Ariel Winter has been legally emancipated from her parents.
Ariel Winter
The 17-year-old actress, who was removed from her mother Chrisoula Workman's home in October 2012 amid allegations of abuse and placed in the care of her sister Shanelle Gray, shared her joy on Twitter after a judge signed off on court documents freeing her from her parents' control.
The 'Modern Family' star tweeted: "I am now officially emancipated!!! I'm really lucky I have an amazing support system and lovely people in my life who have given me the support and guidance to have been given this wonderful opportunity."
The brunette beauty paid special tribute to Shanelle and her father, Glenn Workman, for supporting her throughout the ordeal.
She wrote: "Most importantly I want to thank @shanelle_gray and my father for their special support regarding this matter, I really couldn't have done it without them. Thank you to all of my family, friends, and fans who have supported me through all of my endeavours in life, and have encouraged me. Thank you for making my life so special! I can't wait to embark on my new adventures."
Chrisoula, who vehemently denied abusing the starlet, agreed last May that Ariel could continue living with Shanelle after a lengthy court battle and they released a joint statement at the time, saying: "The family has moved beyond the conflict."
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