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 Kansas, domestic violence is defined under Kansas Statutes Annotated (K.S.A.) 21-5414 and includes crimes of violence committed by a family or household member against another family or household member. A family or household member encompasses current or former spouses, individuals with whom the victim has a child in common, individuals cohabitating or who have cohabitated with the victim as a spouse or intimate partner, and any other individuals similarly situated to a spouse. Kansas law also extends protection to those who are dating or have dated the perpetrator, as well as to children and other relatives. Domestic violence can result in both misdemeanor and felony charges, depending on the severity of the act. Victims of domestic violence in Kansas are encouraged to contact law enforcement in emergencies by dialing 911. For non-emergency assistance, victims can reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline or other local resources for support and guidance. An attorney specializing in family law or a legal aid organization can provide legal advice and representation to victims of domestic violence.