Statutory Rape

Statutory rape charges are crimes based on the premise that until a person reaches a certain age, he or she is legally incapable of consenting to sexual intercourse. Here, you'll get a general overview of statutory rape laws as well as state-specific information about statutory rape laws and punishments. You will also find answers to questions you may have related to statutory rape.

Selected State-Specific Laws on Statutory Rape

Overview of Statutory Rape Penalties and Charges

Statutory Rape Laws and Charges

Someone who has sex with a person under a certain age, even when the two people are close in age, and even when both people are under a certain age, can be charged with a crime in some states, even when the sex is consensual.

Questions & Answers About Statutory Rape

Do Statutory Rape Laws Apply in Same-Sex Situations?

Statutory rape laws and defenses usually apply to both opposite- and same-sex sexual relationships involving a person under the age of consent.
Can I Be Convicted of Statutory Rape If My Partner Looked Like or Claimed to Be an Adult?

Question: Can I be convicted of statutory rape if my partner claimed to be and looked like an adult?
Could an Older Woman Be Charged Statutory Rape?

Statutory rape law applies to both men and women, even where the underage person willingly participates.

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