Domestic violence is something many people misunderstand. There are a lot of misconceptions about what it is and who it could apply to.
According to the Florida Statutes, domestic violence is not just something that can happen in a romantic relationship. The law outlines a variety of situations where this crime could occur.
Household requirement
The key term in defining domestic violence is “household.” The crime occurs when violence or violent actions occurs between people who are or were household members. Because of this, it could include incidents between parents, children, siblings or unrelated individuals who live together or have some type of family relationship.
Additional notes
It is important to note that having a romantic relationship is not a requirement under the law to prove domestic violence. Any type of relationship could qualify if other requirements fit.
It is also critical to understand that living together is not always a requirement. If you and another person have a child together, you count as household members even if you do not and have never lived together. This is the exception. In all other cases, you need to live together currently or have lived together at some point.
Types of domestic violence
You also should understand that domestic violence is not always physical. It can include any crime the law considers violent, such as stalking, kidnapping and false imprisonment. Of course, all violent crimes also can result in a domestic violence charge, such as assault or battery. Anything resulting in death or injury will be domestic violence if the individuals involved meet the definition of household members.