HI SB821

Allows minors aged 16 and older to petition the family court for emancipation, with the minor (not parents or guardians) filing the petition.

Requires the court to appoint a guardian ad litem and client-directed legal counsel for the minor, provide informational materials about emancipation, and conduct investigations or mental health evaluations as needed.

Grants emancipation by clear and convincing evidence if the minor is on active military duty or willingly resides separately, understands the consequences, is self-supporting or capable of self-support, and emancipation is in their best interest.

Specifies emancipated minors retain rights including entering contracts, suing independently, retaining earnings, establishing domiciles, authorizing medical care, obtaining licenses, marrying, and executing estate planning documents, while remaining subject to age-based constitutional and statutory restrictions (voting, alcohol, health and safety regulations).

Requires parents or legal guardians to pay for all court-ordered services related to the emancipation petition; effective date July 1, 2060.