Help me. What will happen if I run away where it’s illegal?

[Guest]

im planning on running away. But I live in Georgia where it’s illegal. I’m planning on running away and living with my friend in Maryland.
life at home is just so freaking stressful and my dad threatens to hit me. It’s supposed to be a joke but it’s not funny.
theres just so much more that I don’t really want to talk about that goes on.

[ccsmod1]

Hi there,

Thank you for reaching out to us at the National Runaway Safeline. We are sorry to hear about what you have been facing and want you to know that you deserve to feel safe and happy in your home.

We are not legal experts, but we can tell you that if you are a minor, meaning under the age of 18, and you leave home and your parents file a runaway report, you could be returned home. There could also be legal consequences for whomever you stay with for what is called harboring a runaway. If you want a liner to help you walk through other options like us mediating a conference call between you and your parents, thinking through possible adults that you could turn to or could advocate for you, or things like emancipation and legal aid numbers, don't hesitate to give us a call at 1-800-RUNAWAY (786-2929). We are always here if you just need someone to listen. It can be hard to share other details about what is going on, but we are here if that is something that you need.

Stay safe,

NRS