questions & answers

Question: I am 19 years of age and I have a girlfriend that lives currently in mesa arizona. Although she has a guardian, can I pick her up and bring her back with me to live with me in greensboro north carolina if she leaves a note willingly at her assisted living home stating that she left with me by her own choice?

Answer: If under 18, usually a minor can not leave. A minor can be emancipated at 16, meaning for this situation to move out of the guardian’s home. However, under ARS 12-2451 there are certain requirements to meet before a judge will grant emancipation. For example, 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.” The Supreme Court offers more useful information here:http://supreme.state.az.us/selfserv/emancipation/emancipationbooklet.pdf