Sexual assault is a devastating form of personal injury. The emotional and psychological effects can follow a survivor for years. While some instances of assault are unmistakable, others may leave victims feeling uncertain or confused about what happened.
Any type of sexual activity without your consent is sexual assault. This includes situations where a victim feels threatened or is unable to resist. Sexual assault can take many forms.
Coming forward after experiencing sexual assault is often incredibly difficult. When you share your story with Melissa Hague, you are choosing a woman warrior who will fight for your rights. We believe you, and we’re ready to stand by you. Contact sexual assault attorney Melissa Hague today for a confidential free consultation.
What is Sexual Consent?
Consent is an agreement between two people to engage in sexual activity. It must be given freely and clearly, without force, pressure, or manipulation. Consent is specific to each act, can be revoked at any time, and should be enthusiastic—not implied.
There is no single legal definition of consent in the United States. Each state has its own laws that determine how consent is defined and evaluated. However, many states consider three core elements:
- Affirmative consent: A clear, verbal or physical indication of agreement to engage in sexual activity.
- Freely given consent: Consent provided without the influence of coercion, fraud, manipulation, or threat.
- Capacity to consent: The legal and mental ability of a person to make an informed decision to participate.
Several factors may affect an individual’s capacity to consent:
- Age: Laws vary by state regarding age of consent and age differences.
- Disability: Cognitive or developmental disabilities—such as a traumatic brain injury—can impair a person’s ability to understand or agree to sexual activity.
- Intoxication: Being under the influence of drugs or alcohol can impair decision-making. Some states distinguish between voluntary and involuntary intoxication.
- Authority relationships: Consent may not be freely given if the alleged perpetrator is in a position of power, such as a teacher, doctor, or employer.
- Unconsciousness or incapacitation: A person who is asleep, sedated, or otherwise unable to respond cannot provide consent.
- Vulnerable adults: Individuals who rely on others for care—such as the elderly or seriously ill—may be considered unable to provide valid consent.
Consent is never implied and must be active. Silence or lack of resistance does not equal consent. Saying “yes” to one act does not mean agreement to others. Consent can be withdrawn at any time—even during sexual activity. If someone continues after consent is revoked, it becomes assault.
What Is Sexual Assault?
Sexual assault refers to any non-consensual sexual activity. It can range from unwanted touching to forced sexual acts, and may also include exposure to sexual content or nudity without consent.
Forms of Sexual Assault
When sexual assault becomes physical, it often involves unwanted sexual contact. Common examples include:
- Rape
- Attempted rape
- Sodomy
- Oral sex
- Insertion of fingers or objects
- Groping or fondling
Any unwanted sexual contact is considered assault.
Touching of the genitals, buttocks, or breasts—intimate parts of the body—without permission is also considered assault. Consent must be given for someone to touch these areas.
A sexual assault lawyer can help determine whether specific actions meet the legal definition of assault. Sexual assault is illegal and can cause profound harm to survivors.
Survivors may face post-traumatic stress disorder and other lasting effects that impact their well-being and livelihood. While abusers may try to downplay their actions, sexual assault is never harmless. Victims have rights and legal options.
An assault can steal a person’s sense of safety—but it does not have to take away their voice. Speaking up is one of the most powerful steps a survivor can take.
We believe in your strength. Melissa Hague is a woman warrior prepared to fight for you. Contact her today for a free, confidential consultation.
Sexual Coercion and Threats
Survivors may experience sexual assault under conditions involving threats, manipulation, or coercion. These cases can be especially difficult to process, and victims may question whether what they experienced qualifies as assault.
If you engaged in sexual activity because of threats, pressure, or manipulation, you are a survivor of sexual assault.
Coercion or threats from a person in a position of power—such as a teacher, landlord, coach, or employer—are forms of sexual assault. If someone pressures you into sex to avoid serious consequences like losing your job, home, or education, it is not consensual.
Sex that happens under fear or coercion is not freely given. It is sexual assault. A lawyer can help you reclaim your voice.
Sexual Assault by a Partner or Spouse
Many survivors don’t report assault because the perpetrator is a spouse or intimate partner.
Any time you do not consent, it is assault—regardless of your relationship status. Being married or having consented in the past does not mean you are obligated to engage in sexual activity now.
Survivors may also face coercion within relationships. Threats of divorce, financial withholding, or emotional manipulation used to force sex are all forms of sexual assault.
A Woman Warrior Who Fights for You
No one should be subjected to unwanted sexual behavior. Survivors deserve support—even when coercion, not physical force, was involved.
Sexual assault can be physical, emotional, or psychological. Laws exist to protect victims in all of these situations.
Melissa Hague is passionate about fighting for survivors of all types of sexual abuse. If you believe you’ve experienced sexual assault, you are not alone.
As an experienced sexual assault attorney, Melissa provides compassionate, trauma-informed representation. She and her team will listen to you, believe you, and pursue justice on your behalf.
Assault takes away your voice—unless you choose to reclaim it. Contact Melissa Hague today to schedule your free, confidential consultation.