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Iowa legal term

Sexual abuse in Iowa Criminal Law

Current through 2026 Iowa legislative session

In Iowa criminal law, “Sexual abuse” is a term defined by statute rather than by its everyday meaning. Its statutory definition — quoted verbatim below — controls how the term is applied throughout the Iowa criminal code.

What does “Sexual abuse” mean in Iowa criminal law?

“Sexual abuse” means any commission of a crime defined in chapter 709 or section 726.2 or 728.12. “Sexual abuse” also means any commission of a crime in another jurisdiction under a statute that is substantially similar to any crime defined in chapter 709 or section 726.2 or 728.12. 6. “Support services” include but are not limited to legal services, counseling services, transportation services, child care services, and advocacy services. (Iowa Code § 236A.2)

Statutes defining or using this term

Charges using this term

Related terms in the same statutes

This reference is informational and is not legal advice.