There are several acts that can constitute a “sex offense.” They range from misdemeanors to felonies and in some cases may qualify an offender for a sex offender/predator designations and/or civil commitment under what was formerly known as the Jimmy Ryce Act. This law can subject you to civil commitment even if the crime you are found guilty of is not a sex offense if you have any sex offense convictions in your history. The most disturbing issue can arise when teenagers are engaging in sex acts. However a new law passed in 2008 commonly called “Romeo and Juliet Law” decriminalizes this behavior so long as certain criteria are met, including age and the absence of any prior convictions of sex acts. Even if one of the participates claims to be over 18 years of age despite any “proof” they may have is not a defense to engaging in sexual acts with underage persons.