Can a 17 year old legally leave their home without parental consent? If they do I know they can not be charged as a runaway because they are no longer subject to juvenile law; however is there anyway the law enforcement could force the child back to their parents? And if so would the person housing them (an adult, not related to them) be charged with anything such as contributing to the delinquency of a minor? What are some other options for a 17 year old to leave an abusive household?