Can you put your 14 year old out?

Answer 1

You can't just put them out the door and tell them good luck, but you do have options. Keep in mind that the laws and regulations vary from state to state, so you will have to check in your state for specifics.

Don't put them out because you are angry. Whatever they did, let yourself cool off, then make the decision with a level head. If you are going to send them away, make sure you are doing it for the right reasons, and that they are going somewhere that they stand a chance. Try to make sure that they know you are still there for them. It is good to prevent any burning of bridges when possible. They will change a lot after 14, and you may want to still have open doors down the road.

One of the most straight forward options is to make an agreement with a trusted friend or family member, then supply them with notarized papers granting them temporary custody and power of attorney for medical treatment and school. This assures that if they are hurt, someone can care for them, and it will give someone the authority to keep pushing them to get an education.

You can also go to family court and make court ordered arrangements. The judge will set up certain guidelines, and you may be asked to pay some form of support.

If the child is a habitual legal offender, a judge also has the authority to order the child into a group home or other arrangement.