Source: https://www.1800runaway.org/2016/02/runaway-laws-by-state-nevada-utah-and-colorado/
Timestamp: 2019-04-21 11:00:41+00:00

Document:
We continue our series on runaway laws in the United States. If you decide that you need to leave your living situation, we want you to understand the runaway laws in your state, such as the definition of a runaway or if you can file for emancipation.
In this next chapter in our series, we are covering the Western Mountain states: Nevada, Utah and Colorado.
*Our main source of information is the comprehensive report, Alone Without A Home: A State-By-State Review of Laws Affecting Unaccompanied Youth, created by The National Law Center on Homelessness & Poverty.
*DISCLAIMER: We are not legal experts. Laws can be interpreted differently from county to county and police jurisdiction to police jurisdiction. Everyone’s situation is unique, but we are here 24/7 to help you figure out a plan for your specific situation. For information, please call us at 1-800-RUNAWAY or visit us at 1800RUNAWAY.org.
Nevada Age of a minor: In Nevada, this is defined as any person under 18 years of age.
Runaway status: Utah defines a runaway as “a minor, other than an emancipated minor, who is absent from the home or lawfully prescribed residence of the parent or legal guardian of the minor without the permission of the parent or legal guardian.” Utah Code Ann. § 62A-4a-501 (2011).
Is running away a status offense: Running away in Utah is considered a status offense. Under Utah law, it is stated that “a runaway youth may be taken into custody without a warrant by a peace officer. The peace officer shall then notify the youth’s guardian and release the youth into the custody of the youth’s guardian. If the youth’s guardian cannot be located or if the youth’s welfare is in danger, the peace officer shall deliver the youth to a shelter for care and assessment. Utah Code Ann. § 78A-6-112 (2011). A runaway youth may be considered a status offender by the juvenile court. Utah Code Ann. § 62A-4a-101 (2011).
Colorado Age of a minor: In Colorado, there are several classifications. According to state law, a child is “any person under 18 years of age” [Children’s Code]. Colo. Rev. Stat. § 19-1-103 (2010). A juvenile is “any person under 18 years of age” [Children’s Code]. Colo. Rev. Stat. § 19-1-103 (2010). A youth is “any person who is at least 15 years of age but is less than 18 years of age” [Homeless Youth Article]. Colo. Rev. Stat. § 26-5.7-102 (2010).
Runaway status: Colorado law classifies runaway youth as homeless youth. Homeless youth is defined as “a youth who is at least 15 but is less than 18 and who lacks a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence or has a primary nighttime residence in a shelter, a temporary living institution, or a public or private place not designated for regular sleeping accommodations for humans.” Colo. Rev. Stat. 26-5.7-102 (2010).
Can a youth file for emancipation: According to state law, there is no specific statute that addresses the emancipation process, but the state does recognize emancipation in other statutes. Under the Children’s Code, an emancipated juvenile is a juvenile over 15 years of age and under 18 years of age who has, with the real or apparent assent of a guardian, become independent from the guardian in matters of care, custody, and earnings. A minor who has been responsible for his/her own support, married or in the military can also be considered emancipated.
If you need any more questions, contact us at 1-800-RUNAWAY, or send use our live chat at 1800RUNAWAY.org.

References: § 62
 § 78
 § 62
 § 19
 § 19
 § 26