Which principle is illustrated by statutory rape regarding mistake of law or fact?

Which principle is illustrated by statutory rape regarding mistake of law or fact?

• A. Mistake of fact can always negate liability.
• B. Ignorance of the law can be a defense in this context.
• C. Ignorance of the law and mistake of fact is NEVER a defense.
• D. Mistake of law can be allowed if the partner was older.

Answer: (C)

Statutory rape is typically treated as a strict liability offense, where the focus is on the act of sexual contact with a minor rather than the offender’s mental state. The law aims to protect minors, so liability attaches regardless of whether the person knew the partner was underage or believed the partner was older. Because of that, ignorance of the law and a mistaken belief about the partner’s age do not excuse the conduct. In this context, neither ignorance of the law nor mistake of fact provides a defense, making the statement that these are never defenses the best choice.

Statutory rape is typically treated as a strict liability offense, where the focus is on the act of sexual contact with a minor rather than the offender’s mental state. The law aims to protect minors, so liability attaches regardless of whether the person knew the partner was underage or believed the partner was older. Because of that, ignorance of the law and a mistaken belief about the partner’s age do not excuse the conduct. In this context, neither ignorance of the law nor mistake of fact provides a defense, making the statement that these are never defenses the best choice.