New JerseyJudges could jail people before trial for certain protective order violations
People charged with violating protective orders under New Jersey’s Victim’s Assistance and Survivor Protection Act could be jailed before trial if prosecutors request it and judges approve after a hearing.
What it does
People charged with violating protective orders under the Victim’s Assistance and Survivor Protection Act could be jailed before trial. Prosecutors must request detention, and judges must find release rules inadequate after a hearing.
Argument forAllowing detention when release rules cannot protect someone could help shield people whose protective orders have been violated.
Argument againstPeople not already released could stay jailed while awaiting a hearing, before a judge decides whether holding them through trial is justified.
More detail
Prosecutors could ask judges to hold people in jail before trial. This would cover people charged with disobeying a protective order under New Jersey’s Victim’s Assistance and Survivor Protection Act. After a hearing, judges would need clear and convincing evidence that bail or other release rules cannot adequately ensure court attendance, protect people, or prevent interference with the case. This authority would take effect immediately if the bill becomes law.
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Where it stands
- Introduced
- Passed 1st Chamber
- Passed 2nd Chamber
- To Governor
- Became Law
Looking ahead
No hearings or votes scheduled.
History
- 2026
- Oct 22Substituted by A4835 (1R)Latest
- Oct 15Reported from Senate Committee with Amendments, 2nd ReadingMinor
- Jan 13Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Judiciary CommitteeIntroduced
Criminal JusticePublic Safety