Yes,
Most courts will allow children who are older to make the choice if they want to be able to live with their Dad or their Mom.
By 16 years old the courts recognize that children pretty much know what they want, so that they will listen to the child at that age.
2007-08-02 01:26:39
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answer #1
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answered by Cindy 6
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The magic number in almost every single state is... (drum roll, please)... 18. (If it's not 18, Alaska, Alabama, Mississippi, Nebraska, Pennsylvania, and Wyoming are the only exceptions, the age is even higher, either 19 or 21; see Age of Majority.) Upon 18th birthday, child becomes adult, and may legally choose to live anywhere they please, either with a parent, or both, or neither. Prior to that age, all children (unless they have taken the necessary steps to legally emancipate themselves earlier) are bound by the custody order in existence between the parents. Moreover, it is the parents' responsibility to ensure that the children comply with those orders. Failure to do so may result in contempt citations against the (ir)responsible parent. However, if custody is currently being decided, or currently being modified, then some children in some cases may be granted the opportunity to present their opinions and feelings to the court. Generally speaking, the courts are looking for children with sufficient emotional maturity to understand the consequences of their statements; chronological age of the child is theoretically not important. Nonetheless, for practical purposes, children under 11 or 12 will rarely be heard by the court; by the time they are 15 or 16, they will most likely be heard.
2007-08-02 08:58:29
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answer #2
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answered by fla.girl 2
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Generally, it means that your inpute becomes important. But the bottom line is that the Court will rule in favor of the parent that is most qualified to care for you. I know that sounds unfair, but your well being is not only a function of who you like better. I'm sorry that you are in this merry go round. But it's a couple of years. Hang in there and you will be OK. I promise.
2007-08-02 08:56:48
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answer #3
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answered by Toodeemo 7
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When a child reaches the age of majority, choice with whom or where to live is allowed under the law.
2007-08-02 09:42:43
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answer #4
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answered by FRAGINAL, JTM 7
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In FL, I believe it is 13. The parent you want to live with will need to petition the court for a custody hearing.
Other factors will still be taken into account however..... say for instance the person petitioning for custody has a criminal background...
2007-08-02 08:33:59
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answer #5
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answered by Anonymous
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No. At age 18 you are considered an adult and can make the move then.
2007-08-02 08:30:51
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answer #6
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answered by regerugged 7
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Depends on the country and State.
2007-08-02 08:25:06
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answer #7
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answered by wisemancumth 5
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well..if they want to stay with you its their choice and you should not try to argue with them but they are 16! their still not adults i think they should wait till they are 18
2007-08-02 08:33:02
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answer #8
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answered by gabbi_campos 2
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yes that is true
2007-08-02 08:24:41
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answer #9
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answered by sprinkles 2
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