What, if any, legal reprussions can there be for kissing a minor?
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What, if any, legal reprussions can there be for kissing a minor?
I was 31 and my friend was 17. We both are girls and had feelings for each other. I told her I didn’t want to be like that and nothing could happen. I would comfort her by giving hugs and holding her hand a few times. We did cuddle once and I was dumb and kissed her ears. I know statutory rape in az is sex but could I get in any other legal trouble for this?
Asked on December 21, 2012 under Criminal Law, Arizona
Answers:
David West / West & Corvelli
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
In most states, a person is no longer considered a minor at the age of 17 and your kissing of this person would not be a crime, even if it were on the lips. Most states would not view this conduct as any type of sex crime so I wouldn't worry about that unless the person who you did it to is now saying it was some type of unwanted advance. In that case it could in a worst case scenario be some type of battery or assault of a misdemeanor nature but this is highly unlikely. I've never seen a person prosecuted for such a petty act.
Of course, your best bet is to consult an attorney like myself who offers free consultations and see what they think of your situation. An expert criminal defense lawyer will know if you have anything to be worried about and can advise you accordingly.
David West
Attorney at Law
David West / David West & Associates
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
In most states, a person is no longer considered a minor at the age of 17 and your kissing of this person would not be a crime, even if it were on the lips. Most states would not view this conduct as any type of sex crime so I wouldn't worry about that unless the person who you did it to is now saying it was some type of unwanted advance. In that case it could in a worst case scenario be some type of battery or assault of a misdemeanor nature but this is highly unlikely. I've never seen a person prosecuted for such a petty act.
Of course, your best bet is to consult an attorney like myself who offers free consultations and see what they think of your situation. An expert criminal defense lawyer will know if you have anything to be worried about and can advise you accordingly.
David West
Attorney at Law
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