Statutory Rape Laws in Minnesota

[NDSU17]

My question involves criminal law for the state of: Minnesota

I am 18, my boyfriend is 16. I recently found out that I am pregnant by him. What legal trouble am I facing? Is it true that I cannot get in any legal trouble unless his parents decide to press charges?

[cbg]

The age of consent in Minnesota is 16, so unless you began when he was 15, you appear to have dodged a bullet. But it is the height of irresponsibility to have failed to look into this matter BEFORE you spread your legs.

[NDSU17]

Can his parents press charges against me?

[free9man]

As long as no sexual activity occurred prior to his 16th birthday, you should be okay. They can report it to the police and what they do with it, we cannot say.

They can, however, tell you to stay away from their child and forbid any contact. If they do, you would be wise to heed it.

[NDSU17]

In this situation, would it be in my best interest to terminate the pregnancy?

[Disagreeable]

In this situation, would it be in my best interest to terminate the pregnancy?

Would you murder the victim, to avoid being arrested, if you accidentally hit a pedestrian on the way home from work?

WWJD

If you are so bent on self interest, move far away, have the baby and adopt it out.

[PandorasBox]

Honey, that's a decision we cannot nor will not make for you.

You have options, and they are all going to impact your life, and his. Since it took two to tango, he and his family (since he is only 16), as well as you and your family (18, I assume you are starting your senior year of high school) should all be sitting down and having a long and serious talk.

Listen, not to sound mean - but if you are mature enough to have sex, you are mature enough to have these discussions with the people they impact.

You have choices:
- Abortion.
- Raising the child (and legal issues like seeking child support from....a 16-year old).
- Giving birth and giving the child up for adoption.

You have to consider the best interests of all involved...including the child. Can you and he afford a child? Give him/her a happy, loving and stable home? Or the emotional issues with abortion, adoption, parenthood at a young age? Or giving the child up for adoption?

With both of you being so young....I think it is best to involve yours and his parents in the decision, as well.