In our state, domestic violence is covered by North Carolina General Statute §50-B. This statute covers current or former spouses; persons of the opposite sex who live or have lived together; persons who are related as parents and children; persons who have a child in common; persons who are current or former household members; and lastly, persons of the opposite sex who are or have been in a dating relationship.
This statute defines domestic violence as:
- Attempting to cause bodily injury or intentionally causing bodily injury.
- Placing the aggrieved party or a member of the aggrieved party’s family in fear of imminent serious bodily injury or continued harassment that rises to such a level as to inflict substantial emotional distress.
- Committing any act as defined by N.C.G.S. §14-27.21 (previously §14-27.2) through N.C.G.S. §14-27.31 (previously §14-27.7).
- These acts cover first degree rape, second degree rape, first degree sex offense, second degree sex offense, sexual battery, and statutory rape.