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How old does a child have to be to make a decision to live with the other parent in a divorce?

How old does a child have to be to make a decision to live with the other parent in a divorce?

Q: What is considered co-parent harassment?

Co-parent harassment involves one parent using communication or actions to intimidate, control, or belittle the other parent. This can include excessive texting, making false accusations, or interfering with parenting time. Such behavior can negatively impact the child and may be addressed in family court.

Q: What is it called when a mother keeps a child away from the father?

When a mother keeps a child away from the father without a valid reason, it may be referred to as parental alienation or custodial interference. This behavior can have serious emotional consequences for the child and may lead to legal repercussions if it violates custody agreements.

Q: How can keeping a child from the other parent backfire if there are no court orders?

Keeping a child from the other parent can backfire by damaging the parent-child relationship and leading to resentment. If there are no court orders, the other parent may seek legal action for custody or visitation rights, which could result in a court mandating more time with the other parent than initially intended.

Q: Can keeping a child away from the other parent backfire?

Yes, keeping a child away from the other parent can backfire. It may lead to legal consequences, including losing custody rights. Courts generally view shared parenting as beneficial for children, and attempts to alienate a parent can result in the court imposing stricter visitation or custody arrangements.

Full question:

How old does a child have to be to make a decision to live with the other parent in a divorce?

Category: Minors
Subcategory: Age of Majority
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Arizona

Answer:

This is up to the judge. He/she will take into account many factors including
where the children have been living, the child's wishes and the mental health
of the parents, and make a decision based on the best interests of the
children. The Court may also seek the advice from other relevant
professionals.

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

At what age can a child tell a judge who they want to live with?

In many states, there is no specific age at which a child can officially tell a judge their preference for living arrangements. However, children around 12 years old may be considered mature enough for their opinions to be taken seriously. Ultimately, the judge will consider the child's wishes alongside other factors to determine what is in the child's best interests.

How can a child deal with parents' divorce?

Children can cope with their parents' divorce by expressing their feelings, maintaining routines, and seeking support from trusted adults. Open communication with both parents about their feelings is important. Counseling or support groups can also help children process their emotions and adjust to the changes in their family dynamics.