What is the age that a kid can decide which parent to live with in Texas?

Answer 1

A child can not decisively pick which parent he or she will live with. However, if the child is at least 12 years old, then he or she can submit to the court a preference. The Texas Family Code says this exactly:

§ 153.008. CHILD'S PREFERENCE OF PERSON TO DESIGNATE RESIDENCE. A child 12

years of age or older may file with the court in writing the name of the person who is the child's preference to have the exclusive right to designate the primary residence of the child, subject to the approval of the court.

Answer 2

18. However Texas law is unique in that a child of age 12 or older may make a request to meet with the judge in chambers to discuss their wishes. State law mandates such a meeting must take place.

For children under 12, it is up to the judge's discretion whether or not to meet with the child, however the child can make their wishes known by either testifying in court during custody proceedings if allowed, requesting a meeting with the judge, writing to the judge, or engaging an attorney or guardian ad litem to petition the court with their wishes. Generally, the older the child along with their rationale will be given more weight than that of a younger child, however the judge will take the child's wishes under advisement and ultimately rule on what he or she feels would be in the child's best interests.

Answer 3

When they have reached adult age. There is however a way to get the judge know which parent you prefer top stay with (if the custody hearing has gone to court). The law allows a parent to request the judge to talk with ypu and if you are at least 12yo he has to meet you. If you are under 12yo he might meet you but does not legally have to. You can also tell your wishes regarding visitation with a parent if the judge is willing to hear. The court is not required to follow your wishes though.

Answer 4

The courts will take into consideration the child's wants as to whom they want to live with but in the state of TX the child is not old enough to "decide" until age 13.

Answer 5

At age 18 when they are an adult and no longer a child.