Bill > A5425

This bill establishes a three-year Integrated Domestic Violence Court (IDV Court) pilot program in Camden, Essex, Hudson, and Middlesex counties, designed to consolidate various types of domestic violence-related legal matters under one judicial umbrella. The IDV Court will handle cases involving domestic violence, including divorce, child custody, criminal offenses, and restraining orders, following the "one family, one judge" model that has been successfully implemented in New York. The court will require judges assigned to the program to have extensive knowledge of domestic violence law, family law, and criminal procedure. Judges can refer cases to the IDV Court when domestic violence cases intersect with other legal matters, with the goal of providing more integrated services, enhancing offender accountability, and improving victim safety. The Administrative Office of the Courts will administer the program and is required to monitor its effectiveness, submitting reports to the Legislature at 12 months and upon the program's conclusion to evaluate its performance and determine whether it should be continued or expanded. By consolidating multiple legal proceedings related to domestic violence into a single court, the pilot program aims to create a more efficient and supportive judicial process for families experiencing domestic violence.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A5425