Can we run away to another country without getting our mum in trouble?

[Guest]

Hi, I am 17 and my brother - 13 - and sister - 15 - and I are all EU citizens, as well as American citizens. My mum tried to relocate us back to the UK after my father divorced us but he blocked us moving with the Florida 50-mile rule. We don't have enough money to fight him through the courts and yet, if we moved, it would be better for us all, even him.

I have been wondering what would happen if the three of us ran away to family in the UK, would it get my mum in trouble? I know it isn't breaking the law to run away but my father is not nice and would do his best to blame it on her.

Once we are resident in the UK for 6 months we fall under UK jurisdictional laws so we can say who we want to live with and fight him that way but until then, is she going to be safe? And how long until she can join us without it looking like SHE planned it all?

[ccsmod16]

Thanks for reaching out to us. We’re so sorry to hear that things have gotten so complicated with your parents. It sounds like you and your siblings feel that relocating would be best, but you suspect your father may blame the move on your mom. We’re not legal experts, so it’s tough to say with certainty whether your mom would get in trouble for something like that. We encourage you to speak with someone more familiar with the laws in your state, and given your concerns regarding court costs, would also encourage you to explore whether there are local Legal Aid agencies that can help you & your mom out. Legal Aid agencies typically offer free or low-cost services, and may be able to provide some clarity as it relates to you & your siblings relocating without your father's consent.

It’s really considerate of you to take time and explore potential consequences, and you are asking some important questions that are best answered by someone familiar with the laws in your state. If you have questions about how to find local resources, or if you & your siblings simply want someone to talk to, please feel free to reach out to us. We are available 24/7 at 1.800.RUNAWAY (786.2929), every day via chat. We won’t tell you what to do, but we will do our best to help you stay safe regardless of what you decide. We’re here to listen, here to help. Stay safe!

-NRS