in Washington state a minor can legally be emancipated at the age of 16
Someone that the court has declared capable of taking care of themselves financially and therefore can legally contract and make their own decisions.
Emancipated minors are minors who have been legally released from the control of their parents.
Not automatically. They can apply for emancipation in some states.
Very few US states have grounds and procedures for the emancipation of minors. The minimum age is 16 in the states that have emancipation status.