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Andalusite -> RE: Why would Dommes be interested in getting legal advice on their trade? (5/10/2010 8:29:54 AM)
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Even if someone isn't accepting money for S/M or bondage or domination, some activities are illegal in some areas. Here in California, Domestic Violence can be prosecuted even without the cooperation of either person, and you can't technically consent to assault except in very narrowly defined areas such as boxing, martial arts, football, and other sports that have a risk of violence. Here in the Bay Area, police and prosecutors are generally aware enough of BDSM that it's relatively unlikely that someone will be prosecuted unless there is serious injury or death, but there isn't a guarantee. It *is* wise to be aware of the risks, and if someone plays with a large number of people, whether or not they accept money for it, they would probably be wise to consult a lawyer to minimise their legal risks. When I go see a new doctor, I am open with them about my interest in S/M, and let them know that if they see bruising or other physical marks at some point, that they are consensual. I feel that not informing them up-front makes it much more likely that they would jump to the conclusion that I was protecting my partner and was actually the victim of domestic violence, if something wound up leaving a scar, or I had to have a doctor's visit unexpectedly or in an emergency situation (whether or not it was related to my play). I asked my submissive playpartner if she was open with her doctor about it as well, before I started playing with her.
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