Florida Laws

[Unregistered]

Hi! I'm a 16 year old female from the state of Florida. I was wondering what my legal rights are as a runaway if I were to travel without parental permission down southern Florida. What are my rights to education and where can I read more on that? Would it be better/safer to travel up toward Alabama or Georgia? Do you recommend a specific method of travel, and what are the general rules of shelters in the state? Thank you

[ccsmod7]

Re: Florida Laws

Hi there,

Thank you for contacting us. It’s good that you are trying to inform yourself of your rights before you take any action. We hope that we can provide you with some information about leaving home without permission.

You may want to keep in mind, that if you leave home without the consent of your parents, they may file a runaway report with your local police. The police would be authorized to return you home. If you are reported as a runaway it’s typically just a status offense; however, sometimes people helping runaways are at risk for charges such as harboring a runaway. This charge is often considered a misdemeanor, but might be something to explore if you or whoever you might be staying with are concerned.

We can’t really speak to which direction travelling in the state is better or safer for you, but we would be happy to look up shelter information for you if you decide to call or chat with us online. Because of harboring charges, most youth shelters do have to notify parents or guardians if a minor is staying with them. Just something to keep in mind.

As far as your education. Every young person has the right to an education. If you plan on going to school in another location, it may be a good idea to contact the school district where you plan to go and ask what you would need to register for school there. At minimum, they typically need proof that you reside in the school district.

We hope that you choose to reach out to us if you want to continue talking about your situation in more detail.

Stay strong,
NRS

[Guest]

Hi, i am a 14 yr old female and i want to live with some people that are not my mother and stepdad; they are mentally and sometimes physically abusive to only me(im the oldest) they say i get everything i want...yet i dont think i asked to be criticized for my religion or sexuality...they force me to date guys and be Christian but and when i cry they call me horrible names and sometimes hit me. They say they arent doing anything illegal—i want to report them to DCF bc recently they let my stepbrother MOLEST my autistic littlest sibling (hes a boy) and they just let him off with a warning, i need to escape before i go insane, it hurts that my once caring mom treats me like this SHE NEGLECTS me and even told me to kill myself! Can i run away for a few hours with a friend without charges or punishment???!

[ccsmod9]

Hi there,
Thank you for writing to us here at National Runaway Safeline (NRS). We understand it takes great courage to reach out, and we appreciate you sharing a little bit about what’s going on. It sounds like you’re quite overwhelmed by things at home right now and you mentioned being harmed. We’re sorry you’re going through this. You don't deserve to be hurt in any way. If you are at risk of any danger or feeling unsafe, we encourage you to reach out to 911 or seek emergency assistance immediately. You may also be able to report any mistreatment to CPS. Child Help USA 1-800-422-4453 www.childhelp.org is an organization that helps protect minors from being harmed. It may also be a good place to explore options for staying with another family member or someone you trust as far as transferring custody.
Often, having a safe space to share how you’re feeling may bring a variety of solutions previously not thought of. You are not alone in this. We want you to know that we are here as support to help you through this challenging time.
If you would like to talk more in detail please chat soon through our website www.1800runaway.org (click on the chat button) if you are unable to call in. We unfortunately cannot give advice as we are non-directive. You know your situation best
We hope to hear from you soon.
Be safe,
NRS