Legal Question in Family Law in Rhode Island

Re: adolecent rights

The short answer is "No, but...".

A 16 year old person is not an adult in the eyes of the law (when a person turns 18, then he or she is considered an adult; until age 18, a child).

Parents have the legal right (and obligation) to care for their children, and to make decisions for their children, including where the child will live.

However, there are some extraordinary circumstances where the Court - weighing the best interests of the children against the rights of the parents - may intervene when really necessary to protect the health and well-being of the child.

Hope this answers the question.

Best wishes,

Scott

Re: adolecent rights

They can choose to do so but the court does not have to approve that choice. The court could find the child emancipated and stop child support.