Can I run away to my mom at age 17?

I dont want to move back with my dad so I'm planning on fighting against him now. My dad lives in the ghetto, where the entire area are a bunch of gangsters, low lives, druggies, bad schools, bad people, just many bad things you could think of. I'm sick and tired of it, because at my Mom's area, it's at a much more civilized location with nicer people all around. its just better in every way. my dad only wants me back because he does not want my mom to sue him for child support and money, but my mom said she would not do that, also, she's too damn poor to sue and hire a laywer. i am currently a 17 year old high schooler in california and i turn 18 next march. what sucks is my dad has custody over me, but even still, i plan to run away. i will fight for my own freedom and liberty. so my question is, will the law be on my side and allow me to live with my mom?