Statutory Rape Law

Statutory rape law pertains to sexual activities where one participant is below the legal age of consent, rendering the act illegal regardless of whether there was consent. This age varies by jurisdiction but generally ranges from 16 to 18 years old. The law is designed to protect minors from exploitation and abuse by adults, acknowledging that minors may lack the capacity to give informed consent. Violations of statutory rape laws can result in severe legal consequences for the older individual, regardless of the circumstances surrounding the encounter.