Desantis v. Dukes

FERRANTE, P. J. J. D. R. C.

This case poses a question hitherto unaddressed by the courts of this State, to wit, whether the Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court has the power to authorize and order pretrial discovery in a paternity action.

On November 18, 1980 the Passaic County Board of Social Services (board) began this action pursuant to N.J.S.A. 9:17-1 et seq. In its complaint the board alleges that defendant is the father of two illegitimate children. On February 4, 1981 defendant appeared before the court for arraignment and entered a plea of “not guilty.” At that time defense counsel…