Q: Can my parents kick me out and keep my belongings at 17 in Virginia?
Can my parents legally kick me out of the house and keep my belongings while I'm still 17? They found out I shared with friends how stressful they make my life, and they now don't consider me their child. I want to leave as soon as possible and take my belongings with me. My online friends have offered me a place to stay, but I'm unsure about the legal implications of my parents' actions and rights over my possessions.
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A:
In Virginia, you are still considered a minor at 17, and your parents generally have legal control over your living situation and possessions. While parents are typically allowed to set rules about where you live, they cannot simply throw you out or keep your belongings without legal grounds. If you are kicked out, they are still legally required to care for you until you turn 18, unless you legally emancipate yourself, which is a separate legal process.
If your parents are refusing to allow you to take your belongings, it could be helpful to calmly explain your situation and try to work out a solution. If that isn’t possible, you may want to seek guidance from a trusted adult, such as a counselor or legal aid, to help navigate your next steps. You do have the right to retrieve your belongings, and your parents cannot legally deny you access to personal property without a valid reason.
If you feel unsafe at home, you may want to contact local authorities or a shelter for minors. You should also consider speaking to a lawyer or reaching out to social services for guidance on your rights and how to handle this situation, ensuring that you have a safe place to stay and that your legal rights are protected.
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