Is it legal to leave a seventeen year old home alone for three days in Florida?

Answer 1

Depends on the teenager. Sixteen is old enough to lock the doors, call police or fire department if needed. Is the teenager old enough not to invite his/her friends to a party at your house? Is he/she trustworthy enough not to be out roaming the streets at night? Can the parents phone home at odd hours to check on the teen? Are there neighbors or friends the teen can phone if there's a problem? It really just depends on the kid. Parents won't get in trouble for leaving a 16 year old at home alone.

Answer 2

It depends on the teenager. If you can't find anyone to take care of the teen, and you absolutely cannot take him/her with you, and they are responsible, mature, won't burn the house down, won't have house parties every night, will be able to do their own laundry and feed themselves, then maybe you should trust him/her.

Answer 3

Yes, it's legal. Florida's guidelines for leaving a child home alone are extremely flexible. The general consensus is a child under 12 years of age should not be left without adult supervision for lengthy periods of time. The specific amount of time is not stated but is suggested to be 12 hours or less.

A 17-year-old is considered capable of taking care of themselves for extended periods of time as long as they are in a suitable environment, such as the family home.

There are not specific laws regarding the issue. However, the parent(s) could be held accountable if the minor child/teen encounters problems with authorities. Parents are assumed to know whether or not their children are responsible and trustworthy.

Answer 4

Assuming the 16 year old is of sound mind and can care for him or herself, yes.

Answer 5

They very well could be. Make sure that you're child(ren) are super responsible. I know If my mom let me home alone for a few days I'd party up. ;]

Answer 6

(in the US) These laws can vary greatly from state-to-state and it may also depend on what the familial relationship is between the 16-year old caregiver and the other minors.

Answer 7

ummm, doesnt matter were you live but its how mature you think a 15/16 year old are ad act. But im sure its not too bad

Answer 8

Seriously? Unless they're really immature then yes. That 16 year old could be leaving home in two years, they need some responsibility!

Answer 9

YES but if he starts a party and breaks any laws such as disturbing the peace NO!!