In the United States, many states have adopted close-in-age exemptions. These laws, known as Romeo and Juliet laws provide that a person can legally have consensual sex with a minor provided that he or she is not more than a given number of years older, generally four years or less.

Do Romeo and Juliet laws exist?

California does not have a Romeo and Juliet law. This means that it is illegal for anyone to engage in sexual intercourse with a minor – even for a minor to have sex with another minor. Texas, for example, has a Romeo and Juliet law.

Where do Romeo and Juliet laws exist?

Although there is no Romeo and Juliet law in California, other defenses may be available to a person accused of statutory rape. To discuss your case and defense options, contact a reputable criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.

Why does Romeo and Juliet law exist?

Romeo and Juliet laws prevent behavior between people who are close in age from being considered statutory rape when one of the two members of the couple is under the age of consent.