In Colorado, age nineteen is the age of majority by statute. There is no custodial issue, should a child who has reached majority decide to leave home. Children who have reached the age of sixteen can petition for emancipation. The legal action is filed in district court and follows the general format a divorce proceeding.
It is my opinion that minors affected by this case are acting of their own free will and their choices should not be an issue for general discussion.
“Age of Majority
Colorado law (2-4-401(6)) defines a minor as a person who has not attained the age of 21, except as otherwise provided in the express language of another statute. The age of majority is the age when young people are considered adults for most matters. Colorado, as many other states, has determined the age of majority to be 18 years of age or older. Individuals are treated as adults at the age of 18, with some exceptions, such as drinking alcoholic beverages (12-47-901), renting cars, and purchasing a hotel room. When an individual reaches the age of majority his or her parents are no longer liable for their child's actions. Some acts young people who have reached the age of majority may be involved in are:
entering into any legal binding contract (13-22-101(a))
managing estate (13-22-101(b))
to sue or be sued to the full extent (13-22-101(c))
making decisions regarding his or her own body (13-22-101(d))
voting in elections (Const. US., amendment XXVI)
arbitrating a claim (13-22-202)
consenting to medical treatment (13-22-102)
joining the military without guardian permission
Even though the age of majority allows young people greater rights, many young people at age 18 still live at home and are thus subject to parents rules while at home.
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Emancipation
Colorado does not have an emancipation statute under which minors may petition a court for legal autonomy which would release them from the control and authority of their parents. No independent cause of action exists in Colorado for the emancipation of minors. The issue of emancipation is fact-specific to the situation and applicable law. Issues relating to emancipation may be addressed as part of a separate legal action before the courts such as a dissolution of marriage or child custody case; or directly by the state or local agency providing a service or benefit.
Information regarding eligibility for in-state tuition for emancipated students is available:
A. University of Colorado
B. Colorado State University
Emancipation for purposes of child custody obligations, specifically the termination of child support, is available on this site.
For more obligations and rights that an emancipated minor has, refer to age of majority.”
Colorado Judicial Branch - Courts - Youth and the Law - List of Laws