Going Out at 16

[Guest]

I’m currently 16 in California and I know I can’t leave home without consequences yet, but my question is whether I can leave for a couple of hours or not. I recently transferred to independent study from a public high school and would still like to visit friends from the public school after school. I would be walking there, but one of my parents won’t let me and may use force to keep me at home. Can they? My other parent does not mind me going, but they have work and will not be home when I plan to go. The parent that will not let me go will be at home.

[ccsmod9]

Thanks for reaching out to us here at NRS we know it can difficult to seek out help and try to find options before making any kind of decision. Our hope is to help in any capacity we can to help you solve the situation you find yourself in.

From hearing your situation some options you might have are to talk to your parent that supports your decision into talking to the other parent. Let them know how you feel and discuss how important it is for you to have friends and to keep up with them. Maybe a good plan is to let your parent be involved in dropping you off with those friends so they know you are safe.

Again we know that it took bravery to reach out and seek help. Know that we are here 24/7 and we are confidential so if you have any more questions or concerns you want to run by us feel free to call us at (1-800-786-2929) or online at (www.1800runaway.org) using our chat option.