I want to move out

[Unregistered]

I'm 17 about to graduate in a few months. I recently got a part-time job that pays good. For quite a while I've been feeling depressed and judged around my family. My boyfriend of two years asked me if I would like to just move in with him. He sees how unhappy I am here. We were planning to save for a few months and then move. I don't know how to approach it with my parents. They were very close to kicking me out about a year ago. It's very depressing in my house and I pass that along to other people and it's ruining my relationship.

[ccsmod10]

RE: I want to move out

Hello there,

Thank you for reaching out to us during this difficult time. It sounds like you are unhappy at home and no longer want to be there. We are glad to hear your boyfriend is supportive of you. Just to let you know, we are not legal experts. However, we can explain what we know about the runaway laws.
Technically it’s not against the law for you to run away from home. In most places it is considered a ‘status offence’. If you are caught staying with someone, it is possible they could be in trouble for ‘harboring a runaway’. Is your boyfriend willing to take this risk for you?

We are sorry to hear you feel depressed at home. Is family counseling an option? If not, what else do you think you could do? You do have the right to feel safe and wanted in your own home. Here at the National Runaway Safeline we cannot tell you what you should or should not do. We can however help you explore some options and come up with a solid plan. We can be reached at any time at 1-800-RUNAWAY(786-2929) or by live chat at www.1800runaway.org from 4:30pm-11:30pm Central Standard Time. We look forward to hearing from you and wish you the best of luck!

- NRS