The act either causes or may cause immediate harm. Sexual assault and the intentional infliction of pain or injury may qualify as domestic abuse. If you know that your spouse or another person is abusing your child, remove the child from the abuser and notify the proper authorities. Get away from your abuser and go to a safe place. Call the police, a friend or a relative for help.
Temporary shelters are available in most areas.
If you or your child is injured, go to the hospital emergency room. The officer will arrest the person he or she believes is most responsible for the violence, even if the victim doesn't want the abuser arrested. The law requires people in certain occupations to report suspected child abuse. These occupations include teachers, doctors, social service workers, chiropractors and registered nurses. If you or your child are in physical danger from an abuser, you can get a domestic abuse restraining order from the court.