N.J. Ct. R. 4:93
Rule 4:93-1. Complaint
An action under N.J.S.A. 3B:27-6 to declare dead an absentee, whether a resident or nonresident of this State, may be brought by a spouse, any next of kin, creditor, executor, administrator, beneficiary under an insurance policy on the absentee's life, or any other person interested in the estate. The complaint shall specify the facts as to the plaintiff's interest.
Rule 4:93-2. Declaration of Death
The action may be brought in a summary manner in accordance with R. 4:83 on an order to show cause returnable not less than 30 days nor more than three months from the date of the order why judgment should not be entered declaring such person to be dead. Notice of the order shall be published once in a newspaper of general circulation in the county where the absentee was last domiciled and shall be served by mail or otherwise as the court directs.
Rule 4:93-3. Parties Defendant
The order to show cause shall be directed to all persons in interest, including (a) the persons who would have an interest, as executor or beneficiary under a will of the absentee, or as heir, next of kin or spouse of the absentee or otherwise, in any real or personal property by reason of the death of the absentee, testate or intestate; (b) the carrier and beneficiaries of any insurance known to the plaintiff which is payable on the death of the absentee; (c) those persons entitled, in a fiduciary or beneficial capacity, to any interest known to the plaintiff, which interest expires or is contingent upon the death of the absentee; and (d) such other persons as the court directs.
Rule 4:93-4. Hearing
Whether or not an answer or an answering affidavit is filed, the court shall hear the matter on oral testimony and shall not enter judgment declaring the absentee dead unless it is satisfied that the plaintiff has made reasonable effort to ascertain the facts necessary to maintain the action.
Rule 4:93-5. Letters Issued
After entry of the judgment, an application may be brought for the issuance of letters of administration upon the estate of the absentee as in the case of a deceased person, or for the probate of the will, or for the appointment of a testamentary guardian.
N.J. Ct. R. 4:93