Legal Question in Family Law in New Mexico

What are the specific requirements for emancipation in New Mexico?

I would like to know what the specific requirements are for emancipation in the state of New Mexico. I will be 18 soon, but feel as though my mental and emotional health and well being would be threatened, if I stayed with my parents. I have a friend in WA whose family told me I was more than welcome to stay with them, once I became emancipated or of legal age. They have offered financial support as well, until I can become financially independent. Is this a possibility? Would emancipation allow for that to happen?

Thanks!


Asked on 4/16/02, 11:40 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

John Watson John Watson, Attorney at Law

Re: What are the specific requirements for emancipation in New Mexico?

If I may be so bold as to offer my unsolicited opinion I would suggest that you speak to your school counselor and describe what is going on at home and end your description with the following words, "I need some help."

The route you are suggesting, moving from NM to WA, during your last year at school is a drastic suggestion. It indicates to me that you are feeling like you are in a drastic situation. There are remedies that may be better suited to your situation but that are not answered by a lawyer. Consider your options, because there are always options - and you don't need a lawyer to tell you that. (I actually heard it first from Captian Jean Luke Picard and he never steered me [or his ship] wrong). Be that as it may, you may go to the public library and ask the reference librarian for the New Mexico Statutes Annotated and in book number 6 you will find the full text to the following law "Emancipation of Minors Act" located at 32A-21-1 through 32A-21-7. This law tells you exactly what to do and how to do it. I will not put the contents of the law in here because someone (like Michie Co.) may get upset about copyright something or other but pay particular attention to 32A-21-7. "Declaration of Emancipation; petition; contents; notice; mandate."

good luck and send a note back if the guru can be of further assistance . . .

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Answered on 4/16/02, 2:00 pm


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