Stevenson v. Stevenson

COOK, J.S.C.

INTRODUCTION

In what appears as a matter of first impression in New Jersey, this case presents the question whether a final restraining order issued under the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act, N.J.S.A 2C:25-17 -33, must be dissolved in all cases where the plaintiff so requests. For the reasons expressed below, this court determines that dissolution of a final restraining order at the request of plaintiff is not mandatory. Rather, dissolution in such cases is at the court’s discretion, and should depend upon a showing of good cause, with an independent finding by the court based…