The truth is that a child has no legal right to choose which parent he or she wants to live with. They are legally minors dependent upon their parents. The truth is it will vary from case to case.
Leaving Home
The parents of an non-emancipated minor have the custody and control of such minor. This means that the parents can legally decide where the minor lives until the minor reaches the age of majority (usually 18) or otherwise becomes emancipated.
If a minor moves away from the home of his or her parents or legal guardians without their permission, that minor can be picked up by authorities as a runaway. Depending upon the state, there may be an evaluation stage in which the situation is reviewed to insure that the individual is not endangered by being returned to the home. Some states have recognized that minors that are 16 or 17 are often considered questionable as to their ability to leave home. Authorities may not want to deal with minors in this age group and some states are establishing legislation enforcing the age of majority and eliminating any questions in the eyes of the law enforcement community.
Check with your local laws for more specifics. If you are in an unsafe environment, law enforcement personnel can put you in contact with the appropriate agencies to obtain help.
18
see links
In West Virginia, a child can decide which parent they want to live with when they are 18.
18 years
When they are 18.
When they are 18.
It depends on the child's age and where he or she lives.
When they are 18.
As long as they are minors they are not allowed to decide. Around the age of 12 the judge would listen to their opinion but they can not decide.
Age of Majority on your state
When you reach the age of majority, which is 18, you get to decide where you live.
18, assuming the one they want to live with is willing to have them.
When they are 18.
England: I think its 16