Emancipation - How does a minor become emancipated by a court in Michigan?

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Question

How does a minor become emancipated by a court in Michigan?

Answer

In Michigan you can become emancipated without your parent's permission as long as they are not supporting you and you meet additional criteria of the emancipation statute.  For example, the court must find that you are at least sixteen years of age,  that you can manage your financial affairs (this usually means you are employed), that you can manage you personal and social affairs and that emancipation would be in your best interest.  If you wish to read about the Michigan emancipation procedure,  you should read the pamphlet "Support of Minors and Emancipation" which can be found in the Court Library section of the Calhoun County Courts web site.  This pamphlet can be specifically located at: http://courts.co.calhoun.mi.us/book002.htm

If you wish to file a petition to become emancipated, you would file the petition in the family division of the circuit court for the county in which you live.  You will need to pay a filing fee and you can usually obtain the forms that you will need to fill out at the court or on the Michigan Supreme Court web site at: http://courts.michigan.gov/scao/courtforms/index.htm

11/99

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Last Updated 09-16-03

Send your comments, questions and suggestions to Phil Harter at 161 E Michigan Avenue, Battle Creek, Michigan 49014
or e mail to pharter@calhouncountymi.gov