Marital Rape Laws

Marital rape laws recognize that sexual activity without consent within marriage is a criminal offense. Historically, many legal systems exempted spouses from charges, assuming marriage implied consent. Modern laws in many countries now explicitly prohibit forcing a partner into sex, emphasizing that consent is essential regardless of marital status. These laws aim to protect individuals from violence and coercion in marriage, affirming that no one is above the law, and that consent must be ongoing, mutual, and enthusiastic at all times.