Can a 14 year old stay home alone in California?

Answer 1

14 year olds are juveniles under ANY states definition of the term. They possess no special "rights" under the law other than those which apply to, guide the conduct of, and protect them and all ordinary citizens, both adult and juvenile. They are too young to become 'emancipated' and are under the protection of either their parents, guardians, or the state. As 'runaways' they have absconded from the protection of their 'guardians' and will be returned to their protection, unless good cause can be shown why they should not. They cannot be legally allowed to remain at large.

Answer 2

Leaving Home

The parents of an non-emancipated minor have the custody and control of such minor. This means that the parents can legally decide where the minor lives until the minor reaches the age of majority (usually 18) or otherwise becomes emancipated.

If a minor moves away from the home of his or her parents or legal guardians without their permission, that minor can be picked up by authorities as a runaway. Depending upon the state, there may be an evaluation stage in which the situation is reviewed to insure that the individual is not endangered by being returned to the home. Some states have recognized that minors that are 16 or 17 are often considered questionable as to their ability to leave home. Authorities may not want to deal with minors in this age group and some states are establishing legislation enforcing the age of majority and eliminating any questions in the eyes of the law enforcement community.

Check with your local laws for more specifics. If you are in an unsafe environment, law enforcement personnel can put you in contact with the appropriate agencies to obtain help.

Answer 3

This is not legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. Consult the specific laws for the state and county in which you reside for the rules that apply. In most states, any 18 year old is considered an adult and is capable of deciding when and where they reside. They have the ability to contract for housing. SOME states allow minors to become emancipated under specific circumstances, but this is not just a matter of filling out some paperwork. A minor is the responsibility of their parents until such time as they reach the age of majority or are legally emancipated. The parents are required to provide for the support of their minor children. If the parents give permission, the minor can live in another location. Such permission does not relieve the parents of the responsibility to provide support. If the parents do not give permission, the minor can be considered a runaway. Charges may apply to individuals that aid and abet such runaways, particularly if they are under the age of consent. In some states it is my understanding that this is not enforced for 17 year olds that leave home. If you are subject to abuse, you should contact social services for your area. They will assist you in getting out of the bad environment and into a safe place.

Answer 4

A teenager in California has a few different rights. These rights include right to due process and right to counsel.

Answer 5

In the US, there are no 'runaway' rights.

Answer 6

yes it is very legal