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Can my 17-year-old daughters make legal decisions on their own?

Can my 17-year-old daughters make legal decisions on their own?

Full question:

My two teen daughters, 16 and 17, keep trying to tell me that at age 17 they can make legal decisions on their own, that they can have sex legally with someone over 18 without that person getting into trouble. I do not agree. It is my understanding that I am responsible for them until they reach the age of maturity, which is 18 in Missouri. Can you clarify this issue for me?

Category: Minors
Subcategory: Age of Majority
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Missouri

Answer:

In Missouri, a "child" is defined as anyone under eighteen years old, and a "minor" is anyone who has not yet turned eighteen. According to Missouri law, a person commits statutory rape in the second degree if they are twenty-one or older and engage in sexual intercourse with someone under seventeen years old. While the age of consent is seventeen, meaning a person aged 17 can legally consent to sex with someone over eighteen, parents retain authority over their children until they reach eighteen. Therefore, you are still responsible for your daughters until they turn eighteen.

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 what state is sex at 16 legal?

In several states, the age of consent is 16, meaning individuals can legally engage in sexual activities at that age. States like Alabama, Alaska, Connecticut, and New Hampshire allow consensual sex at 16. However, laws vary significantly by state, so it's important to check local regulations for specifics. Always ensure that both parties are of legal age and consent to the relationship to avoid legal issues.

What makes a person unable to consent?

A person may be unable to consent due to several factors, including being underage, having a mental disability, being intoxicated, or being coerced or threatened. Consent must be given freely and voluntarily; any situation that undermines that freedom can render consent invalid. It's crucial to ensure that all parties are fully capable of making informed decisions.

What are 5 instances where a person cannot legally give consent?

1. If the person is under the age of consent in their state. 2. If the person is intoxicated or under the influence of drugs. 3. If the person has a mental disability that impairs their understanding. 4. If the person is coerced or threatened. 5. If the person is unconscious or asleep. In all these cases, consent cannot be legally given.

What are 5 situations in which consent cannot be given?

Consent cannot be given in situations where: 1. The individual is below the legal age of consent. 2. The individual is incapacitated due to drugs or alcohol. 3. The individual is being threatened or coerced. 4. The individual has a mental impairment affecting their judgment. 5. The individual is unconscious or unaware of the situation. Consent must always be informed and voluntary.

What are 3 examples of not giving having consent?

Examples of not having consent include: 1. Engaging in sexual activity with someone who is too young to legally consent. 2. Having sexual relations with someone who is intoxicated and unable to make informed decisions. 3. Forcing or threatening someone to engage in sexual activity against their will. Consent must be clear, mutual, and ongoing.

How does the 16th age of consent work?

In states where the age of consent is 16, individuals aged 16 or older can legally engage in sexual activities with partners who are also of legal age. However, laws may include stipulations regarding age differences between partners. It's essential to understand the specific laws in your state, as engaging in sexual activities with someone below the age of consent can lead to serious legal consequences.