Is it legal for a 16 year old to date a 22 year old in Oregon?

Full question:

Is it legal for a 16 year old female to date a 22 year old male with parental permission in the state of Oregon? She is doing good in school, is mature, not pregnant, and the family has know him for 8 years, he is already part of the family and has been for years

Answer:

In Oregon, most sex offenses involve minors under 16. However, there are important laws to consider even with parental consent:

Under ORS 163.415, a person can commit sexual abuse in the third degree if they engage in sexual contact with someone under 18 who cannot consent. This is a Class A misdemeanor.

Additionally, ORS 163.435 states that a person 18 or older can be charged with contributing to the sexual delinquency of a minor if they engage in sexual intercourse or deviate sexual intercourse with someone under 18. This is also a Class A misdemeanor.

Therefore, while parental permission may exist, engaging in a sexual relationship with a 16-year-old could still lead to legal issues for the 22-year-old male.

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

Yes, you can be charged with indecent exposure in your own home in Oregon if someone can see you and you are exposing yourself in a sexual manner. Oregon law prohibits indecent exposure under ORS 163.465, which applies regardless of location. If the exposure is intentional and done in a way that is likely to be seen by others, it could lead to criminal charges.