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1st Amendment and Free Speech/Dating a Minor
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Question
Hi, I am sort of having a problem right now. I am 19 and I am currently going out with a girl who is 16. Many of my friends have been telling me that it is illegal for an adult to date a minor. Is this true? Is it illegal for an adult to date a minor? I don't want to break any laws and i live in California just in case it matters.
If you can please let me know. Thanks.
Dating a minor is not illegal. Having sex with a minor can be. It depends on both of your exact ages. If ther differnce is 3 years or less, it is not a crime. If the age difference is 3 years and one day or more, it is a crime. Here is the law if you care to read it:
http://www.ageofconsent.com/california.htm
Anything bad you do such as encouraging illegal activity such as drugs, drinking, improper touching, etc. might be considered contributing to the delinquency of a minor. As long as you are a gentleman, you there should not be any legal problems.
I hope this helps!
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Answers by Expert:
Michael Troy
Expertise
I will answer general questions regarding freedom of speech, petition, or religion. I specialize in cases involving public employment or education, as well as issues related to campaign finance. But I can`t give specific legal advice involving specific cases you might have.
Experience
As an attorney for the Center for Individual Rights, I worked on a number of free speech cases, including Rosenberger v. Univ. of Virginia, in which the Supreme Court upheld my clients' right to run a student newspaper without discrimination because of its religious conent. I also worked on White v. Julian, which protected the right of people to protest against a homeless shelter in their neighborhood.
I also worked for the Federal Election Commission on several cases regarding the right to participate in the election process.
Organizations
Former Attorney for Center for Individual Rights.
Publications
Washington Post
Washington Times
Education/Credentials
J.D. from Univ. of Michigan Law School
Awards and Honors
Truman Scholar
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