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New Jersey Bill Would Require Abusers to Pay for Child Victim’s Therapy

Posted by Joseph D. Lento | May 05, 2025 | 0 Comments

A proposed bill in New Jersey could bring an important new protection for children impacted by domestic violence. If passed, the legislation would require individuals convicted of abuse to pay for any counseling or mental health services needed by their child victims. This measure reflects a growing recognition of the long-term harm domestic violence can inflict on children and the critical importance of addressing those impacts through supportive care.

If you or your child has been affected by domestic violence, the Lento Law Firm Family Law Team is here to help. Contact us today by calling 888.535.3686 or through our online form to discuss your legal options.

Holding Abusers Financially Accountable for a Child's Recovery

While criminal charges often focus on punishment, this bill shifts attention to the lasting needs of child victims. Therapy is often essential for a child's emotional healing, but the cost of counseling can be overwhelming for families already facing trauma. Under the proposed legislation, the financial burden of that care would fall on the perpetrator — not the victim's family.

In family law cases involving domestic violence, securing protective measures like restraining orders is just the beginning. At the Lento Law Firm, our Family Law Team understands the need for comprehensive support. That includes pursuing financial remedies when possible to support a child's ongoing recovery and well-being.

The Family Law Impact of Domestic Violence Cases

Domestic violence often affects far more than just criminal proceedings. In family law, allegations of abuse can shape decisions about child custody, visitation, and financial support. Courts may limit or restrict a parent's access to their child, require supervised visitation, or implement protective orders to safeguard victims.

Beyond safety concerns, these cases frequently raise financial questions as well. The costs of therapy, medical care, relocation, and other recovery needs can create a significant burden for victims and their families. Measures like mandatory therapy payments — as proposed in this New Jersey bill — reflect a growing understanding of the long-term impact of abuse and the need to provide meaningful support for healing.

Navigating these issues can be complex and emotionally charged. Families impacted by domestic violence often need legal guidance to secure protective measures, advocate for financial support, and create a safe and stable environment for their children moving forward.

Why Work with the Lento Law Firm Family Law Team

Domestic violence impacts far more than just the criminal justice process. It affects families, futures, and peace of mind. The emotional, physical, and financial toll of abuse can leave victims feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about what comes next. That's where skilled legal guidance becomes essential.

The Lento Law Firm Family Law Team understands the sensitive nature of these cases and provides compassionate, personalized representation tailored to your unique situation. We know that protecting your safety is only part of the equation. Securing financial support, stable custody arrangements, and long-term peace of mind is just as important. Contact us today by calling 888.535.3686 or filling out this form.

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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Contact a Family Law Attorney Today!

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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