About Bergen County

Bergen County occupies the northeastern corner of New Jersey, forming a distinctive wedge of land bordered by the Hudson and Hackensack rivers to the east and south, and sharing its northern and western boundaries with New York State and neighboring New Jersey counties. Covering approximately 234 square miles, the county encompasses a remarkably diverse landscape that transitions from the dramatic Palisades cliffs overlooking the Hudson River to the flat, fertile wetlands of the Hackensack Meadowlands. This geographic variety is matched by an equally diverse collection of communities, ranging from densely populated urban centers near the George Washington Bridge to quiet suburban neighborhoods and wooded residential enclaves further inland. Bergen County is home to 70 municipalities, each with its own distinct character, governance, and identity. With a population of approximately 955,732 residents, Bergen County ranks as one of the most populous counties in New Jersey and the entire northeastern United States. Its demographics reflect extraordinary cultural and ethnic diversity, with large communities of Korean, Japanese, Indian, Hispanic, and other immigrant populations contributing to a rich multicultural fabric. This diversity is particularly evident in communities like Palisades Park, Fort Lee, and Leonia, which have become nationally recognized hubs of Korean-American culture and commerce. The county's population density, proximity to New York City, and strong civic infrastructure make it one of the most dynamic and competitive residential markets in the region. The county seat of Hackensack serves as Bergen County's governmental and administrative hub, housing key county offices, courts, and public institutions. Economically, Bergen County is a powerhouse, anchored by a robust retail sector — including the iconic American Dream and Bergen Town Center malls — as well as healthcare, finance, technology, and professional services industries. Major medical institutions, corporate headquarters, and a thriving small business community collectively generate billions in economic activity annually. The county's exceptional transportation links, including direct access to New York City via the George Washington Bridge, multiple rail lines, and major highways like Routes 4, 17, and 80, make it an attractive location for both businesses and commuters.

Practice Areas in Bergen County

Criminal Law
Criminal Law
Charges, arrests, bail and criminal trials.
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DUI
DUI
DUI charges, licence suspension and reinstatement.
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Family Law
Family Law
Divorce, custody, property and support.
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Immigration Law
Immigration
Visas, green cards, deportation and citizenship.
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Traffic Law
Traffic Law
Traffic violations, licence matters and offences.
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Employment Law
Employment Law
Wrongful termination, discrimination, disputes.
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Courts in Bergen County

Bergen County is served by several important court facilities that handle a broad range of civil, criminal, and family matters. The Bergen County Superior Court, located at the Bergen County Justice Center at 10 Main Street in Hackensack, is the primary trial court for the county and handles felony criminal cases, civil litigation, family law matters including divorce and child custody, and probate proceedings. The Bergen County Superior Court also houses a Family Division and a Civil Division, each managing specialized dockets. Municipal courts operate independently within each of Bergen County's 70 municipalities and handle local ordinance violations, disorderly persons offenses, and traffic matters; notable municipal courts include those in Hackensack, Paramus, Fort Lee, and Teaneck. The Bergen County Surrogate's Court, also located in Hackensack, manages wills, estates, guardianships, and adoptions. For federal matters, Bergen County residents appear before the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey, with proceedings typically held at the Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse in Newark.

Federal vs State Jurisdiction in Bergen County

In Bergen County, the vast majority of legal matters — including most criminal prosecutions, family law cases, landlord-tenant disputes, and personal injury claims — are handled by New Jersey state courts operating under state law. However, certain cases fall under federal jurisdiction and are heard in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey, one of the busiest federal district courts in the country, with its primary courthouse located in Newark. Federal jurisdiction applies to cases involving federal crimes such as drug trafficking across state lines, immigration violations, civil rights claims under federal statutes, bankruptcy proceedings, and civil disputes between residents of different states where the amount in controversy exceeds $75,000 (known as diversity jurisdiction). Bergen County's unique position on the New Jersey-New York border means federal issues, including cross-state commerce, federal employment law, and interstate criminal activity, arise with notable frequency, making it important for residents to understand which court system governs their particular legal situation.

Common Legal Situations in Bergen County

Given Bergen County's high population density, heavy traffic corridors, and proximity to New York City, residents frequently encounter a wide range of legal challenges. Traffic violations and DWI/DUI charges are among the most common legal issues, fueled by the county's heavily traveled roads including Routes 4, 17, 9W, and the approaches to the George Washington Bridge. Family law matters such as divorce, equitable distribution of substantial marital assets, child custody, and child support disputes are prevalent given the county's high cost of living and affluent demographics. Employment law issues — including wage disputes, discrimination claims, and wrongful termination matters — arise regularly among the large professional workforce commuting to and from New York City. Landlord-tenant disputes, real estate transactions, and zoning controversies are common in a county where housing demand is intense and property values are high. Additionally, the county's large immigrant population frequently encounters immigration-related legal needs, while the aging demographic in many communities generates significant estate planning, probate, and elder law activity.

Why Go To Court for Bergen County Legal Matters

Go To Court offers Bergen County residents a reliable, accessible, and experienced legal resource in a county where legal challenges can be complex and the stakes are often high. Whether you are facing a traffic matter in a local municipal court, navigating a family law dispute in the Bergen County Superior Court, or dealing with a civil or criminal matter, Go To Court's experienced legal team is equipped to provide skilled representation across a wide range of practice areas. Residents can reach the Go To Court team any time of day or night through the free 24/7 hotline, ensuring that urgent legal questions never go unanswered. With transparent fixed-fee arrangements coming soon, Bergen County clients can also look forward to greater cost certainty and peace of mind when securing legal representation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I receive a traffic ticket in Bergen County and I want to contest it?

If you receive a traffic ticket in Bergen County, you have the right to plead not guilty and request a hearing at the municipal court of the municipality where the violation occurred. At the hearing, you or your attorney can challenge the evidence presented by the issuing officer, and a municipal court judge will determine whether the violation is upheld or dismissed. Contesting a ticket can be worthwhile, particularly for serious offenses that carry significant fines, insurance surcharges, or points on your New Jersey driving record.

How does the divorce process work in Bergen County?

Divorce proceedings in Bergen County are filed and heard in the Family Division of the Bergen County Superior Court in Hackensack, and New Jersey law requires that at least one spouse have been a resident of the state for a minimum of one year prior to filing. New Jersey is an equitable distribution state, meaning marital assets — which can be considerable in affluent Bergen County — are divided fairly but not necessarily equally, taking into account factors such as the length of the marriage, each spouse's financial situation, and contributions to the marriage. Matters such as child custody, child support, and alimony are also resolved through the Superior Court, either by negotiated settlement or judicial determination.

Can I be charged with a DWI in Bergen County even if my blood alcohol level was below 0.08%?

Yes, in New Jersey you can be charged with driving while intoxicated even if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is below the legal limit of 0.08%, if law enforcement determines that your ability to operate a vehicle was impaired by alcohol or drugs. Officers may base a DWI charge on observable signs of impairment such as erratic driving, failed field sobriety tests, or slurred speech, regardless of BAC readings. A conviction for DWI in New Jersey carries serious consequences including fines, license suspension, mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device, and potential jail time, making it important to seek legal advice promptly.

What are my rights as a tenant facing eviction in Bergen County?

New Jersey has some of the strongest tenant protections in the country, and landlords in Bergen County must follow a strict legal process before a tenant can be evicted, which includes providing proper written notice and filing an eviction complaint in the Special Civil Part of the Superior Court. Tenants have the right to appear in court, present defenses, and in some circumstances negotiate a payment plan or settlement to avoid eviction. It is important to respond to any court notices promptly and to seek legal assistance if you receive eviction paperwork, as missing a court date can result in a default judgment against you.

Do I need a lawyer to handle a workers' compensation claim in Bergen County?

While you are not legally required to have an attorney to file a workers' compensation claim in New Jersey, having legal representation can significantly improve your chances of receiving fair compensation, particularly if your claim is disputed by your employer or their insurance carrier. Workers' compensation cases in Bergen County are handled by the New Jersey Division of Workers' Compensation, and disputes may be resolved through hearings before a workers' compensation judge. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the claims process, ensure that all medical evidence is properly documented, and advocate for the full benefits to which you are entitled.

Neighbouring Counties

Bergen County is bordered by Passaic County to the west, Hudson County to the south, and Essex County to the southwest, while its northern and northeastern boundaries are shared with Rockland County and Orange County in New York State.