I'm 15 going on 16, and I'm dating a 22 year old. We thought that it was legal just to date as long as no sexual contact was involved, but now we're being told otherwise by my family members. We've done internet research but have come to no clear explanation as to whether or not we are in the wrong. Help?
If a 22 year old is dating a minor in Pennsylvania under the age of 16, the 22 year old is at risk for criminal legal trouble, especially if the parents of the minor have an issue with the dating arrangement. Any suspicion of sexual activity, even being seen touching or fondling the 15 year old in a sexual manner with clothing on, could be grounds for filing a report with authorities and could create some legal problems for the 22 year old. To what extent is uncertain. A lot would depend on the situation, the District Attorney, the parents of the minor, etc. If the parents of the 15 year old object to the 22 year old dating the 15 year old, it is completely within their authority to seek legal remedies to prevent it, including but not limited to, restraining orders or protective orders. All jurisdictions procedures are different.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sun, 12/19/2010 - 17:38.
I am 16 and he is 20. We aren't dating yet because we don't know if we are allowed. My parents don't give any type of concent because they are racist against him. Neither of us believe in sex before marriage. Are we allowed to date?
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 03/02/2011 - 05:39.
Yes it is legal. The PA age of consent is 16. Keep in mind that your parents can still take steps to prevent the relationship until you are 18. Though sexual conduct is legal, charges such as corruption of a minor can still be filed if your parents are against it. A protective order against him is also possible.
Submitted by Alison (not verified) on Sat, 05/22/2010 - 11:24.
I am going to be 19 going to be within this month I will be 20? I am wondering if it is okay to have a relationship with a 16 year old teen-boy that is going to be seventeen with this year? Is it Legal that we have relationship. He and I both consented with having this relationship would this be legal?
"Dating" between a 15 year old and 19 year old is completely legal, as long as, the "dating" does NOT include sexual contact and the parents (or legal guardians) of the 15 year old are in agreement with the dating arrangement. In some "legal guardian" situations, such as a state designated foster care home, a foster parent may not have authority to allow this type of dating activity due to legal obligations in safeguarding the welfare of the minor. The risks to the minor under foster care are too great.
I'm 16, and he's 18. Is it legal for us to date and have sexual relations?