The transmission of a sexually transmitted disease (STD) from a person who knows or should know they have the disease to another person who is not informed of that fact before engaging in sexual contact with the infected person may result in both civil liability (for money damages) and criminal liability (for penalties).

Laws vary from state to state and some states have both civil and criminal statutes (laws enacted by the state legislature) that specifically address the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases. In other states civil lawsuits may be filed and criminal prosecutions may be made under traditional legal theories such as negligence in a civil lawsuit and battery (harmful or offensive physical contact without consent) in a criminal prosecution.

In Arizona, the transmission of a sexually transmitted disease (STD) by an individual who knows or should have known about their infection to an uninformed partner can lead to both civil and criminal consequences. Under Arizona law, an individual may face civil liability if they negligently or intentionally transmit an STD to a partner without disclosing their infection, potentially resulting in a lawsuit for damages. In terms of criminal liability, Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-1412 makes it a crime to knowingly engage in behavior that could transmit an STD to another person without informing them of the infection. This can include sexual contact, and if convicted, the individual may face criminal penalties. It is important for individuals to be aware of their health status and to communicate with sexual partners about any known STDs to avoid legal repercussions and to promote public health.