questions & answers

Question: Can I call the police on my parents if they choose not to give me my birth certificate, social security number, clothes, and school things such as books? i left my house to be at my boyfriends and they are not giving me any of my stuff what do I do? how do I get it back?

Answer: I'm going to assume that you are under 18. 

If a minor runs away from home or fails to obey a lawful order they may be prosecuted as an incorrigible child (A.R.S. § 8-201(15)(c)).  Some punishments for being found incorrigible include being fined, being put on probation, or being ordered to do community service.

If you call the police, you are likely to be brought back to your parents’ house or to a juvenile detention facility.  

Mediation may be a valuable way to work through some of the conflict at home.  During mediation, a third party will facilitate a discussion between individuals or groups of people to help them come to some sort of understanding and agreement.

For information and assistance with emotional or family conflict, visit: http://nationalsafeplace.org/safe-place-teens/running-away/

For more information on mediation, visit: www.superiorcourt.maricopa.gov/SuperiorCourt/FamilyCourt/Services/ConciliationServices/mediation.asp

Or visit: http://www.mcafm.org/