runaway teen laws

[Random_Walk]

I guess that would depend on a lot of factors.

When it comes to custody, the non-custodial parent would be opening him/herself up to jail time if they took the kid in without notifying the police about it. How? The custodial parent can claim kidnapping, the kid could make the same claim (all it takes is one argument), and overall it would be a pretty toxic situation.

If I were the non-custodial parent, I would do two things immediately, and in the exact order as typed:

* call the police in the town where the kid is supposed to live, and inform them that the kid showed up here (which clears out missing persons reports, and puts a record of you contacting them first).

* get a damned good alibi up (receipts, friends, etc) as to were you were (and what you were doing) the whole time between the kid running away and the kid showing up at your door. Put them somewhere that you or a lawyer can get to them in a hurry if need be.

* call the custodial parent and inform them that the kid showed up here, and to come get said kid. Record the conversation in full if you can.

* take care of the kid and tend to any other issues until someone (cops, other parent) shows up to retrieve the kid.

While the one divorce I had was relatively amiable (who am I kidding? It was crap), I know full well that some parents can be vindictive SOBs who will lie if the opportunity presents itself. It's all CYA from there.

[Kimballette]

City-Data is not the appropriate place to seek legal advice. I suggest those with questions contact local legal aid clinics or call a local attorney for a 30 minute consultation. Thread closed.