In Virginia, a minor who runs away from home is not considered a criminal. As such, all runaway incidents are handled as non-criminal issues. Just because a minor has been reported as a runaway doesnt mean they will have a juvenile record.

What is considered a runaway in Virginia?

A runaway is a minor (someone under the age of 18) who leaves home without a parents or guardians permission, and is gone from the home overnight. In most states, running away is not a crime; however, runaways and their parents or guardians can face legal consequences.

Can a 16 year old leave home legally in Virginia?

If you are a minor in Virginia, you must reach 16 before you are allowed to move out. You still need your parents consent since, being a minor, they have the right to force you back home. You must be 18 years old to move out without parental consent.

Can I run away at 16?

In California it is not considered a crime for a juvenile (any person under the age of 18) to runaway from home. Conversely, under Canadian law, when a child runs away from home it is not considered a crime. It is not a crime for a juvenile to run away from home in California.