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Am I eligible for parental support as a 15-year-old in Oregon?

Am I eligible for parental support as a 15-year-old in Oregon?

Full question:

For now, I live with my cousin in Oregon because my parents are not providing any support at least for my basic needs. Am I eligible for my parent’s support since I’m a 15-year-old girl? What will be the punishment for my parents who were not supporting me?

Category: Minors
Subcategory: Child Support
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Oregon

Answer:

Yes, you are eligible for support from your parents because you are under 18 years old. In Oregon, parents who are legally responsible for a child’s support and knowingly fail to provide it can be charged with criminal nonsupport. This is considered a Class C felony.

If convicted, your parents could face up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $125,000. The law states that it is no defense if another person or agency is supporting you, and parents cannot claim a lawful excuse for failing to provide support without proper notice to the district attorney (ORS § 163.555).

The maximum prison term for a Class C felony is five years (ORS § 161.605), and the maximum fine is $125,000 (ORS § 161.625).

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.

FAQs

Does Oregon enforce filial responsibility laws?

Oregon does not have specific filial responsibility laws that require adult children to support their parents financially. However, parents are legally obligated to support their minor children until they reach the age of 18. If parents fail to provide this support, they can face legal consequences, including criminal charges for nonsupport (ORS § 163.555). Legal obligations may vary for adult children regarding their elderly parents, depending on specific circumstances and local laws. *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.*

What is an unfit parent in Oregon?

In Oregon, an unfit parent is typically defined as a parent who is unable to provide proper care, supervision, or support for their child. This may include issues such as substance abuse, neglect, or a history of violence. Courts assess parental fitness based on the child's best interests, and if a parent is found unfit, custody may be awarded to another relative or the state. The determination involves a thorough evaluation of the parent's ability to meet the child's needs. *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.*

Can a 15 year old choose which parent to live with in Oregon?

In Oregon, a 15-year-old can express a preference regarding which parent they wish to live with, but the final decision rests with the court. The court considers the child's wishes alongside other factors, such as the child's safety and well-being. If the child is deemed mature enough, their preference may carry significant weight in custody decisions. However, it is important to note that the court's primary concern is the best interests of the child. *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.*

Are you legally responsible for your elderly parents in Oregon?

In Oregon, there is no legal obligation for adult children to support their elderly parents financially. Filial responsibility laws, which require children to care for their parents, do not exist in the state. However, adult children may choose to assist their parents voluntarily or may be involved in caregiving arrangements. Legal obligations may arise in specific situations, such as guardianship or conservatorship, but these are not general responsibilities. *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.*

What are filial obligations to elderly parents?

Filial obligations refer to the responsibilities that adult children may have towards their elderly parents, typically involving financial support or caregiving. While some states enforce filial responsibility laws, Oregon does not have such laws requiring adult children to support their parents. Instead, any support provided is generally voluntary. Adult children may assist their parents with care or financial needs, but they are not legally bound to do so under Oregon law. *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.*

What is the filial law in Oregon?

Oregon does not have a specific filial law that mandates adult children to support their parents financially. Unlike some states, which have laws enforcing filial responsibility, Oregon allows adult children to choose whether to assist their elderly parents. The primary legal obligation in Oregon is that parents must support their minor children until they reach the age of 18. After that, any support for elderly parents is typically a matter of personal choice rather than legal requirement. *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.*