Domestic violence charges have to be taken seriously. Those accused of domestic violence should be familiar with what behaviors may be considered domestic violence and what they can do about domestic violence charges.
What is considered domestic violence?
There are a variety of different behaviors that may be considered domestic violence including:
- Physical abuse – physical abuse can be considered domestic violence and can include many different forms of physical abuse including hitting, biting, slapping, shoving, punching, battering, burning, cutting, pinching, pulling hair, kicking and other violent behaviors.
- Sexual abuse – sexually abusive behaviors can also be considered domestic violence including coerced sexual behavior without consent. This can include rape, sexual assault, sexual jokes and sexually demeaning behavior.
- Emotional abuse – emotional abuse can be considered domestic violence and can include attacks on the other person’s self-worth or self-esteem.
- Economic abuse – another form of domestic violence can include economic abuse which involves creating financial reliance to maintain control over financial resources and the other person. It can also include preventing the other person from going to work or attending school.
- Psychological abuse – psychological abuse can be considered domestic violence when it involves the infliction of fear and intimidation and threats against the other person and those they love including pets.
- Stalking and cyberstalking – stalking and cyberstalking can be considered domestic violence and can include a variety of behaviors and following the other person around. Cyberstalking can include stalking behaviors online.
Domestic violence charges can result in significant personal and financial consequences but defense options are available. Criminal law resources can help anyone accused of a criminal charge and are legal resources accused individuals should be familiar with.