Many people have a false impression of what domestic violence truly is, as this can be more than physical abuse. Furthermore, there is always gray area when it comes to this crime, as both parties are sure to have their own sides of the story.

Here are some of the many forms of domestic violence:

-- Physical abuse. This is the most common form and can include everything from hitting to punching to biting.

-- Sexual abuse. This occurs when one person coerces another into sexual behavior without the victim's consent.

-- Economic abuse. When a person attempts to make another financially reliant, as to gain a sense of control and power.

-- Emotional abuse. There are many types of emotional abuse, including talking down to a person to make him or her feel poorly.

As you can see, there are many forms of domestic violence. You can also see how one person could consider something violent, while another doesn't share the same opinion.

For example, emotional domestic violence is not always what it appears. One person may feel that he or she is being emotionally abused, such as during an argument. However, in all actuality, this is nothing more than a common fight in which both parties are angry and say things they don't mean.

When a person is charged with domestic violence, it will have a negative impact on his or her life. They may have to leave their home. They may not be able to see their children for a long period of time. This is why you need to understand your rights under the law, as well as how domestic violence laws are enforced.

Source: FindLaw, "Domestic Violence," accessed Nov. 05, 2015