The term domestic violence includes felony or misdemeanor crimes of violence committed by a current or former spouse or intimate partner of the victim; by a person with whom the victim shares a child in common; by a person who is cohabitating with or has cohabitated with the victim as a spouse or intimate partner; by a person similarly situated to a spouse of the victim under the domestic or family violence laws of the state or jurisdiction; or by any other person against an adult or youth victim who is protected from that person’s acts under the domestic or family violence laws of the state or jurisdiction.

In an emergency, victims of domestic violence should call 911 or contact state or local law enforcement officials who can respond to these crimes. Individuals in need of non-emergency assistance can also call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE or visit www.TheHotline.org.

In Delaware, domestic violence is defined under the Family Court Act and includes a range of behaviors committed by a current or former spouse or intimate partner of the victim, someone with whom the victim shares a child, or a cohabitant in a relationship similar to a spouse. It also covers those similarly situated to a spouse under Delaware's domestic or family violence laws, as well as any person who commits acts of violence against a protected adult or youth victim. Domestic violence can encompass physical harm, fear of harm, sexual assault, or stalking. Victims of domestic violence in Delaware should call 911 in emergencies to receive immediate assistance from law enforcement. For non-emergency situations, victims can seek help from resources such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline. Additionally, Delaware law provides for protective orders to prevent further abuse, which can be obtained through the Family Court. An attorney specializing in family law can provide legal guidance and help navigate the process of obtaining such protective orders or pursuing other legal remedies.