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I'm 16 and my boyfriend is 18 is it legal?

Former MemberFormer Member Posts: 1 Just got here
in Sex & Relationships
We have researched into it but received no clear answers some sources say it's illegal some say it's legal but with restrictions others say it's completely fine just hoping I can get a clear answer before one of us break any laws.
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Comments

  • toffuna101toffuna101 Posts: 4,070 Community Veteran
    its legal because its only a two year age gap. and plus the age of consent is 16 so him being two years older doesnt really make that much of a difference
  • independent_independent_ Community Connector Posts: 10,126 An Original Mixlorian
    There’s so much misinformation out there regarding this.

    Assuming you are in any part of the UK, it is completely legal. If you’re 16, you have reached the age of consent and the age of your partner is irrelevant (so long as they are also over 16).

    The only time this is different is if one of you is in a position of trust E.G. a teacher, doctor, police officer etc. In that case the age of consent is 18 in all cases because of the imbalance of power that relationship could create.

    So basically, as long as he’s not in any position of authority over you, you’re fine.
    “Sometimes the people around you won’t understand your journey. They don’t need to, it’s not for them.”
  • ellaella Posts: 485 Listening Ear
    Hey there @Ashoska , it sounds like you've come across some conflicting information online, which can be super confusing!

    In the UK, if you're 16 and your boyfriend is 18, you're absolutely good to go. The age of consent is 16, so you both have the legal right to be together. Here's a great resource that explains it clearly:
    https://www.themix.org.uk/crime-and-safety/your-rights/age-of-consent-9106.html

    Like @independent_ mentioned, the only exceptions are if your boyfriend is someone in a position of authority over you, like a teacher, doctor, or police officer. In those cases, the age of consent is 18 to protect you from any potential power imbalances.

    Hope this has helped!
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