Q: Is it legal for a 16 year old about to be 17 to date a just turned 23 year old as long as no sexual actions are commited
Is it legal for a 16 year old about to be 17 to date a just turned 23 year old as long as no sexual actions are commited?
A: There is no law that restricts the age of people who are dating. The law only restricts sexual relations between adults and minors. However the 16 or 17 year old would be subject to the house rules of their parents so they may not be allowed to date this person for other reasons. Frankly the 23 year old is putting them self at risk because all that has to happen is the minor accuses the 23 year old of some type of sexual activity and there are going to be big problems for the 23 year old even if they are eventually exonerated. The cost of the Attorney's Fees alone will be a significant detriment.
A: I agree with Ms. Reisman. It's legal but a very bad idea. If you do want to continue dating, I suggest that you go on group dates in public with other friends that are trustworthy. Meet at the public place and have the minor transport themselves or have a family member or friend of theirs transport them. The probability of a false accusation on the minor's part is extremely low, but anyone can make the accusation and you could be at risk of having to register as a sex offender, which will make finding a job, home, ect. very difficult. If I were you, I'd just wait another year or find a more age-appropriate person to date.
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