1

Surrogate Court Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Estate & Probate Attorney

New York, NY · On-site

$150K - $190K/yr

This is an excellent opportunity for an attorney with a strong background in probate, estate administration, or Surrogate's Court proceedings who is interested in bringing that expertise into a ...

Estates Attorney

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$150K - $165K/yr

Attend Surrogate's Court appearances throughout New York State. * Monitor estate proceedings through the issuance of letters and entry of final decrees. Wrongful Death & Court Approval Proceedings

Attend Surrogate's Court appearances throughout New York State. * Monitor estate proceedings through the issuance of letters and entry of final decrees. Wrongful Death & Court Approval Proceedings

Candidate's should have specific experience in: - Orphan's Court (some Surrogate Court experience is preferred) - Special Needs Trusts/Irrevocable Trusts - Estate Administration - Estate Planning ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Surrogate Court information

See salary details

$10

$24

$46

How much do surrogate court jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for surrogate court in the United States is $24.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $26.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is Surrogate Court?

Surrogate Court is a specialized court that handles matters relating to the administration of estates, wills, and guardianships. It oversees the probate process, ensuring that a deceased person's assets are distributed according to their will or state law if there is no will. Surrogate Court also appoints executors or administrators, resolves disputes among heirs, and can appoint guardians for minors or incapacitated individuals. The court ensures that the estate administration follows proper legal procedures and protects the interests of all parties involved.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Surrogate Court clerk, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Surrogate Court Clerk, you need a thorough understanding of probate law, court procedures, and legal documentation, typically supported by a degree in criminal justice, legal studies, or relevant experience. Familiarity with court management software, electronic filing systems, and case management tools is essential. Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and strong interpersonal communication help you manage sensitive cases and interact with the public. These skills ensure accurate court processing, maintain legal compliance, and provide effective service to clients and attorneys.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in Surrogate Court roles?

Professionals working in Surrogate Court roles often encounter challenges such as managing complex and sensitive family dynamics, handling a high volume of cases with strict deadlines, and ensuring accuracy in legal documentation related to wills, estates, and guardianships. Navigating emotionally charged situations with empathy while maintaining impartiality is crucial. Additionally, staying updated on frequently changing probate laws and regulations is essential for success in this legal environment.

What is the difference between Surrogate Court vs Probate Clerk?

AspectSurrogate CourtProbate Clerk
CertificationsVaries by jurisdiction, often requires legal or court-related trainingTypically requires clerical or legal assistant certifications
Work EnvironmentCourthouse, handling legal proceedings related to estates and willsCourthouse or office, managing estate documentation and filings
Employer & IndustryCourts, legal system, government agenciesCourts, legal offices, government agencies

Surrogate Court primarily oversees estate and probate matters, involving legal proceedings and court hearings. Probate Clerks assist with administrative tasks like filing documents and maintaining records. While both roles operate within the court system, Surrogate Court staff are more involved in legal processes, whereas Probate Clerks focus on clerical support. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the probate and estate administration field.

More about Surrogate Court jobs

What cities are hiring for Surrogate Court jobs?

Cities with the most Surrogate Court job openings:

What states have the most Surrogate Court jobs?

States with the most job openings for Surrogate Court jobs include:

Infographic showing various Surrogate Court job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,220 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Receptionist - Bergen County Surrogate's Court

Bergen County

Hackensack, NJ • On-site

$45K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Organizational Overview:
The Bergen County Surrogate acts as a Judge and also administers a Court which is almost certain to touch the lives of every person in the county at some time. From probating wills to appointing guardians and recording adoptions, the Surrogate's Court is a central point of contact for many important legal and family matters.
Job Description:
This employment opportunity will be to serve as a Receptionist for the Bergen County Surrogate's Court. Under the direction of a supervisory officer, receives callers, provides them with information, schedules appointments, and acts as liaison between department personnel and callers; does related work as required.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Greet and direct visitors, provide them with the required information according to department procedures and, as is possible, sees that the desired objectives are achieved.
  • Organize, update, and manage physical paper files and digital document archives.
  • Ensure the reception area remains clean, orderly, and presentable.
  • Prepare invoices for clients.
  • Retrieve copies of old files from microfiche.
  • Answer, screen and route incoming calls on a multi-line system while taking clear messages.
  • Provide basic and accurate information in-person and via phone.
  • Refers complicated inquiries and/or callers who have come to the wrong office to the proper individual or unit.
  • Receives, sorts and distributes incoming mail and deliveries.
  • Performs varied clerical duties, including keyboarding, filing and photocopying.
  • Maintain records and files.
Schedule:
  • Full time (35 hours/week) 8:30 AM - 4:30PM Monday through Friday.
Education Requirements:
  • High School Diploma
Other Requirements:
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Strong typing skills with a high level of accuracy.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Teams, Word, Outlook and Excel programs.
  • Will be required to learn to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office or related units.
  • Appointees will be required to possess a driver's license valid in New Jersey only if the operation of a vehicle, rather than employee mobility, is necessary to perform essential duties of the position.
What we offer:
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Coverage
  • Enrollment into the state pension system
  • Life, Short-term Disability & Long-term Disability coverage
  • Generous Paid Time Off
  • Voluntary Deferred Compensation Plan
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employee Assistance and Employee Wellness Programs

Salary: $45,000 / per annum
Please send resume and employment application to resume@bergencountynj.gov - put in subject line job applying for, thank you.
The County of Bergen is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer.
It has been and will continue to be a fundamental policy of The County of Bergen not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, gender, gender identity, pregnancy, marital status, partnership status, domestic violence victim status, sexual orientation, age, national origin, alienage or citizenship status, veteran or military status, disability, medical condition, genetic information, caregiver status, unemployment status or any other characteristic prohibited by federal, state and/or local laws.
This policy applies to all aspects of employment, including hiring, promotion, demotion, compensation, training, working conditions, transfer, job assignments, benefits, layoff, and termination.