There are many forms of domestic violence. It is commonly associated with violent or abusive behavior towards a family or a household member.

Physical violence is the most serious form of domestic violence. If convicted, a person who knowingly causes or attempts to cause physical harm to a family or household member is guilty of a misdemeanor of the first degree on a first offense.

A person commits a less serious type of domestic violence when they make someone in their household believe that they are in immediate danger by threatening them.  A person convicted of that type of domestic violence is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree on a first offense.

All types of domestic violence become more serious offenses if the offender knew that the victim was pregnant at the time of the violation or if the offender has a prior conviction for domestic violence.