New Jersey law

Administrative Laws in New Jersey.

New Jersey administrative law is governed by the Administrative Procedure Act (N.J.S.A. 52:14B-1 et seq.), which governs rulemaking, contested cases, and judicial review of state agency action. Agencies propose rules through the New Jersey Register. The Office of Administrative Law (OAL) is an independent quasi-judicial body that hears contested cases for most state agencies (unique among states in its consolidated structure). Final agency decisions are reviewable in the Superior Court Appellate Division (not trial-level) — a distinctive NJ approach.

Last verified: 2026-04-17

State law

Key New Jersey Statutes

Administrative Procedure ActN.J.S.A. 52:14B-1 et seq.

New Jersey's APA governs rulemaking and contested cases. Rulemaking requires notice, public comment period (30-day minimum), and agency response to comments.

Office of Administrative LawN.J.S.A. 52:14F-1 et seq.

Independent quasi-judicial agency that hears contested cases for most state agencies. ALJs issue initial decisions reviewed by the principal agency. Only state with this consolidated contested-case structure.

Judicial Review (Appellate Division)R. 2:2-3(a)(2)

Final agency decisions are reviewed directly by the Superior Court Appellate Division (not the trial-level courts). Standard: whether the decision is arbitrary, capricious, or unreasonable and supported by substantial credible evidence.

New Jersey RegisterN.J.S.A. 52:14B-4

Official publication of proposed and adopted agency rules. Published twice monthly.

State law

Official Sources

NJ Office of Administrative Law New Jersey Legislature

Not Legal Advice

This page summarizes publicly available statutes and rules for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by viewing this content. Laws change — always verify with the primary source or consult a licensed attorney in New Jersey.

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Administrative Laws in New Jersey.

Key New Jersey Statutes

Official Sources

Not Legal Advice

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