Legal Definitions - throwaway

Definition: A throwaway is a term used in slang to refer to two different situations. The first situation is when a minor who is not yet emancipated is forced to leave their home by their parent or caregiver. The second situation is when a runaway is not allowed to return home by their parent or caregiver.

Examples:

• A 16-year-old girl is kicked out of her home by her mother and forced to live on the streets. She is considered a throwaway.
• A 14-year-old boy runs away from home and is found by the police. When his father is contacted, he refuses to allow the boy to come back home. The boy is now a throwaway.

These examples illustrate how a throwaway is a minor who is abandoned or rejected by their parent or caregiver. It is a sad and unfortunate situation that can lead to homelessness and other negative outcomes for the child.