If you’re 20 years old and interested in dating a 16-year-old coworker, it’s important to be very clear about workplace rules and state law. Age differences in relationships can raise complicated questions about consent, boundaries, and even criminal penalties.
The Age of Consent in Arizona
In Arizona, a person must be at least 18 years old to legally consent to sexual activity. This means that even if someone who is younger says yes, the law considers them unable to give true consent. As an adult, having sexual contact with anyone under 18 can lead to very serious criminal charges, including sexual conduct with a minor under Arizona law (ARS §13-1405).
The law applies even if there’s no coercion or harm involved; the age difference alone can make it a criminal offense.
A 20-Year-Old Cannot Engage in Sexual Conduct With a 16-Year-Old in Arizona – Romeo and Juliet Laws Do Not Apply
Arizona has a specific close-in-age rule, often called the Romeo and Juliet law, that protects some teens from being prosecuted for statutorily illegal sex with other teens close to their own age. However, this exemption only applies if the age difference between the two people is two years or less, for example, if one person is 16 and the other is 18.
This law does not protect a 20-year-old who wants to have a sexual relationship with a 16-year-old coworker. In this situation, the four-year age gap is greater than Arizona’s allowed range, so the 20-year-old could face prosecution and serious charges.
Additionally, these rules do not apply at all if either person is under 15; in those cases, any sexual activity is considered child sexual abuse, with even harsher penalties.
Penalties for Statutory Rape in Arizona
Penalties for having sexual conduct with a minor in Arizona are very severe and escalate depending on the age difference, the defendant’s role in the child’s life, and any history of previous convictions.
Class 6 Felony for Minors Age 15 or Older
If the minor involved is 15, 16, or 17, and the adult does not have a special position of authority, the charge is classified as a class 6 felony. This carries a potential prison sentence ranging from 6 months up to 2 years, even for a first offense. The exact amount of time served depends on the details and the court’s judgment.
Class 2 Felony for Persons of Trust
If the defendant is someone in a position of authority or special responsibility, such as a parent, legal guardian, teacher, coach, or clergy, the offense is charged as a class 2 felony. Potential penalties include 4 to 12.5 years in prison.
Repeat Offenders and Increased Penalties
Arizona law is especially tough on those convicted of similar sexual offenses in the past. Repeat offenders can expect much longer sentences for any unlawful sexual activity involving a minor, and the penalties become harsher with each prior conviction or aggravating factor. In the most serious cases, or with certain patterns of criminal history, this can even mean a life sentence in prison.
Sex Offender Registration
Any adult found guilty of sexual conduct with a minor in Arizona is required to register as a sex offender. If this is your first conviction, you must remain on the registry for at least 10 years. However, if you’ve been convicted of similar offenses before, registration will be required for life with no option to be removed.
Failing to register as ordered is a serious crime by itself and is treated as a class 4 felony. Penalties for not registering range from 1 year all the way up to 15 years in prison, depending on whether you have a record of prior felonies.
Contact the Sex Crime Defense Lawyers at Orent Law Offices, PLC In Phoenix To Get Legal Assistance Today
For more information, contact the sex crimes defense attorney Craig Orent. Give us a call at (480) 656-7301 or visit our law office at 11811 N Tatum Blvd UNIT 3031, Phoenix, AZ 85028. We offer a free case evaluation, so get the help you deserve today.
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