Hi,
The legal minimum length of shotgun barrel is 18 inches, any shorter than this require SBS (short barrel shotgun) tax stamp. I am assuming that your "shotgun permit" is NOT a class 3 SBS. This means that shortest shotgun you will get is usually 18.5 inches. if you want a pump action shotgun remington 870 or mossberg 500/590A1 are great. Mossberg Maverick 88 or winchester sxp defender are another great budget option. If you are new to shooting and worry about recoil, looks for reduced recoil loads ammo. If you want a semi auto shotgun, In NJ, you can only purchase semi auto shotgun that have less than 6 rounds capacity and no pistol grip or a folding stock. (Check NJ law:budsgunshop.com/feeds/state_reg/new_jersey_restrictions.pdf). Semi auto: Mossberg 930. I hope this helps.

Personally I would recommend a Remington 870 or Mossberg 500 in a youth model or put a collapsible stock on afterwards as most woman have a shorter length of pull. If not either way make sure it has a shorter barrel around 18" in 12ga or 20ga. More importantly try to get out to a training class if you haven't already. There is a lot of good training classes out there that can help put you in the mindset of defense. The firearm is a tool your mind is the weapon.

Most manufacturers make a home defense model with 18.5" or 20" barrel. Some are Remington 870, Mossberg 500 or 590, Maverick 88, Winchester SXP. Of course, if you want a really short barrel, check out the Mossberg Shockwave. Although technically classified as an 'other' weapon, it is basically a shotgun with a short barrel & raptor grip. Out of stock most everywhere, but comes in 12 ga, 20 ga, and .410. The 12 gauge can shoot mini-shells with an adapter (around $15).

Holly/Tom, the Benelli Nova is an excellent option : -- budsgunshop.com/product_info.php/products_id/718002328/benelli+20050+nova+tactical+12ga+185+4rd

Hunting or personal defense? 12, 16, 20 28 gauge, or 410?