Can a 15-year-old decide which parent they want to live with in Washington State?

Answer 1

Yes. The court considers a fifteen year old competent enough to make their own decision in matters like that. * Minor's are not allowed to choose which parent or pwerson with whom they wish to live, regardless of the state of residency. The reason being that the court will not place itself in the position of catering to the wishes of any person (including the child) concerning the welfare of said child/children. In some instances the judge will speak with a minor child about such issues as school, friends, neighborhood, and so forth. Custodial decisions are always based upon the best interest of the child/children involved and not on the preference of any interested party.

Answer 2

You can decide, but you cannot choose. You can present your opinion to a judge, when one parent files a motion to modify custody. The judge will decide your maturity level and your reasons for your choice. see links

Answer 3

As long as you are a minor you don't get to choose.

Added: According to WA state law, you will become legally emancipated when you reach your 18th birthday. Wait a few months and you can make your own choice as to where to go.

Answer 4

No. The age of majority in Washington state is 18 and when the child reaches that age, they may make that decision themselves, However, the child is always free to make their wishes known to the judge, either in court when custody is being decided, by requesting a meeting with the judge, writing a letter to the judge expressing their wishes, or engaging an attorney or guardian ad litem to speak for them. The judge will take into consideration the wishes of the child, and generally, the older the child, the more weight is given to those wishes.

Ultimately, however, the judge will rule depending on what he or she feels would be in the best interests of the child.