Q: 17 year old with 15 year old in Ohio
I’m 17 and a senior in high school and my girlfriend is 15 and a sophomore in high school. We have a multitude of the same activities together. I’m aware that under the current laws, since we’re both under 18 we can consent to each other. With that being said there will be a short period after I turn 18 in which she will be 15 before turning 16. Will we suddenly no longer be able to consent to each other or will we be protected under the law?
A: You are correct the age of consent in Ohio is 16 years of age. There is a close in age exception for minors. Once you turn 18, you cannot legally have sexual contact with a minor under the age of consent, 16. Whether or not you will be prosecuted for the relationship depends on numerous things, such as whether her parents like you and want to press charges, whether she ends up pregnant then the state will bring charges. You should not have a sexual relationship with a minor under the age of consent.
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