Emancipation is meant to be a positive step for a minor, not a way for parents to get out of their parental responsibilities. If you were emancipated through marriage you will still be emancipated even if you later divorce. However, the District Attorney's office may petition to have any minor's emancipation taken away if your main source of income is welfare. It is possible for the judge to take away your emancipation if you are not able to support yourself without public benefits. If the emancipation is taken away, the District Attorney may try to make your parents pay back the welfare money that was paid to you while you were emancipated.
Emancipation is a major decision and requires careful thought and planning.
If you would like to discuss all of your options, including emancipation, you can call Legal Services for Children or an attorney in your area. All laws discussed are applicable to California. Persons living in other states should consult the law in their jurisdiction. All information is current as of January, 2000.