Dating Age Laws in Oregon
My question involves criminal law for the state of: Oregon
I know that there aren't laws against "dating" specifically, but here is my concern:
I am a (mature) 17 year old and my boyfriend is a few years older than me. We have been together for nearly a year, and it was recently brought to our attention that ANY sort of physical contact may be illegal or questionable. We have both decided and committed (based on religious and moral values) to not engage in sexual intercourse until we are married. We have a pretty innocent physical relationship: we kiss (we do not make out), hold hands, snuggle while watching movies, etc. Could any of this be considered "sexual misconduct?" Is there any risk to short kisses, holding hands, having his arm around me, etc. while I'm under 18? Could just any random person report seeing us do those things and assume we have a sexual relationship? My parents or I would never even consider pressing charges against him for any reason, ever. I want to make sure that he is not at risk here.
Please shed some light where you can!
Thank you.
Re: Dating Age Laws in Oregon
Is there any risk to short kisses, holding hands, having his arm around me, etc. while I'm under 18?
If that's truly all there is, no.
Could just any random person report seeing us do those things and assume we have a sexual relationship?
Sure they could. But that doesn't mean the state will.
Re: Dating Age Laws in Oregon
Quote:
Quoting
cbg
Is there any risk to short kisses, holding hands, having his arm around me, etc. while I'm under 18?
If that's truly all there is, no.
Could just any random person report seeing us do those things and assume we have a sexual relationship?
Sure they could. But that doesn't mean the state will.
Yes, that is all there truly is. So as long as that is the case, there is really nothing to worry about legally?
Another question- if I wanted to get an opinion from a lawyer locally (not that this site isn't full of people who know what they're talking about, but it is stated that this website should not be used as a substitute for legal advice), is it possible to just make a general appointment with one to ask questions pertaining to this situation? I feel like there has to be some resource to the local public aside from a google search, you know?
Re: Dating Age Laws in Oregon
Quote:
Quoting
brackets3
is it possible to just make a general appointment with one to ask questions pertaining to this situation? I feel like there has to be some resource to the local public aside from a google search, you know?
You can talk with any lawyer willing to speak with you. Don't expect it to be free but that is up to the attorney.
as to other sources;
have you tried your states statutes?
http://www.leg.state.or.us/ors/
this would help you find the specific laws you are seeking:
http://www.leg.state.or.us/ors/home.htm