This section defines domestic violence for the purposes of getting a domestic violence protective order (DVPO).  Domestic violence in North Carolina is when someone you have had a "personal relationship" with does any of the following to you or your minor child:

• attempts to cause bodily injury, or intentionally causes bodily injury;
• places you or a member of your family or household in fear of imminent serious bodily injury;
• continued harassment (as defined here) that rises to such a level as to inflict substantial emotional distress; or
• commits any rape or sexual offense listed here in sections 14-27.21 through 14-27.33.*

If you have not had a "personal relationship" with the abuser, harasser or stalker, you may be eligible for a protective order against stalking or harassment.   Please see How can I get an order against stalking or sexual harassment (a civil no-contact order)?

* NCGS § 50B-1(a)