Minor - If my parents consent, what should be done if I wish to move to Michigan to attend high school and live with friends?

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Question

Just this past August I moved to Arizona with my family for my junior year in high school.  I plan on moving back to Michigan  for my senior year.  The problem being that I'm only 17 and and parents are not willing to move back with me. Some people already said I could live with them and my parents are fine with that. How would I go about doing this in the cheapest, fastest, and easiest way?  Would an Affidavit work?

Answer

As an unemancipated minor, your parents have the right to decide where you live.  If they are willing to allow you to live with others in Michigan, there are a number of options.  First, there can simply allow you to live with other individuals in Michigan,  Second, they can give the individuals with whom you live a power of attorney which will allow those persons to do such things as consent to your medical care if needed.  Such a power of attorney can be effective for up to six months. Third, they can petition the probate court in the Michigan county in which you live, to have an individual appointed as your guardian.  As a guardian this individual could make the same decisions that a parent could make for you.  In order for you to enroll in school, they may need to choose options 2 or 3.  I would suggest that they contact the school district in which you wish to enroll to see what the requirements may be.

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Last Updated: 4-18-01

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