Only Texas has that law, but with significant restrictions. In all other states, it's a case by case basis, with the Judge interpreting the maturity of the child, and their intent, but this still does not override other evidence in the child's best interest. It's just a piece of the evidence.
see links below for additional info
A 12yo child is not allowed to choose where to live so if the parents have decided on this they have to go to court to change the custody order.
I believe that the minimum age is 12.
In Maine, a child does not have the legal right to choose which parent they want to live with. The court will consider the child's preference as one factor among many when determining custody arrangements, typically starting around age 12. Ultimately, the court will prioritize the best interests of the child in making custody decisions.
In Ohio, the court will consider a child's wishes regarding custody, but it is ultimately up to the judge to determine what is in the child's best interest based on all relevant factors, not solely the child's preference. Typically, children must be at least 12 years old for their preferences to be given more weight in custody decisions.
There is no such process. A child of 12 is not allowed to choose.
i think that its 12
In TX at the age of 12 the court will *consider* the child's wishes regarding who is awarded custody. That does not mean the court is required to abide by the child's wishes. The court considers *all* factors (not just the child's wishes but the parents wishes to) when making the final decision.
In New York State, there is no specific age at which a child can unilaterally choose which parent to live with. However, children aged 18 and older can decide where they want to live. For younger children, the court may consider their preferences, typically starting around the age of 12, but such preferences are weighed alongside various factors in determining custody arrangements. Ultimately, the court prioritizes the child's best interests in custody decisions.
Old enough that you have custody of yourself. Family court generally does take the child's opinion (at any age) into consideration, but they're not bound by it. Of course, at 18, you can live with anyone that's still willing to have you.
no see links below
no, see links below
If custody has already been decided or is in the process of being determined, Texas state law says a child of age 12 or older can meet with the judge (upon the request of a parent or other legal guardian) so their feelings and wishes can be made known and taken into consideration when child custody (or modification to an existing custody arrangement) is granted. If the child is under the age of 12, the judge may or may not meet with the child, but at age 12 and older, it is legally required. Ultimately, custody is awarded to the person or agency who will act in the best interests of the child. This opinion may be at odds with what the child feels but as the child gets older, so his or her views are normally given more weight in the decision.