R v Lawrence [2020]

1. Facts:

• Scenario: D falsely claimed to have had a vasectomy to V. Based on this lie, V consented to sex and later became pregnant.

• Key Issue: Whether a lie about fertility negates consent to sexual activity.

2. Outcome:

• Decision: The court quashed the conviction of rape. It distinguished this case from Assange v Swedish Prosecution Authority, noting that Lawrence involved deception about the risk or consequence of sex rather than the physical performance of sex.

3. Impact and Analysis:

• Deception about Risk: The case clarifies that lies about fertility or other potential consequences of sex do not necessarily negate consent.

• Legal Distinction: It highlights a distinction between deceptions affecting the physical nature of the act and those affecting its potential outcomes, affecting how consent is assessed under the law.