Sexual consent is one of the most important factors in
every healthy sexual relationship, but it’s also one of the most misunderstood
aspects of sexual contact as well. By learning what consent isn’t, you can be
sure that you and your partner are both on the same page before getting into
bed together and having sex. That way, there’s no confusion or ambiguity when
it comes to this incredibly important element of healthy relationships. Criminal defence
lawyers Sydney explain the following four circumstances that don’t
mean consent.
They were Silent during the Activity:
Just because someone doesn’t say no or verbally agree
to something, it doesn’t mean they are consenting. For example, a person who
has passed out from drinking is not able to give consent, nor is someone that
does not have full capacity of their mental faculties. This also applies for
people with certain disabilities. Just because someone does not say no does not
mean it is okay to do whatever you want to them.
They Consented Last Time, So it's Okay Now:
A lot of people have trouble with sexual consent
because they think, “Well, they were okay with it last time so it's okay now”.
That's a no-no. According to criminal defence lawyers Sydney,
if someone consented to doing something on one occasion doesn't mean that they
are automatically consenting to do it again at a later date. A person can say
yes and then change their mind in an instant. Saying yes once is not permission
to continue pressuring them into sex or even flirting after that point.
Consent to a Different Activity:
Just because your partner consented to having sex with
you doesn’t mean that he or she consented to any other sexual activities. For
example, if you and your partner agree to kiss each other but then decide you
want to try vaginal intercourse, he/she has every right to say no (no matter
how many times you may have already said yes). If they do say yes, they are
giving consent for that activity only.
Removing Condom During the Activity:
Sydney defence lawyers explain that removing condom without the knowledge of
the partner is absolutely not consent. This is called stealthing. Stealthing is
a predatory act, an abuse of trust, and a violation of personal boundaries. This
has been deemed rape by multiple judges, who have decided that it falls under
sexual assault laws. It’s always important to communicate with your partner and
get their verbal consent.
Even if you think you know how to give and receive sexual consent, it’s important to clarify the subject before engaging in sexual activity so that everyone involved feels comfortable and respects each other. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to talk to the best criminal lawyers Sydney. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
.jpg)