Can a Parent in Pennsylvania Legally Kick Their 16 Year Old Out of the House?
Parents in Pennsylvania have a variety of options when considering kicking a 16-year-old out of the house. Choosing to legalize the separation through emancipation or a custody switch generally gives maximum protection to both the parents and the teen.
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Emancipation and Custody
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For any child under 18 years of age, the parent must provide financial support. In order to prevent charges of negligence, the minor should become legally emancipated by a judge or enter another adult's custody.
If granted emancipation, the minor must completely support himself. If someone else takes custody, then all parental responsibilities are transferred to the new legal guardian. Pennsylvania requires that teenagers consent to being adopted, but a legal guardianship requires less paperwork.
Education
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Everyone in Pennsylvania must attend school until at least 17 years of age. A 16-year-old may be allowed to drop out, but a judge needs proof that the minor has a decent job that can only be during school hours.
A homeless 16-year-old can choose what school to attend. Otherwise, the teenager must continue going to the school in her parents' neighborhood, unless she files the paperwork to officially be in another adult's custody.
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Government Assistance
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The McKinney-Vento Act of 1987 provides educational and other assistance to homeless teenagers. The Education Law Center offers this help at offices in Pittsburgh and Philadelphia or by phone at 215-238-6970. Food stamps and other government aid may also be available, but Pennsylvania agencies consider parents' income for all minors under 22, unless they're emancipated.
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References
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