Domestic Violence/Temporary Restraining Orders may soon prohibit you from contact with you pets in New Jersey

When a restraining order is issued against someone, the targeted person's freedom becomes limited. That person is not allowed to come within a certain distance of a spouse, boyfriend/girlfriend, child or other specified individual. Further, any weapons in that person's possession will be seized. Failure to obey the order will result in a criminal violation.

Now, matters could get even more difficult for alleged attackers. If New Jersey lawmakers get their way, restraining orders will soon prevent named people from also spending time with their pets. A New Jersey Assembly committee recently considered a bill (A1633), which would extend domestic violence laws regarding victims. Specifically, the bill would let judges add family pets to restraining orders designed to keep alleged abusers away from their victims.

This bill presumes that alleged abusers are inclined to hurt beloved family pets. While no one wishes to see harm come to pets, the reality is that judges can already assign custody of pets. This particular bill is unnecessary since a victim can simply request custody of an animal. A significant number of victims are not aware of this option. Therefore, it may make more sense to publicize the right to request custody of a pet rather than create entirely new domestic violence laws.

After discussion, this particular bill has been approved by a New Jersey Assembly committee. The next step is for the proposed legislation to move to the full Assembly. This is not the only place a domestic violence bill regarding family pets is being considered. A similar bill is currently pending in the Senate.

Please contact the Ibrahim Law Group to arrange for a consultation at 201-781-7800.