When a minor wants to be free from their parents responsibility, they can seek emancipation.  There are some events that will automatically emancipate a minor, such as turning the age of majority, which is usually 18, but for most minor’s they will require a court order.  The minor will generally be required to petition the court to be emancipated.  Some states will require the minor to prove that they are capable of providing for themselves and are able to handle adult responsibilities.  This usually can be accomplished by showing the court that the minor has some type of employment, housing and ability to care for themselves.  However, even if the court does grant emancipation, the minor still cannot take part in activities such as voting or purchasing alcohol until the reach the appropriate age. 

Family Law Sub-categories