How Can I Help This Child

[agoodmom]

My question involves emancipation laws for the State of: Oklahoma. I have a 16 year old who has been living with our family since August 2008. His father passed away in the spring and the child is receiving SSI survivor benefits. His mother refuses to work. She had a job for 1 day in 2 years and was fired on day 2. She is living on his SSI and we are providing for him. He gets nothing from her. Would this be grounds for emancipation in Oklahoma and how does he do that?

[cbg]

No, it is not.

In OK, emancipation of a minor relates solely to his ability to sign contracts and does not relate to his being able to live on his own. How does he plan to support himself?

[agoodmom]

He would have his SSI Survivor Benefits and have a job.

[panther10758]

"would have"? He needs a job not will get one!

[cbg]

Which does not change the fact that OK emancipation law does not provide for him to move out on his own. And if he WERE emancipated and granted adult status, the SSI payments would stop.

[agoodmom]

He is a really good kid. Which is why we allow him to stay with us. We cloth him, feed him, pay his school expenses, etc. If "emancipation" is not an option, can you recommend other options to get his mother up off the couch and get a job so that he has access to the benefits that are HIS, not hers? He is only liable for half the rent, utilities, and food according to SSI. That money is being used to pay all the rent, all the utilities, and all the food and he is not even living there!

[aardvarc]

Check the website for your county court - specifically the probate section. They are the branch that handles guardianship. It may be possible for you to petition to become the minor's legal guardian - particularly since the child has already been living with you and if the mother shows no sign of becoming interested; empowering you to make legal decisions regarding education, health care, religion, and general welfare - and typically you'd then administer the SSI payments on his behalf as well.