Emancipation is when a minor has achieved independence from his or her parents, such as by getting married before reaching age 18 or by becoming fully self-supporting. It may be possible for a child to petition a court for emancipation to free the minor child from the control of parents and allow the minor to live on his/her own or under the control of others. It usually applies to adolescents who leave the parents' household by agreement or demand.
Some of the most common methods for a minor to become emancipated include marriage, reaching the age of majority, entering military service, or by court order. A parent may also formally or informally agree to give up some or all of his/her parental control. For example, a parent might consent to allowing a child to establish a separate household. In other cases, a parent may force the minor to leave and support him/herself. Generally, parental consent is required, except in cases of parental misconduct that causes the minor to leave the home. Emancipation may cease to make a parent liable for the acts of a child, including debts, negligence or criminal acts. State laws on emancipation vary, so local laws should be consulted for specific requirements in your area.
Sometimes the emancipation of a child ends the obligation of a divorced parent to pay child support. When a child reaches the age of emancipation, the duty of a parent for child support often ends. However, the age of emancipation varies by state. Also, a parent may be obligated to support a child for a longer period, such as through college, under a divorce decree. Emancipation will not relieve a parent from obligations to pay past due child support amounts.
Requirements for emancipation vary by state.
