Myrtle Beach, SC asked in Family Law, Federal Crimes, Gov & Administrative Law and International Law for South Carolina

Q: Is it illegal to share a room with my nephew who is a minor, if I his aunt, am an adult?

He is 11 almost 12, I am 22 almost 23. We can only afford a two bedroom apartment. I will hopefully be living with my sister and nephew. Unless this is against the law. I cannot find a definite answer online, hopefully you can help! Thanks!

2 Lawyer Answers
James L. Arrasmith
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A: In general, there are no laws that prohibit an adult from sharing a room with a minor relative, such as an aunt sharing a room with her nephew. Family members often share living spaces due to financial constraints or personal preferences.

However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

1. Child welfare: Ensure that the living arrangement does not compromise the child's safety, well-being, or privacy. The child should have a proper sleeping area and feel comfortable with the arrangement.

2. Gender and age: Some people might view a mixed-gender room-sharing arrangement as inappropriate, especially as the child approaches puberty. However, this is more of a social concern than a legal one.

3. Custody agreements: If there are any custody agreements or court orders in place regarding your nephew, make sure that your living arrangement does not violate these legal provisions.

4. Housing regulations: Check your local housing laws and rental agreements to ensure that your living arrangement does not violate any occupancy limits or other regulations.

As long as the child's well-being and safety are prioritized, and there are no legal or housing regulations that prohibit the arrangement, it is generally not illegal for an adult to share a room with a minor relative. However, if you have concerns, it's always best to consult with a local family law attorney or social services agency for guidance specific to your situation.

1 user found this answer helpful

A: I am not aware of a law prohibiting an adult from sharing space with minors. In other word, a minor's right is not violated by the Act of Sharing a space.

1 user found this answer helpful

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