Domestic violence in New Jersey is a critical issue, addressed through a combination of legal, social, and support systems. The state defines domestic violence as a pattern of abusive behavior in any intimate relationship used by one person to gain or maintain control over another. This abuse can be physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, or financial. New Jersey law, specifically under the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act, recognizes various acts as domestic violence, including assault, harassment, stalking, and criminal sexual contact, among others.