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California law allows some minors under the age of 18 to become free of their parent’s custody and control via a process called emancipation. If you’re a minor who wishes to become emancipated, a lawyer can walk you through every step. Learn more by contacting a Pasadena emancipation attorney at Baghdaserians Law Group, Inc.
What is the Emancipation of a Minor in California
Children typically must reach the age of 18 years before they are considered legal adults in California. Emancipation is a process by which a minor can be legally considered an adult before they turn 18. Emancipated minors are no longer under their parents’ legal custody. They may thus take certain steps or make certain decisions for themselves without parental permission. Examples include:
- Receiving medical care
- Applying for work permits
- Enrolling in school or college
- Deciding where they wish to live
That said, becoming emancipated as a minor also involves making certain major sacrifices. For example, your parents are legally required to support you if you’re a minor. You’re no longer entitled to their support once you become emancipated. Emancipation also DOES NOT mean you can:
- Choose not to attend school
- Get married without the permission of your parents
Additionally, the California court system will still treat you as a juvenile if you break the law. Be aware that you have options you may wish to consider before becoming officially emancipated in California. They include the following:
- Agreeing to live with another adult, such as a relative
- Addressing any issues you and your parents may have via counseling/mediation
- Seeking assistance from agencies that specialize in helping minors like yourself
Navigating this experience can be challenging for understandable reasons. Consider reviewing your case with the experts at a Pasadena emancipation law firm to discuss your options in greater detail.
How a Minor Can Be Emancipated in California A minor can become emancipated in California if they;
- Get married, although they will need their parents’ permission to do so
- Join the armed forces, which also requires parental permission
- Receive an official declaration of emancipation from a judge
You must prove you meet the following requirements/criteria before a judge will issue an official declaration of emancipation in California:
- You are at least 14 years of age
- You no longer wish to live with your parents, and your parents accept your decision to move out
- You have legal means of supporting yourself financially
- You can demonstrate that being emancipated would be in your best interests
How a Pasadena Emancipation Lawyer Can Help
The role a Pasadena emancipation attorney can play in your case will depend on numerous factors. If you’re considering getting emancipated, a California family lawyer could:
- First, determine if emancipation is the ideal solution to your current situation
- Prove to a judge that you meet the requirements necessary for emancipation
- Assist you if a judge attempts to void your declaration of emancipation by claiming you
made false statements during the initial emancipation process Those are just a few examples. For more information about how a Pasadena emancipation attorney can assist you, contact Baghdaserians Law Group, Inc. online or call us at (626) 460-9525.
