Bill
Bill > S2553
NJ S2553
NJ S2553Establishes third degree crime for certain trespasses involving victim of domestic violence.
summary
Introduced
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
In Committee
01/13/2026
01/13/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026-2027 Regular Session
Bill Summary
This bill provides that a person commits a crime of the third degree if, intending to cause annoyance or injury or intending to commit a crime, the person enters the dwelling of a victim of domestic violence protected by a domestic violence restraining order against the actor. Moreover, the bill creates a presumption that the actor did intend to cause annoyance or injury or to commit a crime if a domestic violence restraining order is in place, or if the actor has been convicted of or charged with a crime or offense arising from a domestic violence incident involving the victim. Finally, the bill provides that no presumption of nonincarceration shall apply to persons convicted of such crime. A crime of the third degree is punishable by three to five years imprisonment, a fine of up to $15,000, or both.
AI Summary
This bill establishes a third-degree crime for individuals who, with the intent to annoy, injure, or commit another crime, enter the home of a domestic violence victim who has a restraining order against them. A restraining order is a court order designed to protect someone from an abuser. The bill creates a presumption, meaning it is assumed to be true unless proven otherwise, that the person intended to annoy, injure, or commit a crime if a restraining order is in place or if the person has been previously charged or convicted of a domestic violence incident involving the victim. This presumption helps prosecutors in these cases. Importantly, this new crime will not be eligible for the usual presumption against incarceration, meaning judges are more likely to sentence convicted individuals to jail time, which for a third-degree crime can range from three to five years imprisonment, a fine of up to $15,000, or both.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (3)
Last Action
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee (on 01/13/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2026/S2553 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2026/S3000/2553_I1.HTM |
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