Legal Question in Family Law in Utah

Disabled 22 yr old rights to self custody

I have a friend who became disabled in an accident when she was a very young child. She holds a job, drives, and gets good grades in college, but lives at home. Her parents exercize enormous control over her life. Last night they threatened to try to have her committed to some form of institution because she (22yrs old) disobeyed them. I suggested that they may not legaly have the right to do this against her will, but she said without giving specifics that they do. I also suspect that her parents may be abusive, and am interested to know what could be done to perhaps remove her from their legal custody (if she is in fact in it now). What laws and definitions apply to this situation, and where would I find them?


Asked on 7/12/06, 2:00 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Alvin Lundgren Alvin R. Lundgren, L.C.

Re: Disabled 22 yr old rights to self custody

Without knowing the specifics of her situation there is no way to tell. If she is competent to care for herself, she is ove 18 and an adult. However, if she has been adjudicated incompetent, she remains under their care. If you have reasonable and articulable cause to believe she is abused, call the Division of Child and Family Services.

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Answered on 7/12/06, 3:29 pm


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