Alabama § 13A-6-138 - Domestic Violence by Strangulation or Suffocation.
Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 13A-6-138 — Domestic Violence by Strangulation or Suffocation., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 13A-6-138. Domestic Violence by Strangulation or Suffocation.
(a) For the purposes of this section, the following terms have the following meanings:
(1) STRANGULATION. Intentionally causing asphyxia by closure or compression of the blood vessels or air passages of the neck as a result of external pressure on the neck.
(2) SUFFOCATION. Intentionally causing asphyxia by depriving a person of air or by preventing a person from breathing through the inhalation of toxic gases or by blocking or obstructing the airway of a person, by any means other than by strangulation.
(b) A person commits the crime of domestic violence by strangulation or suffocation if he or she commits an assault with intent to cause physical harm or commits the crime of menacing pursuant to Section 13A-6-23, by strangulation or suffocation or attempted strangulation or suffocation and the victim is a current or former spouse, parent, step-parent, child, step-child, grandparent, step-grandparent, grandchild, step-grandchild, any person with whom the defendant has a child in common, a present household member, or a person who has or had a dating relationship with the defendant. For the purpose of this section, a household member excludes non-romantic or non-intimate co-residents, and a dating relationship means a current or former relationship of a romantic or intimate nature characterized by the expectation of affectionate or sexual involvement by either party.
(c) Domestic violence by strangulation or suffocation is a Class B felony punishable as provided by law.
Source: official Alabama text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 13A-6-138
What does Code of Alabama § 13A-6-138 cover?
Section 13A-6-138 ("Domestic Violence by Strangulation or Suffocation.") is part of the Code of Alabama, the codified statutory law of Alabama. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Alabama § 13A-6-138?
A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 13A-6-138" (Alabama). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Alabama law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Alabama official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Alabama attorney.
How does Alabama § 13A-6-138 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Alabama can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Alabama.