This bill amends current New Jersey law to allow for the waiver of juvenile cases to adult 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 adult court 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 terrorism, human trafficking, or other serious offenses, 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 provide a written statement of reasons for the waiver. The court will consider various factors, including the nature of the offense and the juvenile's background, when deciding on the waiver. Furthermore, the Attorney General is tasked with developing guidelines to ensure uniform application of these provisions across the state. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

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