Full question:
I am 18 and want to date a girl that is 15. I will be 19 2 months before she turns 16. Is that ok or is illegal?
- Category: Minors
- Date:
- State: Missouri
Answer:
In Missouri, the law regarding age and consent is outlined in several statutes. Here are the key points:
1. If a person is under 17 years old, it can be a defense for someone 18 or older to believe that the person was 17 or older (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 566.034). This means that as long as you reasonably believe she is of legal age, it may be a valid defense.
2. Statutory rape laws define a crime if someone 21 or older has sexual intercourse with someone under 17 (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 566.032). Since you are 18, this does not apply to you.
3. Consent is not a defense if the person is under 12 years old. However, since the girl you are interested in is 15, this does not apply.
In summary, your situation may be legal as long as you do not engage in sexual activity that violates these statutes. It’s always best to consult with a legal professional for specific advice.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.