Porter County, Indiana

My 18th birthday is on July 22nd, just a few more days. Currently I've been on juvenile probation since last September.

I understand that when I reach 18 I have reached "age of majority" and I am legally allowed to vote, sign binding contract, and take full responsibility of my actions. I'm scheduled to stay on juvenile probation until order of the court.

Now I am prepared to move out of my guardians' (grandparents) house when as soon as I'm 18. I do not believe I am making an irresponsible decision to move out on my birthday. There is a long story, but I do not have the time to explain. I've been working in the professional job market for a month now. I am a mechanical drafter, receiving a decent income for just starting too. I have been paying all my probation fees on my own without anyone's help.

Now, even though I will still be on juvenile probation, will I still be able to move out on my own? From what I researched when I'm 18 I am legally emancipated. That I am no longer under parental/guardian control, and they have no legal responsibility either. Now I know I am still obligated to follow all juvenile probation rules, and I will pay all fees I owe, and will attend all probation appointments. But I do not know if there is an exception since I'm on probation.

I really don't know the answer toyour question (hopefully someone else will), but I'm quite sure that automatic emancipation, or at least some of the rights that comes with it, can be different when you're on probation.
If I were you I would definitely contact your probation officer to find out about the particulars of your case before you go anywhere. You really don't want to jeopordize anything by going about this too hastly. You staying with your grandparents may very well be part of the conditions. In any case you still want to notify your probation officer of your recidency.
Rather safe than sorry, right?

Good luck,
Rocktosh

Hello saleen:

I don't know the answer to your question either. I would NOT, however, ask my probation officer for legal advice. Go spend a $100 with a lawyer.

Having said that, I can't imagine that your emancipation has ANY thing to do with your probation.

excon

I will agree with excon, talk to an attorney.

If you are on probation, and part of the requirement of your probation is that you live at a specific place, you will have to get permission of the probation officer to move. If not you will at a mim have to notify him of your moving. ( they have to know your current address). Since you are of legal age at 18, you should be able to move, but as anyone on probation, normally you are required to notify the officer before you move.
He may be concerned and there may be rules as to where you can live
( distance from certain things perhaps, everyone has special rules)

No you will not automatically go off probation at 18,

Remember the probation officer can be your worst enemy in the world, if he decides to become it.

You must notify the probation officer of any change in your address. You are still under the court until the judge say so.