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Bill

A 2784

Requires court to consider results of domestic violence assessment before dissolving certain domestic violence restraining orders.

2026-2027 Regular Session Introduced by Vicky Flynn and 3 co-sponsors

New Jersey bill requiring courts to evaluate domestic violence assessments before dissolving restraining orders to enhance survivor safety in abuse cases.

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Judiciary Committee
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Bill Summary · A 2784

Legislative bill overview

A2784 mandates that New Jersey courts must review domestic violence assessment results before deciding whether to dissolve or terminate domestic violence restraining orders. The bill establishes that such assessments become a required factor in the court's decision-making process for restraining order modifications.

Why is this important

Domestic violence restraining orders are critical safety tools for abuse survivors. By requiring courts to consider formal assessments before lifting these orders, the bill aims to prevent premature termination that could expose victims to continued harm. This creates an additional procedural safeguard in cases where someone seeks to remove protective orders.

Potential points of contention

  • Defining "domestic violence assessment": The bill's language doesn't specify what qualifies as a valid assessment, who conducts it, or what standards it must meet, creating potential inconsistency in application across courts
  • Burden on courts and timeline delays: Mandatory assessment requirements could slow the dissolution process, raising questions about judicial resources and whether respondents have adequate procedural rights to challenge orders
  • Balancing respondent rights: Restraining order respondents have legitimate interests in having restrictions lifted when circumstances change; mandatory assessments could be viewed as unfairly biased toward maintaining orders regardless of current circumstances

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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