Guardianship rights in colorado

You can emancipate yourself at 14 with the courts permission. It’s easier at 16 if you live in an abusive home, you must apply to the juvenile court. Here’s the wording and the link:

Before a child gets emancipated he or she must be able to provide for themselves, handle their own money and have a legal way to make money. All these conditions at a minimum must be met before the judge will make a ruling in favor of the child.

What are some of the general rules on how to get emancipated in Colorado:

The child must be a resident of Colorado The child has to be at least 14 years of age The child must be living separate and apart from the parents or guardian The child must be capable of supporting himself or herself financially and managing his or her own affairs Each parent or guardian must consent (although there are certain exceptions) Not a ward of the state Just because a child becomes emancipated there are still certain responsibilities the child must take care of themselves:

Cannot drink alcohol until the legal age in that state Must attend school Cannot get married unless he/she has parents permission Cannot vote until the age of 18 Cannot purchase cigarettes or alcohol Cannot purchase or possess firearms Now for the good news about emancipation. The child who is granted emancipation can get medical care, apply for a work permit, sign up for school and go to college and live where he/she wants to. Remember this is a big responsibility and when you ask for it you really should be ready to receive it.

If you want to get emancipated then go to the appropriate juvenile court to start the proceedings. You probably be interviewed to make sure you understand the ramifications of emancipation. If it is deemed that you are a candidate then a petition in juvenile court should be filed to start the process.

http://blog.laborlawtalk.com/2006/12/22/how-to-get-emancipated-in-colorado/

Be careful what you wish for, it’s a big responsibility taking care of yourself at such a young age. Try finding help with the local school social worker, your church pastor or rabbi, friends parents that can help etc. This is not a step to do casually.

Good luck, feel free to drop me an email if you have questions. Did a lot of work with abused kids in Colorado years ago.

Huh? Are you saying that in Colorado you are not a legal adult at 18?

Some states require parents to support an 18 year old child who’s still in high school, but the 18 year old is free to leave home legally on her 18th birthday if she wants.