9:6-8.35 Preliminary procedure.
15. Preliminary procedure. The division may, with the safety of the child of paramount concern:
a. Confer with any person seeking to file a complaint, the potential respondent, and other interested persons concerning the advisability of filing a complaint under this act; and
b. Attempt to adjust suitable cases before a complaint is filed over which the court apparently would have jurisdiction.
c. The division shall not prevent any person or agency who wishes to file a complaint under this act from having access to the court for that purpose.
d. Efforts at adjustment under this section may not extend for a period of more than 30 days without an order of a judge of the court, who may extend the period for an additional 30 days.
e. Such adjustment may include a preliminary conference held by the division at its discretion upon written notice to the parent or guardian and the potential complainant for the purpose of attempting such adjustment, provided however that the division shall not be authorized under this section to compel any person to appear at any conference, produce any papers, or visit any place.
f. The Superior Court, Chancery Division, Family Part and the division shall deal with cases involving imminent physical harm or actual physical harm on a priority basis.
L.1974,c.119,s.15; amended 1977, c.209, s.14; 1991, c.91, s.205; 1999, c.53, s.12.