Domestic Violence

Domestic violence includes behavior involving violence, the threat of violence, or conspiracy to commit a criminal offense when committed by one cohabitant against another.

Definition of a Cohabitant

A cohabitant is:

  • The biological parent of the other’s unborn child
  • Cohabitant does not include the relationship of parent to minor or relationship of minor siblings to each other.
  • An emancipated minor (under 18 and married) or a person 16 years or older and is or was a spouse of the other party
  • Related by blood or marriage to other parties, resides or has resided with other party, or has a child in common with the other party

What Counts as Domestic Violence

Domestic violence can include:

  • All kidnapping/unlawful detention
  • Assault/aggravated assault (includes assault against a pregnant female)
  • Child abuse
  • Discharge of a firearm
  • Harassment/telephone harassment
  • Homicide
  • Mayhem
  • Possession or threat of a dangerous weapon with intent to assault or scare the other person
  • Property offenses
  • Protective order violation
  • Sexual offenses
  • Stalking

Domestic violence cases can either be felonies or misdemeanors.

Domestic Violence Victims' Rights

Domestic violence victims have rights too! These include:

  • The right to be informed of court hearings
  • The right to obtain a copy of police report at no cost
  • The right to seek counseling
  • The right to seek safe shelter

Protective Orders

Getting help and getting out may mean getting a protective order. If a batterer is threatening you and/or your family, you may file for a protective order. 

You can protective order find forms via Utah State Courts. For protective order assistance, contact the Second District Court Protective Order Clerk at 801-395-1079. 

Additional Resources

For more information and resources, access the National Domestic Violence Hotline or the Utah Domestic Violence Council.

If you are in an emergency situation, call 911.