Running Away at 16 and 7 Months in Virgina

it's very hard to answer this question considering we don't have much information.

Typically it is NOT against the law to run away...however, if the person takes someone else with them and travels across state lines then it becomes kidnapping - I BELIEVE - I am not a cop nor am I a lawyer.

Your granddaughter is 16 years old. She is doing EVERYTHING in her power to exude confidence and independence....she BELIEVES that she is an adult and ready to make adult decisions. Instead of getting mad - you were 16 once too....COMMUNICATE with her. Ask her WHY she feels the need to run away, get tattoos, get emancipated, etc.

Help her with her life skills - can she balance a checkbook? Does she know how to budget money? Does she have a job? instead of holding her back and keeping her a 'child' - get involved. KNOW her friends. Set a good example, LISTEN to her about her wants, needs desires - find out WHY she feels the need to get the chest tattoo....she's going to push your buttons, so instead of "LETTING" her do it - treat her like an adult - set the expectations - tell her - okay - I get it - I hear that you feel you are an adult - show me adult responsibility....show me that you CAN be an adult - budget, balance, get good grades...show me how you want to excel.....

You can report her as a runaway - if they find her they can bring her home.

Instead of punishing of her - you really need to work on fixing your relationship with her.

Good Luck
God Bless

need more detail!!!!!!!!!!!

Has anyone in the family thought about or had counseling. This would be the time to sit down and talk. Communication is a healthy thing, even when kids are talking about running away. There is a reason why she is talking about it and not doing it. She is asking for help.

I don't think there are any laws against running away.

You can try searching here:

http://www.findlaw.com

and here:

http://www.1800runawaybb.org

I googled "Is it against the law to run away in Virginia?".. This is one page I found..

http://www.americanbar.org/content/newsletter/publication...