Why Would Someone Consider Emancipation?
If a pregnant teenager's parents threaten to kick her out or abuse her because she is pregnant, she can consider emancipation. By being emancipated a pregnant minor may leave a family violence situation. The pregnant teen's parents may agree with her leaving if they know that they will not have to be legally or financially responsible for their daughter and her baby. Some teens choose to live with relatives or friends before finding a living situation that they can afford on their own without any adult help before they ask the court to become legal adults.
A minor must meet all of the following requirements before applying for emancipation:
- Must be a resident of Texas
- Must be at least 16 years of age
- Must already be living separately from her parents or legal guardians (This is not a requirement if the minor is 17 years old.)
- Must be self-supporting and managing personal financial affairs
- Must be able to prove that is the best interest of the minor for the parent or legal guardian to be no longer financially or legally responsible for the minor
Jane's Due Process provides free legal services to pregnant teens seeking emancipation. To learn more, call 1-866-www-jane or 1-866-999-5263. If you are not pregnant and are interested in emancipation, visit the resources page for other organizations that can assist you.
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