NJ A1724

Defendants with two or more final domestic violence restraining orders must undergo a domestic violence assessment before the court will consider dissolving any order, with assessment costs paid by the defendant

Codifies 10 factors courts must consider when a defendant seeks to dissolve a restraining order, including victim's consent, victim's fear of defendant, contempt conviction history, defendant's substance abuse involvement, and participation in counseling

Defines "domestic violence assessment" as an evaluation by a psychiatrist, licensed psychologist, licensed clinical social worker, or licensed professional counselor to determine the likelihood of future violence or abuse

Requires the Administrative Office of the Courts to develop standards for professionals eligible to conduct domestic violence assessments

Takes effect on the first day of the seventh month after enactment