‘Coercive Control’ Could Be Factor In NJ Restraining Orders Under Bill

NEW JERSEY — Domestic violence comes in many forms. And one of them – “coercive control” – should be a red flag when restraining orders are issued in New Jersey, advocates say.

On Monday, the state Senate unanimously passed a bill that would require courts to consider patterns of coercive control when considering whether to issue a restraining order.

Examples described under the bill include:

• “Deprivation of basic necessities”
• “Purposeful isolation from sources of support such as friends or family”
• “Excessive monitoring of a person’s movements, communications or finances”

“Over time, coercively controlling behavior erodes an individual’s sense of self, their self-esteem, and their autonomy,” said Sen. Teresa Ruiz (NJ-29), who represents Newark in Essex County, and East Newark and Harrison in Hudson County.

“There is a correlation between coercive control and serious physical abuse,” she added. “Now, we have a better understanding of this behavior, and by considering coercive control with domestic violence cases, we can protect more victims.”

A version of the bill has also been approved in the Assembly, sending the proposed law to the desk of Gov. Phil Murphy.

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