Offence to perform female genital mutilation
Table of Contents
Charged with offence to perform female genital mutilation?
Offence to perform female genital mutilation is a very serious offence. If you’re found guilty, you could face up to 15 years of imprisonment. It’s very important that you seek expert legal advice urgently. Contact us to speak with a criminal lawyer now.
The Offence
Section 32 of the Crimes Act 1958
The prosecution must prove:
The defendant performed female genital mutilation on a child; or
The defendant performed female genital on a person other than a child.
The Penalty
Level 4 imprisonment (15 years maximum).
What is "female genital mutilation"?
“female genital mutilation” means all or any of the following—
(a) infibulation;
(b) the excision or mutilation of the whole or a part of the clitoris;
(c) the excision or mutilation of the whole or a part of the labia minora or labia majora;
(d) any procedure to narrow or close the vaginal opening;
(e) the sealing or suturing together of the labia minora or labia majora;
(f) the removal of the clitoral hood;
Source: The Crimes Act
Where will my case be heard?
The Offence to Perform Female Genital Mutilation can only be heard in the County Court or Supreme Court of Victoria.
CRIMES ACT 1958 - SECT 32
Section 32 Offence to perform female genital mutilation:
(1) A person must not perform female genital mutilation on a child.
Penalty: Level 4 imprisonment (15 years maximum).
(2) A person must not perform on a person other than a child any type of female genital mutilation referred to in paragraphs (a) to (e) of the definition of female genital mutilation.
Penalty: Level 4 imprisonment (15 years maximum).
