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Can we make our 17 year old daughter get emancipated? What are my options?

Can we make our 17 year old daughter get emancipated? What are my options?

Full question:

My husband's 17-year old daughter has lived with us since she was 7. In March our situation at home became very confrontational and her father allowed her to live with her 22-year-old half-sister for a while. She had some emergency surgery this weekend and had to come back to stay with us for recovery. We want her to stay at home now, since this "experiment" with her half-sister did not go very well and she has been allowed to break a lot of rules. However, she refuses to stay at home and wants to go back to live with her sister. I would like her to be emancipated if she is going to insist on moving out. However my husband says we can't make her stay with us and we can't make her get emancipated. Can you tell me what our options are? I don't want her living on her own and making poor decisions for which we may be legally and financially responsible. (She doesn't turn 18 until next May.)

Category: Minors
Subcategory: Emancipation of Minor
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Washington

Answer:

Parents must provide their children with necessary food, clothing, shelter, and medical care. They also must provide supervision, discipline, and protection as well as support and education according to what they can afford. They cannot desert or abandon a child.

However, if a child is uncontrollable, a parent may ask the juvenile court system to assume responsibility over the child. A court may decide that such a child is in need of supervision, and the parent may be referred to the appropriate juvenile program. Once the court does this, the court will have authority over the child and can decide where the child will live and what the child will do from day to day.

Parents can also apply to have an uncontrollable child emancipated as an incorrigible if he/she becomes a discipline problem and the parent does not want to be held responsible for the childs behavior.

Please see the information at the following link:

http://lawdigest.uslegal.com/minors/emancipation-of-minor/6600/

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

When should I stop reaching out to my estranged daughter?

It can be difficult to determine when to stop reaching out to an estranged daughter. Consider stopping if your attempts to communicate are consistently met with hostility or silence. It's important to respect her boundaries while also ensuring you maintain your own emotional well-being. If you feel that your outreach is causing more harm than good, it may be time to take a step back. Seeking family counseling can also provide guidance on how to approach the situation.

How to deal with an adult child living at home?

Dealing with an adult child living at home requires clear communication and established boundaries. Discuss household expectations, such as chores and financial contributions. Encourage independence by setting goals for them to work towards, like finding employment or pursuing education. It's also important to maintain a supportive environment while reinforcing that they are responsible for their own decisions.

How do you set boundaries with adult children living at home?

Setting boundaries with adult children living at home involves open discussions about expectations. Clearly outline rules regarding finances, chores, and personal space. It’s important to communicate the consequences for not adhering to these boundaries. Consistency is key; enforce the rules fairly to maintain a respectful living environment.

How do I let go of my estranged daughter?

Letting go of an estranged daughter can be emotionally challenging. Focus on accepting the situation and understanding that you cannot control her choices. Consider seeking support through counseling or support groups to process your feelings. It may also help to write her a letter expressing your feelings without expecting a response, allowing you to express yourself while respecting her distance.

How long does parent-child estrangement usually last?

The duration of parent-child estrangement varies widely and can last from months to years. Factors influencing this include the reasons for estrangement, the willingness of both parties to communicate, and the resolution of underlying issues. Some relationships may eventually heal, while others may remain distant indefinitely. Patience and understanding are essential during this time.

What responsibilities should an adult child living at home have?

An adult child living at home should ideally contribute to the household in various ways. This can include paying rent, helping with groceries, or taking on household chores. Establishing these responsibilities can promote a sense of accountability and encourage their independence. It's important to have a conversation about expectations to ensure everyone is on the same page.