Emancipation

The term "emancipation" refers generally to the legal process by which a minor child is released from some or all of the legal disabilities of childhood, and receives the rights and duties of adulthood before the age of 18.

Either the parent or the child can begin the process by filing certain papers in court. The statute governing emancipation in Alaska is AS 9.55.590, which has five requirements:

The child must be a resident of Alaska
The child has to be at least 16 years of age
The child must be living separate and apart from the parents or guardian
The child must be capable of supporting himself or herself financially and managing his or her own affairs
Each parent or guardian must consent (although there are certain exceptions)

This is a very serious step for both parent and child. It should not be undertaken without consulting with a counselor and/or a lawyer. The Alaska Youth Advocates has developed a number of resources to help children or parents who might be considering this decision. Contact them for more information:

Mailing/Physical Address:
- Alaska Youth Advocates
  704 W 26th Ave
  Anchorage, AK 99503
Phone Number:
- Administrative Offices - (907) 929-2633; (907) 375-3135 fax
  P.O.W.E.R. (Peer Outreach Workers Education and Referral)
  power@akyouthadvocates.org
For youth in crisis, Covenant House Alaska may also be a helpful resource:
- Covenant House Alaska
  755 A Street
  Anchorage, AK 99501
  Local Anchorage number (907) 272-1255
  Toll-Free Nineline (1-800-999-9999)