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 Mississippi, domestic violence is defined under the Mississippi Code Section 97-3-7, which includes physical harm, bodily injury, assault, or the threat of such, committed by a current or former spouse, a person living as a spouse or who formerly lived as a spouse, a parent, grandparent, child, grandchild, or someone similarly situated to the victim. It also covers those who have a current or former dating relationship or a child in common. The state recognizes various degrees of domestic violence, from simple assault to aggravated assault, with penalties varying based on the severity of the offense and the harm inflicted. Victims of domestic violence in Mississippi can seek protection through restraining orders and other legal measures. In cases of emergency, victims should call 911, while non-emergency assistance can be sought through the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE or their website. An attorney specializing in family law can provide legal guidance specific to the circumstances of the case.