Tweet
I'm 17 with two kids does that make me an adult? And would I be able to move out if my mother made me get fired by taking my car. But at the same time I've already moved out so would she be able to do anything if I move to a different state?
-
-
Thank you for reaching out to us. It is good that you are concerned about the consequences of your potential actions.
We are not legal experts hear and the laws vary from state to state. We do show that the age of majority (when one is considered legally an adult) in Alabama is 19. The option of emancipation is available once you turn 18. Crossing state lines can also cause some legal problems, too, which can vary also from state to state. Has your mother filed a runaway report on you since you are not at home? Since you have already left home would she give you permission to leave? If your mother doesn’t file a report it would remove the problem for you.
We are glad you gave us a call. It can be difficult to ask others for help. You are trying to figure out your options which is a good thing. If you would like to discuss your situation further, please do not hesitate to call or chat with us. We may be able to determine more resources for you to draw from.
We’re here to listen, here to help.
Best of luck,
NRS
-
-
hi i am 17. I dont turn 18 until 7 months and i don’t want to live in this house anymore. its physically and mentally draining. my grades could be much more better but i feel so mentally tired. I get mentally abused causing me to feel so low of myself. Id rather much live with a friend where it feels more at home. the house conditions is bad here and I really can’t take it anymore. can i leave or will i be taken to jail ?Comment
-
Hi there,
Thank you for writing to us here at National Runaway Safeline (NRS). We understand it takes great courage to reach out, and we appreciate you sharing a little bit about what’s going on. It seems there is a lot that you are faced with right now and you’re feeling like leaving is one of your only options. It seems you want to know some information on runaway laws.
While we are not experts on the law, 18 is generally the age that an individual may leave home without parent permission. If you are under 18 and leave home, your parent/guardian may file you as a runaway and you may be returned home. Also, those you stay with may run the risk of being charged with harboring a runaway. For more specifics on the law, the local non-emergency police or legal aid may better answer legal questions.
The easiest way to leave home is with your parents' permission. We understand that might be challenging, however, maybe there’s another family member, relative, or a family friend who could help to communicate how you’re feeling to your parents. The second way is through Child Protective Services if safety is a concern. Lastly, you can also look into emancipation options. In most states you need to be at least 16 to be considered and demonstrate that you can support yourself financially and independently. Emancipation often can be a lengthy process and may even cost some money for court fees. We would be happy to look into legal resources if that’s something you are considering.
We are here as support to help through this challenging time. We can best help by phone or chat as NRS is unable to respond more than twice by email to assist you. If you would like to talk more in detail please call or chat soon.
Our contact information is 1-800-RUNAWAY (786-2929); www.1800runaway.org (click on the chat button). If you would like to look into further emotional support options, you can text with a crisis worker at the National Alliance on Mental Illness 24/7 by texting "NAMI" to 741741.
If you are at risk of any danger or feeling unsafe, we encourage you to reach out to 911 or seek emergency assistance immediately.
Be safe,
NRS
-
Comment