9 replies to this topic

[Sniper1337]

Well, ill put it this way. I've had a terrible day, and my situation isn't too great.

Anyways, I've got a few questions about laws concerning the Age of Majority. Im currently 17, and my mom "kicked me out". (She stated it, and I left.) Im currently residing with someone who has no legal custody over me. In these circumstances (State : KS) Would the police be able to do anything to me? & if so, what?

P.S. I've heard many different answers, I.E. They will talk to you to make sure your alright, but won't bring you home. You can be charged by being a "runaway" ect.

I'd just like some clear answers on this topic if anyone knows.

Clear Answer = +rep

[tak1968]

age of majority and "emancipation" are the same, just different terms. Emancipation, in MOST states is 18. thats when u are concidered legally an adult (i.e. voting, jury duty, enroll in service" etc..). here are some things i found for you..


The age of majority is the threshold of adulthood as it is conceptualized (and recognized or declared) in law. It is the chronological moment when a minor ceases to legally be considered a child and assumes control over their persons, actions, and decisions, thereby terminating the legal control and legal responsibilities of their parents or guardian over and for them. The word majority here refers to having greater years and being of full age; it is opposed to minority, the state of being a minor.

The age in KS is 18.

Sooo with that being said. if you left, she can call the police and they will return u to the home, UNLESS you have hard proof of physical or emotional abuse. i wish you the best of luck.

[Sniper1337]

Thanks for that info, but I know all about what the age is in Kansas, along with what emancipation is. Thing is, she kicked me out. She can't report me as a runaway obviously (I wouldn't get charged at least if she tried.) I've also heard/read many times that the police won't come get you in a situation like this. Are you talking from personal experience, or from what you've read online?

[tak1968]

OR... you can petition the court to have yourself forcefully legally emancipated, meaning the judge will grant you age of majority before u are 18, but seeing how the legal system crawls, youre probably best off waiting till your 18.

[Ladida]

I'm guessing the police would believe your mom if she reports you as a runaway, unless you provide evidence that she kicked you out.

Edited by Ladida, 10 April 2011 - 01:13 PM.

[tak1968]

i am speacking from a bit personally, only i am dealing with the age of MINORITY for my boys.. (its a custody issue so i have read alot of legal things and also a few face to face legal consultations). If the adult where u are staying, assumes temporary legal custody of you (as far as i know no legal paperwork is required for that), and she does not go to the police to report you a runaway, cuz she can always change her mind, then im guessing you should be fine, as long as u stay out of trouble and do not get any type of the authorities involved in anything u may do. Perhaps theres a school couselor or church person u may talk to? they have to abite by confidentiality, so your discussion would be safe. ONLY if there are obvious signs of abuse they are required to contact authoities, but judging by what i have read from you, youre pretty mild mannered Oh.. im old enuf to be your mom, so im speaking as a mom as well.. LOL

[samcoconut]

In other words, get her to give a legal statement in front of witnesses. It's similar to moving into the military at 17, which I have experience in. If you simply get a shred of evidence, you're ok and the popo can do nothing to you.

[Sniper1337]

Thanks for your comments. Petition, don't see a need for that. You all are making this more then I really was looking for.
If she were to call the cops, would I or would I not be forced and taken back home?
Under my circumstances I will still be able to do the following:
- Eat
- Attend HS
- Have a home, ect.

Basically I have another parent who will look out for me. While putting this into factor, it would be my understanding the police would not force me to go home.



Edit: Thanks for everyone's inputs. Ill seek help from my school counselor and other places if needed. I may stop by my local police department, we'll see.
Ill keep this thread updated. If you find anything else, feel free to post. Please.

Edited by Sniper1337, 10 April 2011 - 01:23 PM.

[tak1968]

when my boys went to walt disney world with my parents, i basically gave them temp custody during that week, entitling them to make all legal descisions regarding them and all that was needed was a notary. perhaps, the person where u are staying can make a letter saying, i am responsible for this person ( housing, food, school) and have it notarized, it should be ok... medcially, if u break a bone, i dont know who carries insurance, but thats an issue i dont know about. best of luck to you.

[iargue]

Thanks for your comments. Petition, don't see a need for that. You all are making this more then I really was looking for.
If she were to call the cops, would I or would I not be forced and taken back home?
Under my circumstances I will still be able to do the following:
- Eat
- Attend HS
- Have a home, ect.

Basically I have another parent who will look out for me. While putting this into factor, it would be my understanding the police would not force me to go home.



Edit: Thanks for everyone's inputs. Ill seek help from my school counselor and other places if needed. I may stop by my local police department, we'll see.
Ill keep this thread updated. If you find anything else, feel free to post. Please.

Short answer.

You are a runaway. If they want you home, then the police will take you home. Only if you show signs of child abuse/have bruises will they not take you back. They are legally responsible for you care, and are trusted with your care above you, until you reach 18. So unless they are not caring for you (Meaning, no food, clothing, place to sleep, or are beating you) then you are stuck with them unless you get emancipated. Then you must have a job and means to support yourself (Living off another person does not work, unless you sign them as your legal guardian and they accept responsibility)