Detailed Answer
Locating and identifying assets across multiple counties or states in New Jersey requires a systematic approach. Follow these key steps to uncover real property, personal property, financial accounts, and corporate interests.
1. Real Property Records
Each county in New Jersey maintains a Register of Deeds or Clerk’s Office that records deeds, mortgages, and liens. Under N.J.S.A. 46:14-8, deeds must be recorded to bind third parties. Visit the county Register’s website or office in person to search by name or property address. Many counties offer online land-records portals.
2. Secured Transactions (UCC Filings)
The Uniform Commercial Code requires financing statements (UCC-1) to be filed for security interests in personal property. Search the New Jersey Uniform Commercial Code database through the Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services to identify liens on vehicles, equipment, and business assets. (See N.J.S.A. 12A:9-501.)
3. Corporate and Business Interests
Search the New Jersey Department of Treasury’s Business Entity Search to identify any corporations, LLCs, partnerships, or trade names associated with a person. The database provides formation documents, registered agents, and status information.
4. Financial Accounts and Securities
Banks, brokerage firms, and retirement-plan administrators generally do not disclose account information without a court order or subpoena. Under the Uniform Interstate Deposition and Discovery Act, N.J.S.A. 2A:35-34, you may obtain discovery across state lines by serving document requests or depositions in the county where the litigation is pending. Use that procedure to compel production of bank statements and investment records.
5. Motor Vehicles
The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) maintains records of vehicle ownership and liens. Authorized requests under N.J.S.A. 39:10-3 allow you to obtain vehicle titles and lien information by completing an MVC application.
6. Public Records and Freedom of Information
Under the Open Public Records Act (OPRA), N.J.S.A. 47:1A-1 et seq., you can request government-held records such as business licenses, environmental liens, court judgments, and tax records. File an OPRA request with the relevant agency or county clerk.
7. Subpoenas and Court Orders
If informal searches fail, you can ask the court for subpoenas or document requests for custodians of records (banks, brokers, employers). Courts have broad authority to order disclosure of relevant financial information.
8. Professional Assistance
Consider hiring a forensic accountant or private investigator who specializes in asset searches. They have access to subscription databases and investigative tools that expedite the process.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney before taking any action.
Helpful Hints
- Start with known addresses and jurisdictions before expanding your search.
- Keep detailed logs of searches, including dates, offices visited, fees paid, and documents obtained.
- Use the New Jersey Judiciary electronic filing system to access court judgments and liens.
- Check business filings at the Department of Treasury for hidden corporate interests.
- File OPRA requests strategically—specify the records you need to avoid delays.
- Use interstate discovery procedures when assets are out of state.
- Consult an attorney before issuing subpoenas to ensure compliance with court rules.