How old do you have to be for it to be your choice to live with which parent?

Answer 1

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.

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Answer 2

Its not up to the child, that's decided in a court. But the child pleading her/his wish to live with one parent other than the other does play a role in the courts decision. If you are 18. you can live wherever you want.

Answer 3

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