Domestic violence — in plain language

Plain language

violence or abuse between people in a close relationship, such as spouses, dating partners, or family members — including physical harm, threats, sexual assault, and controlling behavior meant to dominate or intimidate

• abuse between family or dating partners
• intimate partner violence
• relationship abuse
• family violence

What to watch for

• The term is often assumed to mean only physical violence, but it legally includes emotional abuse, intimidation, isolation, and controlling behavior. A plain-language translation must capture this full range.
• Non-lawyers may think 'domestic' means only married couples, but legal definitions typically include dating partners, former partners, and family members. The translation should clarify this broader scope.
• In employment contexts, 'domestic violence' often appears alongside leave rights. Translators should not omit the connection between the abuse and workplace protections.
• The term appears in both criminal and civil contexts with different procedures and remedies. A plain-language version should indicate whether it's about criminal charges, protective orders, or workplace rights.

What Counts as Domestic Violence. The legal definition goes beyond physical attacks to include emotional manipulation, intimidation, isolation from friends and family, and controlling finances or daily activities. A plain-language translation should not focus only on visible injuries — the power and control aspect is central to the legal concept.

Context Matters. In criminal law, domestic violence triggers specific arrest procedures and enhanced penalties. In family court, it affects custody decisions and protective orders. In employment law, it creates leave rights. The plain-language version should reflect which context applies.

Common Misunderstandings by Non-Lawyers.

• "Domestic violence only happens in married couples." (No — it applies to dating partners, former partners, and family members too.)
• "If there are no bruises, it's not domestic violence." (Wrong — emotional abuse, threats, and controlling behavior are included.)
• "It's just a family matter, not something for the police." (False — domestic violence is a crime that police are required to investigate.)

Legal definition

Violence or abuse that happens between people in a close relationship, such as spouses, dating partners, former partners, or family members. This includes physical harm like hitting or choking, sexual assault, threats of harm, and controlling behaviors meant to dominate, intimidate, or isolate the victim. It is not limited to married couples — it applies to people who are dating, living together, or related by blood or marriage.

Examples

Where you'll see it

• criminal complaints
• protective orders
• employment leave policies
• custody proceedings
• restraining order hearings
• victim services programs

Related terms

• threatened battery assault
• sex offenses
• attempted battery
• intimidation
• protective order
• restraining order
• spousal abuse

Word details

Pronunciation

doh-MES-tik VY-ol-ens

Part of speech

noun

Origin

English — violence that occurs within the domestic or household sphere

Domains

criminal assault, crimes against people, family law, employment law

Frequency

common

Formality

high