Columbus, OH asked in Criminal Law, Family Law, Education Law and Juvenile Law for Ohio

Q: Daughter turned 18 sept 30th ran away has missed school every day except 3 days school is kicking her out police won't

Help me with her because she's "18" she's not taking any of her depression meds birth control or anything she's doing drugs and drinking every day with this boyfriend 16 yes old police won't help me school is pressuring me I've told them she ran away but they said I'm still legally responsible for her yet cops or no one will help me with her or the horrible boyfriend and his family

1 Lawyer Answer
Joseph Jaap
Joseph Jaap
Answered
  • Cincinnati, OH
  • Licensed in Ohio

A: At 18, she is considered an independent adult, and she can make her own decisions free from parental control. You could file with the probate court to obtain guardianship of her -- if there is a doctor diagnosis that she might be a danger to herself or for other medical or psychological reasons. Otherwise, there might not be much you can do since she is legally considered an adult. Use the Find a Lawyer tab to retain a local attorney who handles guardianships in probate court to review the situation and advise you of your options.

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