Can a 17-year-old girl who lives in Arkansas legally move out without parental consent?

Answer 1

The legal age of majority for the state is 18. Parents of a minor are legally and financially responsible until said minor reaches the state's age of majority. Therefore the parents would have legal recourse to keep the minor living at the family home; or to have said minor returned to their custody or placed in the custody of the court if the underaged person left against parental wishes.

Answer 2

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 3

no u cant