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 Missouri, domestic violence is defined under the Domestic Violence Act (Sections 455.010 to 455.085 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri) and encompasses a range of violent acts committed by family or household members, which include spouses, former spouses, any person related by blood or marriage, individuals who are presently residing together or have resided together in the past, and individuals who have a child in common regardless of whether they have been married or have lived together. The law covers physical violence, sexual assault, stalking, and other forms of coercive behavior where one person seeks to control another through fear or threats. Victims of domestic violence in Missouri can seek protection through orders of protection, which are legal orders issued by a court to prevent further harm. In cases of emergency, victims are urged to call 911 or contact local law enforcement. For non-emergency assistance, victims can reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline. It's important for victims to understand that help is available and that the law provides mechanisms for their protection and recourse.