NJ A4079

Expands New Jersey's stalking law to explicitly include repeated contact or attempted contact by a person whose parental rights have been terminated with an adopted child under 18, when such contact violates the adoptive parent's instructions.

Creates stalking as a fourth-degree crime (up to 18 months imprisonment, $10,000 fine) or third-degree crime (3-5 years imprisonment, $15,000 fine) depending on circumstances such as violation of existing court orders or repeat offenses.

Authorizes courts to issue restraining orders against individuals whose parental rights were terminated if they commit any of 14 specified offenses against adoptive parents, including assault, terroristic threats, kidnapping, harassment, and stalking.

Restraining orders may prohibit the offender from entering the adoptive parent's residence, school, or workplace; ban all forms of contact including electronic communication; and require psychiatric evaluation or monetary compensation to victims.

Restraining orders remain in effect for the duration of the sentence, probation, or parole period, are enforceable statewide by all law enforcement, and violations constitute fourth-degree criminal contempt.