Legal Question in Family Law in Michigan

Emancipation of a minor

what are the requirements for a minor to be able to be emancipated in the state of michigan? This person is 15 yrs. old and was "shipped" here to michigan by his parents to be taken care of by a half-sister. since this time they have threatened to send him to bootcamp. can they do this? since this minor has been here in michigan, he has not been in any trouble, legal or otherwise. any reccommendations welcome. I'm afraid he will run-away if the threats continue, and that would be a shame. he's a good kid. thank you.


Asked on 3/07/99, 11:32 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
Stephen Scapelliti Law Office of Stephen Scapelliti, Esq.

Re: Emancipation of a minor

A minor is considered emancipated in Michigan at age 17. There are exceptions, such as where the minor is married. You should consult an attorney regarding this issue to determine whether there are factors which affect the rights of the child or of the parents The information contained in this response may not be relied upon as legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship has been created as a result of this response.

Stephen Scapelliti

Couzens, Lansky, Fealk, Ellis, Roeder & Lazar, P.C.

39395 W. Twelve Mile Road, Suite 200


Read more
Answered on 3/09/99, 1:49 pm
Henry J. Legere, Jr. Law Office of Henry J. Legere, Jr.

Re: Emancipation of a minor

At age 16 a minor may file a petition in the Family Division of the Circuit Court (Juvenile Court) seeking to be emancipated. The minor will have to prove that he/she has sufficent means to support him/herself. Would need further information as to why juvenile was sent to live with relative to see if threats of bootcamp have a basis in reality. For example, if juvenile was a court ward from another jurisdiction and if relatives informed the court that they could not handle the juvenile then the court may place the juvenile in a boot camp program. If the juvenile runs away then the juvenile could become a court ward if not a ward already if the relative files a report with the police and a petition for home truancy is authorized.

Henry J. Legere, Jr.

Sheikh & Associates, P.C.

35 Crocker Blvd.


Read more
Answered on 3/09/99, 9:42 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Family Law, Divorce, Child Custody and Adoption questions and answers in Michigan