Legal Question in Family Law in New York

Teenager's Rights

I have a 17 year old son who has become incorrigible. We have tried PINS diversion, but the case was closed because they did not feel there was enough ''badness'' in his life to warrant keeping it open. He has been drinking, lying, stealing, sneaking around and recently has been talking to his girlfriend about moving in together and starting a ''family''. The girlfriend's parents have been telling him he can do whatever he wants because he is 17 and doesn't have to listen to me. I have done everything I can for him short of having him committed. At what age is he considered a ''legal adult'' and are there any other avenues I can pursue? His recent comment to me was he wants me dead because he doesn't want to live by my house rules anymore. Can he file a petition to live elsewhere? Or do I have any legal right to say what he does?


Asked on 7/14/03, 10:26 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Debra Palazzo Law Offices of Debra Palazzo, LLC

Re: Teenager's Rights

He is your legal responsibility until 18 or emancipation. Emancipation means, among other things, gets married, moves out and is self supporting, joins the army.

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Answered on 7/19/03, 11:21 am


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