Statutes governing Tennessees age of consent, associated criminal charges, available defenses, and penalties for conviction. In Tennessee, it is illegal for an adult (someone 18 or older) to have sex with a minor (someone younger than 18), even if the sex is consensual.

Is there a Romeo and Juliet law in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, there is a Romeo and Juliet exemption for consensual sexual acts between a minor who is 13 or older and a defendant who is less than four years older. For instance, a 17-year-old who engages in consensual sex with a 15-year-old cannot be prosecuted for statutory rape. (Tenn. Code § 39-13-506 (2018).)

Is it illegal to date a minor in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, it is illegal for an adult (someone 18 or older) to have sex with a minor (someone younger than 18), even if the sex is consensual. Those who break the law have committed statutory rape.