Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Age of consent laws

I am an adult, and there is a girl that I like and likes me back, but she is five years younger than me, and she is still a minor. How far exactly can this relationship go without breaking any laws?

There is a common belief that I cannot ''date'' her, but what I have researched only states that I cannot do anything that is sexual with her. I have not seen any law that prevents me from any non-sexual activity with her, but I really want this cleared up. Thank you for your time.


Asked on 5/12/07, 1:38 am

3 Answers from Attorneys
Edward Hoffman Law Offices of Edward A. Hoffman

Re: Age of consent laws

Legally, you can date her as long as you don't have sexual contact. Whether this is a wise thing to do -- even assuming you can control yourself -- is a question we cannot answer for you.

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Answered on 5/12/07, 6:12 pm
Eric Sterkenburg Law Office of Eric Sterkenburg

Re: Age of consent laws

You can legaly have non-sexual contact with the girl. However, if it goes to sexual contact (and this is not just intercorse) then you are breaking the law. if she is under 14 ore under 16 there are incresed penilities you should be aware of.

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Answered on 5/15/07, 12:51 pm
Michael Stone Law Offices of Michael B. Stone Toll Free 1-855-USE-MIKE

Re: Age of consent laws

Moths can, in theory, fly near open flames without getting burnt, but their natural tendency is otherwise.

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Answered on 5/12/07, 2:20 am


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