What distinguishes statutory rape from other forms of sexual assault?

Statutory rape is primarily defined by the fact that it involves a minor who cannot legally provide consent due to their age. This distinction is crucial because, in many jurisdictions, the law protects minors from engaging in sexual activities that may exploit their lack of maturity and understanding. The legal age of consent varies by state, but once an individual is below that age, any sexual activity, regardless of the circumstances or the relationship between the parties, is classified as statutory rape.

This differs significantly from other forms of sexual assault, which typically focus on the presence or absence of consent without the specific age consideration. The law recognizes that minors may be unable to fully comprehend the implications of engaging in sexual relations, and therefore, they are afforded this legal protection.

By contrast, the notion of legal consent from both parties, age-based consent definitions, or crimes being against adults only do not apply here, as statutory rape specifically revolves around the victim's age and their inability to provide lawful consent.