Can you legally move out of your parents' house at age 17 in Pennsylvania?

Answer 1

No, you cannot move out without your parents' permission. The age of majority in PA is actually 21 (it's 18 in most other states). You could try to get legally emancipated by a judge. See the factsheet on this linked to the right.

Answer 2

The state does not have set emancipation statues. Due to the unusual age of majority the law does allow petitions of emancipation rights to be filed by a minor who is at least seventeen years of age. The general requirements are that the minor has completed the school year in which they reached the age of 17, are gainfully employed,live independently from their parents or legal guardian, and can provide supporting evidence to the court of being able to conduct their life without another adult's involvement.

Answer 3

A Social Worker from Family Court in Philadelphia gave me the following facts: A 16 year old in PA can be emancipated under the following conditions: 1). The child has to be attending school. (The legal drop out rate for school in PA is 17 3/4 years of age). 2). The child has to have a part-time job. 3). The child has to have a checking account. 4). The child has to prove that he/she can pay their own living expenses. I have recently discovered since I wrote this answer that a child in PA is legally allowed to leave school when they are 16 years old, not 17 and 3/4 years old.

Answer 4

A 17 year old in Pennsylvania can simply sign a petition at a Family Court for emancipation, if they are working. Once the petition is signed and submitted, there will be a date set for a hearing with a Judge.

The 17 year old must have proof of a job and a checking account for this hearing. They must also have evidence that they have the necessary funding required to be self-supportive. This evidence must be submitted at the hearing. It is then left to the Judge's discretion whether the 17 year old may be emancipated under the law in PA.

Only a 17 year old minor can petition the Court for emancipation. The parent is not allowed to do so.

Answer 5

A minor cannot "legally" run away in any US state. If it were legal to do so, then it would not be necessary. What consequences might result in such behavior would depend upon the circumstances of the persons involved.

Answer 6

No, you cannot legally move out. You must be 18 or have their permission.