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 Maine, 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 Maine law, an individual may face civil liability if they negligently or intentionally transmit an STD to a partner who was not aware of the risk. This could result in a lawsuit for damages based on claims such as negligence or battery. On the criminal side, Maine has statutes that make it a crime to knowingly transmit an STD. Specifically, Maine's criminal code may categorize the knowing transmission of an STD as a form of assault if the infected person acts with the requisite intent or recklessness. The exact nature of the charges and potential penalties would depend on the circumstances of the case and the specific STD transmitted. It is important for individuals in Maine to be aware of their health status and to communicate openly with sexual partners about any potential risks of STD transmission.