Help

[Unregistered]

I'm 18 years old and I'm from Alabama. Can I move to Florida with my fiance where I would be considered an adult? Or would I still have to stay even though I'd have a place to stay and I'd have a job? Like I know you have to be 19 to do stuff in Alabama but in Florida you have to be 18. Could I still be brought back even though I'd be a legal adult in Florida?

[ccsmod6]

RE: Help

Hello there,

Thank you for reaching out to us here at the National Runaway Safeline. We are glad you contacted us, and we would like to help as best as we are able. From what you shared, it sounds like you are wanting to begin a life of independence but may have some worries about being brought back to Alabama because you are not 19 yet (and it seems Alabama recognizes an individual as an adult at 19, whereas majority of states recognize 18 as you being your own legal guardian). It seems you have a plan set up to ensure your basic living needs are met which is great to hear, however, it's difficult for us to give a specific answer on what would happen if you go to Florida because we are not legal experts and laws tend to vary state to state and even county to county. If you left home without permission and your guardians chose to file a police report, it would depend on how local police would handle the situation. They may or may not pursue bringing you back to Alabama. For specific answers on your rights as a 18 year old and if you would be forced to come back home, it may be best to reach out to your local non-emergency police department. Contacting both Alabama state police as well as Florida state police may leave you with a better understanding of your rights and if anything would happen if you were to cross state lines. If you find yourself in need of help contacting agencies or obtaining resources, we can assist you with that. We are available 24/7 by phone at 1-800-RUNAWAY (786-2929).

We hope this helps and wish you well.

Take care and be safe,
NRS