Q: I live in the state of Colorado, so can I get legally emancipated at 17 years of age? How does the process work?
My stepfather has been physically and verbally abusive to me and as of a few days ago I'm living at my friend's house. My friend said I can stay with her for as long as I have to (until I leave for college next year) but she doesn't want to run into any legal issues given that she isn't my guardian - can I get legally emancipated at the age of 17 in the state of Colorado? How would I go about doing that?
A: I am sorry to hear that your home life is abusive. Colorado does not have an independent cause of action for emancipation of a minor. In other words, emancipation is conditioned upon: a divorce, child support claim or a request from a state/local child protection agency. At this point you have four options: (1) wait a year until you time-out and reach 18; (2) contact the state or local child services (who may file for emancipation); (3) enlist in the military (parental consent will be required) or (4) petition to have your friend become a legal guardian (parental consent will be required). I know none of these options are very good...
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