The bill amends existing laws related to domestic violence to enhance protections for victims and their children. It introduces a presumption that custody will be awarded to the non-abusive parent in custody disputes, prioritizing the best interests of the child. The bill also mandates that both the victim and the abuser be informed of available counseling programs and services upon the filing of a domestic violence complaint. Additionally, it allows courts to order counseling for children who have witnessed or been exposed to domestic violence, with the abusive party responsible for covering the costs.

Moreover, the bill outlines provisions for emergency relief, such as temporary restraining orders, and emphasizes confidentiality regarding information about firearms accessible to the defendant. It ensures that victims are not required to serve orders on the defendants themselves and clarifies that a denial of custody or visitation does not terminate parental rights or affect child support obligations. The bill also allows non-custodial parents to apply for modifications to custody or parenting time and ensures that victims do not have to be in the same room as the abuser during child support proceedings. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen the legal framework surrounding domestic violence cases, ensuring better support and protection for victims and their children.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2C:25-28, 2C:25-29