Denton DUI Attorney

What is Statutory Rape?

In the burgeoning world of open sexuality, it is important to understand the laws regarding with whom and when you may have sex legally. Sexual assault, corruption of a minor, or statutory rape is when an adult (someone 18 years old or older) has sex with a minor (someone 17 years old or younger). A minor does not have the legal authority to consent to this behavior. The reason that “legal” consent is important is because the law assumes that a minor is not old enough to understand the weight of the action they are involved in, and therefore may be coerced into the sexual act.

However, if two participants are both teenagers, the law is a little shadier. Often referred to as “Romeo and Juliet” Laws, many states have a different system of judgment than if an adult is involved. For example, in Texas there are several things that can be used as a defense for a “Romeo and Juliet” statutory rape case:

• The offender is less than three years older than the victim
• The victim is over 14 years old
• There was no incest or adultery involved

Statutory rape is a very serious crime that should not be taken lightly. If you or a loved one has been involved in a statutory rape or are in need of legal assistance, contact the Denton criminal lawyers of Alexander & Associates by dialing 972-420-6560. They can help discuss options for care and get you the legal representation you need.