Speak Up! - View Question #17017

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Question: I'm 14 and I live with my dad and stepmom.  My stepmom has punched me twice, and I feel unloved at my dad's.  I want to live with my mom, can I take my dad to court? And will they let me live with my mom?

Answer:

You may not bring a lawsuit to change custody because you are a minor.  But your mother can bring a lawsuit against your father.   Have you spoken to her?   If you are being abused by your step mother and by your father you should speak to your mother, or to someone at school like a teacher, counselor or principal.   If you live in Arizona you or your mother can call the Child Protective Services Hot Line, 1-888-767-2445.  An investigation will be made.  If abuse is found they will place you with your mother.

 

When you step mother punched you was there a mark on your face or body?  If so, you should show it to an adult - your mother, an adult at school, or any other adult you trust.


Comments
1 thru 3 of 3 comments
On 01/04/05
Spike from OH said:
I was abused by my mother and i ranaway 5 times and now im living with my grand mother so im very happy
On 12/27/04
Mary from WA said:
I don't know how current the postings are here. I hope that child has contacted Child Protective Services. Physical marks or not, this child needs help.
On 12/25/04
JERMAINE from AZ said:
I PERSONALLY THINK YOU SHOULD BE ABLE TO LIVE WITH YOU BIRTH MOTHER BECAUSE ABUSE IS AGAINST THE LAW AND I FEEL IT SHOULD BE YOUR CHOICE TO PICK WHO YOU WANT TO LIVE WITH. IF YOU CAN'T DO IT ANYWAY WAIT UNTIL IT HAPPENS AGAIN AND SHOW YOUR MARKS TO SOMEONE AT SCHOOL OR LOOK IN THE PHONE BOOK AND CALL CHILD PROTECTION SERVICES AND LET THEM NO WHAT HAPPEN THEN HAVE SOME TAKE PHOTO'S OF YOUR INJURIES THAT WILL BE THE STORNGEST PROOF YOU NEED TO CHOOSE WHO YOU WANT TO LIVE WITH
1 thru 3 of 3 comments



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