Emancipation

questions & answers

Question: I work in the medical field. Is a pregnant minor considered emancipated when obtaining medical consent? For example, for labor epidural placement? I didn't realize this varied state to state.

Answer: Pregnancy does not make a minor automatically emancipated. Marriage makes a minor emancipated. To become emancipated a minor may file a petition with the court if they meet the following requirements: “1. The minor is at least sixteen years of age. 2. The minor is a resident of this state. 3. The minor is financially self-sufficient. 4. The minor acknowledges in writing that the minor has read and understands information that is provided by the court and that explains the rights and obligations of an emancipated minor and the potential risks and consequences of emancipation. 5. The minor is not a ward of the court and is not in the care, custody and control of a state agency.” (A.R.S. 12-2451)