When can a child decide what parent to live wth in Missouri?

Answer 1

Minors are not allowed to choose with whom they wish to live.

In some cases the judge will speak with the minor child and may or may not consider the information gathered in the interview when making a custodial decision.

Custodial decisions are based upon the best interest of the child and not upon the preference of any of the involved parties.

There is no age in the State of Missouri at which a child can choose where they want to live. Missouri Statutes have eight factors that the Court is required to consider in determining custody of a child. The child's wishes are only one of the factors. The Court will look at the emotional and intellectual maturity of the child and the reasons expressed by the child for wanting to live with one parent over the other. As a practical matter, the child should never be put in the position of having to choose which parent they want to live with. This is damaging to the child as the parents, not the child, should be making decisions that are best for that child's overall well-being.

Answer 2

There is no age at which a minor may choose with whom they wish to live.

A judge will sometimes speak with a child who is mature enough to comprehend the circumstances concerning how said child feels about their current school, neighborhood, friends, and so forth.

Custodial decisions are always based on what is in the best interest of the child or children and not on the preferences of any of the involved parties.

Answer 3

This may vary from state to state and maturity level of the child. They judge presiding over the case usually will speak to a child over the age of 12 and explain how this may affect their lives. So check with lawyers in your state and they will offer free advice. Minors are not allowed to decide with whom they wish to reside. In some instances the judge will interview the minor child but the decision will be made on what is in the best interest of the child and not on the preference of any of the involved parties.

Answer 4

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 5

Only Indiana and Texas has laws setting out a specific age at which a child can make a choice the court is required to 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 6

I'm in KCMO. Age 18

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Answer 7

I'm in KCMO. Age 18

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Answer 8

13 with good reason, or 16 no matter what

Answer 9

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