Q: as the age of consent in Missouri is 17, can a 21 legally date and have sexual encounters with said 17 year old
could the 21 year old person have any sexual relations with someone of age 17 in Missouri without the possibility of legal repercussions
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A:
In Missouri, the age of consent is indeed 17. This means that individuals who are 17 years of age or older can legally consent to sexual activity. Therefore, a 21-year-old can legally engage in sexual relations with a 17-year-old without facing statutory rape charges, as the younger individual is considered capable of consenting to sexual activity under Missouri law.
However, it's important to keep in mind that there are nuances and specific circumstances that could influence the legality of such a relationship. For instance, if there's a significant authority or power imbalance, such as a teacher-student relationship, this could lead to legal complications. Additionally, the sharing of explicit images (sexting) involving someone under 18 can still be considered child pornography, even if the sexual relationship itself is legal.
Always remember that laws can vary greatly from one jurisdiction to another and can be subject to interpretation by courts. If you have specific concerns or scenarios in mind, it's wise to consult with a legal professional who can provide guidance tailored to the specific circumstances.
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