running to a relative at 13

[Unregistered]

I am 13 years old and have planned on running away with my grandmother in NC. I live in FL but that is not a problem. My dad calls me a btch 24 7. My mom just plain hates me. My grandmother says that the police can find me and take me home. I bet my mom knows where I will be. What can I do to just live with my grandmother in peace without getting caught? Please respond ASAP.

[ccsmod13]

RE: Running to a relative at 13

Thanks for reaching out to us! It sounds like you’re in a difficult situation. We are sorry to hear that your parents are treating you this way. It sounds like you have some legal concerns on what will happen if you run away with your grandmother and the police find you. While we are not legal experts at NRS, we can speak generally on your situation.

Running away isn’t a crime, but your parents as your legal guardians do have the option to file a runaway report if you choose to leave home without their permission. If a runaway report is filed and the police find you, whoever you are staying with could be charged with harboring a runaway, which is a misdemeanor offence. We think it is great that you have reached out to us and are trying to formulate a plan.

Also, generally, one way you are allowed to live with your grandmother legally is if your parents give you permission to live there or give up their legal rights and allow your grandmother to be your legal guardian. This is one option you may have if your parents would let you. Unfortunately, because you are 13, it can be difficult for you to leave without your parents’ consent.

If you ever need to talk on your situation or get more information, you can call us at 1-800-RUNAWAY where we are anonymous and confidential, and available 24/7. Or you can contact us via email, chat, or the bulletin boards on our website at 1800runaway.org.

Good luck.