Emancipation or independent living is appropriate for the older adolescent who has demonstrated an ability to care for him/herself. Within that framework, emancipation or independent living should be considered under the following circumstances:
- Return home has been ruled out;
- Placement with kin has been ruled out;
- The youth will soon reach majority;
- The youth has housing available to him/her; and,
- The youth has been or is capable of caring for his/her own needs.
The youth is usually 16 years of age or older, but may be as young as 14 years of age and they have stated that they do not wish to be adopted or have a guardian appointed and it has been documented that adoption or guardianship is not in the best interest of the child.
Related Subject: Section 4 Chapter 21 Older Youth Program (OYP)