NJ S405

Creates a two-year Statewide Animal Advocate Program within New Jersey's Administrative Office of the Courts, allowing courts to appoint advocates to represent animals' best interests in criminal cases involving animal cruelty or dog fighting

Advocates may monitor cases, attend hearings, access relevant records from animal control officers, veterinarians, and police, and make recommendations to the court regarding the animal's welfare and placement

Volunteer attorneys and law students with knowledge of animal issues will serve as advocates and must be authorized to make court appearances in New Jersey

The Administrative Director of the Courts must submit a report to the Governor and Legislature after two years with recommendations on whether to continue the program

Takes effect six months after enactment, applies only to cases initiated after the effective date, and automatically expires two years after enactment