Seffner, FL asked in Child Custody and Family Law for Puerto Rico

Q: I want to leave my home but I'm 18 can I leave and just leave hay note sing by me and saying why I'm leaving?

I want to leave but what happens if she takes my note and takes it to hay judge

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1 Lawyer Answer
Rafael  Pagan-Colon
Rafael Pagan-Colon
Answered
  • Divorce Lawyer
  • San Juan, PR
  • Licensed in Puerto Rico

A: Although in other states, an 18-year old is considered an adult, for the purposes of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the Rule of Law says that a person is an adult at 21 years of age. However, an 18-year old may be emancipated (that is, legally brought to adulthood) either by the subscription of a deed whereby the candidate teen "adult" and his/her parents appear; or you may do so before a court of law in Puerto Rico. Besides being at least 18 years old, the Puerto Rico Civil Code requires that the teen have economic means to sustain him/herself that is not being supported by the parents, grandparents or other relatives.

Alternatively, you can join the armed forces, which would allow you to leave Puerto Rico. The important thing is that you can sustain yourself without relying on your family.

Merely leaving a note will not resolve your problems. On the contrary. Your folks will not take the note to the judge, but to the police. And they will treat this as a missing minor's case which can and will get you in hot water, once they find you.

Finally, if your reason for skipping out has to do with problems between you and one or more members of your family, before doing anything rash, perhaps you can speak with a trusted minister or teacher or counsellor.

I do hope that you find what you need, and make an informed and mature decision. I wish you well.

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