According to child molestation laws, what age must the victim be for the 'Romeo and Juliet' provision to apply?

The 'Romeo and Juliet' provision is designed to prevent the prosecution of consensual sexual conduct between individuals who are close in age, particularly when one individual is below the age of consent but not significantly older than the consenting partner. In many jurisdictions, this provision specifically applies when the younger party is between the ages of 14 and 16 years old—often recognizing that relationships within this age range can be consensual and should not be subject to the same severity of prosecution as those involving larger age disparities.

This provision acknowledges the developmental context of teenage relationships, which can be characterized by exploration and mutual consent. Therefore, the specification of ages from 14 to 16 is crucial because it draws a line that balances protecting minors from exploitation while being sensitive to the reality that teenagers often engage in consensual relationships with peers.

Understanding the nuances of these laws is important for accurately assessing legal situations involving minors, as the consequences of the law can have long-lasting effects on the lives of young individuals.