Full question:
My son is 18 years old and still in high school. He will be a senior in high school this fall. We live in the state of Minnesota. I have three questions... "When are parents no longer "legally" financially responsible for their children?" "Can an 18 year old, who is still in high school, leave home? If he does leave home, are the parents financially and parental responsible for him and his behaviors?" "When can a parent legally require a child to move out of the home?"
- Category: Minors
- Subcategory: Child Support
- Date:
- State: Minnesota
Answer:
Parents are generally responsible for their children until the child reaches the age of majority, which is 18 in Minnesota, is emancipated, or is ordered by a court to be independent.
According to Minnesota law, parents are liable for damages caused by their minor children (under 18) if those children willfully or maliciously cause injury or damage. This liability is limited to $1,000 (Minn. Stat. § 540.18). However, this does not relieve the minor from personal liability.
An 18-year-old who is still in high school can leave home, but parents may still have some financial and legal responsibilities for their child until they graduate or otherwise become independent. Parents can generally require a child to move out once they reach the age of majority, but specific circumstances may vary.
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.