Las Vegas, NV asked in Child Custody, Child Support, Civil Rights, Juvenile Law and Family Law for Nevada

Q: I am 17 years old, and wondering if I can move in with my adult sibling? w/o parents consent IN LAS VEGAS NEVADA

I moved a year ago to live with my nana and ran away from my dad but now I see where he was abusive from and now I want to get away from my grandmother and move in with a family member (my sibling) who is 22. I can show I am responsible, I have a job and can pay rent and I have been for a year now. I would like to know as fast as possible because I only have 5 months left as 17, I will turn 18 as of June, So im wondering If thatll change anything at all?

1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA

A: Based on Nevada law, a 17-year-old minor likely requires parental consent to move out and live with an adult sibling. Some key details:

• In Nevada, the age of majority is 18 years old. So right now at 17, you would still be considered a minor.

• Minors generally need consent of a parent or legal guardian to permanently move out of an existing home to live somewhere else. This applies even when moving in with an adult sibling.

• When you turn 18 in June, you will be able to decide on your own living situation without needing parental permission as an adult. But until then, consent requirements still apply.

• There are some exceptions - for example, legal emancipation of the minor or if Child Protective Services authorizes an alternative living arrangement. But these require court approval based on abuse/neglect evidence.

In summary - Without demonstrated abuse/neglect, it will likely be difficult to move out on your own before 18 without parental sign-off. Once you turn 18, you will have full autonomy to make your own residence decisions. Until your birthday in June, your best options are either 1) getting parental approval 2) exploring emancipation if home life remains troubled. Consult a local attorney for specifics on Nevada minor laws.

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