The age of consent is the youngest age at which a person can legally agree to sexual activity. In Missouri, the age of consent is 17.
Violations of Missouri’s age of consent laws can result in serious legal trouble, including felony charges and imprisonment.
Missouri’s Age of Consent: Specifics and Nuances
Missouri law has some intricacies when it comes to who can legally consent to sex.
Statutory Rape Laws
Missouri has laws against statutory rape, which is defined as sexual activity with someone under the age of consent, regardless of whether they appear to consent.
First-degree statutory rape involves a minor younger than 14. If convicted, the penalties are severe, ranging from a minimum of five years in prison to a maximum of life imprisonment.
Second-degree statutory rape involves a minor who is under 17, and the other person is 21 or older. Second-degree statutory rape is a Class D felony in Missouri, punishable by up to seven years in prison.
Age Differences and Consent
If someone is between the ages of 14 and 16, they can only legally consent to sex with someone who is less than four years older than them.
Once someone is 17 or older, they can consent to sex with anyone who is at least 14 years old.
Defenses and considerations in statutory rape cases
There are a few things to keep in mind in statutory rape cases in Missouri.
Mistake of age defense
If someone is charged with second-degree statutory rape, they may be able to argue that they were mistaken about the other person’s age. However, this defense is not allowed in cases of first-degree statutory rape.
Close-in-age exemptions
Some states have what are known as “Romeo and Juliet” laws, which make an exception for relationships between people who are close in age, even if one person is underage. Missouri doesn’t have any laws like this.
Prosecutorial discretion
When deciding whether to press charges in a statutory rape case, prosecutors often consider the situation, the circumstances, and the age differences between the two people involved.
Where to find legal assistance
If you face statutory rape charges, you need to talk to a lawyer immediately. An attorney can help you understand the laws and protect your rights. Firms like Richard H. Sindel, Inc., and The O’Rourke Law Firm LLC, may be able to help.
In Conclusion
In Missouri, the age of consent is 17. Violating this law can lead to serious legal trouble.
It’s crucial to understand the law and what it means. If you’re facing charges related to the age of consent, seek legal help. Understanding your rights and options is the first step toward a fair outcome.