Is it illegal for a senior to date a younger boyfriend?

Full question:

I'm a 17yr old senior in high school about to turn 18, my boyfriend is a senior too but he's 16. His parents have no problem with the relationship but my dad is a little worried because he feels I can get in trouble with the law dating him. Is it illegal for us to date? No sexual activities or anything intimate, just going out to eat and having fun.

  • Category: Criminal
  • Subcategory: Statutory Rape
  • Date:
  • State: Florida

Answer:

Your dad is concerned because of Florida's statutory rape laws, which can be confusing and carry severe penalties. If you are 18 and your boyfriend is 16, you could face legal issues if there is sexual intercourse or other prohibited sexual acts. The specific circumstances that could lead to legal consequences are outlined in Florida Statutes. Even if you believe you are within the law, situations involving consent can be complex, and someone could potentially lie about it.

However, if there is no sexual activity, you are not committing a crime. Still, keep in mind that someone could falsely claim otherwise. For more details, you may want to consult a local lawyer for a thorough understanding of the law.

Users can search for state-specific legal templates at .

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 most states, including Florida, it is not illegal for an 18-year-old to date someone younger, such as a 16-year-old, as long as there is no sexual activity involved. However, statutory rape laws can become complex if sexual acts occur, which could lead to legal issues. Always be cautious and aware of the laws regarding age of consent in your state. If you have concerns, consulting a local attorney can provide clarity on your specific situation. *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.*