S 2553 New Jersey Senate · 2026-2027 Regular Session

Establishes third degree crime for certain trespasses involving victim of domestic violence.

This bill (S 2553) makes it a third-degree crime to enter a domestic violence victim's dwelling when a restraining order is in place against the actor or if the actor has been convicted or charged with a domestic violence offense involving that victim. It creates a legal presumption that the trespasser intended to cause harm or commit a crime in these situations, which was not previously automatic. Violating this provision carries a potential 3-5 year prison sentence, up to $15,000 in fines, or both - removing the usual presumption against incarceration for such offenses. The law directly affects individuals violating domestic violence restraining orders and strengthens protections for victims by treating such trespasses as serious criminal acts. The bill is currently pending in the Senate Judiciary Committee after introduction on January 13, 2026.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 13, 2026 Last action Jan 13, 2026
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Jan 13, 2026
Introduced
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee
upper
1 primary · 1 co-sponsor

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