Full question:
I’m a 15-year-old living with my parents in Los Angeles, California. I am one of the main actors in a successful television show and is paid well. My parents want me to start focusing on school but I want to continue acting. My parents gave me an ultimatum to either quit acting or move out of their house. Since I’m a minor, can I legally move out of my parents’ house and live alone?
- Category: Minors
- Subcategory: Emancipation of Minor
- Date:
- State: California
Answer:
The age of majority in California is eighteen. However, minors can pursue emancipation, which legally frees them from their parents or guardians. An emancipated minor has the same rights and responsibilities as an adult.
In California, a minor can be emancipated by a court under the Emancipation of Minors Law (California Family Code 7000) if they meet the following criteria:
- Be at least fourteen years old.
- Be willing to live apart from their parents, with their permission or if the parents are not trying to regain custody.
- Be able to manage their own finances.
- Have a legal source of income.
- Show that emancipation is in their best interest.
To get emancipated, a minor must complete specific forms from the court clerk's office and file a petition for emancipation in their county. Once emancipated, the minor can make decisions without parental permission, such as getting medical care, applying for a work permit, and enrolling in school or college. However, they must still attend school, need parental permission to marry, and could face juvenile court for legal violations.
In your case, you might consider filing for emancipation to gain independence from your parents.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.