Legal Question in Family Law in Arizona

I live in Arizona. What is the legal age when a child can decide which parent they want to live with?


Asked on 7/11/10, 4:21 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Monica Donaldson Stewart Donaldson Stewart, P.C.

There is no legal age at which a minor child can choose which parent to live with. The child's wishes are one factor among several that the court must take into consideration; however, the court makes its determination based on the child's best interests, which are not always the same as what the child wants. Older children's wishes carry more weight, but ultimately, it is not the child's decision.

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Answered on 7/11/10, 7:45 pm
Rich Peters R.J. Peters & Assoc., P.C.

A child's desires must be considered by the Court, but it is only one factor of many. Usually, though, the reasons the child wants to choose one parent can also be very important.

We can certainly help you consider and then pursue your options for modification of the current orders. This is obviously a very important matter, and you should not go in alone.

One of our attorneys can explain the issues and procedures better in person. As you can imagine, there is too much to cover via email. We offer free 1/2 hour consultations, in which we can discuss your matter in detail.

Please call us directly to discuss the specifics of your matter, or contact my assistant Gloria or my paralegal Jennifer to schedule your free 1/2 hour consultation.

/s/ Rich J. Peters

R.J. Peters & Assoc., P.C.

1422 North 2nd Street, Suite 100

Phoenix, Arizona 85004

602-254-7251

facsimile 602-254-1229

see our website at www.familylawaz.com

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Answered on 7/14/10, 10:36 am


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