Rule 4:89-1.Where an account is about to be settled

Last amended September 4, 1990 · Current through June 18, 2026 · Last verified July 7, 2026

In one sentenceRule 4:89-1 lets the plaintiff settling an account also ask the court for directions on how to distribute the estate, with notice given through the accounting's order to show cause or as the court separately directs.

Full Text of Rule 4:89-1

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If an account is to be settled, the plaintiff in the complaint may apply to the court for directions as to the distribution of the estate. If such an application is made, notice thereof shall be given either in the order to show cause for the settlement of the account or as the court orders.

Amendment History

New Jersey publishes each rule’s amendment record in a “History” note beneath the rule. It is reproduced verbatim below; the “R.R.” citations refer to the former Revised Rules numbering the current rules replaced.

Source-R.R. 4:108-1; amended June 29, 1990 to be effective September 4, 1990.

Plain-English Summary

Settling an account and figuring out how to distribute what's left don't have to be two separate trips to court. The plaintiff filing the account can ask, in the same proceeding, for the court's directions on distributing the estate. Notice of that request rides along with the order to show cause for the accounting itself, or goes out however else the court orders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can distribution directions be sought in the same proceeding as an account settlement?

Yes, the plaintiff may apply for directions on distributing the estate as part of settling the account.

How is notice of that application given?

Either in the order to show cause for the accounting or in whatever manner the court separately directs.

Source & verification. The rule text and amendment history are reproduced verbatim from the official New Jersey Rules of Court (N.J. Ct. R. 4:89-1). Prescribed by the Supreme Court of New Jersey (N.J. Const. art. VI, § 2, ¶ 3). The plain-English summary is original and written by us. Last verified July 7, 2026. · Official source

Also known as: distribution of estatedirections on distribution