Mississippi § 93-21-3 - Definitions.
Full text of Mississippi Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated § 93-21-3 — Definitions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 93-21-3. Definitions.
As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires: “Abuse” means the occurrence of one or more of the following acts between spouses, former spouses, persons living as spouses or who formerly lived as spouses, persons having a child or children in common, other individuals related by consanguinity or affinity who reside together or who formerly resided together or between individuals who have a current or former dating relationship: Attempting to cause or intentionally, knowingly or recklessly causing bodily injury or serious bodily injury with or without a deadly weapon; Placing, by physical menace or threat, another in fear of imminent serious bodily injury; Criminal sexual conduct committed against a minor within the meaning of Section 97-5-23; Stalking within the meaning of Section 97-3-107; Cyberstalking within the meaning of Section 97-45-15; or Sexual offenses within the meaning of Section 97-3-65 or 97-3-95. “Abuse” does not include any act of self-defense. “Adult” means any person eighteen (18) years of age or older, or any person under eighteen (18) years of age who has been emancipated by marriage. “Court” means the chancery court, justice court, municipal court or county court. “Dating relationship” means a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature between two (2) individuals; it does not include a casual relationship or ordinary fraternization between two (2) individuals in a business or social context. Whether a relationship is a “dating relationship” shall be determined by examining the following factors: The length of the relationship; The type of relationship; and The frequency of interaction between the two (2) individuals involved in the relationship. “Mutual protection order” means a protection order that includes provisions in favor of both the individual seeking relief and the respondent.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mississippi § 93-21-3
What does Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated § 93-21-3 cover?
Section 93-21-3 ("Definitions.") is part of the Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated, the codified statutory law of Mississippi. 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 Mississippi § 93-21-3?
A common citation format is "Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated § 93-21-3" (Mississippi). 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 Mississippi law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Mississippi official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Mississippi attorney.
How does Mississippi § 93-21-3 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Mississippi 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 Mississippi.