Legal Question in Family Law in Michigan

My 17 year old niece ran away from home one month ago. Her parents (my sister) are furious with her because she is gay and they have been verbally abusive to her. (My brother in law has been physically abusive to my sister in the past.)

We convinced my niece to live with another sister of mine, and she did for two weeks. She could live with her grandmother or my family so that she could finish high school. I happen to be the mom of a gay son, so she has received much support from my family and her grandmother.

She is now staying at a sleazy motel in Mt. Clemens with a teenage boy and his mother. We all are very concerned about this potentially dangerous situation and would appreciate any guidance as to what we can do next.

Also, when my niece ran away, her mother took away her driver's license. Supposedly, my niece's mother has now had her license revoked. Is this possible?


Asked on 8/22/09, 3:37 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Brad Aldrich Aldrich Legal Services

You need to realize that as of right now your neice is a minor and therefore her legal guardians (her parents) have legal authority over her. She may be able to file a lawsuit in the Circuit Court of the County where she resides seeking emmancipation from her parents and then she can make her own decisions, legal or otherwise. I understand that it is difficult seeing this situation from the sidelines but there is nothing that you can do from a legal standpoint. This does not mean that your neice has no legal options though. Aldrich Legal Services, PLLC may be able to help. If you or your neice want a free consultation please contact us directly at (734) 404-3000.

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Answered on 8/28/09, 2:26 pm


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