Asked 8/9/2016 – Houston, TX

I’m 16 and pregnant by a 21 year old; I’ll be 17 by the time I give birth. What should I do? Put his information on the birth certificate or not? When someone gives birth at 17 what does the hospital do?
If I do put his information then what does the hospital do?
if I get parental consent right now to get married being 7 months pregnant what are the benefits and disadvantages? Please I need to know all the answers to every question. I don’t want him getting in trouble; my parents are okay with our relationship. Are they the only ones who press charges or can the government can press them?strong>

Answer

Sex between a 16 year old and a 21 year old is illegal. See Texas Penal Code Section 22.011 – Sexual Assault and 21.11 – Independence with a Child. The fact you will turn 17 before the baby is born is irrelevant; the offense has already been committed. You may get married, but that will not bar the State from prosecution. Get married because you want to be married. The State is the only party that can proceed with any prosecution, but that will be done only if any criminal activity is brought to the attention of law enforcement. Whether the hospital will notify the police if you list the 21 year old as the father on the birth certificate of your baby is unknown.