Can a child choose not to live with a parent?

Can a child choose not to live with a parent?

Although children may be able to clearly state their desire to live with the noncustodial parent, courts generally will give this little weight unless the child appears to be mature enough to make the decision. In some states, all custody determinations require a court to conduct a best interests analysis.

Can a 12 year old decide who they want to live with?

While no law permits the child to choose their custody status, most California courts believe 14 years of age is old enough to express themselves and the reasons why they prefer one parent over the other.

At what age can a child say they don’t want to see a parent?

Generally though, the older your child is the more emphasis the court can place on their wishes and feelings. At the age of 10 or 11 for example, a child’s wishes may be considered by a court but would not be the determining factor in any decision.

Can a 13 year old choose which parent to live with?

In general, young children should not be given the choice of where they want to live. This can even lead to a child regretting their decision or feeling guilty. Depending on a number of relevant factors, including the child’s maturity level, a child’s preference becomes more important by about age 12 to 13.

Can a 12 year old decide not to see a parent?

When can a child refuse visitation with the non-custodial parent? Children over the age of 16 can refuse to visit the noncustodial parent. The only exception to this is if there is a court order stating otherwise.

What age can a child decide which parent they want to live with?

There is a common misconception that in Family Law parenting disputes about with whom a child will live, a child will have the deciding vote when they reach the age of 12. This is not the case.

At what age can child decide which parent to live with?

Can a 13 year old decide which parent to live with UK?

In England and Wales a child can choose who to live with from the age of 16, unless there are certain Court Orders in place that say otherwise. However, you can allow younger children to make this decision for themselves if you wish, but their decision alone won’t have any legal standing.

What age can a child choose which parent to live with?

Most attorneys find themselves dispelling this myth daily to new clients, especially ones with older children. The fact is until the child is 18, the only individuals who can determine custody are the child’s parents, and if the parents can’t decide, a judge will.

What age can a child make their own decision?

When is a child ready to make their own decisions? A child is ready to make their own decisions at 18 years old in most states, from a legal perspective. Developmentally, a parent should let their child make age-appropriate decisions as they demonstrate capacity, judgment, and maturity.

When can a child legally decide which parent to live with?