Can an 18 year old legally date a 14 year old in North Carolina?

Full question:

Can an 18 year old date a 14 year old in the state of North Carolina?

  • Category: Minors
  • Date:
  • State: North Carolina

Answer:

In North Carolina, the law regarding relationships between adults and minors is strict. According to NC statute § 14-27.7A, a person is guilty of a Class B1 felony if they engage in sexual activity with someone who is 13, 14, or 15 years old and they are at least six years older than that person. If the older person is more than four but less than six years older, it is a Class C felony. These laws apply unless the individuals are lawfully married.

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.

FAQs

In North Carolina, the legal age gap for sexual activity is significant. If an adult is at least six years older than a minor aged 13, 14, or 15, it constitutes a Class B1 felony. If the adult is more than four but less than six years older, it is a Class C felony. There are no specific laws regulating dating, but these age gaps apply to sexual activity. Always consider the legal implications of relationships involving minors.