I’m 16, live in Texas and I have run away before.Will I be arrested if I do it again?

[Guest]

I can’t get out of the house or even get a job while im living in this house, so I can’t get emancipated since I can’t support myself financially. Since I live in Texas, When I’m 17 I can leave the house without consent from my parents but not face charges for it. I’m planning to move in with my friend and get myself a job so I can get emancipated without having to worry about being labeled as a runaway. But That’s 10 months away I’m still 16 and I’ve run away before so if I leave again, before I’m 17, even if I show up to school, will I face any charges?

[ccsmod15]

Hi,
Thank you for reaching out to us; we are glad that you did. It sounds like things are really stressful at home since you can’t leave the house or get a job. It is normal to want to find a way out of this, but Texas is a state that’s really tough on runaway youth.
Leaving home at any time before 18 puts you in danger of being charged, and multiple runaway charges might see you facing juvenile delinquency charges. We know that this is hard to hear because when youth runaway, it’s usually because they are running from something. We would like to talk with you about this. Together we may be able to find a way to help you feel better at home, or a way to negotiate more freedom for you there. If someone is hurting you, we can help you make an abuse report, or you can call Child Help at 1-800-422-4453.
We would really like to learn more of what it’s like for you at home and you can help with that by reaching out either by phone at 1-800-786-2929 (1-800-RUNAWAY) or via live chat through www.1800runawy.org We are here 24/7
We truly hope to hear from you soon because we are here to listen and help.
Sincerely, NRS