In Delaware, domestic violence is defined as any sort of ongoing or repetitive abusive or violent behavior in a romantic relationship. Domestic violence can occur to married couples, live-in couples or couples who are dating.

Domestic violence can occur when one partner tries to control another or uses violence or abuse against their partner. Domestic violence can occur due to previous abuse, stress, substance abuse or other factors. No matter why it occurs, it is illegal in Delaware. This type of violence can take many forms, including:

• Physical violence: Physical violence can involve choking, punching, pushing, slapping, kicking, hitting, biting and other forms of physical aggression.
• Sexual assault: Unwanted sexual touching, sexual intercourse or rape can all occur in relationships and are serious crimes.
• Economic abuse or control: This form of abuse may involve having one partner sign over assets or money to another. It may mean retaining control of family or personal income. In some cases, abusers keep the victim from working or demand their partner hand over all earnings to them.
• Emotional or psychological abuse or control: Emotional abuse may involve name-calling, shouting or demeaning a partner. It can also involve lying about abuse or blaming the partner for abuse. It may also include control and irrational jealousy. For example, one partner may accuse the other of infidelity when none exists. Emotional and psychological abuse can also involve threats, intimidation and isolating the victim from friends and family. It may involve the destruction of personal property, including items which carry personal significance.

In some cases, abusers may use more than one type of domestic violence against their partners. Because of the stress and trauma of this type of violence, it can be difficult for abused partners to leave the relationship.

If you have been the victim of domestic violence, contact a domestic violence lawyer in Delaware. An attorney can file restraining orders against your partner, gather evidence of abuse and help you seek a divorce or another legal solution for the situation.