What is family violence?

Family violence is any form of violent or abusive behaviour that happens during a relationship (including married, common law, or dating) or after a relationship ends. It may be done to either spouse or the children. It is not just limited to physical or sexual violence and may also include intimidation, mental or emotional abuse, financial exploitation, threats, stalking, harassment and hurting or threatening to hurt pets.

If you are in immediate danger, call 911. Police decide whether or not to make an arrest when they are called to investigate a situation involving domestic violence. They have the authority to detain and hold individuals.

If you or your family is in danger, you can apply for a protection order. A protection order is a court order made by a judge to help protect one person from another. You can apply for a protection order through criminal court (Peace Bond – which can be made against anyone, even if you have only dated) or through family court (Family Law Protection Order - which can be made against family members) or both. For more information, see “How do I get a protection order (opens in a new tab)?” or see the Family Law in BC section on Abuse and Family Violence (opens in a new tab).

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, you can learn more about your options from the BC Government publication Help Starts Here (opens in a new tab) or through VictimLinkBC (opens in a new tab).