Q: Could I take my father’s legal rights to me if I am only 14?
I am 13 about to turn 14 and my father had been absent in my life for a great number of months from the time he left when I was 5 he had also abused me physically, emotionally, verbally when I was younger and now he currently lives in Las Vegas Nevada.
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- Answered
A:
As a minor under 18 years old, you are not able to initiate legal proceedings to take away your father's legal rights to you in California. However, if you have concerns about your safety or well-being due to your father's abusive behavior, there are steps you can take to protect yourself.
You may consider reaching out to a trusted adult, such as a teacher, counselor, or family member, who can help you get the support and resources you need. You may also consider contacting Child Protective Services (CPS) in your county or city to report the abuse and seek assistance.
CPS may investigate your situation and provide services and support to ensure your safety and well-being. Additionally, if you are in immediate danger, you can call 911 or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) for help.
If you are interested in seeking legal emancipation from your parents, you may need to wait until you are 14 years old to file for emancipation in California. However, emancipation is a legal process that requires a court to determine whether you are able to support yourself financially and whether it is in your best interest to be emancipated.
Overall, it is important to seek the advice of a qualified attorney or other legal professional who can provide guidance and advice specific to your situation.
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