North Carolina Prohibited Consensual Sexual Activity Laws
Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last updated June 20, 2016
Most states have laws prohibiting certain types of consensual sexual activities, although sodomy bans applicable to same-sex partners have been ruled unconstitutional. In North Carolina, prohibited consensual sexual activity laws include bans on indecent exposure and bestiality. And while the state still bans sodomy in same-sex relationships, it is completely unenforceable.
Review the following table to learn more about North Carolina's prohibited consensual sexual activity laws, and see FindLaw's Sex Crimes section for related information.
Sodomy Laws Applicable to | Both sexes (unenforceable) or beast |
Penalty for Sodomy | 14-177 Crime against nature: Class I felony. Note: found unconstitutional by Lawrence v. Texas (2003) |
HIV Exposure and Compelled Testing for Offenders | 15A-615 Upon indictment or finding probable cause on an offense involving nonconsensual vaginal, anal, or oral intercourse or intercourse with a child under 12, or under G.S.14-202.1 with a child under 16, a victim may request testing; If the court finds probable cause that a significant risk of transmission exists, the court shall order testing. |
Other Crimes Relating to Consensual Sex Acts | 14-190.9 Indecent exposure: Class 2 misdemeanor |
Note: State laws are constantly changing -- contact a North Carolina criminal defense attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Research the Law
- North Carolina Law
- Official State Codes - Links to the official online statutes (laws) in all 50 states and DC.
North Carolina Prohibited Consensual Sexual Activity Laws: Related Resources
- Same-Sex Couples and the Law
- North Carolina Annulment and Prohibited Marriage Laws
- Indecent Exposure
Next Steps: Search for a Local Attorney
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