Legal Question in Family Law in Michigan

Re: Emancipation of a minor

A minor is considered emancipated in Michigan at age 17. There are exceptions, such as where the minor is married. You should consult an attorney regarding this issue to determine whether there are factors which affect the rights of the child or of the parents The information contained in this response may not be relied upon as legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship has been created as a result of this response.

Stephen Scapelliti

Couzens, Lansky, Fealk, Ellis, Roeder & Lazar, P.C.

39395 W. Twelve Mile Road, Suite 200

Re: Emancipation of a minor

At age 16 a minor may file a petition in the Family Division of the Circuit Court (Juvenile Court) seeking to be emancipated. The minor will have to prove that he/she has sufficent means to support him/herself. Would need further information as to why juvenile was sent to live with relative to see if threats of bootcamp have a basis in reality. For example, if juvenile was a court ward from another jurisdiction and if relatives informed the court that they could not handle the juvenile then the court may place the juvenile in a boot camp program. If the juvenile runs away then the juvenile could become a court ward if not a ward already if the relative files a report with the police and a petition for home truancy is authorized.

Henry J. Legere, Jr.

Sheikh & Associates, P.C.

35 Crocker Blvd.