Not every domestic assault starts out with a person intending to assault or cause harm. But sometimes arguments escalate and you need to know how to protect yourself. I cannot tell you how many assault and battery clients get charged and sometimes convicted because the other person knows how to push their buttons. Family, significant others, and those you live with know exactly what will upset you. Don't end up with a criminal charge. If you feel an argument is getting out of hand leave. Do not let that other person use their intimate knowledge of you to get you a criminal charge. You should just leave and allow both parties the chance to calm down.
If you do get charged, the best advice is to stay away from the person and limit contact or get counseling together. While your case is pending, the complaining witness sometimes plays games and holds it over your head. If you do not have contact pending court it is hard for them to do that. But sometimes the person will use the fact that you did not talk to them pending court against you as a way to get revenge. You know your situation best and can determine for yourself what is best but if the person truly cares they will understand you are protecting yourself pending the court date.
It does not take a whole lot to get an assault charge. The law defines assault and battery as an unwanted touching that is done in a rude or angry manner. It can be as simple as shoving someone, blocking their way, spitting on them, grabbing someone's arm, throwing something (liquid or otherwise) at them, or even grabbing something out of their hand. Assault and Battery does not always mean someone was hit or punched. Remember, it does not take much.