Can minors choose which parent they want to live with?

Answer 1

A teenager would be allowed to state who they would prefer to live with, and the judge will take their wishes (along with other things) into consideration, but it is the judge that makes the final decision, not the child. A child, as a minor, cannot choose which parent. He can be interviewed by the court and the parents can petition ofr custody, but the child himself does not get to choose.

Answer 2

There is no law allowing minors the right to choose which parent to live with in Texas or any other state for that matter. What Texas does have that is unique is a child age 12 or older can request to meet with the judge to discuss his or her preference when making a custodial decision. Texas law mandates that the judge must do this. However, ultimately it is up to the judge to award custody to the parent whom he feels would be the best choice considering the best interests of the child unless the parents come to a joint custody agreement.

If the child is under 12, they can still request to meet with the judge, but the judge doesn't have to honor the request. 12 and over, it's the law...it has to happen.

Answer 3

Only Indiana and Texas has laws setting out a specific age at which a child can make a choice the court is requiredto abide by, and even than there are some limitations. With those states, it is age 14. In all other states, the general rule of thumb is that a 12 year old can express and opinion, however the judge is under not legal obligation to consider, or even hear it. In either case, a motion to the court must be filed for a determination to be made. However, the child should be informed that there are alternatives to choosing to live with just one parent. The child should also be advised they can express a choice that they remain in one home and each parent can live with them for a designated period of time, than switch. This is called Bird Nest Custody.

Check link below for more info.

Answer 4

It varies between state and presiding judge. If the judge sees that a child is uncertain no matter the age, the judge will not take the child's wishes into consideration. Basically it comes down to what is in the best interest of the child. There has to be abuse or serious neglect before a judge will even look at a choosing one or the other of the parents. They don't care if the child support is paid that parent still has the right to see the child. If one of the parents is in jail, as long as the crime was not abuse committed upon the child the parent still has the right to see that child.

Not usually but sometimes the court will take the child's wishes into consideration when making the decree.

Answer 5

In Texas what age does a teenager have to be to choose which parent of a divorce they want to live with

Answer 6

The only states with specific laws addressing this is Indiana and Texas. Beyond that, they simply have a right to express and opinion.

Answer 7

A lot of times it is up to the court to decide who is fit to take care of the child!

Answer 8

Minors are not allowed to decide this.

Answer 9

thirteen