Incest is marriage or sexual relations between close relatives. The criminal offense of incest may also be known as prohibited sexual conduct. Laws vary from state to state, but incest laws generally prohibit marriage or sexual relations between (1) a person’s ancestor or descendant by blood or adoption; (2) a person’s current or former stepchild or stepparent; (3) a person’s parent’s brother or sister of the whole or half blood; (4) a person’s brother or sister of the whole or half blood or by adoption; (5) the children of a person’s brother or sister of the whole or half blood, or by adoption; or (6) the son or daughter of a person’s aunt or uncle of the whole or half blood or by adoption.

Lack of consent to sexual relations between such relatives is not an element of the crime, and persons may be guilty of the crime even if both parties consented.

Laws regarding incest or prohibited sexual contact vary from state to state and are generally located in a state’s statutes—often in the penal or criminal code. The crime is a felony offense in many states, with potential punishment of significant jail or prison time.

In Vermont, incest is defined as sexual intercourse between relatives who are not legally allowed to marry. The law specifically prohibits sexual relations between parent and child, siblings, whether by the whole or half blood, including those by adoption, and between other close blood relatives such as uncle and niece or aunt and nephew. Vermont law considers incest a crime regardless of the consent of the parties involved. The crime of incest is classified as a felony in Vermont, and those convicted can face severe penalties, including imprisonment. It is important for individuals to be aware of these regulations to avoid legal repercussions. If someone is facing charges related to incest, it is crucial to consult with an attorney who is knowledgeable about Vermont's specific laws and can provide legal guidance.