Bill > A2998

This bill modifies New Jersey's domestic violence law to provide additional protections and support for victims and their children. Specifically, the bill expands existing provisions by requiring that when a domestic violence complaint is filed, both the victim and the abuser shall be advised of counseling services available for any minor children involved. The bill establishes a new presumption that legal and physical custody should be awarded to the non-abusive parent upon entry of a final restraining order. Additionally, the bill introduces a new provision allowing the court to order the abusive parent to pay for professional domestic violence counseling for the child, with documentation of payment required. The legislation also includes a provision that in subsequent child support proceedings, the victim shall not be required to be in the same room as the person found to have committed domestic violence, and the victim's and child's whereabouts will be kept confidential. These changes aim to better protect victims of domestic violence and minimize the potential trauma experienced by children in households with domestic violence, while ensuring that the safety and best interests of the children are prioritized in custody and support decisions.