Full question:
I am 16 years old and living alone because my parents abandoned me. Can I get emancipated from my parents in Iowa?
- Category: Minors
- Subcategory: Emancipation of Minor
- Date:
- State: Iowa
Answer:
Yes, in Iowa, a minor who is at least sixteen years old can petition the Juvenile Court for emancipation. An emancipated minor can make their own living arrangements and is responsible for their own support.
According to Iowa Code § 232C.1, the requirements for emancipation include:
- The minor must be at least sixteen years old.
- The minor must reside in Iowa.
- The minor must not be under state care or custody.
The petition for emancipation must include:
- The minor’s name, address, and date of birth.
- The names and addresses of the minor’s parents or legal guardians.
- Specific facts supporting the petition, including:
- Proof of financial self-sufficiency, such as employment or other means of support that do not involve government assistance.
- Evidence of the ability to manage personal affairs.
- Commitment to education, vocational training, or employment.
- Any other relevant information.
- One of the following:
- Documentation showing the minor has lived independently for at least three consecutive months.
- A statement explaining why the minor believes their home environment is unsafe or unhealthy.
- A notarized statement from the parents or guardians consenting to the emancipation.
The court will hold a hearing on the petition within ninety days. The minor’s parents or guardians must be notified at least thirty days before the hearing. The minor can represent themselves, hire their own lawyer, or have a guardian ad litem appointed.
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.