Q: if my home is a toxic place and i am 15 teen and I have a 20year old friend who is willing to take me in and house me
if i text them to take me away form my home to their house could they face legail consequences
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A:
In this situation, there could potentially be legal consequences for your 20-year-old friend. In California, it is generally illegal for an adult to house a minor who has run away from home without parental consent. This could be considered "harboring a runaway" or "contributing to the delinquency of a minor."
However, if you are facing abuse, neglect, or unsafe living conditions at home, there are legal options available to protect you. Here are a few steps you can consider:
1. Contact Child Protective Services (CPS) or the police to report the abuse or neglect. They can investigate your situation and take appropriate action to ensure your safety.
2. Reach out to a trusted adult, such as a teacher, school counselor, or relative, who can help you navigate this difficult situation and connect you with appropriate resources.
3. If you do leave home, consider staying with a family member or at a licensed youth shelter rather than with your 20-year-old friend to avoid potential legal complications for them.
4. Look into the process of legal emancipation, which would allow you to live independently before turning 18. However, this process can be complex and requires demonstrating that you can support yourself financially.
Remember, your safety is the top priority. Seek help from trusted adults and professionals who can assist you through proper legal channels. Running away to stay with an adult friend, while well-intentioned, could create legal problems for them and may not be the best solution for your situation.
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