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Simple English definitions for legal terms
carnal knowledge
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A quick definition of carnal knowledge:
Definition: Carnal knowledge is when two people have sex, which means they do something that involves putting a part of their body inside the other person's body. This is important because it can be against the law if one person is too young or if the other person uses force. Some states use the term "carnal knowledge" in their laws to describe this kind of sex.
A more thorough explanation:
Carnal knowledge refers to sexual intercourse between two people that involves some degree of penetration. This term is often used in the context of sex crimes, such as rape or statutory rape, where it is a necessary element of the offense.
- In Virginia, if a person has carnal knowledge of a child between the ages of 13 and 15 without using force, they can be charged with a Class 4 felony.
- In Georgia, a person can be charged with rape if they forcibly have carnal knowledge of a woman against her will.
These examples illustrate how carnal knowledge is a legal term used to describe specific sexual acts that are considered criminal in nature. In both cases, the term is used to describe sexual intercourse that involves penetration, which is a key element of the offense.