Rise in home invasions sparks new jersey bill to protect homeowners who use deadly force against attacks

Rise in Home Invasions Sparks New Jersey Bill to Protect Homeowners who Use Deadly Force Against Attacks

by
May 6, 2024
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TRENTON, NJ – Assemblywoman Dawn Fantasia of District 24 (Morris, Sussex, and Warren) and Assemblyman Al Barlas of District 40 (Bergen, Essex, and Passaic) have jointly sponsored Bill A4242, known as the “New Jersey Right to Home Defense Law,” aimed at empowering individuals to defend themselves in their own homes.

Introduced on May 2, 2024, the bill authorizes individuals to use force, including deadly force, when faced with imminent peril of death or serious bodily harm from an intruder or attacker in their home or residence.

The legislation outlines circumstances where a person is presumed to have a reasonable fear of such peril, including instances of unlawful entry or attempted removal of another individual against their will. Additionally, the bill clarifies that individuals have no duty to retreat and are justified in using force to prevent harm to themselves or others.

Furthermore, the legislation provides immunity, both criminally and civilly, for individuals who use force in accordance with the law and allows courts to award reasonable attorney’s fees and compensation for wrongly subjected civil actions.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

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