The specific offence of non-fatal strangulation and asphyxiation came into force in Northern Ireland on Monday (June 26) with perpetrators facing up to 14 years in prison.
The Department of Justice said the new standalone offence strengthens the law and recognises the “serious harm” caused by this type of crime.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) described it as a “step forward in helping officers tackle the magnitude of the threat”.