I'm 16 and i want to leave home

[Unregistered]

Im 16 and i want to leave home and go live with a friend. I am just wondering if my parents file a missing persons report what happens then? Do i legally have to go back home? What can i do?

[ccsmod6]

Re: I'm 16 and i want to leave home

Hello,

Thank you for writing on the forums here at National Runaway Safeline (NRS). It seems you want to live with a friend but are concerned about your parents filing a missing person report. We are not legal experts, but if you were to leave home without permission and your parents filed a runaway/missing minor report, generally the police will make a report and enter it into a database. If police come in contact with you they will try to take you home and contact your guardian. Additionally, the individuals you stay with could be charged with “harboring a runaway” which is illegal and varies in the type of consequences (jail, fines, or both). This all depends on your state’s runaway laws. Your parents/guardians are legally responsible for you until your 18th birthday (as long as your state’s age of majority is that age). If you would like to talk more about your situation and explore options, please contact us by phone or through our online chat service through our website www.1800runaway.org

We look forward to talking with you soon. If you needed any resources such as legal aid, shelters, counseling, etc. we can offer those to you as well.

Best,
NRS

[Mehrin.k]

mkk

I want to leave my home...but i don't know where to do..I am in a new city with my parents and here..I don't know how..I will handle everything,I am 16

[ccsmod4]

Mkk

Hello,
Thanks for contacting the National Runaway Safeline.

It sounds like you are facing a dilemma about leaving home but unsure about where you would go. Being in a new city we can understand your uncertainty.
You might consider contacting 1-800-Runaway (786-2929) to speak more about your situation and even explore some possible options.
NRS is here to help and here to listen.
We welcome the opportunity to hear more about what’s going on.

Until then take care,
NRS