Can a 17-Year-Old Move Out Without Parents' Permission

[Allyflynn199]

Let me start off by stating that my birth father isn't in the picture, though, legally my parents have joint custody. I haven't spoken to him in years and do not wish to. I live with my mom and her boyfriend in New York state. I am 17 years old, I have already graduated, and I am fully employed. But before I got to such a good place I suffered from dysthymic disorder and I was going through treatments so that my disorder would lay dormant for as long as possible. During my treatments, there was a mix up and my insurance halted as well as my therapy sessions and my medication prescriptions. Without any money to pay for these things, I could no longer use a crutch. But after my insurance problem was fixed my mother wouldn't continue my treatments despite my helpless pleading. I for one, see that as medical neglect and I don't see her as very supportive of my disorder. She didn't like my therapist very much because my therapist filed a CPS report on my mother once it came to light that she wasn't following my safety plan and her carelessness landed me in the hospital. I digress. This is only bits and pieces of why I no longer wish to live with her. I have recently been looking at apartments with my boyfriend and another couple who is willing to split the rent. I'm very excited about it but my mother told me I do not have her blessing and she will do everything in her power to stop me. My question is: what power does she have? She is jobless, has a drug history, and has had numerous cps cases filed against her over the years. I want to know if I should seek legal help in the matter. If I move out what can she do? What will the cops do once she calls them?

[cbg]

Yes, you can move out. The very minute you turn 18, you can move out and live anywhere you want to and no one can do a thing about it.

But as long as you are still 17, you live where your mother says you live, and yes, the cops can come and get you and bring you back home. So can she. The law is not on your side in this matter. You are still a minor - Mom is God.