As mentioned on some of my other pages, there can be variations of the legal definitions of crimes based on the laws on the books of each state. The following information is based on the legal terminology used within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. For more specific details about domestic abuse and violence, please check with your local law enforcement office for the laws pertaining to your area of the country.
     Contrary to the most common belief, domestic violence is not restricted to the act of one spouse abusing the other. Any person who can claim an established residence within a home can be convicted of domestic violence. These people include spouses, children, other blood relatives, people related by marriage (in-laws, step-children, etc) and non-related persons living in the same house. In some instances, domestic violence can be applied to people who share other forms of residences such as a college dorm room. This type of abuse also applies to people involved or previously in relationships with "sexual or intimate partners" or among siblings not living within the same household.
     The violence doesn't have to be physical. Any actions or words which cause the other person to have a reasonable fear of being physically harmed or killed is considered domestic abuse. Harassing another person or "stalking" them are both considered under these laws.

Types of domestic abuse:
     Causing or attempting to cause physical harm either with or without a weapon.
     Rape, involuntary deviate sexual behavior, sexual assault, and incest.
     Threats of physical harm or death.
     Restraining another person, locking them in a room or house, or other forms of false imprisonment.
     Physical or sexual abuse against minor children.

     It can't be said enough. If you're experiencing any type of abuse, you need to make a report and get out of the abusive relationship. Reports can also be filed on behalf of the abused person by other members of the family or household. There is good reason for other people to speak out about the abuse. Even if you're not currently being abused, but one or more members of the household are, there's always the chance the abuser will turn his (her) attention to you.