Dating is never the issue, so a 16-year-old and an 18-year-old can date and it is perfectly legal. Whether or not the sexual activity between them is legal or not depends on the state that they are in. In some states, such as South Carolina, the age of consent is 16, so there is no issue. In others, such as California, the age of consent is 18, which would make one of the people in a relationship an adult and not the other one. Some states also take into account the fact that two people may date and have what is a small age gap that happens to cross the line into legality. These are called Romeo and Juliet laws. Check your state to see what laws are applicable.
You’re not logged in. Only PRO firms can answer questions. If you’ve already claimed your profile, login to continue. If you have not claimed your profile, click below to claim your profile.
Is it legal for a 16-year-old and an 18-year-old to be in a relationship?
Is it legal for a 16-year-old and an 18-year-old to be in a relationship, and what if they engage in sexual activity?
1
Answers
Asked in
Sexual Assault
Louisiana
October 20, 2024
X
Attorney At Law is changing how clients connect with lawyers. By providing an innovative platform to lawyers who want to expand their practice’s reach, AAL is bringing law practices into the future.
Some of the content of this website may be considered attorney advertising under the rules of certain jurisdictions. The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute an attorney-client relationship.
