what is the age of consent in california

The age of consent in California is 18 years old. This means that engaging in sexual activity with an individual under the age of 18 is generally considered illegal, regardless of the age difference between the parties involved. California has no "Romeo and Juliet" law that allows for consensual sex between close-in-age minors and adults. However, California has a "Romeo and Juliet" law that provides some leniency in cases involving minors who are close in age. If both individuals engaging in sexual activity are minors and the age difference is three years or less, it may be considered a misdemeanor offense rather than a felony. However, its important to note that this exception does not apply when one of the individuals is 18 years old or older. If an adult engages in sexual intercourse with a minor who is not more than three years younger or three years older than them, they will be charged with a misdemeanor that carries a maximum jail term of one year. If an adult engages in sexual intercourse with a minor who is more than three years older than them, they will be charged with either a misdemeanor or a felony. The felony conviction carries a maximum jail sentence of 16 months, two years, or three years.