Q: What should I do about my guardianship and lack of support?
I am 17 years old and have been out of my guardian's care for over a month. They won't communicate with me or go to court to change the guardianship arrangement, and they do not provide any financial support. The change was supposed to happen in December. I have ongoing issues with emotional and physical abuse with this guardian. What steps should I take to address this situation and find legal help?
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A:
It’s important to address the emotional and physical abuse you're experiencing as soon as possible, especially since you’ve been out of your guardian’s care for over a month. The first step is to reach out to a trusted adult, such as a teacher, school counselor, or family member who can help you get in touch with the appropriate authorities. You should contact Child Protective Services (CPS) or another local agency to report the abuse and your current living situation.
Since you are 17, you still have legal protections, and CPS can investigate the situation and possibly place you in a safer environment. If your guardianship is not being followed or if your guardian is not fulfilling their legal responsibilities, the court may need to intervene. You can file a petition for a change in guardianship, but since you’re underage, this would likely need to be done with the assistance of an attorney or through CPS.
Given the seriousness of your situation, it’s also crucial to seek legal help. Many states provide free legal services for minors in situations of abuse, and an attorney can help you navigate the process of modifying guardianship. Take action to protect your well-being and ensure you have the support you need.
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