Unlawful Sexual Conduct with a Minor
ORC § 2907.04
Elements of Unlawful Sexual Conduct With a Minor
- A person 18 years or older,
- Engaging in sexual conduct with another,
- who is not the spouse of the offender,
- knowing or with reason to know the other person is 13 years of age or older but less than 16 years of age.
Overview and Potential Consequences
Generally, the sexual conduct with an early adolescent is viewed as more serious when an offender is substantially older than the victim because it suggests the offender abused his or her position of authority over the adolescent. If a victim is under 13, sexual conduct is considered rape and carries a life sentence if convicted. Once a person reaches the age of 16 in Ohio, the law treats that person as having reached the age of consent in Ohio, but that does not prevent a person 18 or older from being charged with this offense.
At Funkhouser Law, we know that everyone accused of unlawful sexual conduct with a minor has the presumption of innocence. However, this is a serious charge and, as such, we work hard to accomplish the most favorable outcome for each of our clients.
| Victim’s age | Suspect’s age | Legal | Penalty |
| Under 13 years old | 18+ | No | F-1 |
| 13 years old | 13-17 | Yes* | — |
| 18-22 | No | F-4 | |
| 23+ | No | F-3 | |
| 14 years old | 13-17 | Yes* | — |
| 18-23 | No | F-4 | |
| 24+ | No | F-3 | |
| 15 years old | 13-17 | Yes* | — |
| 18 | No | M-1 | |
| 19-24 | No | F-4 | |
| 25+ | No | f-3 | |
| 16 years old | 13-17 | Yes* | — |
| 18+ | Yes* | — |
* Even if a suspect does not violate an age restriction, they may be in violation of the law if they used coercion or if they are in a position of authority over the victim.
If you have been accused of unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, please call Funkhouser Law for a free consultation with an experienced, peer-rated lawyer.
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