NJ A3889

Mandates professional domestic violence counseling for defendants convicted of domestic violence crimes or offenses, as well as those placed on probation or receiving suspended sentences for such offenses

Requires all counselors providing court-ordered domestic violence counseling to have demonstrated expertise in individual or group domestic violence counseling

Defendants must provide documentation of attendance at professional counseling sessions and cannot have restraining orders dissolved until completing all required counseling

Existing provisions allowing courts to restrict defendants from contacting victims, victims' friends, co-workers, relatives, and household animals remain in effect

Applies immediately to offenses occurring on or after the effective date of the act