The Legality Behind Running Away From Home in Arizona

Most adults won't recognize it, but being a child is hard work. You spend most of your day locked in a building vaguely resembling a prison, and when you get home your mom and dad are constantly giving you chores to do or rules to follow.

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When all of this compounds, especially with a rough childhood in the mix, it's not surprising that kids would attempt to run away from home, but is that legal?

Can You Legally Leave Home as a Minor?

The easy answer to this is: No. Any children under the age of 18 are unable to legally leave their home behind and will be branded as an incorrigible child. Those caught under these circumstances will not serve jail time, but may be fined, placed on probation, or forced to perform community service.

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Parents, on the other hand, need to be careful. It's a Class 6 Felony to knowingly fail providing support for children under 18, which is punishable by a year in prison and a $150,000 fine.

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How Can You Legally Leave Home?

While you can't just run away from home, you are legally allowed to move out under the age of 18, as long as you have parental approval. They must still take care of your wellbeing, and likely will have to help signing your lease.

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Moving out to avoid your parents may seem like a perfect solution, but life on your own may simply raise more issues. Before you make a life altering decision, do your research on living alone and ensure you know you can handle it.

[AZ Law Help]