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 Michigan, domestic violence is defined under MCL 400.1501 and includes any act that causes or attempts to cause physical or mental harm to a family or household member, or any other individual with whom one has had a dating relationship. This encompasses violence by a current or former spouse, intimate partner, individual with whom the victim shares a child, or a cohabitant. It also includes individuals similarly situated to a spouse and those protected under Michigan's domestic and family violence laws. Victims of domestic violence in Michigan should call 911 in emergencies. For non-emergency situations, they can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline or seek assistance from state and local resources dedicated to addressing domestic violence. Michigan law enforcement and courts can issue protective orders to safeguard victims from further harm and provide various legal remedies to address the consequences of domestic violence.