What is statutory rape?

Statutory rape refers specifically to sexual intercourse where one participant is below the age of consent, which is legally defined in various jurisdictions. In this context, even if the minor appears to consent, the law recognizes that minors cannot give informed consent to such activities due to their age. Therefore, the act involves an adult engaging in sexual activity with a minor, which is illegal and classified as statutory rape, regardless of the circumstances surrounding the encounter.

Understanding this definition is essential as it underscores the protective laws in place to prevent exploitation of minors, aligning with societal norms that view individuals below a certain age as unable to provide full consent due to their developmental stage. This also highlights the distinction between consensual relationships among adults and those that exploit the inherent vulnerabilities of minors.