What canI do ifI was removed from my father’s home due to abuse and now he refuses to send my belongings to my mother’s house?
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What canI do ifI was removed from my father’s home due to abuse and now he refuses to send my belongings to my mother’s house?
I’m 15 years old, almost 16, and a few months ago I was taken out of my father’s home in MN due to abuse. I was sent back to my mother’s in MI. I was taken out so suddenly that the only things I had were the clothes on back, and now that I’ve been home for a few months, my father refuses to send me anyof my things. HJe feels that it’s my fault I left. My mom told him she would pay for everything they sent or even make a trip out there but still he refuses. My mom says that we can’t do anything else because children have no rights under 18.
Asked on April 22, 2011 under Family Law, Michigan
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
Although children under 18 can not act on their own in the "adult world" of "rights" - like bringng a lawsuit, etc., - they can and do have rights that are asserted of brought through their parents. So in many cases your Mother can act on your behalf to help assert rights to which you are entitled. Your Mother can not enter your Father's house without a court order allowing her to do so and then she would have to bring someone "official" with her to get the stuff (like a Sheriff or Marshall or even the police). That is not an easy endeavor. But your Mother can speak with an attorney to see what can be done. May I also suggest that you try speaking with and getting help from a family member that your Father trusts and that can help mediate the matter? Maybe an Aunt or Grandparent? Even a close friend to your Father. Try that too. Good luck to you.
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