Full question:
I am a 17-year-old guy living in on my own in Arizona. My dad died when I was five years old and my mom ditched me four months ago to be with her new boyfriend. I do well in school and I also have a part-time jobs to help me pay the bills. Can I continue living on my own?
- Category: Minors
- Subcategory: Emancipation of Minor
- Date:
- State: Arizona
Answer:
Yes, you can continue living on your own in Arizona. Although the age of majority is 18, a minor who is at least sixteen can petition the court for emancipation. To be eligible, you must be a resident of Arizona, financially self-sufficient, and understand the rights and obligations of emancipation. Additionally, you should not be a ward of the state.
When filing the petition, you need to provide specific information, including:
- Your name, mailing address, social security number, and date of birth.
- The name and address of your parent or legal guardian, if known.
- Proof of your ability to manage your financial affairs, such as employment or other support.
- Evidence that you can handle personal and social matters, including proof of housing.
- Demonstration of your independence from your parent.
- Commitment to maintaining education or employment.
- How you will obtain health care.
- Any other relevant information.
- At least one of the following: documentation showing you've lived independently for at least three months, a statement explaining why your parent’s home is unsafe, or a notarized consent from your parent or guardian.
The court will schedule a hearing within ninety days of your petition. You and your parent or guardian will be notified by certified mail at least sixty days before the hearing. Your parent can also respond to the petition within thirty days. You may represent yourself or have an attorney. If needed, the court can appoint a guardian ad litem for you. The court may waive or reduce the filing fee for financial hardship (Ariz. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 12-2451).
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.