Ballwin, MO asked in Medical Malpractice, Health Care Law and Juvenile Law for Missouri

Q: Does a mature minor (not 18) have a right to withhold medical info from a legal guardian in Missouri? Please cite.

1 Lawyer Answer

A: Depends on the age, whether the person is an emancipated minor. Bigger issue is how to handle it on a relational/person to person level. I'm assuming the guardian is appointed or a stepparent. Starting a war over information means you can win the war but the battlefield is a mess. I suggest you find a counselor and discuss ways to discuss this issue with the guardian. Short answer is that until you are 18,your rights are limited. Also understand that the more you want to say "I rule" the less the law will say "they have to support you" once you are 18. Think before you fight.

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