New Jersey Supreme Court

Gavel and scales of justice
Jan 14, 2026

NJ reports lowest judicial vacancy rate in two decades

Following Senate confirmation of 16 nominees, New Jersey vacancies fall to 11 — the lowest level in more than 20 years statewide.

Gavel and scales of justice
Nov 19, 2025

NJ to adopt NextGen bar exam in July 2028

The traditional test will be replaced with the practice-focused NextGen UBE assessment, evaluating real-world legal skills for new attorneys.

Superior Court Judge Susan Sheppard will lead the Atlantic/Cape May Vicinage, effective April 1, 2025.
Feb 20, 2025

New assignment judge named for Atlantic/Cape May Vicinage

Superior Court Judge Susan Sheppard will succeed Assignment Judge Michael Blee, who will start this spring as acting director of the Administrative Office of the Courts.

Gavel and scales of justice
Feb 11, 2025

Former NJ Supreme Court associate justice returns to private practice

As part of his new role, Lee Solomon will strategize and consult on trial and appellate matters as well as assist clients in all facets of disputes.

“I could not be more honored and humbled by the opportunity provided by Gov. Murphy to be considered for a seat on the strongest state Supreme Court in the country, with an amazing group of current Justices, and to assume the seat of my former boss and dear friend Justice Solomon," John Hoffman said.
Oct 1, 2024

Former NJ attorney general confirmed to state Supreme Court

The Senate unanimously confirmed John Jay Hoffman to succeed Justice Lee Solomon, who retired last month after reaching the state’s mandatory retirement age for judges, 70.

James Coleman Jr. died Aug. 2 at the age of 91.
Aug 5, 2024

James Coleman Jr., NJ’s first Black Supreme Court justice, dies at 91 (updated)

A fierce advocate of social and racial justice, James Coleman Jr. wrote more than 2,000 opinions during his 39-year judicial career, many of which helped to break down the barriers of segregation.

On June 10, 2024, Gov. Phil Murphy announced his intention to nominate John Hoffman – the current general counsel for Rutgers University and a former state attorney general – to serve as a justice on the New Jersey Supreme Court.
Jun 10, 2024

Murphy to name Hoffman as NJ Supreme Court nominee

Rutgers University General Counsel John Jay Hoffman is also the longest acting attorney general in state history, holding the post for three years.

May 22, 2024

Supreme Court panel clarifies rule on attorney advertising

New guidance clears the way for lawyers and firms to market themselves based on awards and accolades bestowed upon them by media organizations.

Scales of justice
May 10, 2024

NJ Supreme Court approves mental health recommendations

Initial guidelines include expanding conversations about well-being in the profession, providing education programs on wellness topics and continuing to solicit direct input from those in the field, among others.

AI hologram
Jan 26, 2024

NJ Supreme Court releases preliminary AI guidelines for lawyers

The initial framework is intended to inform and assist attorneys in navigating their ethical responsibilities in light of the current and anticipated effects of artificial intelligence on legal practice.

Oct 27, 2023

NJ Supreme Court recognizes 13 attorneys for pro bono service

“Our justice system depends on the commitment and compassion ... like the gifted lawyers we recognize today. We thank them not only for their selfless efforts but also for reminding us that the law is a noble profession. And we are grateful to them for leading the way,” remarked Chief Justice Stuart Rabner.

AI vs no AI
Sep 25, 2023

NJ Supreme Court exploring legal, ethical implications of AI

A 31-member special committee has been established to examine potential impacts of artificial intelligence on operations and the practice of law.