Q: What is criminal domestic violence? |

A: Criminal domestic violence is defined in South Carolina as "causing physical harm or injury to a person's own household member, or offering or attempting to cause physical harm or injury to a person's own household member with apparent present ability under circumstances reasonably creating fear or imminent peril." (Keep in mind that although some abuse may not fit the definition for a crime in South Carolina, it is real and you should seek appropriate help.) Additionally, there is the crime of criminal domestic violence of a high and aggravated nature which carries enhanced penalites for cases with more severe injury. Click here to visit the South Carolina General Assembly's homepage to read the complete text. |

Who is the typical domestic violence victim? |

A: There is no typical victim. The majority of victims are women, but they differ widely in backgrounds. Domestic violence affects all kinds of victims regardless of things such as economic status, race, religion, education, or age. Unfortunately, it is happening in all kinds of families in South Carolina, and at an alarming rate. In 1996 the South Carolina Department of Social Services reported that 3,660 victims were sheltered, and shelters handled 14,892 crisis calls. If you are a victim, YOU ARE NOT ALONE! |

Q: What do I need to do to prepare to leave? |

A: You may want to speak with someone at your local domestic violence program to discuss the safety plan that is best for you, but some of the things you can do to try to leave safely are:
Practice how to get out of your home safely if you are involved in an explosive incident. Identify which doors, windows, elevator, or stairwell would be best.
Identify one or more neighbors you can tell about the violence and ask that they call the police if they hear a disturbance.
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