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 Mexico (NM), domestic violence is defined under the Family Violence Protection Act. The state's definition aligns with the broader understanding that domestic violence includes acts of violence committed by current or former intimate partners, spouses, cohabitants, or other individuals similarly situated to a spouse, as well as those with whom the victim shares a child. New Mexico law also extends protection to those subjected to abuse by a member of the household, regardless of whether there is a spousal or intimate relationship. Domestic violence can encompass physical harm, severe emotional distress, or the threat of harm, and it is not limited to physical acts of violence. In cases of emergency, victims are urged to call 911 for immediate assistance. For non-emergency support, victims can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline. Additionally, victims can seek orders of protection, which are court orders that can help prevent further abuse by prohibiting the abuser from contacting or coming near the victim. The state provides various resources and services to support victims of domestic violence, including shelter, counseling, and legal assistance.