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Domestic violence is a broad term that describes acts committed by one person against another
Domestic violence is a broad term that describes acts committed by one person against another with whom he or she has a relationship and share a common domicile. The relationship includes marriage, de facto marriage or domestic partnership. Step-parents and step-children as well as half-brothers and half-sisters, adopted brothers and sisters are included in relationships that are also included.
Any acts of assault or personal injury between persons with relationships mentioned above may come under the term ‘domestic violence’. It may also include damage or destruction to the property of the person or threats of damage or destruction or property. In some instances, harm or death of the family pet may also constitute an act of domestic violence if such act puts any of the members of the family or household in fear or apprehension for his or her life.
Exposing a child to domestic violence endangers the child and the child’s neural, emotional, psychological and social development. Thus, even when the child is not physically or sexually assaulted, mere exposure of the child to the physical or sexual assault committed by one member of his or her household against another is already domestic violence and abuse upon the child.
The domestic violence can also be in the form of sexual assault or even economic abuse. When a spouse or partner restricts the person’s spending or restricts his or her access to joint funds or when no support is given for the maintenance of the person or of her children are all acts that may constitute economic abuse.
When one person coerces another in his household to turn over the ownership, management or control of his assets, this also constitutes economic abuse. When a person sells or mortgages or in any way disposes of another person’s property without the knowledge or consent of another, then this may constitute economic abuse as well.
Domestic violence can also come in the form of psychological or emotional abuse. This happens when one family or household member acts in such a way as to intimidate, control, humiliate or threaten another family or household member by shouting, taunting, insulting or making derogatory remarks.
This article provides basic information only and is not a substitute for a professional or legal advice . It is prudent to obtain legal advice from a divorce lawyers when contemplating a separation or soon after a relationship comes to an end.
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