When both parties are of the same sex, under current Texas law an age gap of three years or less isnt a legal defense for a charge of indecency with a child. However, a teen who is less than three years older than a minor and is of the opposite sex has the laws protection.

What is the legal age gap in Texas?

Texas Penal Code 22.021 The law states that anyone between the ages of 14 and 17 can legally give consent with someone within three years of their age, so long as the other party is at least 14 and gives his or her consent. This code means that an 18-year-old and 15-year-old would be able to have consensual sex.

Can you date a 16 year old when your 18 in Texas?

Texas statutory rape law is black and white: Its illegal for adults to have consensual sex with minors under the age of 17. So, even if a young man is 18, he cannot legally have sex with a 16-year-old girl under Texas law. Indecency with a child is covered under Section 21.11(a) of the Texas Penal Code.

Can you live alone at 17 in Texas?

At what age can teens legally leave home in Texas? In Texas, parents are legally responsible for their children up until age 18. Also, youth under the age of 16 can legally leave home if they become an emancipated minor, meaning their parents no longer have the legal responsibility to take care of them.

Can I legally move out at 17 in Texas?

At what age can teens legally leave home in Texas? In Texas, parents are legally responsible for their children up until age 18. Also, youth under the age of 16 can legally leave home if they become an emancipated minor, meaning their parents no longer have the legal responsibility to take care of them.