Legal Question in Family Law in New York

Re: law guardian responsibilities

In most societies 18 (& 16) year old males are considered "men." And, men are not subject to the authority of their parent's (or the Courts) with respect to their "consensual" sexual conduct. Thus, the most you can do (or any parent or guardian of 16 & 18 year olds, can do) is to persuade, influence, engage and continue to "teach" them, the best way you can. While keeping in mind that any attempt to "impose" your will on them, is likely to result to angry rebuff.

Therefore, You might strongly discourage your two youngest children from socializing with their two older brothers altogether. In order to avoid exposure to their brother's conduct and influence, that you believe is unaccepatable.

You might attempt to re-establish a "talking" relationship with your older sons, in order to request that they respect and consider their younger sibling's sensibilities; and the impact their inappropriate sexual conduct may have on your younger children.

You might also (very carefully) remind your older sons that sex with an "under age" person (under 17) is still considered rape and can be prosecuted in criminal court. Thus, your son's sexual picadillo's could cost them their future. Remind them of other practical negative consequences of their conduct, ie., "public" perception of the type of people they are, despite their achievements, (the way the "no talking slob, does not get the job, even if the slob is head of his class); but avoid lecuturing about their "immorality" and such other stuff, which is essentially subjective, and based upon religious ideas and values that your sons may not have accepted.

Good luck,

Phroska L. McAlister,ESQ