What is a Restraining Order Who can get a Restraining Order Applying for a Restraining Order Domestic Violence home Domestic violence is a crime. The term describes a situation in a relationship, where one partner is using violent and abusive behaviour to dominate and control the other partner. There is a difference between a Domestic Argument and Domestic Violence .
People can argue without one party having more power or control than the other.
Domestic Violence is an imbalance of power, whereby one party dominates the other, exerting control over the other party. It is an abuse of power. It must be recognised that the vast majority of domestic violence offenders are men, and most survivors are women - although it should be acknowledged that some women are also offenders. This is the actual or attempted use of any physical force - anything from a slap to its most extreme form of murder. Physical abuse should not be condoned even in its 'mildest form'.