Minneapolis, MN asked in Banking for Texas

Q: Does a parent with a joint account with their child have legal rights over the teens finances?

The teen works a job and receives income, and the parent is threatening that it is not their money, but is the parents.

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2 Lawyer Answers
John Michael Frick
John Michael Frick
Answered
  • Business Law Lawyer
  • Frisco, TX
  • Licensed in Texas

A: One parental right specifically stated in the Family Code is “the right to the services and earnings of the child.”

John Michael Frick
John Michael Frick
Answered
  • Business Law Lawyer
  • Frisco, TX
  • Licensed in Texas

A: Being on a joint account is irrelevant. Being a parent of the child is dispositive.

If the minor is seventeen and is earning enough to be financially independent and to support themself, they can petition for emancipation.

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