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 court aims to streamline the handling of domestic violence cases by consolidating them with related matrimonial and criminal matters, promoting a "one family, one judge" approach. The IDV Court is designed to enhance services for victims, improve offender accountability, and ensure better safety for victims by addressing cases under the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act of 1991, as well as issues related to divorce, child custody, and restraining orders.

In addition to creating the IDV Court, the bill amends existing laws concerning restraining orders. It mandates that any restraining order issued will prohibit the defendant from purchasing or possessing firearms and requires the immediate surrender of any firearms owned by the defendant. The bill also outlines various forms of relief that the court may grant, such as exclusive possession of the residence for the victim, monetary compensation for losses due to domestic violence, and orders for professional counseling for the defendant. Furthermore, it specifies that violations of these orders will be treated as offenses under existing law, establishing particular procedures for law enforcement to follow in cases of contempt.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2C:25-28, 2C:25-28.1, 2C:25-29, 2C:25-30, 2C:25-31