Auditor

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Position: Auditor

Department: Metropolitan Tribunal

Reports To: Judicial Vicar

Classification: Non-Exempt

General Description

In accord with the Code of Canon Law (cc. 1428–1429; 1678 §1) and the procedural norms governing marriage nullity cases, the Auditor serves as an official of the Metropolitan Tribunal of the Archdiocese of Newark, assisting in the instruction of causes and the orderly administration of justice.

The Auditor collaborates directly with the Judicial Vicar, Judges, Defender of the Bond, and other Tribunal personnel in the preparation, instruction, and documentation of cases, especially causes of nullity of marriage.

This is a full-time position requiring canonical competence, pastoral sensitivity, administrative precision, and strict confidentiality.

Specific Duties/Responsibilities

I. Instruction of Causes

• Conduct judicial depositions of petitioners, respondents, and witnesses in accordance with canonical norms.
• Administer the oath and ensure the integrity of testimony.
• Transcribe depositions accurately and in a timely manner.
• Review testimonies for completeness and procedural sufficiency.
• Assist the Judge in gathering proofs and clarifying facts relevant to the proposed ground(s) of nullity.
• Ensure observance of canonical norms regarding proofs.

II. Preparation of the Libellus

• Meet with petitioners to assist in the preparation of the libellus for the introduction of a cause.
• Ensure the libellus conforms to the requirements of c. 1504 and c. 1676.
• Assist petitioners in articulating the factual history of marriage and identifying possible canonical grounds.
• Collect and review required documentation prior to judicial acceptance (e.g., recent baptismal certificates, marriage certificate, civil divorce decree).
• Prepare completed petitions for review by the Judicial Vicar.

III. Administrative Support

• Enter and maintain accurate case information in Canonical Tribunal Systems.
• Answer the phones and respond to inquiries of cases.
• Schedule depositions and coordinate communications with parties and advocates.
• Assist in maintaining orderly Tribunal records.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Judicial Vicar and/or Director of Tribunal.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications/Skills

• Practicing Catholic in full communion with the Church and in good moral standing.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent transcription accuracy and attention to detail.
• Proficiency in standard office software.
• Ability to exercise discretion and pastoral sensitivity in confidential matters.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) a must.

Education and/or Experience (Preferred)

• Bachelor’s degree preferred; studies in Canon Law, Theology, or related discipline preferred.

Physical Demands

The physical demands are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Rev. 07/2026