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 Idaho, domestic violence is defined under the Idaho Code Section 39-6303 as any physical injury, sexual abuse, forced imprisonment, or threats of such conduct that are committed by a household member against another household member. The term 'household member' encompasses current or former spouses, persons related by blood or marriage, persons who reside or have resided together, persons who have a child in common regardless of whether they have been married or lived together, and persons involved in a dating relationship. Idaho law recognizes the seriousness of domestic violence and provides for both criminal prosecution and civil protection orders to protect victims. In cases of emergency, victims are urged to call 911 for immediate assistance. For non-emergency situations, victims can seek help from the National Domestic Violence Hotline or local resources. It is important for victims to understand their rights and the remedies available to them under Idaho law, and they may wish to consult with an attorney for legal advice specific to their situation.