Rule 5:13-3.Commencement of Proceedings
Last amended September 1, 2013 · Current through September 1, 2026 · Last verified September 8, 2026
Full Text of Rule 5:13-3
Amendment History
New Jersey publishes each rule’s amendment record in a “Note” beneath the rule. It is reproduced verbatim below; a “Source” line names the former rule the current one grew out of, and “R. (1969)” citations refer to the earlier numbering it replaced.
Note: Source-R. (1969) 5:7B(c). Adopted December 20, 1983, to be effective December 31, 1983; paragraph (a) amended July 9, 2013 to be effective September 1, 2013.
Plain-English Summary
The proceeding begins with a filing rather than a complaint. The Division files a notice of placement with the court, either under a voluntary agreement in the manner the Act prescribes, or on an involuntary placement.
The notice is captioned “In the matter of ___, a minor” and must include at least the information the Division rules require for a notice of placement — the same list, so one document serves both purposes. It is signed by the Attorney General or a designee, or by the Division's Director or a designee.
As in Division actions generally, no written answer to the notice need be filed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a child placement review start?
The Division files a notice of placement with the court, either pursuant to a voluntary agreement in the manner prescribed by the Act, or on an involuntary placement.
Does anyone have to answer the notice?
No written answer to the notice need be filed.
What information does the notice contain?
At least the information set out in Rule 5:12-1(a) for a notice of placement.