Rule 5:3-6.Continuous Trials

Last amended April 5, 1999 · Current through September 1, 2026 · Last verified September 8, 2026

In one sentenceRule 5:3-6 directs that civil family actions be tried continuously to conclusion so far as practicable, and makes that mandatory absent exigent circumstances in counties with four or more full-time Family Part judges.

Full Text of Rule 5:3-6

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Insofar as practicable, civil family actions should be tried continuously to conclusion and, in the absence of exigent circumstances, shall be so tried in counties in which four or more judges are assigned to the Family Part on a full-time basis.

End

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: Adopted January 21, 1999 to be effective April 5, 1999.

Plain-English Summary

A short rule against the fragmented trial. Civil family matters should be tried straight through rather than in scattered sittings, so far as that is practicable.

In larger vicinages the direction hardens. Where four or more judges are assigned to the Family Part on a full-time basis, continuous trial is required unless exigent circumstances intervene.

Frequently Asked Questions

Must family trials run continuously?

So far as practicable, yes. In counties with four or more full-time Family Part judges, continuous trial is required absent exigent circumstances.

Does this apply to every family case?

The rule speaks to civil family actions.

Source & verification. The rule text and amendment history are reproduced verbatim from the official New Jersey Rules of Court, Part V (N.J. Ct. R. 5:3-6). Prescribed by the Supreme Court of New Jersey. The plain-English summary is original and written by us. Last verified September 8, 2026. · Official source

Also known as: continuous trialtrial schedulingback to back trial days