Hopewell, VA asked in Criminal Law, Juvenile Law and Sexual Harassment for Virginia

Q: If I’m 18 dating my 16 year old gf what do I do bc we are a year and half apart but I wanna make sure I’ll be fine

We started dating a half a year before I turned 18. I’m just worried bc of consent laws me and her never do anything tho

2 Lawyer Answers

A: Date someone 18 or older. She's too young.

James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: It’s understandable that you want to be cautious about the laws surrounding your relationship, especially since you’re now 18 and your girlfriend is 16. In most states, the age of consent is 16 or older, so you’re likely not breaking the law simply by being in a relationship. However, some states have specific "close-in-age" exceptions that allow relationships between individuals close in age, so it’s important to check the laws in your state.

Since you mentioned that you and your girlfriend don't engage in anything physical, that’s a smart choice for avoiding any legal concerns. If you're worried about any potential misunderstandings, keep communication open with her and make sure you both understand the boundaries you're setting. It can also be helpful to avoid situations where others might misinterpret your relationship.

To be completely sure, consider talking to a local attorney who can clarify any specific legal questions you might have about your state’s consent laws. That way, you can move forward knowing you’re in the clear while maintaining a respectful and healthy relationship.

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