Legal Question in Family Law in New York

Do I have parental rights over a 16 year old who is out of control

I am faced with a 16 year old who is out of control, he has been thrown out of school, was suppose to atten night school and decided that was not any good either, he had a job quit that and only comes home to sleep eat and change his clothes. He does not follow any curfews and does not come home sometimes. We believe he is doing drugs and he is tearing this family apart, he has 2 sisters a mother and father who would do anything for him, but that does not seem to be enough. Is there anything we can do legally about his not coming home? He is also hanging out with 19 and 20 year olds which is something else we have asked him not to do. I just feel as parents we have no rights. Do we have to keep him living in our house even though he is really not acting like part of our family. He will be 17 in Sept 2001. What can we do??? Sincerely, Lynne


Asked on 3/13/01, 12:41 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Amy L. Finch, 845-362-0387 Amy L. Finch, Attorney and Counselor at Law

Re: Do I have parental rights over a 16 year old who is out of control

I am sorry to hear about your situation. There is however, something you can do about it. The New York State Family Court has a program called PINS, Persons In Need of Supervision. Your son, being 16, is the appropriate age for this program.

It is a very involved procedure, and will involve taking your son to court. It may help him straighten up and fly right. I would suggest you contact a local attorney who practices family law to discuss this further. It is not something to be undertaken lightly, but is a good option.

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Answered on 5/23/01, 9:21 am


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