N.J. Stat. Ann. § 46:8-1 et seq. § 46:8-34
Jurisdiction of Superior Court; amounts under $3,000
Operative Text
8. The Superior Court, Law Division, Special Civil Part shall have jurisdiction over any action between a landlord and tenant where the amount in controversy is $3,000.00 or less. L.1974,c.50,s.8; amended 1991,c.91,s.457.
Under N.J.S.A. 46:8-1 et seq. § 46:8-34, the Superior Court, Law Division, Special Civil Part is designated as the proper court to hear disputes between landlords and tenants when the dollar amount at issue does not exceed $3,000. This provision establishes a jurisdictional threshold, meaning that smaller-dollar landlord-tenant claims are channeled to this particular court division rather than other courts. The rule applies regardless of which party initiates the action.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers handling disputes under N.J.S.A. 46:8-1 et seq. § 46:8-34 should be aware that claims involving $3,000 or less—such as security deposit disputes or minor rent arrears—are typically filed in the Superior Court, Law Division, Special Civil Part. Operators familiar with this jurisdictional rule generally ensure their claims are filed in the correct court to avoid procedural delays or dismissals. Understanding which court has authority over a given dollar amount is a routine part of managing landlord-tenant matters in New Jersey.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
N.J.S.A. 46:8-1 et seq. § 46:8-34 establishes that tenants involved in disputes with landlords over amounts of $3,000 or less can expect those cases to be heard in the Superior Court, Law Division, Special Civil Part. Knowing this jurisdictional rule can help tenants understand where a case against them—or one they wish to bring—would be filed. Tenants seeking guidance on how to navigate this court or assert their rights may find assistance through local tenant-rights organizations or legal aid offices in New Jersey.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 6, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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