At what age can a child decide to stay with one parent?

14 years old
If a child is at least 14 years old, the law allows the child to state a custodial preference, unless the judge believes doing so would be detrimental. Those children may address the court unless the court finds that their participation is not in their best interest.

Can a 13 year old decide which parent they want to live with?

In general, young children should not be given the choice of where they want to live. This can even lead to a child regretting their decision or feeling guilty. Depending on a number of relevant factors, including the child’s maturity level, a child’s preference becomes more important by about age 12 to 13.

What to do when your child doesn’t want to live with you?

Here are a few tips to help you have a productive discussion with them:

1. Encourage open communication. Let your child know that you’re open to hearing what they have to say—even if you disagree.
2. Set communication ground rules.
3. Be empathetic.
4. If possible, bring your ex into the conversation.
5. Express your fears.

What happens if there is no court order for custody?

IF THE PARENTS OF THE CHILD ARE MARRIED, and there is no court order for custody of the child, then each parent has equal rights to custody of the child. Basically, whoever has the child can keep the child.

Can a father get custody of his child from a mother?

A father’s relationship with his children is a legal right. Whether you’re seeking to obtain full custody or joint custody with the child’s mother, putting forth the right plan of action can result in success. There is no magic spell for getting custody as a dad, but having an understanding of state laws and a reasonable plan of action can help.

Can a father get visitation rights without a court order?

The father has no legal right to see their child without a court order. Legally, there is no presumption of paternity; this means that unwed fathers are not, by default, assumed to be biologically related to their children. This type of situation can prevent the father from being awarded visitation rights or child custody.

Is refusing to co-parent a reason to lose custody of a child?

Is this level of refusing to co-parent a proper reason to lose custody of a child? The answer is probably yes, although there may be solutions less extreme than losing custody of a child. The court may order the noncustodial parent to see the children more in the evenings and after school so that parent can attend to homework.