Adult Guardianship filings have continued to increase in Bergen County. As the number of filings rises, the need for professionals to serve as Court-Appointed Attorneys, Guardians ad Litem, and Pendente Lite Temporary Guardians grows. To address these needs, the BCBA is working with the Bergen County Surrogate to continue the Guardianship Mentorship Program, which was the first of its kind in the State of New Jersey.
As a result, we are pleased to announce that we are seeking candidates for the Program’s second class of mentees. By participating in this program, you will expand your legal expertise while helping to protect the County’s most vulnerable residents. Once the program is completed, you will be trained in the duties associated with court-appointed positions and eligible for continued court appointments.
The components of the program will include three pro bono assignments, training, and access to a group of mentors with expertise in all areas that may arise during what can sometimes be very complicated proceedings, even when the assignment initially appears straightforward.
We encourage you to take the opportunity to engage in a practice area that is not only in need of your services but also professionally and personally enriching as you assist the Court and our disabled and aging citizens.
The program is open to a limited number of applicants and fills up quickly.
Anyone interested should forward a resume or CV to info@bergenbar.org and to Acting Deputy Surrogate April Fronduto-Slavin at AFronduto-Slavin@BergenCountyNJ.gov for consideration.
Should you have any questions about the program, the work involved, or guardianship in general, please do not hesitate to contact Brian Shea at Brian.Shea@rivkin.com.
The deadline to apply is October 15, 2026. The all-day training session will occur on November 23, 2026. Continuing Legal Education Credits will be provided.