Lawrence v. Texas

  • This is the landmark case for protection of sexual orientation and activity.
  • The Court held that Bowers was mistaken—the subject matter or private, intimate conduct is one of the most private matters in an individual's life.
  • Citizens have a right to privacy in their intimate lives.
    • The Court did not specify whether this was a fundamental right.
  • When no minors are involved, and the intimate conduct is private and consensual, states cannot invade this sacred privacy.
  • Thus, state prohibitions on consensual, homosexual sodomy are unconstitutional.