Legal Question in Family Law in New York
Teenagers dating older men
Do you think it is against the law for a 16 year-old to date an 34-year old man when the 16 year old knows what she wants and she is not forced by the 34 year old man to be with him
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Teenagers dating older men
Your question asked if it were illegal. Obvously, yes, it is illegal.
Of you ask if it is moral, then we can have a discussion. But illegal? Yes.
Re: Teenagers dating older men
In New York, such a relationship, if it includes sexual contact is criminal and could result in the adult being charged with rape regardless of the consent of the 16 year old. The adult is subject to significant jail time, and if convicted, will likely be required to register as a sexual offender.
If there is no sexual contact, such a relationship, while not necessarily criminal, is inappropriate.