South Carolina § 16-3-615 - Spousal sexual battery.
Full text of South Carolina South Carolina Code of Laws § 16-3-615 — Spousal sexual battery., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 16-3-615. Spousal sexual battery.
(A) Sexual battery, as defined in Section 16-3-651(h), when accomplished through use of aggravated force, defined as the use or the threat of use of a weapon or the use or threat of use of physical force or physical violence of a high and aggravated nature, by one spouse against the other spouse if they are living together, constitutes the felony of spousal sexual battery and, upon conviction, a person must be imprisoned not more than ten years.
(B) The offending spouse's conduct must be reported to appropriate law enforcement authorities within thirty days in order for that spouse to be prosecuted for this offense.
(C) The provisions of Section 16-3-659.1 apply to any trial brought under this section.
(D) This section is not applicable to a purported marriage entered into by a male under the age of sixteen or a female under the age of fourteen.
HISTORY: 1991 Act No. 139, SECTION 1; 1994 Act No. 295, SECTIONS 1, 3; 1997 Act No. 95, SECTION 2.
Source: official South Carolina text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Carolina § 16-3-615
What does South Carolina Code of Laws § 16-3-615 cover?
Section 16-3-615 ("Spousal sexual battery.") is part of the South Carolina Code of Laws, the codified statutory law of South Carolina. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite South Carolina § 16-3-615?
A common citation format is "South Carolina Code of Laws § 16-3-615" (South Carolina). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of South Carolina law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the South Carolina official source linked on this page or consult a licensed South Carolina attorney.
How does South Carolina § 16-3-615 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in South Carolina can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in South Carolina.