What is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence is a pattern of coercive behavior that is used by one person to gain power and control over another.  It may include physical violence, sexual assault, emotional and psychological intimidation, verbal abuse, stalking and emotional control. 

It is against the law for your spouse/partner, family or household member to:

• Assault or attempt to injure you (RSA 631:1 through 631:3);
• Threaten you so that you fear for your physical safety (RSA 631:4);
• Force sexual contact or relations on you against your will (RSA 632-A:2 through 632-A:5);
• Enter your residence or home against your will if you are living separately (RSA 635:2);
• Kidnap or interfere with your freedom (RSA 633:1 or 2);
• Destroy or threaten to destroy your property (RSA 634:1 or 2);
• Follow you around or act in a way that would make a reasonable person afraid (RSA 633:3-a);
• Harass you by phone, mail or other means (RSA 644:4).

Domestic violence can happened to anyone, regardless of gender, age, race, socio-economic class or sexual orientation.

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