Q: Can my parents take legal action if I move out at 18?
I am currently 17 years old and will turn 18 in May. I plan to move out with my boyfriend when I turn 18. My parents are very strict, and they don't know about my boyfriend. I am not allowed to go out with friends because of their strictness. If I leave a note telling them I've moved out, can they call the police on me, and will I get in trouble after turning 18?
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A:
Once you turn 18, you are legally an adult in California, which means you have the right to make your own decisions about where you live. Your parents cannot legally force you to stay at home or call the police on you just because you've moved out. If you decide to leave, they may feel hurt or upset, but they don't have legal grounds to stop you from going.
However, if you leave without informing them, it might cause emotional distress, especially since you mentioned your parents are strict. It's important to think about how this could affect your relationship with them, even though you are legally an adult. Communicating your decision might help to ease any tension, even if it's difficult.
After you turn 18, you won’t face legal consequences for moving out unless there are specific situations like financial dependency or a lease you are bound to. It’s always a good idea to be prepared for any potential emotional fallout, but legally, you're free to make your own choices about where you live.
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