What is Sexual Assault?

Sexual assault is sexual contact without the consent of the other person. Consent is NOT using coercion, force or threats to obtain compliance from the other person. Sexual assault is an extremely personal violation that can trigger many different reactions. Everyone responds uniquely to the trauma of sexual assault. Sexual assault can happen in any type of relationship, including one where the individuals are dating in a committed way or married. 

What is Consent?

Consent is the communication of verbal speech or explicit actions by a person who is legally or functionally competent to give informed approval. Consent indicates a freely given agreement to have sexual intercourse or sexual contact.

What is NOT Consent?

Individuals who cannot give consent to have sexual contact and/or intercourse

• Children and youth under the age of 18 or age 16 in certain circumstances
• Individuals with cognitive or developmental disabilities
• Individuals under a certain level of intoxicants
• Individuals who are unconscious or asleep