Seattle, WA asked in Family Law, Child Custody, Child Support and Juvenile Law for Oregon

Q: i saw the runaway laws when ur 17 the law cant do anything? In oregon

1 Lawyer Answer
Joanne Reisman
Joanne Reisman
Answered
  • Divorce Lawyer
  • Portland, OR
  • Licensed in Oregon

A: You are a minor under your parents custody and care until you are age 18. Running away isn't a crime but it is a situation that is a safety concern for the minor child so the authorities can intervene and take the juvenile into protective care. That said, sometimes older children end up living on the streets if the system fails to provide a place for them or they just keep running away. It is illegal for another adult to shelter a juvenile when the parents want the child returned. That is called custodial interference. So if you run away you may end up in a dangerous situation living on the streets. My best advice is to stick it out living at home until you are age 18 and legally an adult. If living at home is dangerous for you in anyway, then call DHS and tell them about the danger or abuse you are suffering and get yourself placed in a foster home until you turn 18. Please don't think there is anything glamorous about street life. That would be a very big mistake.

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