COLUMBIA — Lawmakers are considering allowing teenagers as young as 16 to get court orders of protection — without parental consent — when they are victims of domestic violence.

Do you know where to go for help if you suspect a teen is in an abusive relationship?(Source: CDC Teen Dating Violence Fact Sheet) Other recent studies show that at least 25% of teenagers report being in violent relationships themselves. (Futures Without Violence Fact Sheet) In many instances, a batterer comes across as a perfect boyfriend or girlfriend.The key to protecting your child against dating violence is through communication.The new laws, named “Romeo and Juliet laws” after Shakespeare’s tragic teenage lovers, attempt to correct overly harsh penalties and prison terms meted out over the years.In 2007, these laws went into effect in Connecticut, Florida, Indiana, and Texas.