18 in 5 months

[Guest]

I’m 17 at the moment. I turn 18 in August. I already have a job pay for all my expense while living at my grandmas house. But everyday she mentally abuses me. She calls me a low life who won’t amount to anything. She also saids I’m a drug addict punk. (Which I’m not). I’m afraid things are about to get physical. I live in Arizona and have a friend in another state offering to take me in. Can my grandmother force me to come back home. If so and I refuse what can happen?

[ccsmod15]

Thanks for reaching out.

We’re sorry you are experiencing this mental abuse at home by a loved one. That is not okay for you to be treated that way.

You’re asking somewhat of a legal question and while we are not legal experts at NRS, we have a fair share of legal experience under our belts so hopefully will be of some help. As someone under the age of 18, if the police find you they will most likely take you home. However, because you are so close to turning 18, oftentimes but not always, police don’t enforce this. Something to be mindful of if you do go stay with your friend is that if the police come there to take you home, your friend could be charged with the misdemeanor of harboring a runaway. Again, because you are so close to eighteen, police may not act on this charge. Hopefully this helps sort out this initial questions. If you have any other questions or need support sorting through this big decision, don’t hesitate to reach out. We are available 24/7 via calls at 1-800-RUNAWAY or chat with us via our chat feature found at www.1800runaway.org.

Best of luck,

National Runaway Safeline