Age of Consent Laws: Sexual Contact Between Minors (16 and 14)

In most U.S. states, the age of consent is 16–18. Sexual contact between a 16-year-old and a 14-year-old is generally illegal because the younger party cannot legally consent.

• Statutory rape: Strict liability crime; no force required. Age difference often triggers enhanced penalties.
• Romeo & Juliet laws: Some states provide close-in-age exemptions (e.g., ≤3–4 years), but 16 and 14 may still exceed the gap.
• "Sexual contact": Includes fondling, digital penetration (fingering), oral, anal, vaginal sex.

Laws vary by state/country. Ignorance of age is not a defense. Consult a criminal defense attorney immediately if involved. This is not legal advice.