Legal Question in Family Law in Texas

The response depends upon all of the circumstances of your household. Generally speaking the Juvenile Code governs the status offense of runaway, and status offenses apply to juveniles under the age of 17. Once a person turns 17 in Texas they are considered adults for criminal law purposes. Runaway is not a criminal offense. If the child's whereabouts are known, and is not a missing person, the police will not force the 17 year old to return home. The 17 year old is still subject to laws regarding truancy, any prior court orders regarding residence, and is a minor for civil purposes.