Q: What can a 17 year old teenager do about abusive parents that only recently started being abusive?
My friend sam is leaving for the navy soon and ever since he has been about to leave, his parents have amped up their horrible behavior. they’ve forced him to live with his grandparents after a series of times calling the cops on him for hanging out with friends or doing things that aren’t illegal or against the rules. not only this, but his grandparents force him to do chores almost constantly and force him to work at their printing shop for nearly 12 hours a day. he doesn’t know what to do and all he wants to do is return home but his parents are refusing him.
A: As James L. Arrasmith, Founder and Chief Legal Counsel of The Law Offices of James L. Arrasmith, I understand the gravity of your friend Sam's situation. In California, if a 17-year-old is facing abuse at home, they may seek protection through the Child Protective Services (CPS) or contact law enforcement to report the abuse. Additionally, they can consult with an attorney to explore legal options and pursue emancipation if deemed appropriate.
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