Is physical contact between a minor and adult illegal in California? 9 Answers as of November 17, 2011

A big time felony. Tell him to keep his nasty paws off that sweet little child.

Since the minor is over 14, a touching even with sexual intent is not a violation of law. Illegal sexual touching only applies to a minor 14 or younger. If 16 only a sexual act could constitute a violation if the perpetrator is 29.

PC 288a doesn't require sex between an adult and a minor. It prohibits lewd and lascivious acts for the purpose of sexual gratification.

Depends on the nature of the kiss. Fatherly peck on the cheek is one thing but if it more aggressive/passionate, could be problems.

Physical contact itself is not illegal however touching with intent to satisfy oneself sexually could be charged as sexual assault. Minor's cannot consent to sex, at not under the law. However I would be very surprised to see anyone charged with kissing.

An aggressive prosecutor could turn this case into a child molestation case. If you have engaged in any conduct of this kind with a minor, be very careful about responding to any questions by the authorities. Especially be very cautious about engaging in any telephone conversations with the minor if he calls you. The favorite game that the police play is to set up covert calls from an alleged victim which is scripted and recorded to trap you into admitting and agreeing to having engaged in unlawful conduct with the minor.

Technically this is illegal.

There are a variety of crimes for every sex act. The conduct you describe could fall under Penal Code section 647.6 - Annoying or Molesting a Child. That carries potential lifetime sex offender registration. I'm not saying that the case would necessarily be filed - just what *could* be.

If the District Attorney can prove that his conduct was for the purpose of sexual gratification, he could be prosecuted under the sex crime laws in California. However, a kiss is probably not substantial enough. It really depends on the facts of the case.