questions & answers

Question: I have recemtly been told I have to relocate for work. My oldest son is 17 years old and graduates in a month. He has told me that he will not move, and when we go, he is "Disapearing". I told him he had to be emancipated to do this, and of course he responded "No one will ever get me". The child has has discplinary problems and typically does not do anything he is told". Is there some legal way of keeping this kid in check?

Answer:

If a person is under age 18 in Arizona, he or she cannot leave home without a parent's permission unless he or she is fully emancipated, or the parents have lost their right to parental authority.

If a 17 year-old leaves home without permission from a parent or legal guardian, he or she can be prosecuted as an incorrigible child (A.R.S. § 8-201(15)(c)). Some of the consequences of being found incorrigible include being fined, be placed on probation, and being ordered to do community service. The specific charges and consequences are left up to the officer of the court.