Can Parents Control an Adult Child’s Life in Singapore?

Question from vivi, Can Parents Control an Adult Child’s Life in Singapore?

Answer from AI:

In Singapore, the age of majority is 21 years old, as established by the Age of Majority Act. This means that individuals are considered adults at 21 and are legally entitled to make their own decisions, including financial, employment, and residential choices. However, for individuals aged 18 and above but below 21, there are specific legal nuances to consider, especially in situations involving parental control and potential abuse.

1. Opening a Bank Account

Individuals aged 18 and above have the legal capacity to open a bank account without parental consent. Banks in Singapore generally allow anyone over the age of 18 to open an account, subject to their terms and conditions. Therefore, abusive parents cannot legally stop their adult child from opening a bank account.

2. Restricting Movement

Parents are not legally allowed to restrict the movement of their adult children, including locking them in the house. Doing so could be considered unlawful confinement, which is a criminal offense under the Penal Code. If your friend is being physically restrained from leaving the house, she may have grounds to report this behavior to the police.

3. Locking Out of the House

Similarly, parents do not have the right to lock an adult child out of the house as a form of punishment or for any other reason. This action could be seen as neglect or abuse, especially if it puts the individual in danger or distress.

4. Preventing Employment

At the age of 18, individuals in Singapore have the right to seek and maintain employment without parental interference. Preventing an adult child from working could be considered a form of economic abuse, which is a recognized type of family violence.

5. Ensuring Protection of Rights

For someone in your friend’s situation, there are several steps she can take to protect her rights:

• Seek Legal Advice: Consulting with a lawyer can provide personalized advice and clarify legal options, including the possibility of obtaining a Personal Protection Order (PPO) if there is evidence of abuse.
• Report Abuse: If your friend is experiencing abuse, she can report it to the police or contact the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) for assistance.
• Support Services: There are various organizations and helplines in Singapore dedicated to assisting victims of abuse, such as the AWARE Helpline (1800 777 5555) and the Family Violence Specialist Centres.
• Financial Independence: Working towards financial independence can provide more freedom and options for leaving an abusive environment.

It’s important to remember that while parents do have certain rights and responsibilities towards their children, these do not extend to controlling or abusing them, especially once they reach adulthood. If your friend is in immediate danger, contacting the police is a critical first step. For ongoing support and to explore legal options, consulting with legal professionals or support organizations can be invaluable.

For more information on the legal age and rights in Singapore, you can visit the Age of Majority Act and the Ministry of Social and Family Development.

Note: This information is intended for general guidance and does not constitute legal advice. Specific cases may vary, and it is recommended to consult a legal professional for personalized advice.