Can a 17 year-old move out on their own?
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Can a 17 year-old move out on their own?
I am 17 and my father is letting me move out. However he doesn’t want anything to reflect on him if I go and get into trouble. Can I sign papers stating that anything I do does not reflect on him?
Asked on August 8, 2011 Washington
Answers:
FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
If your parents are willing to let you move out on your own as a 17 year old minor without an order from the court stating that you are an "emancipated minor" this is not particularly a wise decision from a legal perspective.
Parents are legally responsible for their children until they are 18 years of age in all states in this country unless there is an "order of emancipation" for the minor deeming him or her "an adult" or upon graduation of high school whichever comes first.
Whether or not you sign or do not sign documents stating your actions or conduct would not be a reflection upon your father has no legal effect and means nothing. The conduct of children and parents over the course of their lives even into adulthood have a reflection upon each other, good and bad.
You should consider staying at home until you finish high school or are 18 years of age, whichever comes first.
Good luck.
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