What

The Domestic Violence Act forbids domestic violence between persons in a ‘domestic relationship’.

Physical abuse is a type of domestic violence. So is emotional, verbal, and psychological abuse.

Intimidation is a type of domestic violence.

Even harassment, for example, constantly phoning another person at all times of the day, is a type of domestic violence.

Who

People in domestic relationships include:

• Persons who are, or were, married.
• Persons in a relationship similar to a marriage.
• Persons who are related to one another.
• Persons who were dating.
• Even roommates and housemates, current and past, are in a domestic relationship.

What to do

If you are a victim of domestic violence you should approach a Family Court for a protection order.

A protection order forbids a person from committing acts of domestic violence against you.

If the abuse continues after the protection order has been issued this is a crime and you should report this to the police, who will then arrest the person that is abusing you.