Legal Question in Family Law in Maine

16 year old niece wants to move away from parents and in with grandparents.

I have a 16 year old niece that has moved out of her mother's home and into her father's home, for various reasons. This has happened several times within the past year. She is tired of living like this and wants to move in with her maternal grandparents, who would love to have her go live with them. I do not know the exact issues surrounding her moving in and out of her parents' homes, but I am afraid that if she isn't allowed to live with her parents, that she is going to run away. Is there a legal age when a minor can move away from a parent's home as long as they go to where there is a roof over their head and are being well cared for? I she could go to court for emancipation, but if she can just get away from her parents and live with the grandparents, I believe things would be better. The grandparents live about 20 minutes from the parents' homes, so she will not be in another state. Please advise.


Asked on 1/28/03, 9:49 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Jes Beard Jes Beard, Attorney at Law

Re: 16 year old niece wants to move away from parents and in with grandparents.

The age when a child can decide where they will live is 18. Until they are 18 they either need to be emancipated, need a court order, or need parental approval.

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Answered on 2/02/03, 10:45 pm


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