The proposed bill establishes a three-year pilot program for an Integrated Domestic Violence Court (IDV Court) in Camden, Essex, Hudson, and Middlesex counties. This initiative aims to streamline the handling of domestic violence cases by integrating them with related matrimonial and criminal matters, promoting a "one family, one judge" approach. The IDV Court is designed to enhance services for victims and families, improve offender accountability, and ensure better safety for victims. The program will be overseen by the Administrative Office of the Courts, which will monitor its effectiveness and report to the Legislature after one year and at the end of the pilot.
In addition to establishing the IDV Court, the bill amends existing laws to improve the judicial process for domestic violence cases. Key amendments include provisions for victims to file complaints in the IDV Court, the issuance of emergency relief measures such as temporary restraining orders, and the prohibition of in-house restraining orders that would allow both the victim and defendant to occupy the same premises. The bill also mandates that defendants surrender firearms when a restraining order is issued and allows the court to impose various forms of relief, including monetary compensation and counseling for defendants. Furthermore, all contempt proceedings related to domestic violence orders will be heard by the Family Part of the Chancery Division of the Superior Court or the IDV Court, ensuring a focused approach to these sensitive cases.
Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2C:25-28, 2C:25-28.1, 2C:25-29, 2C:25-30, 2C:25-31