Social Definition
It is a pattern of behavior used to establish and maintain power and control over an intimate partner. Domestic violence consists of physical, sexual, psychological, and/or emotional abuse. Without intervention, domestic violence can become more destructive over time and can become lethal.

Legal Definition (RCW 10.99.020)
Domestic violence includes but is not limited to any one of the following crimes when committed by one "family or household member" against another.

• Assault
• Reckless endangerment
• Burglary
• Criminal Trespass
• Malicious mischief
• Kidnapping
• Unalwful imprisonment
• Violation of a Restraining Order, No Contact Order, Protection Order
• Stalking

A family or household member is defined as:

• Spouse, former spouse, persons who have a child in common
• Adult persons related by blood or marriage
• Adult persons who presently (or in the past) reside(d) together
• Persons 16 years and older who have or had a dating relationship
• Persons who have a biological or legal parent-child relationship
  

Dated: July 18, 2006