Federal law makes it criminal to engage in a sexual act with another person who is between the age of 12 and 16 if they are at least four years younger than you. Each state takes a different approach as the age of consent has ranged from 10 to 18.

Is there a law against dating a minor?

The age of consent is the age at which a young person can legally agree to sexual activity. Age of consent laws apply to all forms of sexual activity, ranging from kissing and fondling to sexual intercourse. All sexual activity without consent is a criminal offence, regardless of age.

What is wrong with dating a minor?

Yes. Having sex with someone who is under the age of consent is a crime. In California, it is statutory rape. It is considered rape because it cannot be consensual.