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Counseling Services for Children Exposed to Domestic Violence

Posted by Joseph D. Lento | Jul 11, 2024 | 0 Comments

In New Jersey, when there is a complaint filed regarding an incident of domestic violence, state law requires that a judge must advise both the victim and the perpetrator of any counseling services that are available. There is no such instruction required for any children who have witnessed or heard a domestic violence incident. However, that may soon change under a bill introduced in the New Jersey legislature.

Victims of domestic violence need robust protection. If you or a loved one is experiencing domestic violence in New Jersey, it is crucial that you seek protection for yourself and your children during this difficult time. The Lento Law Firm Family Law Team is experienced in domestic violence issues and can file a restraining order to protect you and your child. Reach out to us online and tell us about your case or call the Lento Law Firm at 888-535-3686.

NJ Bill Supports Children Of Domestic Violence

A bill that was introduced in the New Jersey legislature in January 2024 and referred to the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee in May aims to ensure that children exposed to domestic violence have access to immediate care and services. The proposed legislation would require that when a domestic violence complaint is filed, the victim and the abuser must be informed of any counseling services available for minor children who witnessed the alleged act of domestic violence. The bill, which also proposes mandatory psychological evaluations for perpetrators of domestic violence, would amend the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act of 1991 to include counseling services for children.

Domestic violence impacts people and families across all communities, transcending age, economic background, sexual orientation, gender, race, religion, and nationality. It can lead to physical injuries, psychological harm, and, in extreme situations, death. The severe physical, emotional, and psychological effects of domestic violence can span generations and have lifelong repercussions. Children who witness domestic violence suffer from trauma that can lead to long-lasting physical and mental health issues.

Legal Protections For Victims Of Domestic Violence

Victims of domestic violence in New Jersey have various legal protections to help ensure their safety and well-being. These include restraining orders, which can legally prevent the abuser from contacting or approaching the victim, and Temporary Restraining Orders (TROs), which provide immediate protection for domestic violence victims.

The Family Law Team at the Lento Law Firm has extensive experience working with victims of domestic violence in New Jersey, protecting their rights and advocating on their behalf for future protections. From filing restraining orders or temporary restraining orders to advocating for child custody and child support, if you or a loved one is a victim of domestic violence, the Lento Law Firm Team has you covered. Contact a member of our team online or call us today at 888-535-3686 to learn how we can help.

About the Author

Joseph D. Lento

"I pride myself on having heart and driving hard to get results!" Attorney Joseph D. Lento is a veteran of one of the nation's busiest family courts with nearly 20 years' experience passionately helping families. By day, he worked in the trenches of family court, and at night, he studied the law. He helped countless families while working at family court, and he went on to become an attorney, dedicating his law practice to continuing the work he started years earlier. Mr. Lento's experience both behind the scenes and on the front lines allows him to understand a client's family law matter from all angles, and allows him to find and employ the most effective strategies to get favorable outcomes for any client. Joseph D. Lento is licensed in New Jersey and New York, and is admitted pro hac vice as needed nationwide. In the courtroom and in life, attorney Joseph D. Lento stands up when the bell rings! He does not settle for the easiest outcome, and instead prioritizes his clients' needs and protects their interests.

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Attorney Joseph D. Lento has more than a decade of experience practicing Family Law in New Jersey. If you are having any uncertainties about what the future may hold for you and your family, contact our offices today. Family Law Attorney Joseph Lento will go above and beyond the needs for any client and fight for what is fair.

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