Are wills ("last will and testament...") registered anywhere? (Hudson County, NJ)?

My father just died, and his (second) wife has been less-than-forthcomeing regarding his will and his wishes. I know he had a will written, I'm fairly certain it was done with a lawyer. Is there anyway I can get a copy of his will? We are not sure what he wanted for regarding funeral/final services.

Wills can be registered at your local hall of records, where birth and death records are registered. Unfortunately if he made a recent hand written will it would trump the one that is registered. If you could find out who his attorney is your best bet would be to contact him. I don't know about NY but in Texas his wife would have to sign any internment orders and would be the responsible party. It sounds like you are not very close to the "second wife."
I'm sorry for your loss. Times like these can be very stressful. If you know where arrangements are being made I would suggest you talk to the funeral director. They are used to dealing with these kinds of problems and believe me this situation is not all that uncommon.

The will needs to be filed with the county Office fo the Surrogate in NJ before the estate is liquidated. His lawyer should at least tell you who the executor is. If you think his money or property will be wrongfuly discharged make sure you notify the Surrogate as soon as possible.

usually a lawyer is hired to make the papers up,that way to when the person dies and the family want to do things their way the lawyer has it in his or hers writing,and it would stand up in court.

As an heir to the estate, you can request for a probate of the will of your father, if any, in order that the peoperty will be distributed according to his wishes. Ask the executor or administrator of the will if any was designated by your father.