HB 2129

Bill Subjects

Abstract

Amends the offense of abuse of family or household members to provide for felony, misdemeanor, and petty misdemeanor penalties. Expands the family court's jurisdiction over certain enumerated offenses committed against family or household members. Repeals the prohibition on deferred acceptance of guilty or no contest pleas in cases involving abuse of family or household members. Requires that no-contact and stay-away orders issued during the pendency of a criminal case or as a condition of probation be enforced regardless of whether the defendant signed a written acknowledgment of the order, provided that the defendant was informed on the record of the terms and conditions of the order in open court. Requires that no-contact and stay-away orders issued during the pendency of trial cases involving abuse of family or household members or certain enumerated offenses be automatically converted after the defendant's conviction to a new protective order that shall remain in effect for a fixed reasonable period as the court deems appropriate, unless the victim or witness requests otherwise.