Best friend being kicked out.

[Guest]

So, i live in South Carolina. Legally, you can kick your child out at 16. My friend is turning 17 in less than 6 months and her parents tried to kick her out last night so she called the police. Chances are, she'll be homeless when she's 17.. so would i legally be allowed to house her? Her parents seem like the type to drag someone into legal trouble if they house their child, but i just don't know what to do. If i were to house her, even just for a little, what legal trouble could i possibly get into?

[ccsmod15]

Hi there,

Thanks for reaching out to us here at the National Runaway Safeline. We are sorry to hear that your friend is having some difficulties at home right now and possibly even could become homeless. That's quite a challenge and we'd like to help in whatever way we can.

Keep in mind that we are not legal experts, but one thing you and your friend probably should know is that it is quite unlikely that a parent or guardian can kick their child out prior to them turning 18. We are not aware of any state where it is legal to kick a minor out of the house. So if your friend was threatened with being kicked out -- or actually is kicked out -- that is something that could be included on an abuse report as it would be considered neglect. Just something to keep in mind.

As for housing a youth that is a runaway: while offering emergency shelter to a youth wouldn't necessarily be legally problematic, any longer term housing of a youth against their parent's wishes could be considered a crime (harboring a runaway). So that's also something you should know.

Again, we'd like to help in whatever way we can. Probably the best way we can help would be for you or your friend to call us at 1-800-RUNAWAY (768-2929) or chat with us via the chat feature on our website: www.1800runaway.org. When you or her call we can talk about all the youth's options as well as offer any other resources that may assist. We are confidential and here 24/7. We hope to hear from you soon!

All the best,
NRS