Legal Question in Family Law in Michigan
If I am 17 can I legally move out without my parents consent?
I am 17 years old. My mother is moving to Nevada in June and wants me to come with her and the family, but I want to stay here and work, and go to school. I plan on moving in with my boyfriend, and I have a steady job. My mother is determined to force me to move with her. I have talked to the police counselor at my school and was told at 17 I was not obligated to move with my mother if I did not want to. I would greatly appreciate your help with my question.
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: If I am 17 can I legally move out without my parents consent?
The information you received from the police counselor is in error. While it is true you are considered an adult as far as the criminal law is concerned you are not for civil law. In Michigan you do not reach majority until you are 18 years old. It is possible to petition for emancipation in the Probate Court. If granted, then you are considered to ba an adult by the court. In order to be emancipated you would have to prove that you are able to take care of yourself. For example, that you can support yourself, that you have a place to stay, etc. How close are you to your 18th birthday? Are you still in school? If so, an argument could be made that you should be allowed to finish your education in the current school. Do you have relatives in the area that you can stay with? Most courts would not emancipate you solely for the reason that you want to live with your boyfriend. Maybe a short separation from your boyfriend will show that you do have "true love" or simply an infactuation.
Bottom line is that your parents can make you go with them to Nevada until you turn 18. try talking with your parents. Good luck.
Related Questions & Answers
Looking for something else?
10,200 active attorneys ready to answer your legal questions today.
Featured Attorneys
Earn additional revenue and grow your business.
