Legal Question in Family Law in Kentucky

Re: emancipation

There is no specific emancipation statute in Kentucky. The case law recognizes emancipation in this state, but it is always a situation where the parent has agreed to let the under-aged youth keep their own earnings and take care of themselves. If your mother agreed for you to live on your own and you were able to meet your needs and stay safe, then you would be considered emancipated. If she agreed to let you live on your own and you were not able to take care of yourself, then your mom could be considered neglectful and you would possibly return to foster care. If you move out and your mom does not agree, then you could be charged as a runaway and/or beyond control.

As to foster care, there are certainly good and bad homes and the experience is seldom an entirely positive experience. However, if you had remained in foster care until you were 18, they would have been able to pay for much of your college education.