Published on June 02, 2025
Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling traveled to Trenton last week to advocate for the advancement of the “Uniform Electronic Wills Act” (Senate Bill S421), a bill currently under consideration by the New Jersey Senate Judiciary Committee. The legislation would modernize probate procedures by allowing for the creation and probate of electronic wills, an option already permitted in 14 states.
Surrogate Darling has been a leading voice in New Jersey for integrating digital tools into the probate process. She pioneered the implementation of an online system for filing probate, streamlining estate administration for families—a system that is now available in Surrogate’s Offices across New Jersey. She has emphasized that electronic wills are a natural next step in this modernization effort, providing residents with more accessible and secure options for end-of-life planning. In the past, Surrogate Darling has pointed out that without a legal framework to handle electronic wills, these documents could end up in probate court unnecessarily, creating delays and additional costs for grieving families.
As New Jersey continues to embrace digital innovation across public services, Surrogate Darling hopes to see S421 and its Assembly companion, A5772, pass both chambers of the Legislature and be signed into law by the Governor. She firmly believes this change would help ensure that New Jersey residents can rely on 21st-century tools to protect their final wishes and streamline the probate process.
For more information about the Morris County Surrogate’s Office, visit www.morrissurrogate.com.