NJ Attorney Review Period: The 3 Business Day Window 

Your offer gets accepted and everyone celebrates. Then you hear: “We’re in attorney review.”

In New Jersey, attorney review is normal. It’s also where deals can get smoother or messy fast depending on how well everyone’s coordinated.

What is attorney review in NJ?

Attorney review is a short period (typically 3 business days) after the fully signed contract is delivered to both sides. During this window, either attorney can:

• Approve the contract as-is

• Propose changes (usually via a rider/addendum)

• Disapprove the contract (which can cancel the deal during review)

This is why “accepted offer” and “fully locked in” are not always the same thing in NJ.

When does the 3-day clock start?

This is the most common confusion point.

In many NJ contracts, the review period generally starts once both parties have received the fully signed contract, and it runs for business days (weekends and legal holidays typically do not count).

What changes during attorney review?

Most attorney edits fall into a few buckets:

• Inspection timing and what happens if repairs are needed

• Closing date and possession details

• Credits, repairs, and how requests must be made

• What stays vs. what goes (fixtures, appliances, window treatments)

• Condo or HOA requirements and document review

The biggest misconception

“Attorney review is just a formality.”
Sometimes it is. Other times it’s the difference between a clean deal and weeks of confusion later. Good review work is preventive.

How I work with attorneys to keep your deal tight

I’m not your attorney, but I’m the person making sure the legal process stays organized and on track:

• I confirm the actual review start and deadline (no guessing)

• I keep communication clean and aligned between all parties

• I flag common issues early (HOA rules, occupancy timing, inclusions, permit gaps)

• I protect the timeline so inspections, lender steps, and scheduling don’t stall

Bottom line

Attorney review isn’t something to fear. It’s a short protection window, and it runs best when your agent and attorney are in sync.

If you’re buying or selling in NJ and want a clear timeline from offer to closing, I’ll walk you through it and coordinate closely with your attorney so nothing gets missed.

This is general information, not legal advice. Your attorney can advise you on your specific contract.