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The New Jersey Complaint Form, specifically the Civil Case Information Statement (CIS), plays a critical role in the state's judicial process, providing a structured framework for both plaintiffs and defendants to present essential case details when initiating or responding to civil litigation. This requirement, as set forth by court rules, necessitates the inclusion of the CIS with each party's initial pleading within the Civil part of the Law Division, underscoring the judiciary's aim to streamline the litigation process by capturing case nuances upfront. From identifying the type of case—be it breach of contract or personal injury—to requesting accommodations like interpreters or expedited trial dates due to witness availability, the CIS serves as a preliminary yet comprehensive overview of the lawsuit at hand. This procedural mandate, coupled with checkboxes for specific instances, such as allegations of sexual abuse or professional malpractice, facilitates a more informed case management approach by the court. Moreover, this process necessitates removing confidential personal identifiers from documents filed, reflecting a commitment to privacy and compliance with applicable statutes and judicial directives. Prepared by the New Jersey Administrative Office of the Courts, this form and its corresponding instructions are designed to assist self-represented litigants, though all parties are ultimately responsible for the accuracy of the information provided. The iterative updates to these documents reflect ongoing adaptations to New Jersey statutes and court rules, with the most recent versions accessible through county courthouses or the judiciary’s website, emphasizing the judiciary's drive toward making legal processes more accessible and comprehensible for all New Jersey residents.

Sample - Nj Complaint Form

Civil – Law

Case Information Statement 12/23/2020

How to Complete the Civil Case Information Statement

(CIS)

These instructions are intended to guide individuals who are either plaintiffs or defendants in civil cases and who are not represented by an attorney in completing the Civil Case Information Statement (Civil CIS) required by court rules. The Civil CIS must be included with each party’s first pleading in the Civil part of the Law Division. That is, the plaintiff must file it with the complaint and the defendant must file it with the answer. If it is not included, the papers will be returned.

The CIS summarizes your case and alerts the court to any special needs you may have such as the need for an interpreter or the need for a quick trial date because one of your witnesses is expected to be unavailable. The numbers for the various case types are located on the back of the form. Enter the number which best describes your complaint. For example, if you are suing the defendant for a breach of contract, your case number would be 599.

After you have completed the CIS, keep it with the other papers you are planning to file.

Note: These materials have been prepared by the New Jersey Administrative Office of the Courts for use by self-represented litigants. The guides, instructions, and forms will be periodically updated as necessary to reflect current New Jersey statutes and court rules. The most recent version of the forms will be available at the county courthouse or on the Judiciary’s Internet site njcourts.gov. However, you are ultimately responsible for the content of your court papers.

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Instructions for Parties Not Represented by an Attorney for Completing the

Civil Case Information Statement (CIS)

Box#

Instruction

 

 

 

 

1.

Print your name.

 

 

 

2.

List a telephone number, including area code, where you can be reached during the day.

 

 

 

3.

Insert the name of the county where the complaint or answer is being filed.

 

 

 

 

4.

Leave the box blank.

 

 

 

5.

If you know the docket number of your case, insert it in the docket number box. If the CIS is

 

being filed with a complaint, the court will assign the docket number before it returns the

 

filed complaint.

 

 

 

 

6.

Enter an address where you wish to receive mail concerning this matter.

 

 

 

7.

Document type means the type of paper you are filing. If you are filing the complaint, print

 

complaint; if you are filing an answer, print answer.

 

 

 

8.

Check the box marked “yes” if you have requested that the matter be heard by a jury.

 

Otherwise, check “no.”

 

 

 

 

9.

Enter your name and indicate whether you are the plaintiff or defendant.

 

 

 

10.

The caption is the name of the case - the name of the plaintiff(s) v. the name of the

 

defendant(s). For example: John Doe, Plaintiff v. Mary Smith, Defendant. Print the name of

 

your case.

 

 

 

11.

The Case Type Number identifies the type of case. On the back of the CIS form is a list of

 

case types. Sometimes it is difficult to pick the number of your case, but you must fill in this

 

section in order for your case to proceed. Choose the one that best describes what your case

 

is about and enter that number. For example, if you are the plaintiff or defendant in a dispute

 

over fulfilling the terms of a contract, the case type is 599; if your case concerns a personal

 

injury, the case type number is 605.

 

 

 

 

12.

Are you alleging claims of sexual abuse? If yes, check the box marked “yes.”

Otherwise,

 

check “no.”

 

 

 

13.

If you believe that your case is a professional malpractice case, check the box marked “yes”

 

and see N.J.S.A. 2A:53A-27 and applicable case law regarding your obligation to file an

 

affidavit of merit.

 

 

 

14.

If you believe that you have any other cases involving the same adversary or arising from the

 

same set of circumstances (related cases pending), check the box marked “yes.” Otherwise,

 

check “no.”

 

 

 

15.

If you checked “yes” to the previous question, enter the docket number(s) of any related

 

cases.

 

 

 

16.

If you believe you will be adding more parties to the case, check “yes.” Otherwise, check

 

“no.”

 

 

 

17.

If you are the plaintiff and know the name of the defendant’s primary insurance company

 

enter it in the box. Otherwise check “unknown.” If you are the defendant and you have

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insurance that might cover or partially cover the damages complained of, enter the name of your insurance company.

18.If you and your adversary knew each other before the event giving rise to the law suit occurred, check “yes.” Otherwise, check “no.”

If the answer was “yes”, check the box next to the word(s) that best describe the relationship between the parties.

19.If you believe that the statute governing your case provides for payment of fees by the losing party, (for example, the Law Against Discrimination), check “yes.” Otherwise, check “no.”

20.If you believe that your case has some unusual circumstance which would require special attention, indicate the problem in the space provided. For example, if there is a witness who is ill or who may be unavailable, you should let the court staff know.

21.If you are requesting any accommodation for a disability, check “yes” and indicate what is needed. Otherwise, check “no.”

22.If you are requesting an interpreter, check “yes” and indicate the language for which it is needed. Otherwise, check “no.”

23.This box contains the statement by which you certify that you have removed any confidential personal identifiers from any document you have already submitted to the court and that you will continue to remove such identifiers in any future submission, unless such confidential personal identifiers are required by statute, court rule or court order. If you are filing a name change complaint, N.J.S.A. 2A:52-1 (the applicable New Jersey statute) requires that the social security number be listed on your complaint. Once a name change judgment is entered, your social security number will be removed by the court before the judgment is published in the newspaper.

24.The person whose name appears in Box 1 must sign the CIS in the space marked “Attorney Signature.”

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Civil Case Information Statement

(CIS)

Use for initial Law Division

Civil Part pleadings (not motions) under RULE 4:5-1

Pleading will be rejected for filing, under RULE 1:5-6(c), if information above the black bar is not completed or attorney’s signature is not affixed

For Use by Clerk’s Office Only

Payment type: ck cg ca

Chg/Ck Number:

Amount:

Overpayment:

Batch Number:

Attorney/Pro Se Name

Telephone Number

County of Venue

Firm Name (if applicable)

Docket Number (when available)

Office Address

Document Type

Jury Demand

Yes

No

Name of Party (e.g., John Doe, Plaintiff)

Caption

Case Type Number

 

Are sexual abuse claims

Is this a professional malpractice case?

Yes

No

(See reverse side for listing)

 

alleged?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Yes

No

If you have checked “Yes,” see N.J.S.A. 2A:53A-27 and applicable case law

 

 

regarding your obligation to file an affidavit of merit.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Related Cases Pending?

 

 

If “Yes,” list docket numbers

 

 

Yes

No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Do you anticipate adding any parties

(arising out of same transaction or occurrence)?

Yes No

Name of defendant’s primary insurance company (if known)

None Unknown

The Information Provided on This Form Cannot be Introduced into Evidence.

Case Characteristics for Purposes of Determining if Case is Appropriate for Mediation

Do parties have a current, past or recurrent relationship?

If “Yes,” is that relationship:

 

 

Yes

No

Employer/Employee

Friend/Neighbor

Other (explain)

Familial

Business

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Does the statute governing this case provide for payment of fees by the losing party?

Yes

No

Use this space to alert the court to any special case characteristics that may warrant individual management or accelerated disposition

 

Do you or your client need any disability accommodations?

If yes, please identify the requested accommodation:

 

Yes

No

 

 

 

 

 

Will an interpreter be needed?

If yes, for what language?

 

Yes

No

 

 

 

 

 

I certify that confidential personal identifiers have been redacted from documents now submitted to the court and will be redacted from all documents submitted in the future in accordance with RULE 1:38-7(b).

Attorney Signature:

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Side 2

Civil Case Information Statement

(CIS)

Use for initial pleadings (not motions) under RULE 4:5-1

CASE TYPES (Choose one and enter number of case type in appropriate space on the reverse side.)

Track I - 150 days discovery

151

Name Change

506

PIP Coverage

175

Forfeiture

510

UM or UIM Claim (coverage issues only)

302

Tenancy

511

Action on Negotiable Instrument

399

Real Property (other than Tenancy, Contract, Condemnation, Complex

512

Lemon Law

 

Commercial or Construction)

801

Summary Action

502

Book Account (debt collection matters only)

802

Open Public Records Act (summary action)

505

Other Insurance Claim (including declaratory judgment actions)

999

Other (briefly describe nature of action)

Track II - 300 days discovery

305

Construction

603Y

Auto Negligence – Personal Injury (verbal threshold)

509

Employment (other than Conscientious Employees Protection Act (CEPA)

605

Personal Injury

 

or Law Against Discrimination (LAD))

610

Auto Negligence – Property Damage

599

Contract/Commercial Transaction

621

UM or UIM Claim (includes bodily injury)

603N

Auto Negligence – Personal Injury (non-verbal threshold)

699

Tort – Other

Track III - 450 days discovery

005

Civil Rights

608

Toxic Tort

301

Condemnation

609

Defamation

602

Assault and Battery

616

Whistleblower / Conscientious Employee Protection Act

604

Medical Malpractice

 

(CEPA) Cases

606

Product Liability

617

Inverse Condemnation

607

Professional Malpractice

618

Law Against Discrimination (LAD) Cases

Track IV - Active Case Management by Individual Judge / 450 days discovery

156

Environmental/Environmental Coverage Litigation

514

Insurance Fraud

303

Mt. Laurel

620

False Claims Act

508

Complex Commercial

701

Actions in Lieu of Prerogative Writs

513

Complex Construction

 

 

Multicounty Litigation (Track IV)

271

Accutane/Isotretinoin

601

Asbestos

274

Risperdal/Seroquel/Zyprexa

623

Propecia

281

Bristol-Myers Squibb Environmental

624

Stryker LFIT CoCr V40 Femoral Heads

282

Fosamax

625

Firefighter Hearing Loss Litigation

285

Stryker Trident Hip Implants

626

Abilify

286

Levaquin

627

Physiomesh Flexible Composite Mesh

289

Reglan

628

Taxotere/Docetaxel

291

Pelvic Mesh/Gynecare

629

Zostavax

292

Pelvic Mesh/Bard

630

Proceed Mesh/Patch

293

DePuy ASR Hip Implant Litigation

631

Proton-Pump Inhibitors

295

AlloDerm Regenerative Tissue Matrix

632

HealthPlus Surgery Center

296

Stryker Rejuvenate/ABG II Modular Hip Stem Components

633

Prolene Hernia System Mesh

297

Mirena Contraceptive Device

634

Allergan Biocell Textured Breast Implants

299Olmesartan Medoxomil Medications/Benicar

300Talc-Based Body Powders

If you believe this case requires a track other than that provided above, please indicate the reason on Side 1,

in the space under "Case Characteristics.

Please check off each applicable category

Putative Class Action

Title 59

Consumer Fraud

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Document Specifications

Fact Description
Document Purpose The Civil Case Information Statement (CIS) is designed to summarize a civil case and alert the court to any special needs, such as interpreter requirements or expedited trial requests.
Governing Rules The completion and submission of the CIS are required by court rules for each party's first pleading in the Civil Part of the Law Division.
Document Type The form is used for initial pleadings in civil cases, not for motions, in the Law Division Civil Part under Rule 4:5-1.
Contents It includes sections for personal information, case information, allegations of professional malpractice or related cases, and requests for jury trials or interpreters.
Submission Requirement The CIS must be filed alongside the complaint by the plaintiff and with the answer by the defendant.
Case Type Identification Users must enter the number that best describes their complaint from a list on the form's reverse side.
Special Circumstances Includes sections for detailing any unusual circumstances requiring special attention, claims of sexual abuse, and if the case involves professional malpractice.
Accommodations Sections are provided for requesting accommodations for disabilities and language interpreters.
Confidentiality Statement Contains a certification that any confidential personal identifiers have been redacted from submitted documents.
Signature Requirement The form needs to be signed in the space marked “Attorney Signature” by the person whose name appears in the first box.
Governing Law for Name Changes For name change complaints, the form cites N.J.S.A. 2A:52-1 as requiring a social security number, which is removed by the court post-judgment.

Detailed Steps for Using Nj Complaint

Filling out the New Jersey Civil Case Information Statement (CIS) is a critical step in the process of either initiating or responding to a civil lawsuit when you are not represented by an attorney. This document provides the court with an overview of your case and any specific requirements you might have, such as the need for a swift trial or accommodations for a disability. It’s important to complete this form accurately and thoroughly, as failing to do so can result in the rejection of your filing. Follow the steps below to ensure your CIS is correctly filled out and ready for submission.

  1. Print your name clearly in the space provided.
  2. Provide a telephone number, including area code, where you can be reached during the day.
  3. Indicate the name of the county where the complaint or answer is being filed.
  4. Leave the box blank if instruction 4 applies.
  5. If known, enter the docket number of your case in the appropriate space. If this CIS accompanies a complaint, note that the court assigns the docket number later.
  6. Input an address where you wish to receive mail regarding this matter.
  7. Specify the document type you are filing by printing either ‘complaint’ or ‘answer’.
  8. Check the appropriate box to indicate whether you have requested a jury trial. Check “yes” if you have, or “no” if you have not.
  9. Again, enter your name and specify whether you are the plaintiff or defendant.
  10. Print the name of your case in the caption field, following the format: John Doe, Plaintiff v. Mary Smith, Defendant.
  11. Select the Case Type Number from the list on the back of the form that best describes your case and enter it.
  12. If you are alleging claims of sexual abuse, check “yes”; otherwise, check “no”.
  13. For cases involving professional malpractice, mark “yes” and review the requirements for filing an affidavit of merit.
  14. Indicate whether there are any related cases pending by checking “yes” or “no.” If “yes,” list the docket numbers.
  15. Check “yes” if you anticipate adding more parties to the case; otherwise, check “no.”
  16. If known, enter the name of the defendant’s primary insurance company, or check “unknown.”
  17. If you and your adversary knew each other before the lawsuit, check “yes” and describe the relationship; if not, check “no.”
  18. Check “yes” if the statute governing your case includes provision for the payment of fees by the losing party; otherwise, check “no.”
  19. Use the space provided to indicate any unusual circumstances that may require special attention.
  20. If accommodations for a disability are needed, check “yes” and specify what is needed; if not, check “no.”
  21. If you require an interpreter, mark “yes” and indicate the needed language; otherwise, check “no.”
  22. Certify that you have complied with requirements to redact confidential personal identifiers from documents submitted to the court.
  23. Finally, sign the CIS where indicated in the space marked for attorney signature, substituting your signature as the party not represented by an attorney.

After completing the Civil Case Information Statement, ensure you keep a copy for your records. The next step is to file this completed form along with your initial pleading (either a complaint or answer) with the clerk of the county courthouse where your case belongs. Be prepared to pay any filing fees associated with your case at this time, unless you qualify for a fee waiver. Once the form and your pleading are filed, the court process will officially begin. Keep in mind, presenting accurate and complete information on the CIS is essential for the efficient processing of your case.

Learn More on Nj Complaint

What is the Civil Case Information Statement (CIS) used for in New Jersey?

The Civil Case Information Statement (CIS) is a mandatory document that both plaintiffs and defendants must submit with their initial pleadings in civil cases within the Law Division, Civil Part of the New Jersey courts. Its primary purpose is to summarize the case for the court, indicating any special needs like the requirement for an interpreter or a swift trial date due to the availability issues of a witness.

How do I determine which case type number to use when completing the CIS?

On the back of the CIS form, you'll find a list of case types with corresponding numbers. You need to choose the number that most closely describes the nature of your case. For instance, if the lawsuit involves a breach of contract, you would select case type 599. This classification helps the court in processing and deciding the case efficiently.

What happens if I don't submit the CIS with my complaint or answer?

If you fail to include the CIS with your initial pleading, be it a complaint by the plaintiff or an answer by the defendant, the court will return your documents. The CIS is crucial for the court to process your case appropriately.

Where can I find the most up-to-date version of the Civil Case Information Statement form?

The latest version of the CIS form can be obtained from the county courthouse or via the New Jersey Judiciary's website at njcourts.gov. It's important to use the most recent form to ensure compliance with current New Jersey statutes and court rules.

Am I responsible for the accuracy of the information provided in the CIS?

Yes, while the New Jersey Administrative Office of the Courts provides instructions and guides for completing the CIS, you are ultimately responsible for the accuracy and completeness of the information you submit. This means you need to carefully fill out the form and ensure that all details are correct and up to date.

What specific information is required in the CIS?

  • Your name and contact information.
  • The county where you are filing your complaint or answer.
  • A docket number if available, or the understanding that one will be assigned to your case.
  • The document type, indicating whether you're filing a complaint or an answer.
  • Details about the case, including case type number and whether it involves claims of a specific nature such as sexual abuse or professional malpractice.
  • Any requests for special accommodations or the need for an interpreter.

How do I handle confidential personal information when submitting the CIS?

When submitting the CIS and any other documents to the court, you must redact or remove personal confidential identifiers from the documents, unless such information is specifically required by statute, court rule, or court order. This policy is in place to protect sensitive information. In specific cases, like a name change complaint, you will need to include certain confidential information, which will then be handled accordingly by the court.

Common mistakes

Filling out legal forms accurately is crucial for the smooth progression of your case in the New Jersey legal system. The Civil Case Information Statement (CIS) form is no exception. However, many individuals make errors when completing this form, which can lead to delays or complications in their case. Highlighted below are five common mistakes:

  1. Failure to Include the CIS with the Initial Pleading: The Civil CIS must accompany your first pleading, either the complaint or the answer, in the Civil part of the Law Division. Overlooking this requirement will result in your papers being returned to you.
  2. Incorrect Case Type Number: Each case type has a specific number assigned, as listed on the back of the CIS form. A common error is selecting the wrong number, which misrepresents the nature of your case to the court. It's essential to choose the number that most accurately describes your complaint.
  3. Leaving Mandatory Fields Blank: Some fields are mandatory and skipping these can make your submission incomplete. For instance, not providing the name of the county where the complaint or answer is being filed, or failing to check the appropriate boxes for whether a jury trial is requested, can lead to your form being returned.
  4. Omitting Related Case Information: If you have related cases pending that involve the same adversary or arise from the same set of circumstances, these must be disclosed by checking "yes" and listing the docket numbers. Neglecting to do so can result in overlooked connections that might be relevant to your current case.
  5. Forgetting to Sign the Form: The CIS form requires the signature of the party filling it out in the specified signature space. An unsigned CIS form is considered incomplete and will not be processed.

By paying careful attention to these details, you can avoid common pitfalls and ensure your case proceeds as smoothly as possible.

Documents used along the form

When navigating the legal landscape of New Jersey, especially within the Civil part of the Law Division, various documents and forms complement the filing process, each serving its unique purpose. Alongside the New Jersey Complaint form, there are other crucial documents individuals should be aware of to ensure a comprehensive understanding and adherence to procedural requirements.

  • Summons: A legal document issued by the court, which, when served to a defendant, officially notifies them of the civil action filed against them. It compels the defendant to respond to the complaint within a specified timeframe.
  • Case Information Statement (CIS): This form provides a snapshot of the case to the court, summarizing key information such as case type, involved parties, and any special requests like the need for fast-tracking the trial or requests for accommodations.
  • Proof of Service: A document that must be filled out by the person serving the complaint and summons to the defendant. It confirms that the defendant was properly notified of the legal action, detailing when and how the documents were served.
  • Civil Answer Form: Used by a defendant to formally respond to the allegations made against them in the complaint. This form allows the defendant to admit or deny each assertion made by the plaintiff.
  • Affidavit of Merit: Necessary in professional malpractice cases, this document, signed by an expert, attests to the merit of the plaintiff's claim. It is required by New Jersey law and helps to prevent frivolous lawsuits against professionals.

Understanding and properly utilizing these forms are crucial steps in the legal process. Individuals involved in civil litigation in New Jersey are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these documents to navigate the legal system more effectively. Whether you are filing a complaint or responding to one, being prepared with the correct forms ensures a smoother legal journey.

Similar forms

The NJ Complaint form shares similarities with a Name Change Petition form, which is used for individuals seeking to legally change their name. Both forms require detailed personal information, case type identification, and notification to the court of any special requests such as the need for an interpreter. Furthermore, each document mandates the disclosure of any related cases and clarifies whether additional parties will be added, underscoring the importance of comprehensive case information for court proceedings.

Similar to the Civil Case Information Statement, the Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Coverage Claim form also involves insurance aspects, requiring the filer to specify their insurance company if known. This resemblance highlights the need for disclosing relevant insurance information in legal disputes involving coverage, aiming to facilitate the court's understanding of the financial dynamics at play.

The Tenancy Complaint form, used by landlords or tenants to address issues related to rental agreements, mirrors the NJ Complaint form in its need for precise case type identification. Both forms alert the court to the nature of the dispute and any special considerations, such as the need for expedited processing or accommodation requests, ensuring that the court is well-informed of the case specifics from the outset.

Employment Discrimination Complaint forms, like the NJ Complaint form, often require the plaintiff to indicate whether their case involves allegations of professional malpractice or other statutory considerations, such as whistleblower protections. Both documents enable individuals to provide courts with a snapshot of the legal context, including related pending cases and potential implications for legal remedies.

The Product Liability Complaint form, utilized when defective products cause harm, shares the requirement with the NJ Complaint form to declare any insurance information and detail any special case characteristics. Both ensure that the court receives pertinent information on related insurance coverage and any unique case elements that might affect its management or resolution.

Medical Malpractice Complaint forms necessitate an affidavit of merit, similar to the NJ Complaint form's checkbox for professional malpractice cases. This parallel underscores the importance of substantiating claims of professional negligence with credible evidence, guiding plaintiffs through the prerequisites for filing such complex lawsuits.

The Real Property Complaint form, for disputes involving property rights and transactions, echoes the NJ Complaint form in its requirement for plaintiffs to outline the pre-existing relationship with the defendant, if any. This element serves to inform the court of the lawsuit's context and any underlying dynamics between the parties that may influence the case.

Consumer Fraud Complaint forms, designed for cases where deceptive practices are alleged, similarly involve specifying the relationship between the parties and checking for related cases. This reflects the broader need in legal disputes to disclose any prior interactions that could have legal relevance and ensure the court is aware of any interconnected litigation.

Lastly, the Contract Dispute Complaint form, which is used to initiate legal action over breached contracts, parallels the NJ Complaint form in allowing plaintiffs to request an interpreter or accommodations for disabilities. This provision ensures that all litigants, regardless of their personal circumstances, can fully participate in the legal process and have their case heard fairly.

Dos and Don'ts

When preparing to fill out the New Jersey Complaint Form, commonly referred to as the Civil Case Information Statement (CIS), there are critical guidelines to both follow and avoid. This document is a pivotal initial step in civil litigation within the Law Division, and accuracy along with full compliance with the outlined requirements ensures the smooth processing of your case. Below is a concise yet comprehensive guide to aiding plaintiffs and defendants in effectively completing the CIS.

Things you should do:

  1. Ensure all personal information is completed fully and accurately, including your name, daytime telephone number, mailing address, and the county where you are filing your complaint or answer. This basic information facilitates effective communication and proper case handling.
  2. Select the correct Case Type Number that corresponds to your specific legal issue from the list provided on the back of the CIS form. This classification is crucial for the court to understand the nature of the case and to allocate it appropriately.
  3. If applicable, acknowledge any requests for special accommodations such as the need for an interpreter or disability services within the form. Highlighting these needs early on ensures that the court is prepared to provide the necessary support for your hearing or trial.
  4. Sign the document where indicated to certify that you have complied with New Jersey court rules, specifically in regards to the redaction of confidential personal identifiers from submitted documents unless otherwise required by law.

Things you shouldn't do:

  1. Avoid leaving any required fields blank, especially those that ask for critical information such as your contact details, document type, and whether the matter is being heard by a jury. Incomplete forms are subject to return, which can delay your case.
  2. Do not guess the Case Type Number or select one that doesn't accurately reflect the nature of your case. Incorrect or careless selection may lead to inappropriate case routing, leading to potential delays or misjudgements.
  3. Refrain from including confidential personal identifiers, such as Social Security numbers, on the form, except in specific cases where it is mandated by statute. For example, name change complaints require Social Security numbers, which are handled with confidentiality by the court.
  4. Do not disregard the box regarding related cases. If there are any cases involving the same parties or issues currently pending, this information must be disclosed to prevent conflicting judgments and to assist in proper case management.

Misconceptions

Many people harbor misunderstandings about the New Jersey Civil Case Information Statement (CIS) form. Here are eight common misconceptions explained:

  • It's only for plaintiffs. Both plaintiffs and defendants must complete the CIS form. Plaintiffs attach it to their complaint, and defendants to their answer.

  • Once filed, it's set in stone. Circumstances change. The information on the CIS can be updated as the case progresses to reflect current details.

  • Legal representation is required to complete it. While having an attorney is beneficial, the CIS guide is designed specifically for individuals not represented by legal counsel, emphasizing its user-friendly aim.

  • It requires legal knowledge to fill out. The form includes straightforward instructions to help individuals provide the necessary information without extensive legal knowledge.

  • It's optional. Including the CIS with the first pleading is mandatory. Failure to do so will result in the pleading being returned.

  • All boxes must be filled. Not every box will apply to every case. The guide offers directions on which boxes to complete and which to leave blank, depending on the specifics of the case.

  • It's only a formality and doesn’t impact the case. The CIS provides critical information that aids in the management of your case, including any special needs like the requirement for a quick trial date or an interpreter.

  • It's evident what case type to select. Choosing a case type can be confusing due to the broad nature of some categories. The form supplies a list with descriptions to assist in making the right selection.

Correcting these misconceptions is crucial for those involved in civil cases in New Jersey, ensuring that the CIS form is completed accurately and effectively to facilitate the legal process.

Key takeaways

Filling out the New Jersey Complaint form correctly is crucial for ensuring your civil case is processed without unnecessary delays. Here are seven key takeaways to guide you through this process:

  • Include the Civil Case Information Statement (CIS) with your first pleading in the Civil part of the Law Division, whether you are filing as a plaintiff or a defendant. Failure to do so will result in your papers being returned.
  • Ensure you provide accurate contact information, including a telephone number where you can be reached during the day and a mailing address for receiving court-related correspondence.
  • Select the correct Case Type Number on the back of the form that best describes your complaint or defense, as this is vital for the correct processing and handling of your case.
  • If your case involves claims of sexual abuse, professional malpractice, or related cases pending, or if you are anticipating adding more parties to the case, make sure to indicate this on the form as required.
  • Indicate whether you have an existing relationship with the defendant before the event that gave rise to the lawsuit, and if the lawsuit's governing statute provides for the payment of fees by the losing party.
  • Highlight any special needs or accommodations you may require, such as the need for an interpreter or accommodations for a disability, to ensure these needs are addressed early in the process.
  • Remember to sign the form in the designated space to certify that you have removed any confidential personal identifiers from the documents you are submitting, in accordance with the rules, unless required by statute, court rule, or court order.

It is the responsibility of each individual, whether plaintiff or defendant, to fully comply with these requirements to facilitate a smooth legal process. The most recent version of the forms and further instructions can be found at the New Jersey Courts' official website or at your local county courthouse.

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