Statutory Rape & Age of Consent in
(OCGA § 16-6-3)

Statutory Rape & Age of Consent in Atlanta, Georgia (OCGA § 16-6-3)

Understanding Statutory Rape & Georgia’s Age of Consent Laws

Statutory rape laws exist to protect minors from sexual exploitation and abuse, but they can also result in unintended consequences for individuals who engage in consensual relationships where one party is underage. Unlike cases involving force or coercion, statutory rape is based entirely on the age of the individuals involved, meaning that even a fully consensual relationship can lead to:

  • Felony charges
  • Prison time
  • Mandatory sex offender registration

Under OCGA § 16-6-3, statutory rape occurs when a person engages in sexual intercourse with an individual under the age of consent, regardless of whether both parties agreed to the act.

Georgia law sets the age of consent at 16 years old, meaning that sexual activity with anyone younger than 16 is illegal, even if the younger person willingly participated.

At Khalil Eaddy Trial Attorney, our firm understands that not every statutory rape case involves predatory behavior. Many cases involve:

  • Teenage relationships
  • False accusations
  • Misunderstanding of the law

We aggressively defend those accused of statutory rape, working to:

  • Prove consent where possible
  • Challenge improper investigations
  • Prevent life-altering consequences
1. What is Statutory Rape in Atlanta, Georgia? (OCGA § 16-6-3)

Definition:

  • A person commits statutory rape when they engage in sexual intercourse with a person under 16 years old, even if the underage person consents.

Key Elements of Statutory Rape:

  • The victim was under 16 years old at the time of the act.
  • The defendant engaged in sexual intercourse with the minor.
  • Consent is NOT a defense—even if the minor agreed, the law assumes they are not legally capable of giving consent.

Penalties for Statutory Rape:

  • Defendant is 18 or older: Felony, punishable by 1 to 20 years in prison.
  • Defendant is under 18 & within 4 years of the minor’s age (“Romeo and Juliet Law”):
    • Misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and/or a fine up to $1,000.
  • Second or subsequent offenses:
    • Enhanced penalties, including mandatory minimum prison sentences and lifetime sex offender registration.

Even though Georgia’s Romeo and Juliet Law allows for reduced penalties in certain cases, the accused could still face:

  • Jail time
  • A permanent criminal record
  • Sex offender registration
2. Georgia’s Age of Consent Laws: When is Sexual Activity Legal?

Age of Consent in Georgia:

  • The age of consent in Georgia is 16 years old.
  • Individuals 16 and older can legally engage in consensual sex with other adults.

Situations Where Sexual Activity is Illegal:

  • If one party is under 16 (statutory rape, even if consensual).
  • If one party is in a position of authority (teacher, coach, employer, law enforcement, etc.).
    • This can result in sexual assault charges under OCGA § 16-6-5.1.
  • If coercion, force, or threats were involved – This escalates the charge to rape (OCGA § 16-6-1).

Many individuals misunderstand Georgia’s age of consent laws, resulting in charges that could have been avoided with proper legal knowledge.

3. Romeo & Juliet Law: Does it Protect Young Defendants?

How the Romeo & Juliet Law Works (OCGA § 16-6-3(c))

  • Protects young individuals who engage in consensual sexual activity with someone close to their age.
  • This law does NOT decriminalize statutory rape but reduces penalties for defendants under 18 years old.

Key Provisions of the Romeo & Juliet Law:

  • If the defendant is under 18 and within four years of the minor’s age, the charge is a misdemeanor, not a felony.
  • Misdemeanor statutory rape does not require mandatory sex offender registration.
  • If the defendant is 18 or older, the full felony penalties apply.

Example Scenarios:

  • 17-year-old dating a 15-year-old → Misdemeanor under Romeo & Juliet Law.
  • 18-year-old dating a 15-year-old → Felony statutory rape charge.

Even under the Romeo and Juliet Law, a conviction still results in a criminal record, which can impact:

  • College admissions
  • Job opportunities
  • Housing eligibility

Legal representation is critical to avoiding a conviction.

4. Sex Offender Registration for Statutory Rape Convictions

Many statutory rape convictions require mandatory registration on Georgia’s Sex Offender Registry, which imposes severe lifelong restrictions, including:

Sex Offender Restrictions in Georgia:

  • Residence Restrictions – Cannot live within 1,000 feet of schools, parks, playgrounds, or childcare facilities.
  • Employment Restrictions – Cannot work in jobs that require direct contact with minors.
  • Lifetime Registration – Most statutory rape convictions require sex offender registration for life.

Can Someone Be Removed from the Sex Offender Registry?

Yes, individuals convicted of statutory rape may petition for removal under certain conditions:

  • If the conviction was a misdemeanor under the Romeo & Juliet Law.
  • If the individual has completed their sentence without further offenses.
  • If they can prove they do not pose a threat to public safety.

Navigating the sex offender registry removal process is complex and requires a detailed legal strategy to present strong evidence before the court.

5. Defending Against Statutory Rape Charges in Atlanta, Georgia

Statutory rape accusations can destroy reputations, careers, and personal relationships, even before a conviction. Many cases involve misunderstandings, false accusations, or lack of intent, making a strong defense critical.

Common Defenses Against Statutory Rape Charges:

  • Lack of Evidence: The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that sexual intercourse occurred.
  • Mistaken Age: The accused reasonably believed the minor was 16 or older, especially if they provided false identification.
  • False Accusations: Many statutory rape cases arise from custody battles, revenge, or fabricated claims.
  • No Sexual Contact: The prosecution must provide forensic evidence or credible testimony to prove the allegations.
  • Romeo & Juliet Law Defense: If applicable, the charge may be reduced from a felony to a misdemeanor.

Even if convicted, an experienced defense attorney can fight to:

  • Reduce sentencing
  • Avoid sex offender registration
  • Secure alternative sentencing options

Why Choose Khalil Eaddy Trial Attorney?

A statutory rape conviction can permanently impact your life, leading to:

  • Prison time
  • Loss of rights
  • A criminal record that follows you forever

Our firm is dedicated to providing aggressive, strategic defense for individuals accused of statutory rape.

Our Approach:

  • Thorough Case Investigation – Examining police reports, forensic evidence, and witness statements.
  • Legal Defense Strategies – Challenging false accusations, proving consent where applicable, and ensuring due process.
  • Pre-Trial Motion Practice – Filing motions to dismiss or suppress unlawfully obtained evidence.

Call 770-303-0700 today for a confidential consultation and start building your defense.

Give Us A Call

770-303-0700

Contact us

Khalil@attorneyeaddy.com

Office Location

1827 Powers Ferry Rd. Building 25, Suite 100.

Our firm is committed to fighting for justice, challenging weak evidence, and ensuring that your constitutional rights are upheld at every stage of the legal process.

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