Child molestation (sexual assault or abuse) is generally defined as physical contact or other interaction between a child (under age 17, for example) and an adult when the child is being used for the sexual stimulation or pleasure of the perpetrator or another person. In addition to physical contact, child molestation may include (1) the exposure of the genitals of an adult in the presence of a child, (2) the exposure of the genitals of a child, (3) using a child in making pornography, or (4) making a child view sexual acts or pornography.

Child molestation laws vary from state to state, and criminal charges for child molestation and related crimes are sometimes called (1) sexual assault of a child, (2) aggravated sexual assault of a child, (3) sexual abuse of a child, (4) indecency with a child, (5) sexual performance by a child, (6) sexual trafficking of a child, or (7) prostitution of a child.

In some states multiple instances of sexual contact between an adult and a child may constitute the enhanced criminal offense of continual sexual abuse of a child—which is sometimes a first-degree felony offense.

Child molestation laws are usually included in a state’s penal or criminal code (statutes)—which provide for the related criminal charges—and in a state’s family code (statutes) that address the civil (non-criminal) implications of child molestation—often in the context of divorce and child custody matters.

Except in limited circumstances, federal laws generally do not apply to child sexual abuse matters that take place within a single state—without transportation of the child or other materials (photographs, videos, etc.) across state lines. Such criminal matters that take place within a single state are generally handled by state or local authorities and prosecuted under state laws. But if the sexual abuse or molestation of a child involves conduct or materials in multiple states, or occurs on federal lands (military bases, American Indian territories) the offense may be prosecuted under federal law.

In Alabama, child molestation, which encompasses a range of behaviors including physical contact for sexual stimulation, exposure of genitals, involvement in pornography, and forcing a child to view sexual acts or pornography, is addressed under various statutes. Alabama law defines a child as anyone under the age of 17. Criminal charges related to child molestation can fall under different designations such as sexual abuse of a child, sexual assault of a child, or enticing a child for immoral purposes, among others. The severity of the charges can range from misdemeanors to felonies, with penalties varying based on the nature of the offense, the age of the child, and the perpetrator's criminal history. Continuous sexual abuse of a child is treated as a particularly serious offense and can result in first-degree felony charges. While Alabama's criminal code outlines the criminal aspects of child molestation, the state's family code may address the civil implications, particularly in family law matters such as divorce and child custody. Federal law typically does not intervene in child molestation cases that are contained within Alabama unless the offense involves interstate activity or occurs on federal property, in which case federal charges could be applicable.