Understanding Dating Laws for 16-Year-Olds in Canada
Explore the dating laws for 16-year-olds in Canada, including the age of consent and exceptions.
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In Canada, the age of consent is 16. However, those who are 16 or 17 cannot consent to sexual activity with someone in a position of trust or authority, such as a teacher or coach. There is also a close-in-age exception: a 16-year-old can legally date someone who is up to 5 years older.
FAQs & Answers
- What is the age of consent in Canada? The age of consent in Canada is 16 years old.
- Can a 16-year-old date a 21-year-old in Canada? Yes, a 16-year-old can date a person who is up to 21 years old under close-in-age exceptions.
- Are there exceptions for dating in positions of trust? Yes, individuals aged 16 or 17 cannot consent to sexual activity with someone in a position of trust or authority.
- What are close-in-age exceptions? Close-in-age exceptions allow minors to engage in consensual sexual activity with partners who are a few years older, generally up to 5 years older.