Legal Question in Family Law in Texas
Emancipation
Hi, I was wondering if at the age of 17 I can move out. I know you have to be able to support yourself, as well as stay in school until you graduate. Do your parents have to sign anything? Do they HAVE to approve of where you are going to live and such? I would really like to know. Thank you.
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Emancipation
Technically you are not an adult until the moment the clock strikes one on your birthday!
In TX you are an adult for criminal purposes at 17.
But, for civil purposes the age is 18. Many apartments won't rent to you because you cannot sign a legally binding contract (lease) until the day you turn 18.
My bank would not open an checking account for my children until their 18th birthday.
You can emancipate but it takes awhile. You must be supporting yourself 100% -- a friend cannot help support you. Normally only athletes and entertainers can afford to be emancipated.
We call emancipation "removal of disabilities" in Texas. The Texas family code is on line and you can read about removing your disabilities on-line.
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