Guardianship of Adult

Guardianship of an Alleged Incapacitated Person

Court appointed legal guardians make decisions for incapacitated people regarding their personal and medical care.The Guardian controls assets, manages budgets, pays debts, and make all financial and investment decisions for the Incapacitated Adult. Below you will find information regarding this Superior Court proceeding.

Superior Court Proceedings

  • Honorable Robert G. Malestein, P.J. Ch.
    Courtroom 203
    19 North Broad Street
    Woodbury, N.J. 08096 
    • Secretary
      Phone: 856-878-5050, ext. 15437
    • Law Clerk
      Phone: 856-878-5050, ext. 15403

Guardianship Checklist

  • 2 Physician Certificates (Exams must be within the last 30 days) 
  • Case information statement
  • Certification of Assets
  • Certification of Non - Appearance (if applicable)
  • Consent of Parties / Next of Kin
  • Guardianship Training Certification (view video tutorial)
  • Order for Hearing - Guardianship of Adult
  • Proof of service on Alleged Incapacitated Person, Next of Kin, Interested Parties, Court Appointed Counsel
  • Proposed Judgment
  • Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 22A:2-29 filing fee of $200.00
  • Service of pleadings/hearing required on all parties including the Alleged incapacitated Person (green cards to be returned to court for proof of service)
  • Verified Complaint for Guardianship of Person or Estate

New Requirements that may be applicable in addition to all check list items:

  • NJ Judiciary Background Screening Policy for Proposed Guardians (spouse and parents of an Incapacitated Person are exempt)
  • Certification of Criminal and Civil Judgment
  • Following Judgement: Acceptance of Guardianship and Acknowledgement of Guardian Background Screening and Training.

New Jersey Guardianship Monitoring Program

The Guardian Monitoring Program (GMP) is a statewide court program designed to monitor and support guardians in their handling of the affairs of incapacitated individuals.

To fulfill your duties as guardian you must comply with the court ordered reporting required by the Judgment. 

A surety bond unto the Superior Court of New Jersey in an amount to be determined by the Superior Court Judge must be obtained.  

Important Information & Links

Guardianship Reporting Form Links

Additional Resources

  • Gloucester County Bar Association: 856-848-4071
  • Lawyer Referral: 856-848-4589
  • Transcript Requests: 856-878-5050, ext. 15179

Filing Fees

  • Answer - $110 
  • Complaint and Order to Show Cause - $175 
  • Guardianship for Alleged Incapacitated Person - $200
  • Guardianship reports filing fee - $5 per page
  • Notice of Motion - $15