Overview
The Courthouses
Sussex County is home to two courthouses—the Sussex County Judicial Center and the historic courthouse. Both buildings are in Newton and each is a stone’s throw away from the other.
Judicial Center
The Sussex County Judicial Center, opened in 1992, is the main courthouse and located at 43-47 High Street. This is the location of most Superior Court criminal, family and civil matters and where court documents such as motion and filings are obtained. The building is flanked to the south by a public parking complex which serves the main entrance off High Street.
Historic Courthouse
The “Historic Courthouse” as it is known, is located at 3 High Street and sits prominently on the corner of High and Spring streets overlooking the Square in Newton. This Department of Interior National Registered Historic site is occupied by the Sussex County Surrogates Office and utilized on occasion by the Sussex County Prosecutors office. Some Civil cases are heard in a Courtroom also located here. Security procedures are equally in place and access is available via the High Street entrance.
Parking
Parking for both locations is available and free at the multi-story parking garage at the Sussex County Judicial Center. If you have an appointment at the Surrogate’s Office, you may park in the designated reserved spots located behind the historic courthouse.
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Courthouse Security Screening Process
All courthouse visitors must pass through a metal detector and have their bags run through an x-ray machine. No weapons, knives, sharp objects or any objects deemed unsafe by sheriff’s officers are allowed into the courthouse. This includes everyday items such as nail files, scissors, knitting needles and pocket knives.
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If in doubt about something you are carrying with you, please leave it in your vehicle or at home; sheriff’s officers cannot hold onto your items on your behalf while you are in the courthouse.
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Additionally, no cameras or recording devices are allowed in the courthouse without permission from a Superior Court judge.
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The courthouses open to the public at 8:30 a.m. Generally speaking, the initial rush of people can sometimes result in a longer wait to enter the facilities. Please plan accordingly to ensure that you make it to your appointment or hearing in time.