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What are our legal rights to bring our 17 year old daughter home if she ran away?

What are our legal rights to bring our 17 year old daughter home if she ran away?

Q: Can you report a 17 year old as a runaway?

Yes, you can report a 17-year-old as a runaway in Louisiana. If your child leaves home without your consent, contact local law enforcement to file a report. They will take the necessary steps to locate your child and ensure their safety. Remember, as a parent, you have the right to seek help in these situations.

Full question:

My daughter turned 17 on Saturday and ran away from home the day after with her 19 year old boyfriend. We were not allowing them to date because he had dropped out of school two years ago and we did not feel he was a good influence on her. Our daughter attends a school, makes good grades is active in school activities. When we realized she was missing we contacted the police. They told us they could bring her home but she could possible run away again. The policeman was able to contact her by phone and she told the policeman and us that she would come home. Her boyfriend told her that she does not have to come home at all and there is nothing we can do to them. My daughter thinks we tried to trick her when the police told her that she would have to come home. She was very angry with us and did not come home. Do we have any rights to bring our daughter home?

Category: Minors
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Louisiana

Answer:

Your daughter would need your consent in order to live outside the home, since she has not yet reached the age of majority in Louisiana and is not emancipated.

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

What can I do if my 17 year old keeps running away?

If your 17-year-old keeps running away, it's important to communicate openly with them about their feelings and reasons for leaving. You can also involve a counselor or therapist to help address underlying issues. Additionally, consider contacting local authorities for guidance on how to handle the situation legally. Remember, in Louisiana, as a parent, you have the right to seek assistance in bringing your child home, as they are still legally under your care.

What to do when your 17 year old daughter runs away?

When your 17-year-old daughter runs away, first contact the police to report her missing. They can help locate her and ensure her safety. It's also essential to communicate with her and express your willingness to listen to her concerns. Consider involving a professional, such as a family therapist, to facilitate discussions and address any issues she may be facing at home.

Can my 17 year old daughter leave home?

In Louisiana, a 17-year-old cannot legally leave home without parental consent, as they are still considered a minor. If your daughter leaves without your permission, you have the right to seek assistance from law enforcement to bring her back home. It's important to address any underlying issues that may be prompting her to leave.

Can you report a 17 year old as a runaway?

What can I do if my 17 year old refuses to come home?

If your 17-year-old refuses to come home, try to communicate with them calmly to understand their reasons. You can also seek the help of a family therapist or counselor to mediate the situation. If necessary, contact law enforcement for assistance, as you have legal rights regarding your child's welfare until they reach adulthood.

What would happen if a 17 year old ran away from home?

If a 17-year-old runs away from home, law enforcement can be notified to locate and return them. The police may also assess the situation to ensure the child's safety and well-being. In Louisiana, parents have the right to seek assistance in bringing their child home, as the child is still considered a minor and under parental care.