NJ AJR124

Creates a 16-member "New Jersey Domestic Violence and Legal Access Task Force" to study unmet legal needs of state residents in domestic violence matters, examining how lack of legal counsel affects both victims seeking protection and defendants facing allegations.

Task force membership includes representatives appointed by the Governor, Senate President, and Assembly Speaker, along with designees from the Attorney General, Public Defender, Administrative Director of Courts, three law school deans, Legal Services, and domestic violence advocacy organizations.

Co-chaired by the Attorney General (or designee) and a Governor-appointed public member, with the Attorney General's Office providing staff support; nine members constitute a quorum.

Report due within 18 months of organization must include recommendations for expanding legal representation access, reviewing professional conduct rules to allow law students to provide more pro bono assistance, and encouraging increased pro bono service by the legal community.

Task force dissolves three months after submitting its final report to the Governor and Legislature.