18 years old Emancipation is the legal procedure that grants a person under the age of 18 (a minor) the legal status of an adult. There is no universal emancipation act in Pennsylvania that describes how to attain that legal status. Instead, each individual emancipate themselves by executing a written document. The process of emancipation can be difficult for both parents and children. Parents need to understand that their children are making important decisions about their own lives. Children need to feel comfortable with these choices before they will be willing to sign documents or write letters informing others of their wishes. The more preparations that go into an emancipation plan, the better it will be for all involved. Emancipation is a complex issue that should not be done lightly. If you are thinking about emancipation, talk with a lawyer first to make sure that your plan is legal. Then, follow through with the execution of the necessary papers.