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 Indiana, domestic violence, also known as domestic or family violence, is defined under Indiana Code IC 34-6-2-34.5. It encompasses a range of felony or misdemeanor crimes of violence committed by a current or former spouse or intimate partner of the victim, a person with whom the victim shares a child, a person cohabitating with the victim as a spouse or intimate partner, or any person similarly situated to a spouse under Indiana's laws. It also includes any person who commits violence against an individual protected under the state's domestic or family violence laws, which can include youth victims. Victims of domestic violence in Indiana 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. Indiana law provides for protective orders, support services, and legal remedies for victims of domestic violence. An attorney specializing in family law can provide legal guidance and help in navigating the legal system to protect victims' rights and safety.