Legal Question in Family Law in Texas
Texas' ''Age of Emancipation''
My daughter is 17 yrs. old (turns 18 8/2/07). She wants to move out on her own. What is the legal age for a young adult to be legally emancipated??
Thanks!
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Texas' ''Age of Emancipation''
In Texas, once a child reaches the age of 18, they are no longer legally considered a "child", and they are now an adult. If a child wishes to be emancipated before they turn 18, they must file a petition in state court and prove to the court the following facts:
(1) that they are a resident of this state;
(2) that they are 17 years of age, or at least 16 years of age and living separate and apart from the minor's parents, managing conservator, or guardian; and
(3) that they are self-supporting and managing the minor's own financial affairs.
Re: Texas' ''Age of Emancipation''
The requirements for emancipation are located in the Texas Family Code, which you can google.
I have listed the section title below. If she cannot do it on her own, you can hire a lawyer. It is not an expensive process, especially when the parents are in agreement.
FAMILY CODE
TITLE 2. CHILD IN RELATION TO THE FAMILY
SUBTITLE A. LIMITATIONS OF MINORITY
CHAPTER 31. REMOVAL OF DISABILITIES OF MINORITY