I am 26, and my friend has just turned 17. we grew up together and she has been wanting to date and more, but i wasnt sure if that would be illegal. the reason i ask is her mother all of the sudden has a problem with the idea of us being more than friends. i didnt no if she could do anything legally. my friend doesnt even live with her parents she lives on her own.

In Texas, a person can no longer be a victim of statutory rape upon turning 17 years of age (Texas Penal code 21.11 Indecency with a child); however, the age of majority in Texas is still 18, so legally she is still a minor under her parents authority.

Given her independent living situation and depending on whether she is truly self supported or receiving financial assistance from her parents, she can petition the court for status as an adult. This is not something suitable for all teens, but it can be an appropriate step for some. Something she will need to consider is her relationship with her parents. If the relationship is already strained, taking this type of action could strain it even further, as this can be a very sensitive issue for some parents.

Under Texas law she is at the legal age to petition the court for "Removal of Disabilities of a minor" if she is self supporting and living apart from her parents. This essentially is a process that emancipates her from minor status and she is given legal rights and accountability as an adult.

You will find the statute on this under the Texas Family code Title 2 Child in Relation to the Family - Chapter 31.001-31.007