the
papers that were served personally on the alleged
incapacitated person and all papers that were
mailed (certified and regular mail) to the next of kin
and to the alleged incapacitated person’s attorney.
Attach photocopies of the return receipt cards
returned by the post office.
STEP 13: Call the Surrogate a few days prior
to the date set for the hearing to confirm the
hearing will be held.
If there has been no opposition to the guardianship
application, the judge may not require a hearing.
However, if a hearing is scheduled, you must attend
the hearing. Call to confirm whether a hearing will be
held.
STEP 14: Qualification. If the court declares the
alleged incapacitated person to be incapacitated
and appoints a guardian, then the appointed person
must appear in the Surrogate to qualify. This
involves signing acceptance documents and filing a
surety bond, if the court requires the same.
STEP 15: Legal Fee Payment. If the court
awards the attorney appointed to represent the
incapacitated person a fee, arrange to pay the same
from the incapacitated person’s assets or income.
DEADLINES YOU NEED TO MEET
Examinations by the physician or psychologist of the
alleged incapacitated person must be made no
more than 30 days prior to the filing of the complaint.
The alleged incapacitated person and all interested
parties listed in the complaint must have at least 20
days notice of the hearing date.
The Proof of Service (FORM F) must be filed with
the court at least 5 days prior to the date scheduled
for the hearing.
INTERPRETER OR ACCOMMODATION
If you need an interpreter or an accommodation for
a disability for the hearing, please contact the court
before the hearing date.
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INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING THE ATTACHED FORMS
INSTRUCTIONS FOR FORM A - VERIFIED COMPLAINT TO APPOINT GUARDIAN
A. In paragraph #1 type or print the information about the person over whom you are seeking to be
appointed guardian.
B. In paragraph #2 type or print the name of the person over whom guardianship is sought and the
disability that he or she has been diagnosed with. Type or print the name of the physician or
psychologist who completed either a physician’s or psychologist’s certification (FORM B or C) (See
step #2 for more information on this.)
C. In paragraph # 3 type or print the name of the person over whom guardianship is sought and indicate
where he/she is receiving services from the New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities.
D. In paragraph # 4 type or print the names of the next of kin of the person over whom a guardian is
sought. Insert the name and address of the appropriate county adjuster for the county of settlement
and the name and address of the DDD service provider administrator.
E. In paragraph # 5 insert your personal information
F. In paragraph #6 indicate whether the person over whom guardianship is sought owns any real or
personal property and his or her monthly income, if any. Type or print any employer’s name and the
salary of any employment by the alleged incapacitated person.
G. In paragraph #7 type or print any courses of instructions or other training the alleged incapacitated
person attends.
H. In paragraph #9 type or print the name of the person over whom guardianship is sought. Use the first
paragraph #9A if a plenary (full) guardianship is requested; use the second paragraph #9B if a
limited guardianship is requested.
I. In the relief demanded use the first letter (A1,B1 and C1) paragraphs, if a plenary (full) guardianship
is requested. Use the second letter (A2,B2 and C2) paragraphs, if a limited guardianship is
requested.
J. Sign and date the form where it asks you to do so.
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INSTRUCTIONS FOR FORM B -- PHYSICIAN CERTIFICATION
You must have a New Jersey licensed medical physician or psychologist complete a certification attesting
to the fact that the alleged incapacitated person is in fact incapacitated. The medical physician or
psychologist who completes this form must be the one to examine the alleged incapacitated person.

This form is for medical physicians only. If a medical physician is the one who has conducted the evaluation
of the alleged incapacitated person, then this form should be used. Inform him/her that you are seeking to
be appointed guardian over the alleged incapacitated person and that you need him/her to complete this
form.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR FORM C -- PSYCHOLOGIST CERTIFICATION
You must have a New Jersey licensed medical physician or psychologist complete a certification attesting
to the fact that the alleged incapacitated person is in fact incapacitated. The medical physician or
psychologist who completes this form must be the one to examine the alleged incapacitated person. The
examination must take place no more than 30 days before you file this guardianship action.
This form is for psychologists only. If a psychologist is the one who has conducted the evaluation of the
alleged incapacitated person, then this form should be used. Inform him/her that you are seeking to be
appointed guardian over the alleged incapacitated person and that you need him/her to complete this form.
INSTRUCTION FOR FORM D - ORDER FOR HEARING
(This form is self explanatory. Fill in only the top portion.)
Note: The Public Defender, if available, may be appointed if only guardianship of the person is sought. If
you seek guardianship of the person and the estate or the public defender is not available, then the court
will appoint a private attorney.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR FORM E - JUDGMENT APPOINTING GUARDIAN
Where indicated, type or print your name, the name of the attorney appointed for the alleged incapacitated
person, the name of the physician or psychologist and the name of the Division of Developmental Disabilities
official who has completed the certification.
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INSTRUCTIONS FOR FORM F - NOTICE OF PENDING HEARING
(Portions that are not self explanatory)
A. Where shown, enter the docket number in this case. You will get this number when the court returns
the signed order to you. (FORM D)
B. Where it says “TO” type or print the name of the alleged incapacitated person.
C. Fill out the date, time, and place of the hearing. You will get this information when the court sends
back the signed order for hearing with all of this information on it.
D. Type or print the name of the proposed guardian in the last paragraph.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR FORM G - PROOF OF SERVICE
(Portions that are not self explanatory.)
A. In paragraph #1 type or print the name of the person who handled service of the pleadings.
B. In paragraph #2 type or print the date you personally mailed or delivered copies of FORMS A, [B or
C] & D to the alleged incapacitated person.
C. In paragraph # 4 type or print the date you mailed a copy of FORMS A, [B or C] & D to the next of kin
of the alleged incapacitated person and other interested parties.
D. Sign and date the form where it asks you to do so.
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FORM A -- VERIFIED COMPLAINT TO APPOINT GUARDIAN
Plaintiff(s) Type your name(s)
Address:
Telephone Number:
SUPERIOR COURT OF NEW JERSEY
CHANCERY DIVISION
COUNTY
PROBATE PART
In The Matter of

TYPE INCAPACITATED PERSON’S NAME
an Alleged Incapacitated Person
Docket No.
CIVIL ACTION
VERIFIED COMPLAINT TO APPOINT
GUARDIAN FOR PERSON RECEIVING
DIVISION OF DEVELOPMENTAL
DISABILITIES SERVICES
I/ We, the Plaintiff(s), and
, residing at
, City /Township /Borough
of , County of and State of
New Jersey, by way of verified complaint says:
1. The name, age, present resident address, length of time at residence,
permanent residence (domicile) and marital status of the alleged incapacitated person are:
A. Name:
B. Age:
C:
Present residence:
since .
D.
Permanent residence:
since .
E. Marital status: (Check one) __Married __Never Married__Divorced
F. Children: (Check one) __No Children __Children as listed in
Paragraph 4
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2. has been diagnosed as suffering from
as shown by the attached affidavit or certification
of (Medical Physician or Psychologist). Because
of this condition, lacks sufficient capacity to
govern himself/herself and manage his/her affairs.
3. has been receiving services from the
New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities at
since . He/She
continues to need such services, as shown by the attached affidavit or certification of
, Division of Developmental Disabilities official.
4. The names, residence addresses, and relationships of the spouse, next-of-kin
most closely related to the alleged incapacitated person (parents, siblings et cetera) and other
persons interested in the status of the alleged incapacitated person (custodian, county
adjuster, DDD program administrator) are as follows:
Name Address Relationship Age
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5. The name, address, age, telephone number and relationship to the alleged
incapacitated person of the proposed guardian(s) are as follows:
Name:
Address:
Age:
Telephone number
Relationship
6. The character and approximate value of the real and personal property and income
of the alleged incapacitated person are as follows:
A. Personal property:
(i) bank accounts $
(ii) stocks, bonds and mutual funds $
(iii) other personal property (specify) $ _________________
Total personal property value $
B. Real property (describe)
$
$
C. Periodic compensation and income from:
i. real property $ / month
ii personal property $ / month
iii pensions $ / month
iv public assistance benefits $ / month
v social security benefits $ / month
vi trust distributions: $ / month
vii other income sources (specify) $ / month
viii
wages (employer:) $ _________________/ month
Total monthly income $ / month
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7. (If applicable) , the alleged incapacitated
person, attends classes at .
8. The alleged incapacitated person does not have an attorney. It is requested that the
court appoint an attorney to serve as legal counsel for the alleged incapacitated person.
9A.
Because of ’s condition, he/she is
without the necessary cognitive capacity to understand personal, financial, health and medical
matters that affect his/her well-being and, therefore, he/she lacks the capacity to
govern himself /herself in all of his/her financial and personal affairs.
OR
9B.
Because of ’s condition, he/she is without the
necessary cognitive capacity to understand some of the personal, financial, health and medical
matters that affect his/her well-being and, therefore, he/she lacks the capacity to
govern himself/herself in the following financial and personal affair areas:
.
In all other respects, he/she is fully able at this time to govern himself/herself and
govern and manage his/her affairs.
WHEREFORE, the plaintiff(s) demand(s) judgment pursuant to N.J.S.A. 30:4-165.7:
A1. declaring to be suffering from a chronic
functional impairment and as a result is incapable and unable to govern himself/herself and
manage his/her affairs;
OR
A2. declaring to be suffering from a chronic
functional impairment and as a result is incapable and unable to govern himself/herself and
manage his/her affairs with respect to :
;
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B1.
Appointing the plaintiff(s) the guardian of his/her PERSON and issuing
Letters of Guardianship upon qualifying according to law;
OR
B2.
Appointing the plaintiff(s) the limited guardian of his /her PERSON and issuing
Letters of Limited Guardianship upon qualifying according to law;
C1.
Appointing the plaintiff(s) the guardian of his/ her ESTATE and issuing Letters
of Guardianship upon qualifying according to law.
OR
C2.
Appointing the plaintiff(s) the limited guardian of his/her ESTATE and issuing
Letters of Limited Guardianship upon qualifying according to law.
Date:

___________________________________
SIGNATURE OF PLAINTIFF

TYPE NAME
Date:

___________________________________
SIGNATURE OF PLAINTIFF

TYPE NAME
VERIFICATION
I/We, and , hereby certify and say:
1.
I/ We are the plaintiff(s).
2. The contents of the complaint are true to my (our) personal knowledge and belief.
I (We) hereby certify that the statements made by me are true. I am aware that if any
are wilfully false, I am (We are) subject to punishment.
Date: Date:
______________________________________________________ ________________________________________________
Signature of Plaintiff Signature of Plaintiff
Type Name Type Name
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FORM B -- PHYSICIAN’S CERTIFICATION
Plaintiff(s) TYPE YOUR NAME(s)
Address:
Telephone Number:
SUPERIOR COURT OF NEW JERSEY
CHANCERY DIVISION
COUNTY
PROBATE PART
IN THE MATTER OF
TYPE INCAPACITATED PERSON’S NAME
AN ALLEGED INCAPACITATED
PERSON
Docket No.
CIVIL ACTION
CERTIFICATION OF MEDICAL
PHYSICIAN
TYPE PHYSICIAN’S NAME
I, , M.D., with offices at
,
being of full age, do hereby certify and say as follows:
1. I am a permanent resident of the State of New Jersey and a physician licensed
to practice medicine in the State of New Jersey.
2. I am not a relative, either through blood or marriage, to
or of the proprietor, director
or chief executive of any private institution for the care and treatment of the mentally ill at which
he/she is living or at which it is proposed to place him/her, nor am I professionally employed
by the management thereof as a resident physician, nor do I have any financial interest therein.
3. I have reviewed the clinical data and history regarding
and personally examined
him/her on , 20 .
1
Note. Complete this paragraph if it is your opinion that the alleged
incapacitated person has sufficient capacity in certain areas that he or she should retain
decision making rights. This paragraph will set out the basis for the same for the court’s
consideration. Otherwise cross this paragraph out before signing.
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4. My opinion as to ’s capacity to govern
himself/herself and manage his/her affairs is based upon the following:
5. Based upon my personal examination and the aforementioned clinical data and
history, it is my conclusion that suffers from a significant
chronic functional impairment and lacks the cognitive capacity to make decisions for
himself/herself or to communicate, in any way, decisions to others. His/Her
significant chronic functional impairment includes, but is not limited to, a lack of
comprehension of concepts related to personal care, health care or medical treatment and
is, therefore, incapable of governing himself/herself or managing his/her
personal or financial affairs.
6.1 It is also my opinion that does have
sufficient capacity to make limited decisions in the areas of :

The reasons for my opinion that he/she has the ability to make the aforementioned
limited decisions are:
7. Based upon my personal examination and aforementioned clinic data and
history, it is my conclusion that he/she is (check one) ___capable ___incapable of
attending the hearing in this matter. If incapable, state reasons:
I certify that the foregoing statements made by me are true. I am aware that if
any of the foregoing statements made by me are willfully false, I am subject to punishment.
Date: _______________________________ M.D.
type name
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FORM C -- PSYCHOLOGIST’S CERTIFICATION
Plaintiff(s) TYPE YOUR NAME(s)
Address:
Telephone Number:
SUPERIOR COURT OF NEW JERSEY
CHANCERY DIVISION
COUNTY
PROBATE PART
In the Matter of
TYPE INCAPACITATED PERSON’S NAME
An Alleged Incapacitated Person
Docket No.
CIVIL ACTION
CERTIFICATION OF PSYCHOLOGIST
TYPE PSYCHOLOGIST’S NAME
I, , with offices at
, being of full age,
do hereby certify and say as follows:
1. I am a permanent resident of the State of New Jersey and a psychologist
licensed pursuant to N.J.S.A. 45:14B-1 et seq. to practice in the State of New Jersey.
2. I am not a relative, either through blood or marriage, to
or of the proprietor, director
or chief executive of any private institution for the care and treatment of the mentally ill at which
is living or at which it is proposed to place
him/her, nor am I professionally employed by the management thereof as a resident
physician, nor do I have any financial interest therein.
3. I have reviewed the clinical data and history regarding
and personally examined
him/her on the , 20 .
1
Note. Complete this paragraph if it is your opinion that the alleged
incapacitated person has sufficient capacity in certain areas that he or she should retain
decision making rights. This paragraph will set out the basis for the same for the court’s
consideration. Otherwise cross this paragraph out before signing.
19
4. My opinion as to ’s capacity to govern
himself/herself and manage his/her affairs is based upon the following:
5. Based upon my personal examination and the aforementioned clinic data and
history, it is my conclusion that suffers from a significant
chronic functional impairment and lacks the cognitive capacity to make decisions for
himself/herself or to communicate, in any way, decisions to others.
His/Her significant chronic functional impairment includes, but is not limited to,
a lack of comprehension of concepts related to personal care, health care or medical
treatment and is, therefore, incapable to governing himself/herself or managing
his/her personal or financial affairs.
6.1 It is also my opinion that does have
sufficient capacity to make limited decisions in the areas of :

The reasons for my opinion that he/she has the ability to make the aforementioned
limited decisions are:
7. Based upon my personal examination and aforementioned facts and history,
it is my conclusion that he/she is (check one) capable incapable
of attending the hearing in this matter. If incapable, state reasons:
I certify that the foregoing statements made by me are true. I am aware that if any of
the foregoing statements made by me are willfully false, I am subject to punishment.
Date:
_______________________________
TYPE PSYCHOLOGIST’S NAME
20
FORM D -- ORDER FOR HEARING
Plaintiff(s) TYPE YOUR NAME(S)
Address:

Telephone Number:
SUPERIOR COURT OF NEW JERSEY
CHANCERY DIVISION
COUNTY
PROBATE PART
In the Matter of
PRINT INCAPACITATED PERSON’S NAME
an Alleged Incapacitated Person
Docket No.
CIVIL ACTION
ORDER FIXING HEARING DATE AND
APPOINTING ATTORNEY FOR
ALLEGED INCAPACITATED PERSON
RECEIVING DIVISION OF
DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES
SERVICES
This matter having been opened to the court on complaint of the plaintiff(s) for an order
seeking the appointment of a guardian for under R.4:86-10
and for such other relief as the court may deem just, and the court having read and considered
the verified complaint, the supporting affidavits or certifications and all other papers and
pleadings presented with this application, and for good cause shown:
(Do not write below this line - for court use only - except for the appropriate spaces where the name of the person over
whom guardianship is sought should be inserted.)
IT IS on this day of , 20___, ORDERED that:
1. This matter be set down for hearing before this court at the
County Court House, , New Jersey, before the Hon.
on the day of , 20 , at o’clock in the a.m. p.m.
or as soon thereafter as plaintiff(s) may be heard, to determine the issue of the legal
incapacity of and for the determination of the appointment of a
guardian; and
2. A copy of the complaint and supporting affidavits along with this order, shall be
served on , the alleged incapacitated person, by personal
service at least 20 days prior to the date scheduled for the hearing.
21
3. A separate notice advising the alleged incapacitated person of his
her right to a jury trial and to personally, or through legal counsel, appear and oppose the
application shall be personally served on the alleged incapacitated person at least 20 days
prior to the date scheduled for the hearing.
4. A copy of the complaint and supporting documents, along with this order, shall
be served on all the next of kin and other interested parties set out in the complaint by regular
and certified mail, return receipt requested, at least 20 days prior to the date scheduled for
the hearing.
5. , Esquire, whose address is
____________________________________and telephone is _____________________,
be and hereby is appointed as counsel for the alleged incapacitated person. Said attorney
shall be immediately served with copies of the complaint and supporting documents along
with this order. Said attorney shall personally interview the client, examine the medical
records, make inquiries of persons having knowledge of the alleged incapacitated person’s
circumstances, make reasonable inquiries to locate any will, powers of attorney or health care
directive previously executed by the alleged incapacitated person and prepare a written report
of findings and recommendations to be filed in court and with the plaintiff(s) pursuant to R.
4:86-10 at least ____ days prior to the hearing.
6. This court may summarily appoint a guardian of the person and estate without
a hearing if the attorney appointed for reports that
he/she on behalf of the alleged incapacitated person does not dispute either the need for
the guardianship or the fitness of the proposed guardian and the alleged
incapacitated person does not request a plenary hearing.

______________________________________
, J.S.C.
22
FORM E -- JUDGMENT APPOINTING GUARDIAN

Plaintiff(s) TYPE YOUR NAME(S)
Address:
Telephone Number:
SUPERIOR COURT OF NEW JERSEY
CHANCERY DIVISION
COUNTY
PROBATE PART
In the Matter of

TYPE INCAPACITATED PERSON’S NAME
An Incapacitated Person
Docket No.
CIVIL ACTION
JUDGMENT OF LEGAL INCAPACITY
AND APPOINTING A GUARDIAN OF THE
PERSON AND ESTATE FOR PERSON
RECEIVING DIVISION OF
DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES
SERVICES
This matter having been opened to the court on the complaint of the plaintiff(s)
, and the court having
appointed as attorney for
and the court having reviewed the pleadings and the affidavits or certifications of
, M.D., (or licensed
psychologist) and , Division of Developmental Disabilities official,
and the report of , Esq., and it appearing that
suffers from a chronic functional impairment and that
he/she lacks cognitive capacity and as a result is incapable of governing himself/herself
and managing his/her affairs.
It is on this day of , 20__ ORDERED and ADJUDGED that:
1. is an incapacitated person and is unfit
and unable to govern himself/herself and manage his /her affairs because of a significant
chronic functional impairment, except, but subject to the right of the guardian(s) herein
appointed to seek to have this portion of the judgment vacated or modified for good cause,
is able at this time to govern himself /herself
and manage his/her own affairs with respect to the following areas:
_______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________.
23
2: be and hereby is/are appointed
[Limited] Guardian(s) of the Person and Estate of
and that Letters of [Limited] Guardianship of the Person and Estate shall be issued upon
him/her /them (a) qualifying according to law, (b) acknowledging to the Surrogate of
________________ County, upon receipt of a copy of the guardian’s manual, the receipt
of the same and (c) entering into a surety bond unto the Superior Court of New Jersey
in the amount of $ , which bond shall contain the conditions set forth in N.J.S.A.
3B:15-7 and R. 1:13-3. The court shall approve the bond as to form and sufficiency.
3. The guardian(s) shall have authority to make any and all medical decisions
regarding including, but not limited to, the authority to consent or withhold
consent to surgical procedures and such other procedures reasonably attendant thereto, and
all decisions concerning withdrawal or denial of life support shall be exercised in full
compliance with existing statutory and case law.
4. Upon qualifying, the Surrogate of ________________ County shall issue
Letters of Guardianship of the Person and Estate to
thereupon he/she/they shall then be authorized to perform all the functions and duties of
a guardian as allowed by law, except as limited herein or in areas herein above set forth
where retains decision making rights.
5. The Guardian(s) of the Estate may not alienate, mortgage, transfer or otherwise
encumber or dispose of real property without court approval. Said limitation shall be stated
in the Letters of Guardianship.
6. The court having reviewed the affidavit or certification of services of
, Esq., previously filed with the
court, ____________________________ shall pay ______________________________,
court-appointed attorney for _________________________, a fee of $ for
professional services rendered and $ for expenses incurred, which
disbursements are hereby approved.
7. is hereby directed to advise the Surrogate of
_______________ County within ten (10) days of any changes in the address or telephone
number of himself or herself and/or the incapacitated person or of the death of the
incapacitated person.
8. shall cooperate fully with any court staff
or volunteers until the guardianship is terminated by the death or return to competency of
or the guardian’s death, removal or discharge.
9. The plaintiff shall serve a copy of this Judgment upon all interested parties and
attorneys of record within seven (7) days from the receipt hereof.

________________________________________
, J.S.C.
24
FORM F NOTICE OF PENDING HEARING
Plaintiff(s) TYPE YOUR NAME(s)
Address:
Telephone Number:
SUPERIOR COURT OF NEW JERSEY
CHANCERY DIVISION
COUNTY
PROBATE PART
In the Matter of
TYPE INCAPACITATED PERSON’S NAME
An Alleged Incapacitated Person
Docket No.
CIVIL ACTION
NOTICE OF PENDING HEARING, RIGHT
TO APPEAR AND RIGHT TO REQUEST
A JURY TRIAL
TO:
Be advised that a verified complaint has been filed with the New Jersey Superior
Court, Chancery Division, Probate Part seeking to have you declared to be an
incapacitated person and have a guardian appointed. If a guardian is appointed, you
could lose your individual rights.
The matter has been set down for a hearing on
at a.m./p.m. in the County Court House,
, New Jersey.
You have the right to be present in court. You have the right to be represented by
an attorney of your own choosing. You may appear in person or through legal counsel to
oppose the relief sought. You have the right to demand a trial by jury.
If either you or the attorney appointed for you do not dispute the need for a
guardianship or the fitness of the proposed guardian, and if you do not request a plenary
hearing, the court may summarily appoint
as guardian(s) without the necessity of a hearing.
Date: Date:
________________________________________ ____________________________________________
Signature of Plaintiff Signature of Plaintiff
Type Name Type Name

25
FORM G PROOF OF SERVICE
Pro Se Plaintiff(s) TYPE YOUR NAME(s)
Address:

Telephone Number:
SUPERIOR COURT OF NEW JERSEY
CHANCERY DIVISION
COUNTY
PROBATE PART
In the Matter of
TYPE INCAPACITATED PERSON’S NAME
an Alleged Incapacitated Person
Docket No.
CIVIL ACTION
PROOF OF SERVICE
1. I, , of full age, hereby certify and say:
2. On , I personally served
, the alleged incapacitated person, at
with copies of the following
documents regarding the above captioned matter:
A. Verified Complaint
B. Division of Development Disabilities Official’s Certification
C. (Check one) Physician’s Certification or Psychologist’s
Certification
D. Order for Hearing
E. Notice of Pending Hearing, Right to Appear and Right to Request a
Jury Trial.
3. The alleged incapacitated person has been afforded the opportunity to
appear personally or through an attorney in this matter, and he/she has been given or
afforded assistance to communicate with friends, relatives or attorneys concerning this
matter.
26
4. On , I served a copy of the Verified Complaint,
DDD official’s Certification, (check one) Physician’s Certification or
Psychologist’s Certification and Order for Hearing by certified mailed, return receipt
requested, and regular mail on:
Name Address Date Served
5. Copies of all return receipt cards for certified mail are attached.
I hereby certify that the statements made by me are true. I am aware that if
any are wilfully false, I am subject to punishment.
Date: ____________________________________
signature
type name
2002 Surrogates CLICK HERE TO RETURN TO FORM
Atlantic County Surrogate
1201 Bacharach Blvd.
Atlantic City, NJ 08402
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Justice Center
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Court Complex, First Floor
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Surrogate's Building
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Woodbury, NJ 08096-7177
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Jersey City, NJ 07306
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Hunterdon County Justice Center
65 Park Avenue, PO Box 2900
Flemington, NJ 08822-2900
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Mercer County Courthouse
175 South Broad Street, P O Box 8068
Trenton, NJ 08650-0068
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Administration Building, First Floor
75 Bayard Steet
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Hall of Records
1 East Main Street, PO Box 1265
Freehold, NJ 07728-1265
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Administration & Records Building
P.O. Box 900
Morristown, NJ 07963-0900
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Ocean County Courthouse
118 Washington Street, P O Box 2191
Toms River, NJ 08754
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Passaic County Old Courthouse
71 Hamilton Street
Paterson, NJ 07505-2018
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Salem County Courthouse
92 Market Street
Salem, NJ 08079-9856
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Administration Building
20 Grove Street, P O Box 3000
Somerville, NJ 08876-1262
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4 Park Place
Newton, NJ 07860-1795
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Union County Courthouse
2 Broad Street, 2nd floor
Elizabeth, NJ 07207-6001
Warren County Surrogate
Warren County Courthouse
413 Second Street
Belvidere, NJ 07823