Legal Question in Family Law in Texas

17 year old moving out

My husband adopted my 2 children from a previous marriage and my ex has no legal rights. My 17 yr old has decided that she is moving in with her bio-dad and has left the house to live there. The county deputy stated that at 17 she can live where she chooses and they can't make her come back here. We are still legally responsible, and want to be for her benefit of welfare. IS she able to do that and what is our recourse if she won't change her mind? We love her and want her home, but if she doesn't want to be here what CAN we do to protect her?


Asked on 9/13/07, 10:30 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
TC Langford Langford Law Office

Re: 17 year old moving out

Unfortunately, nothing. At 17 she is no longer a runaway. If she gives you her address, she is not a missing person. You continue to be responsible for her until she is 18, but during this gap year, there no legal way to force her home.

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Answered on 9/13/07, 11:40 am


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