A 5573 New Jersey General Assembly · 2024-2025 Regular Session

Allows juvenile to be tried as adult for committing homicide against law enforcement officer; designated as "Joseph's Law."

This bill, "Joseph's Law," requires that juveniles (under 18) accused of intentionally killing a law enforcement officer while the officer was on duty - such as while in uniform, showing authority, or due to their job status - be tried in adult court. It mandates automatic waiver of juvenile jurisdiction for these cases, unless a court finds the prosecutor abused discretion in seeking the waiver. The bill also directs the Attorney General to create statewide guidelines to ensure consistent application of this rule across New Jersey. This change specifically applies to homicides against officers acting in their official capacity, excluding accidental deaths like those from vehicle collisions.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
May 2025
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced May 5, 2025 Last action May 5, 2025
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May 5, 2025
Introduced
Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Judiciary Committee
lower
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors

Sponsors

Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Photo of Heather Simmons
Heather Simmons
DDemocratic
NJ
3