I'm 17 and want to move out

[Unregistered]

My dad has custody of me and I'm 17 and I want to move out of my dad's and live with my mom. I can't ask him if I can move out because his wife is very controlling and won't let me move in with her. Can I legally leave if I'm moving in with my other parent?

[ccsmod0]

re:I'm 17 and want to move out

Hi there,

Thanks for reaching out to us today. It sounds like you're dealing with a difficult situation at home. Unfortunately, we're not legal experts here, so we can't give out any formal legal advice. In general, if you are under 18, your legal guardian decides where you live. If your only guardian is your dad, then he has the right to decide where you live. If he doesn't want you to move in with your mom, and then you left, he could file a runaway report and possible press charges against your mom. Once you turn 18, you gain the right to decide where you live.

Can I ask what's going on at your dad's that's making things so difficult there? Have you talked to your mom about living with her? Is it possible to have a conversation with your mom and your dad about going to live with your mom without your dad's wife being involved? Your situation sounds very complex, and it might be easier to provide you assistance if you call us directly at 1.800.786.2929. We also have a live chat service that's available seven days a week from 4:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. central time at our website, www.1800runaway.org. We're happy to listen and explore some options that you may have. We can also refer you to legal services in your area, if you'd like. Please feel free to reach out to us! Best of luck with your situation at home.