Can a 15 year old choose which parent to live with after drug issues?

Full question:

Can a 15 year old decide which parent they want to live with since the custodial parent got in trouble for the sale of drugs? The charges were dismissed, but the parent failed a hair follicle test and is now in treatment for drug abuse. The child really wants to live with parent to the point they ran away from the parent that got temporary custody of the child.

  • Category: Minors
  • Subcategory: Custody
  • Date:
  • State: Mississippi

Answer:

No, a child cannot decide where to live unless they are emancipated. In most cases, custody decisions are made by the court based on the best interests of the child, regardless of the child's preferences. Even if the custodial parent has faced legal issues, the child’s wishes alone do not determine custody. The court will consider various factors, including the child's safety and well-being.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

In general, a parent cannot withhold their address from the other parent unless there are safety concerns, such as domestic violence. Courts typically require both parents to share their address to facilitate co-parenting and communication. If there are legitimate fears for safety, it may be possible to request the court to keep the address confidential. Always consult with a legal professional for advice specific to your situation.