My question involves guardianship in the State of: Vermont. I have met all the requirements for the Emancipation petition except one. I have the means to support my self, I am receiving a passing education, I am 17 so i meet the age requirement, i meet every requirement except living separate from my parents for 3 months or longer. I typed up a contract that states my parents understand emancipation and the reason I will live separate from them and that they give me permission to do so. But they refuse to sign the contract leaving me to be a run away if i try and meet the requirement. My father has a history of abuse, my mother does as well. My mother is unable to care for me or my siblings. my living situation is unhealthy. they also moved our family from Colorado to move near family because my father lost his job. both my parents are unemployed as well. So i have a few questions. The first being, if i change the contract to just them understanding what Emancipation is and why i am leaving, if that will force them to sign because it is them understanding not giving me permission? My second question is, can i go ahead and send in the petition even though i haven't met the 3 month or longer requirement, and explain that my parents wouldn't allow me too? My third question is, do i need they're permission to meet the requirement, if not how do i prove that i'm not a runaway but going through the process of Emancipation? And my last question is, where can i find a lawyer that will do some pro bono work for my case and help me out?