This bill establishes new standards for court-ordered counseling programs for domestic violence offenders in New Jersey. It mandates that any counseling program, as ordered by the court, must facilitate offender accountability and include specific components. These components consist of risk assessments that identify the dynamics of domestic violence, educational information regarding power and control tactics, a protocol for documenting attendance and compliance, and regular reviews by the New Jersey Department of Children and Families for programs funded by them.
The bill aims to enhance the effectiveness of domestic violence counseling by ensuring that programs are comprehensive and accountable. It builds upon existing laws that allow courts to mandate counseling for defendants involved in domestic violence cases, requiring that these programs not only provide counseling but also actively monitor and report on the offenders' participation and compliance. This legislation aligns with the recommendations from the June 2023 report of the Reconvened Joint Committee on Criminal Justice.