My family life is horrible. I have an offer for an apartment that is 200$ a month. I work two jobs, am graduating high school in two months. I'm going to be attending Fitchburg State in the fall. My question is, what is the legal age to move out in the state of Massachusetts? I know my Dad (who wouldn't sign my birth certificate when i was born, so i'm not even sure of his relativity to me) will not approve of it. But I know I will be able to support myself and be happier on my own. Can somebody help me.
-
FreeAdvice has a new Terms of Service and Privacy Policy, effective May 25, 2018.
By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our Terms of Service and use of cookies.
Moving out at age 17 in Massachusetts
- Thread starter amberx93
- Start date
Accident - Bankruptcy - Criminal Law / DUI - Business - Consumer - Employment - Family - Immigration - Real Estate - Tax - Traffic - Wills Please click a topic or scroll down for more.
CdwJava
Senior Member
The age of majority in MA is 18. That means you are not considered an adult until your 18th birthday and you are subject to the rules of your parents until that time.
If you move out without permission of your mom, she can come and get you - likely with the assistance of the police.
As there is no specific emancipation statute in MA you would no be able to enter into a lease agreement or any other contract until your 18th birthday. And while it is theoretically possible for a court in MA to emancipate you, it seems to be extremely rare.
If you are 17 now, and if your mom (or dad) opposed your emancipation, chances are good that you might be 18 by the time the issue was settled.
You can always go to the local Family Court and see if they have any information on this in your local courthouse. But, do not expect to be out on your own unless your parents agree.
If you move out without permission of your mom, she can come and get you - likely with the assistance of the police.
As there is no specific emancipation statute in MA you would no be able to enter into a lease agreement or any other contract until your 18th birthday. And while it is theoretically possible for a court in MA to emancipate you, it seems to be extremely rare.
If you are 17 now, and if your mom (or dad) opposed your emancipation, chances are good that you might be 18 by the time the issue was settled.
You can always go to the local Family Court and see if they have any information on this in your local courthouse. But, do not expect to be out on your own unless your parents agree.
stealth2
Under the Radar Member
It's theoretical.
cbg
I'm a Northern Girl
I'm in MA and the answer is very simple.
If your parents/legal guardian says you may move out at 17, then you may. If they say you may not, then you may not.
When you are 18 and not one minute before, you can do what you like. Until then, you live where your parents or legal guardians say you live.
If your parents/legal guardian says you may move out at 17, then you may. If they say you may not, then you may not.
When you are 18 and not one minute before, you can do what you like. Until then, you live where your parents or legal guardians say you live.
Find the Right Lawyer for Your Legal Issue!
Fast, Free, and Confidential
data-ad-format="auto">