Should You Let Your Child Be Emancipated?
Child emancipation occurs in some truly tragic situations when parents can't or won't fulfill their parental duties. In other cases, emancipation can be a process that is done with your cooperation and even approval. If your child wants to be emancipated, should you agree to their request emancipation?
Emancipation Basics
Most states agree that the age of adulthood is 18. In some instances, children younger than that age will request to be emancipated. This request will often come from children who already live on their own or wish to and are legally supporting themselves. They want to run their own affairs without parental interference. Often, the child and the parents have serious lifestyle disagreements. Although you can fight this process as a parent, you may want to agree under certain circumstances.
Maturity
Although most 15 or 16 year-olds are not mature enough to handle their own affairs, there are a few who can safely live alone, support themselves, pay their bills, and stay out of trouble. Although they are voluntarily taking on a load of responsibilities, they may be able to thrive under the challenge. Before you agree to emancipation, joint counseling with your child would be an excellent step to take. A professional's unbiased opinion on the wisdom of this plan can guide your behavior. Remember that your child can proceed without your permission, and that a judge will ultimately determine if emancipation is a good idea. However, your support will make a marked difference.
Benefits
You may have heard of child actors seeking emancipation because of their healthy financial situation. It's unlikely that your emancipation procedure concerns a rich child. However, if your child has their own financial means, emancipation protects their finances from you. Although you may find that idea insulting, not having to manage their money can be a relief for you. Also, an emancipated child can no longer demand that you support them. That's not to suggest that you can or should cut them off entirely. After emancipation, the money you contribute is usually voluntary. In addition, agreeing to emancipation can stop the fighting and allow you and your child to have a healthy adult relationship instead of several more years of conflict.
Your child's emancipation request may initially appall you, but it can benefit you both if you agree to it. In some instances, your child can win emancipation without your support. You are not abandoning your child because you are still free to help them as you wish. Also, if your child cannot handle emancipation, it can be revoked, and you can potentially step back in. Remember, your child will always be your child. The court will not terminate your parenthood. Contact a business, such as Thomas & Associates, PC for more information.
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