Q: can a minor press charges without their parents knowing ?
Hello my name is Amel and I am 17 years old. I’ve been a victim of revenge porn however I really do not want my parents knowing about this. Is it possible to press charges without my parents getting involved or knowing about it? Or if If it’s not possible because I am a minor, then can I press charges without my parents knowing once I turn 18 in September 2020? I don’t want to let this go and want the person to get the punishment they deserve. I hope I can, I need answers ASAP please, thank you!
A: Criminal charges are a matter of public record in the United States. There are a few protections in child abuse cases, but I'm not certain if they would apply to this situation. Texas has a revenge porn law, but there is a decent chance that it will be overturned as unconstitutional... especially the version that was in effect until 9/1/19. You can read the current version of the revenge porn law here: https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/docs/pe/htm/pe.21.htm#21.16
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