Legally Moving Out

[Guest]

I am 17 and graduated and also have a full time job. I’m pretty much treated as everyone’s guinea pig here in my house on top of being treated the complete opposite of my 10 months elder sister, who treats me like I’m her child. My step mom **********es at her because of me instead of saying it to me. I live with my real dad and step mom and I’m wondering if I can legally move out right now without any issues. I can’t stand this much longer

[ccsmod5]

Hi,
Thanks for writing in. It sounds like you’re going through a difficult time at home and we’re so glad you reached out.
It sounds like you’re frustrated with the way your stepmother and sister treat you. You might consider asking a therapist, your dad, or even a family friend to facilitate a conversation between you all to talk about how you’d like to be treated. Here at NRS, we also have a facilitation service; our trained liners are able to facilitate a conversation with your guardians and advocate for you.
As for moving out, we are not legal experts, but we can speak in generalities. Since you are 17 (in most states, this age is still considered minor age), you generally need parental consent to leave home. You might consider asking your parents if you can stay with a family or friend. In certain areas of the country, we have seen police choose not to pursue a 17-year-old runaway. However, this varies from county to county; you might consider calling your local police non-emergency line to see how they would handle a 17-year-old who leaves home without permission.
If you’d like to speak more specifically about your situation, please feel free to reach out to us at 1-800-RUNAWAY (1-800-786-2929). Our lines are open 24/7. Best of luck.