Bill > S4638

This bill establishes a three-year Integrated Domestic Violence (IDV) Court pilot program in Camden, Essex, Hudson, and Middlesex counties, drawing inspiration from successful models in New York and other jurisdictions. The pilot program aims to consolidate various domestic violence-related legal matters into a single court with one presiding judge, following the "one family, one judge" approach. The IDV Court will have jurisdiction over a broad range of cases, including domestic violence complaints, divorce proceedings, child custody matters, criminal offenses related to domestic violence, juvenile offenses, and restraining order applications. Judges assigned to these courts will be required to have extensive knowledge of domestic violence law, family law, and criminal procedures. The Administrative Office of the Courts will administer the program and will be responsible for monitoring its effectiveness, with mandatory reports to the Legislature at 12 months and within six months after the pilot program's conclusion. The bill modifies existing domestic violence laws to incorporate references to the new Integrated Domestic Violence Court and provides comprehensive guidelines for handling domestic violence cases, emphasizing victim safety, offender accountability, and integrated service delivery.

Justice

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S4638