How long is attorney review in New Jersey?

Three business days, counted from the date the signed contract is delivered to both buyer and seller. Saturdays, Sundays and legal holidays do not count. Both sides can agree in writing to extend it.

Can a buyer back out during attorney review?

During the review period, an attorney for either side can disapprove the contract and give notice, which cancels it. After the period ends without disapproval, the contract becomes binding.

Does attorney review apply to rentals?

Yes, for residential leases of one year or more prepared by a licensee who earns a fee on the deal. The lease must say it becomes final within three business days.

Do I need my own attorney to use attorney review?

The review is done by an attorney. If you want the protection, have an attorney ready before you sign so they can act within the three business days.

How the NJ Attorney Review Period Works

By the MoveMatched editorial team · Last updated 2026-10-29

General information, not legal or tax advice. Rules change, so confirm with the official source or a licensed professional.

New Jersey has a step that surprises many buyers from other states: attorney review. When a real estate licensee prepares the contract, it does not become final the moment everyone signs. Instead, both sides get a short window to have a lawyer look at it and, if needed, cancel it or propose changes. Here is how that window works and how to use it well.

What the rule says

New Jersey's real estate rules, at N.J.A.C. 11:5-6.2, require contracts of sale prepared by licensees to include an attorney review clause. The clause tells buyer and seller that the contract will become legally binding at the end of a three business day attorney review period, unless an attorney for either side reviews and disapproves it.

The three days are counted from the date the signed contract is delivered to both the buyer and the seller. Saturdays, Sundays and legal holidays do not count. Buyer and seller can agree in writing to extend the period.

What an attorney can do during review

In practice, attorneys often send a letter during review that disapproves the contract unless certain changes are accepted, such as inspection terms, dates or credits. The other side's attorney can respond, and the two sides negotiate until they agree or walk away.

The rule lists how the notice must be delivered, such as certified mail or personal delivery to the brokers and the other party. Your attorney will handle the timing and method, which is one reason to line up an attorney before you sign.

Review the contract and approve it by doing nothing, so it becomes final when the period ends.
Disapprove the contract and give notice within the period, which cancels it.
Suggest changes that would make the contract acceptable. The rule allows this but does not require it.

Leases have attorney review too

The same rule applies to residential leases of one year or more that a licensee prepares when the licensee is earning a fee on the deal. The lease must say at the top that it will become final within three business days, and tenant and landlord get the same review window.

How buyers can use the review period well

Hire your attorney before you make an offer, so they are ready the day the contract is signed.
Ask your attorney to review the inspection, mortgage and appraisal contingencies and their deadlines.
Schedule your home inspection quickly. Inspection periods usually start soon after review ends.
Keep your lender in the loop so your loan timeline matches the contract dates.
Do not assume the deal is done until your attorney confirms review has ended.

How sellers can use it

Have an attorney ready before you accept an offer.
Ask your agent whether other offers can be considered while a contract is still in review, and what your attorney recommends.
Review the closing date and any credits the buyer asks for during review.

Where your agent fits in

Your agent negotiates price and terms and prepares the contract. Your attorney protects your legal position during review and through closing. A good agent will introduce you to local attorneys who handle residential deals and keep both sides of the timeline moving.

MoveMatched matches you with one licensed local agent who knows how attorney review works in your town. You can ask them about it on your first call.

Questions people ask

How long is attorney review in New Jersey?: Three business days, counted from the date the signed contract is delivered to both buyer and seller. Saturdays, Sundays and legal holidays do not count. Both sides can agree in writing to extend it.
Can a buyer back out during attorney review?: During the review period, an attorney for either side can disapprove the contract and give notice, which cancels it. After the period ends without disapproval, the contract becomes binding.
Does attorney review apply to rentals?: Yes, for residential leases of one year or more prepared by a licensee who earns a fee on the deal. The lease must say it becomes final within three business days.
Do I need my own attorney to use attorney review?: The review is done by an attorney. If you want the protection, have an attorney ready before you sign so they can act within the three business days.