New Jersey § 53:1-20
Full text of New Jersey New Jersey Statutes § 53:1-20, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 53:1-20.
The Legislature finds and declares that DNA databanks are an important tool in criminal
investigations and in deterring and detecting recidivist acts. It is the policy of this State to assist federal, state and local criminal justice
and law enforcement agencies in the identification and detection of individuals who
are the subjects of criminal investigations. It is therefore in the best interest of the State of New Jersey to establish a DNA
database and a DNA databank containing blood or other biological samples submitted
by every person convicted or found not guilty by reason of insanity of a crime or a specified disorderly persons offense and arrested for certain violent crimes. It is also in the best interest of the State of New Jersey to include in this DNA
database and DNA databank blood or other biological samples submitted by juveniles
adjudicated delinquent or adjudicated not delinquent by reason of insanity for acts,
which if committed by an adult, would constitute a crime or a specified disorderly persons offense and by every juvenile arrested for certain violent crimes. The Legislature further finds and declares that the minimal intrusion on an individual's
privacy interest resulting from a DNA test is justified by the compelling governmental
interests advanced by DNA analysis, for those who are convicted, adjudicated or found
not guilty by reason of insanity for crimes or specified disorderly persons offenses , as well as for those who are arrested for certain violent crimes. It further finds that DNA testing enhances the State's ability to positively identify
an offender, to ascertain whether an individual may be implicated in another offense,
and to establish positive identification in the event the offender becomes a fugitive. The Legislature finds, as did the Supreme Court of New Jersey, that there is a compelling parallel
between the taking of DNA and fingerprinting, and that the purposes of DNA testing
demonstrate “special needs” beyond ordinary law enforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions About New Jersey § 53:1-20
What does New Jersey Statutes § 53:1-20 cover?
Section 53:1-20 is part of the New Jersey Statutes, the codified statutory law of New Jersey. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite New Jersey § 53:1-20?
A common citation format is "New Jersey Statutes § 53:1-20" (New Jersey). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of New Jersey law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the New Jersey official source linked on this page or consult a licensed New Jersey attorney.
How does New Jersey § 53:1-20 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in New Jersey can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in New Jersey.