NJ A2784

Defendants subject to two or more final domestic violence restraining orders must undergo a domestic violence assessment before the court can dissolve the order, with the defendant bearing all assessment costs.

Domestic violence assessments must be conducted by a psychiatrist, licensed psychologist, licensed clinical social worker, or licensed professional counselor to evaluate the likelihood of future violent or abusive behavior.

Courts must consider 10 specific factors when determining whether to dissolve a restraining order, including victim consent, victim fear, contempt convictions, defendant's substance abuse history, and involvement in violence with others.

The Administrative Office of the Courts would establish standards for professionals eligible to conduct domestic violence assessments.

The bill takes effect on the first day of the seventh month after enactment.