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 Hawaii, domestic violence, also known as family violence, is defined under Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 586-1. It encompasses a range of misdemeanor or felony crimes of violence committed by a current or former spouse or intimate partner of the victim, a person with whom the victim has a child in common, someone cohabitating with or who has cohabitated with the victim as a spouse or intimate partner, or by a person similarly situated to a spouse of the victim under Hawaii's laws. It also includes acts by any other person against an adult or youth victim who is protected under the state's domestic or family violence laws. Victims of domestic violence in Hawaii should call 911 in emergencies to receive immediate assistance from law enforcement. For non-emergency support, victims can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE or visit their website. Additionally, Hawaii provides various resources and services for victims of domestic violence, including restraining orders, shelter services, and legal assistance. Victims may also seek the counsel of an attorney to understand their rights and the legal remedies available to them under Hawaii law.