Legal Question in Criminal Law in Texas

I have a good friend who is 19 years of age and is dating a girl that is 16 years of age. In their relationship they have abstained from everything but kissing. About two months ago,a guy about 18 or 19 years in age forced sex on her. They went all the way. I was wondering about possible legal actions I can take against the male that forced sex upon her.


Asked on 7/25/11, 11:06 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Cynthia Henley Cynthia Henley, Lawyer

You cannot take legal action (except as an adult who is aware of a crime against a juvenile by reporting it.) However, she can file charges against him for sexual assault. If she did not consent to having sex with him, then his age does not matter. If she consented, then if he is not more than 3 years older than her (even by 1 day), then he will not be prosecuted.

You should help your friend by supporting her and helping her get counseling if she wants / needs it (and she probably does need it) and by reassuring her that you will be there for her through a prosecution should she choose to report the crime (and she should. She does not have to tolerate the kind of stuff. That kid who did that to her is dangerous.)

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Answered on 7/25/11, 11:25 pm


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