Legal Question in Family Law in Arkansas

Re: legal age to make decisions regarding living arrangements.

The short answer is that you must be 18 to determine where you want to live. Otherwise it will be decided by your parents and if they cannot agree, then by a judge. At that time the judge will listen to where you want to live and why you want to live there, but it will be a decision of the judge and your parents. Talk to your parents. You seem to write well from your questions, set down and write them a letter explaining which home you want to live in and why. One of your parents is probably going to have their feelings hurt. Be aware of that and explain that you still love him or her and want to spend time with him or her, but at this time you would rather live at the other home and come back and visit them. Plan to make the change for a limited period, maybe over the summer or one semester and then to revisit your decision. You've heard the phrase, "the grass is greener on on the other side of the fence". At 52 I still have to remind myself of that simple fact. You are participating in a very adult decision, handle it like an adult, by expressing your feelings and desires but with understanding of the feelings and desires of your parents. This will be difficult on both parents, but that is no reason to avoid doing the right thing, just handle with care. Good Luck

Re: legal age to make decisions regarding living arrangements.

Are you where you are because a court gave you to that particular parent? If so, you can go back to that same court (judge) and ask him or her yourself to change the order, thus allowing you to live with the parent of your choice. Just be very sure and show the judge how mature and sincere you are about your own future. An attorney can help you with the paperwork. If you can't afford to pay for it, call the local county bar association. They have a list of attorneys willing to do low-cost or pro bono (free) work.

Good luck!!