## Overview The New Jersey Legal System—more accurately described as the New Jersey Judiciary—is the branch of state government responsible for administering justice, interpreting laws, and resolving disputes under the Constitution and statutes of New Jersey[5]. It is a multi-tiered system with courts at the municipal, county, and state levels, each handling different types of cases and appeals[1][4]. ## Structure and Functions At the top is the **New Jersey Supreme Court**, the state’s highest court, which consists of a Chief Justice and six Associate Justices, all appointed by the Governor with Senate approval[4]. The court is the final authority on the meaning and constitutionality of state laws[5]. Below the Supreme Court is the **Superior Court**, which is divided into the **Appellate Division** (an intermediate appellate court) and several trial divisions: **Law Division** (handling civil and criminal cases), **Chancery Division** (equity matters, including family and probate cases), and the **Tax Court** (tax disputes)[1][4][7]. The Chancery Division is notable for its ability to grant both equitable and monetary relief, a flexibility not found in most other states[4]. **Municipal Courts** handle minor criminal cases, traffic violations, and local ordinance matters, serving as the entry point for most citizens into the legal system[1]. ## History and Evolution The current structure was established in 1948, replacing a more fragmented system of specialized courts (e.g., Courts of Common Pleas, Justices Courts)[1][6]. This reform created a unified Superior Court with broad jurisdiction, streamlining judicial administration and enhancing consistency in legal decisions[6]. ## Key Achievements - **Unified Court System**: The 1948 Constitution created a simplified, integrated court structure that improved efficiency and access to justice[1][6]. - **Innovative Equity Jurisdiction**: New Jersey’s Chancery Divisio