Last reviewed . Law current as of October 2026.
Knowingly violating a New Jersey domestic violence restraining order is contempt under N.J.S.A. 2C:29-9(b). It is a fourth-degree crime, with up to 18 months in prison, when the violating conduct is also a crime or disorderly persons offense. Otherwise it is a disorderly persons offense, with up to 6 months in jail.
Key takeaways
- Knowingly violating a domestic violence order is contempt under N.J.S.A. 2C:29-9(b).
- It is a fourth-degree crime if the conduct is also a crime or disorderly persons offense; otherwise a disorderly persons offense.
- Contact the other person invited is still a violation.
What is contempt of a restraining order and what's the penalty?
| Conduct | Grade | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| Violation that is also a crime or disorderly persons offense | Fourth-degree crime | Up to 18 months; fine up to $10,000 |
| Other knowing violation | Disorderly persons offense | Up to 6 months; fine up to $1,000 |
What does the State have to prove for contempt?
- A valid order existed
- You had notice of it (usually by service)
- You knowingly violated it
How is a contempt charge defended?
- You were never properly served or did not know the terms
- The contact was accidental or not knowing
- The communication did not come from you
- The conduct was not covered by the order
Related guides
- Served with a TRO
Just served with a temporary restraining order in New Jersey? What the order means, what not to do, how to prepare for the FRO hearing in about 10 days, and how to get your belongings.
- The FRO hearing
How a New Jersey final restraining order hearing works: the Silver two-step test, evidence and witnesses, testifying when there is a criminal case, decisions, and appeals.
- TRO vs. FRO
The difference between a temporary restraining order and a final restraining order in New Jersey: how each is issued, the standard, how long it lasts, and what it can order.
- Coercive control
New Jersey added coercive control as a factor in restraining order decisions in January 2024. What it is, what it is not (a crime or predicate act), and how it affects FRO hearings.
Frequently asked questions
Is it contempt if the protected person contacted me first?
It can be. The order binds you, so responding can be charged even if they started the contact.
Where are contempt charges heard?
A contempt charge is a separate criminal case, not part of the FRO hearing. Which judge hears it depends on the county and on whether the charge is a disorderly persons offense or an indictable crime.
Where we handle these cases
Essex County · Hudson County · Bergen County · Passaic County · Union County · Middlesex County · Monmouth County · Morris County · Ocean County · Mercer County · Somerset County · Hunterdon County · Sussex County · Warren County
Sources
This page provides general information about New Jersey law. It is not legal advice, and reading it or contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every case is different and no outcome is guaranteed.