Am I allowed to move out of my parent's house without their permission if I am 17 and in college?

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If I am 17 and graduated from high school and already in college, am I allowed to move out of my parents house without their permission? And what actions could they take against me if I do?

Asked 11/13/2009 under Divorce, Marriage, Alimony | 858 View(s) | More Legal Topics

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Divorce, Marriage, Alimony Law Answers

The legal age of consent in most states with respect to contract(i.e. apartment lease) is 16 years old.  thus, you are pemitted to leave the house the without your parents consent and enter into a lease to rent your own apartment while you attend college.  your parents are not allowed to file any claim against you under the law.  in fact, i am not aware of any legal claims that parents would have to force their child that is 17 years old to remain under their household and under their control.  i suggest that you make sure that you can support yourself independantly if you move out as your parents may not let you come back any time soon to punish you.

The age of majority in GA is 18, that is the age at which you are emancipated (ie reach adulthood); until then you are under the legal control of your parents.  However, a minor can be emancipated prior to that if they are validly married or if they are on active duty with the military.

Additionally, an emancipation occurs by court order pursuant to a petition filed by a minor with the juvenile court as provided in Code Sections 15-11-202 through 15-11-207.  Basically, you would need to prove that you are financially self-sufficient and have a habitable place to stay.  There are other requirements to be approved via this process but an attorney in your area can best advise you as to all of this.

Note:  If you move out without being emancipated your parents can have you forcibly returned to their home.

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