This bill amends current New Jersey law to allow for the waiver of juvenile cases to adult criminal court regardless of the juvenile's age under specific circumstances. It expands the list of offenses for which juveniles aged 15 and older can be waived to include terrorism and human trafficking. Additionally, it establishes that any juvenile, regardless of age, can be waived to adult court if they are charged with these offenses or other serious crimes, provided that the circumstances and severity of the offense justify such a waiver.

The bill also outlines the process for prosecutors seeking a waiver, including the requirement to file a motion within 60 days of receiving the complaint and to present evidence at a hearing. It specifies that the court must consider various factors when deciding on the waiver, including the nature of the offense and the juvenile's prior history. Furthermore, it mandates the collection and analysis of data related to the waiver process to ensure uniform application across the state and to inform future legislative recommendations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2A:4A-26.1