Q: Can my parents dictate where I go to college if I'm still 17?
(Parents are divorced) I want to attend a college out of state but my mom is refusing to allow me to go. My father is okay with me attending an out of state college.
I was told if we don't agree (the three of us) then we go to mediation. What will mediation be like then? Can I request that I be responsible for paying for college? My mom is use to getting her way or causing grief until she gets her way.
A: Unfortunately, while you are 17, you can't make the decision on your own. However, once you are 18, you can do whatever you want (as long as you can afford it). You don't need your parents permission to apply out of state, but your mom may not pay your application fee. If you can get a full scholarship or have your own money, you can go where you want (once 18). You can also petition the court to make your dad full custodian. Mediation would be mediation between your parents on a parenting decision. You can be present and will be asked your opinion, but the decision will be applicable to your parents. It won't be binding on you once you turn 18. You could also petition to become an emancipated minor, but you would need to be living on your own, away from your parents. You would probably need some income as well.
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