Family Code · §71.0021

Dating Violence — Definition

Dating Violence — Definition is covered under §71.0021 and tested on the TCOLE peace officer licensing exam. Cadets typically encounter this topic under "Family Violence Definitions" on practice exams.

To prove this offense, the State must establish each of the following elements: Continuing relationship of a romantic or intimate nature; Length of relationship + nature of relationship + frequency / type of interaction; Need not have lived together.

Elements you must prove

  • Continuing relationship of a romantic or intimate nature
  • Length of relationship + nature of relationship + frequency / type of interaction
  • Need not have lived together

Practice 1 question on this topic

Time yourself, score your run, review missed questions with statute references — Free Practice Pass cadets get limited access.

Start Free Practice

Worked examples

Worked example 1

Tex. Fam. Code §71.0021 'dating violence' applies between:

  1. Only legally married persons
  2. Individuals who have or have had a continuing relationship of a romantic or intimate nature; determined by length, nature, and frequency/type of interaction Correct
  3. Strangers
  4. Only persons living together
Why: Dating violence reaches conduct between persons in a current or former dating relationship; the statute looks at length, nature, and frequency of interactions.
Statute: Tex. Fam. Code §71.0021

Statutory definitions for this topic

Dating violence Tex. Fam. Code §71.0021
An act by an individual against a person with whom the actor has or has had a continuing relationship of a romantic or intimate nature, that is intended to result in physical harm, bodily injury, assault, or sexual assault — or a threat reasonably placing the dating partner in fear of imminent physical harm.
Dating relationship Tex. Fam. Code §71.0021(b)
A relationship between individuals who have or have had a continuing relationship of a romantic or intimate nature. Determined by the length of the relationship, the nature of the relationship, and the frequency and type of interaction.