florida runaway

[Guest]

I’ve been going under abuse for a few years now from my parents. They seem to be against everything I do, and while they promised to support me in everything, they clearly don't. My mom And dad have both physically abused me, but more commonly its verbal & psychological. I’ve even tried confronting them and telling them what they're doing isn't good and I want them to stop. It didn't work. I’ve been planning to run away from their household as soon as possible, and haven't been able to find a solid answer on the laws for runaways in Florida. If I run away at seventeen, can the police force me to go home if they find me? Can I be safe at a friend’s house at seventeen as a runaway? Or would it be legally less trouble to do so when I turn eighteen.

[ccsmod4]

Hello,
Thank you for writing to us here at the National Runaway Safeline.

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. It’s through no fault of your own that this has occurred.
You have the right to be safe.
To report any abuse you might consider contacting 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.

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.

Once a report is filed if found a runaway and they may be returned home. Also, those that a reported runaway stays with may run the risk of being charged with harboring a runaway. Anyone found to be assisting or aiding someone to run away may also find themselves at risk legally. This could differ if someone is fleeing a dangerous situation such as child abuse.For more specifics on the law, you might consider contacting the local non-emergency number for the police. You might also look for a legal aid center in the area. They may be able to answer any legal questions on the subject.

We are here as support to help through this challenging time. We can best help by phone or chat as NRS is unable to respond more than twice by email to assist you. If you would like to talk more in detail please call or chat soon.
Our contact information is 1-800-RUNAWAY (786-2929); www.1800runaway.org (click on the chat button).

If you are at risk of any danger or feeling unsafe, we encourage you to reach out to 911 or seek emergency assistance immediately.

Be safe,
NRS