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 Texas, domestic violence is defined under the Texas Family Code and includes acts of violence by a current or former spouse or intimate partner of the victim, a person with whom the victim shares a child, someone cohabitating with the victim as a spouse or intimate partner, or any other individual against a victim who is protected under Texas's domestic or family violence laws. Texas law recognizes several types of domestic violence, including domestic assault, aggravated domestic assault, and continuous violence against the family. Victims of domestic violence in Texas can seek protection through protective orders, which courts may issue to prevent further abuse. In cases of emergency, victims are urged to call 911 for immediate assistance from law enforcement. For non-emergency situations, victims can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline for support and resources. It is important for victims to understand their rights and the legal remedies available to them, and they may wish to consult with an attorney for legal advice tailored to their specific situation.
