16 year running

[Guest]

Im a 16 year old male that is ready to leave. There are no real problems at home. I live with my sister and my brother in law and my real brother. I was in forster care for a while and was forced to grow up faster then most. Now im ready to be on my own. Heres the catch I live in Alexandria Va, and i want to go to Navarre, Fl but i dont know any of the laws agenst running away in the states and i dont want to go if i will just be brought back can you guys help?

[ccsmod8]

Re: 16 year running

Hello,

We are glad that you decided to write to us with your situation. We are here for you anytime and wish to hear from you directly. We sense that a lot is going on at home and you just need to get away. Have you thought about other option or alternative to running away? Is there a way to get involve with other family members for support?

In general, it is not illegal to runaway in most states. However, as a minor (anyone under the age of 1 your parents reserve the rights to call you in as a runaway with the local police. Once a report is taken by the police, your name goes into a national database that is able to track you across state lines or even local to your area. The consequences are more or less dealing with looking for you or bringing you home if you are found. Therefore, the main purpose of the report is to return you home if you are caught.

It also depends on how far you have gotten. Sometimes you can be held in juvenile hall for a night until you see a judge or until you find a way home whether through parents or us. It is never always a guarantee though. We can help in that way too but it is not to persuade you to leave home. We care for your safety and wish the best of you. We are here to help and please know that you are not alone. Do you feel up to calling the local police or local resources to find out more? They can help with specific laws about runaways. One number you can call for more answers is Justice for Children at 1800-733-0059.

We are in no position to tell you what to do but we are here to answer questions regardless safety options or even a place to stay if you were stuck if you decided to leave. We are 24 hours and confidential. We can be reached at 1800RUNAWAY. We wish you the best and hope to hear from you soon. Good luck.

-NRS