Surrogate Darling Continues Estate Planning Outreach

Published on September 02, 2026

While National Make-A-Will Month concluded yesterday, Morris County Surrogate Heather Darling does not view that as the end of this year's efforts. Speaking yesterday to the Mount Olive seniors’ group, Surrogate Darling gave an overview of wills, trusts, and estates before opening the meeting to specific questions from the audience. While Darling, as the judge of the Surrogate's Court, is not permitted to provide specific legal advice to attendees, she fielded questions regarding the importance of having a will, selecting beneficiaries, when and why a trust may be appropriate, assets that pass outside of probate, and many other thoughtful questions raised by the many Mount Olive seniors in attendance.

Since becoming Surrogate, Darling has consistently endeavored to raise awareness among Morris County residents about the importance of having a will and other documents to ensure that one's personal affairs are in proper order at the time of their passing. At the same time, Surrogate Darling believes there is a need to go beyond discussing simple wills and raise awareness about the operations of the Surrogate's Court generally.

“So many citizens are unaware of where to turn at some of the most difficult times in their lives. The Surrogate’s Court is the proper venue for probating a will, seeking appointment as administrator of an estate for a loved one who has passed, filing for guardianship over an individual unable to handle their own affairs — including a child with special needs becoming an adult — and filing adoption petitions,” said Surrogate Darling.

Surrogate Heather Darling welcomes requests to speak at senior groups, healthcare networks, libraries, and other civic organizations throughout Morris County to help citizens be better prepared for the time when they, or their family, need to utilize the services of the Surrogate's Court.

For more information, Surrogate Darling invites all Morris County residents to visit www.morrissurrogate.com to familiarize themselves with the Surrogate’s Court and its available resources.