Understanding Assault and Domestic Assault

🛡️ For youth empowerment, legal education, and safer communities

As part of building safe, respectful communities, it’s important for young people to understand their legal rights and responsibilities—especially when it comes to assault and domestic assault. These are serious issues that affect people of all ages, and knowing the basics can help prevent harm and promote justice.

⚖️ What is Assault?

Assault is more than just physical violence. Legally, it means:

• Threatening or attempting to hurt someone,

• Causing fear that they’re about to be harmed,

• Even without actually touching the person.

👉 Example: If someone raises a fist and says they’re going to punch you, and you believe they might, that could be considered assault—even if they never hit you.

Key Points:

• Assault is about intent and fear, not just physical injury.

• You don’t have to be hurt for it to be assault.

• It can happen in schools, on the street, or anywhere.

🏠 What is Domestic Assault?

Domestic assault is a type of assault that happens within a family or close relationship, like:

• A parent and child,

• Dating partners,

• People who live together,

• Or even former partners.

This kind of abuse often involves control, threats, and repeated harm, not just physical violence.

Examples include:

• Being hit or slapped by a family member.

• Constant yelling or threats that make you feel unsafe.

• Controlling your money, phone, or who you talk to.

🚨 Why This Matters

• Domestic assault is never the victim’s fault.

• Young people should know the signs of abuse and where to get help.

• Reporting assault is a brave and important step to protect yourself and others.

🧭 What You Can Do

✅ Know your rights – Everyone has the right to feel safe.✅ Speak up – Talk to a trusted adult, teacher, or counselor if something feels wrong.✅ Get support – Many communities have free, confidential help lines and support services.✅ Respect others – Learn about healthy communication and consent.

💬 Final Message

At Oathsworn, we believe every young person deserves to grow up safe, respected, and informed. By understanding the law, we can protect ourselves and support each other.

🧒🏽💬 "You are never alone. If someone is hurting you or someone you know, there is help—and you have the right to ask for it."