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 New Jersey, domestic violence is defined under the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act of 1991. The act recognizes domestic violence as a serious crime against society and includes various offenses such as assault, terroristic threats, kidnapping, criminal restraint, sexual assault, and more when committed by an adult or emancipated minor against a person protected under the act. This includes current or former spouses, any present or former household members, parties in a dating relationship, individuals who have a child in common, or expectant parents. Victims of domestic violence in New Jersey can seek protection through restraining orders, which may be temporary or final, and are enforceable throughout the state. Law enforcement officers are required to arrest the perpetrator when there is probable cause to believe that domestic violence laws have been violated. Victims are encouraged to contact the police in emergencies by dialing 911. For non-emergency assistance, the National Domestic Violence Hotline provides support and can be reached at 1-800-799-SAFE or through their website.