Most violent crime occurs in the home. Domestic violence usually refers to assaults by people who live together. But angry partners can turn up the heat by alleging that the assault was sexual—i.e. that the assailant committed not just simple assault (which, in New York, requires a showing of physical injury), but also committed rape or sexual abuse. Most district attorney’s offices and courts have special units for domestic violence cases. Anyone accused of domestic violence needs a lawyer; when a sex crime accusation is added to the mix, it is even more important to get competent representation early in the case.