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 & Parent Foundation has developed a number of resources to help children or parents who might be considering this decision. Contact them for more information:

mailing address: Alaska Youth & Parent Foundation P.O. Box 232053 Anchorage, AK 99523-2053	physical address: Alaska Youth & Parent Foundation 700 W. 6th Ave Transit Center (Corner of 6th and H)
phone numbers: Administrative Offices - (907) 929-2633                                          (907) 279-2633 fax P.O.W.E.R. (Peer Outreach Workers Education and Referral) - (907) 563-8336

For youth in crisis, Covenant House Alaska may also be a helpful resource:

Covenant House Alaska
609 F Street
Anchorage, AK
Local Anchorage number (907) 272-1255
Toll-Free Nineline (1-800-999-9999)
www.covenanthouseak.org/

Rev. 20 October 2008 © Alaska Court System www.courts.alaska.gov

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