17 and ready to move out

[Guest]

I’m 17 years old and live in the state of Texas. I graduated back in May of this year and have held a full time job since April. I don’t turn 18 for another 5 months but I’m ready to move out of my parents place and move in with a very close work friend of mine who is 22. I thought about emancipation and I’m open to the idea but I was wondering if there were any other ways around this because I don’t want to go through a lengthy court process just to gain my 18 year old rights rights only 5 months before I would get them. Am I legally allowed to move out without any repercussions and if not what steps should I take to ensure I’m not breaking the law or running away?

[ccsmod3]

Thank you for reaching out to us. It sounds like you are wondering what the consequences are of leaving home when you are under 18. 18 years old is generally the age that an individual may leave home without permission from their parent or legal guardian. We are not legal experts here but we can speak in general terms. If you are under 18 and leave home without permission, your parent/guardian may file a runaway report with the police. What actions the police take once you are filed as a runaway can vary a lot from state to state and even city to city so we cannot predict exactly what would happen in your case. Generally speaking, if you encounter a police officer while reported as a runaway, you will likely be returned home. However, in that case there may be services (family counseling, etc.) available to you as a youth in crisis/runaway but again, police procedures related to offering those services can be different based on your location or the details of your situation. Another thing to consider is that while running away is not a crime, a legal adult who allows you to stay with them may be putting themselves at risk for being charged with harboring a runaway. One way to find out the laws in your area is to call your local police and ask what their policies are regarding runaway youth.You can also call us 24/7 at 1-800-RUNAWAY (786-2929) if you need to talk or explore your issue any further.