New Jersey § 4:19-23
Full text of New Jersey New Jersey Statutes § 4:19-23, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 4:19-23.
a. The municipal court shall declare a dog to be potentially dangerous if it finds
by clear and convincing evidence that the dog: (1) caused bodily injury to a person during an unprovoked attack, and poses a serious threat of serious bodily injury or death to a person ; (2) caused serious bodily injury to another domestic animal or killed another domestic animal, and (a) poses a serious threat of serious bodily injury or death to a person , or (b) poses a serious threat of death to another domestic animal ; or (3) (Deleted by amendment, P.L.2019, c. 82 ) . b. A dog shall not be declared potentially dangerous for: (1) causing bodily injury to a person if the dog was provoked ; (2) causing serious bodily injury to , or killing , a domestic animal if the domestic animal was the aggressor ; (3) causing bodily injury to a person who was committing or attempting to commit a
crime or offense upon the owner or person with custody or control of the dog or committing
or attempting to commit a trespass or other criminal offense on the property of the
owner or person with custody or control of the dog; (4) causing bodily injury to a person or a domestic animal who was abusing, assaulting,
or physically threatening the dog or the dog's offspring; or (5) causing bodily injury to a person who was intervening between two or more dogs
engaged in aggressive behavior or fighting . For the purposes of paragraph (1) of this subsection, the municipality shall bear
the burden of proof to demonstrate that the dog was not provoked. c. As used in this section, “ bodily injury ” means bodily injury as defined in subsection a. of N.J.S.2C:11-1 ; and “ serious bodily injury ” means serious bodily injury as defined in subsection b. of N.J.S.2C:11-1 .
Frequently Asked Questions About New Jersey § 4:19-23
What does New Jersey Statutes § 4:19-23 cover?
Section 4:19-23 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 § 4:19-23?
A common citation format is "New Jersey Statutes § 4:19-23" (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 § 4:19-23 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.