Colorado’s close-in-age exemption to statutory rape legal guidelines addresses sexual relationships between minors the place the age distinction is comparatively small. As an illustration, the regulation acknowledges that consensual sexual exercise between a 15-year-old and a 17-year-old differs considerably from a relationship between a 15-year-old and an grownup. This authorized framework makes an attempt to stability the safety of minors with the popularity of age-appropriate relationships.
Any such laws goals to forestall the criminalization of younger individuals engaged in consensual relationships with a small age hole. It acknowledges the developmental phases of adolescence and makes an attempt to keep away from imposing harsh penalties that would have long-lasting unfavourable penalties on younger lives. Traditionally, such legal guidelines have emerged from a societal recognition of the nuances of adolescent relationships and the necessity for a extra proportionate authorized response.