Sexual Assault Terminology
Pennsylvania law classifies sexually based assaults according to the following definitions:
- Sexual Assault - includes nonconsensual but non-forcible sexual intercourse or attempted sexual intercourse. The "NO means NO" law refers to sexual assault.
- Rape - refers to sexual intercourse or attempted sexual intercourse with a person by forcible compulsion, by threat of forcible compulsion, or with a person who is incapable of giving consent.
- Indecent Assault - unwanted sexual contact including kissing, grabbing, or fondling.





