Legal Question in Sexual Harassment in Pennsylvania

Sexual Relations with a Minor

The situation is this:

The state is Pennsylvania. A 20 year old female is having sexual intercourse with a 16 year old male. They were dating before the male turned 16, and did have sexual ''relations,'' but did not have sexual intercourse until the male turned 16. They started having sexual ''relations'' when the male was 15 and the female was 18.

My quesiton is, what legal trouble can the female get into if the male's parents knew that they were having sexual ''relations'' and were ok with it? (Now the mother wants to press charges, 2 years later)

Another question I have is, is there a certain amount of time that can go by, where the mother can no longer press charges? For example when the male turns 18?


Asked on 2/07/07, 11:08 am

2 Answers from Attorneys

Roger Traversa Arjont Group (Law Office of Roger Traversa)

Re: Sexual Relations with a Minor

You asked about the repercussions of sexual relations between parties that are aged 16 and 20. You also asked about what a mother can do to "press charges" on acts that occurred when the child was below the age of 16.

This former topic has been discussed at length numerous times, by myself and other attorneys. Please look at those responses.

As to the second question the parent can make an accusation at any point in time. The question is when is such an accusation actionable by the authorities. In order to prosecute the crime would need testimony of a person who has actual knowledge that the crime occurred. Since I doubt that the deed took place while others were watching I do not believe that the mother will be able to "press charges."

Regards,

Roger

Read more
Answered on 2/07/07, 2:02 pm
Charles A. Pascal, Jr. Law Office of Charles A. Pascal, Jr.

Re: Sexual Relations with a Minor

Charges are not "pressed" by mothers, they are "pressed" by the state. A person with actual knowledge of the specific acts involved would have to testify.

A 20 year old having sex with a 16 year old could be charged with corruption of minors, a misdemeanor, not statutory sexual assault, a felony.

If the person is under 16, the person having sex with them has to be 4 years or less older in order to not be charged with statutory sexual assault.

There are many sex crimes, each involves a different "act." So, any further answer would depend on the details.

Read more
Answered on 2/07/07, 6:31 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Sexual Harassment Law questions and answers in Pennsylvania