Legal Question in Family Law in California

Re: Can an 11yr old child decide

There is no certain age when a child is old enough to have input into custody issues. The standard the court uses is "best interest of the child" and every child and every family is different. Different bench officers see the issue differently too. But in general, if a child does not want to spend time with the noncustodial parent, the court will NOT change visitation to accommodate the child's wishes. Why not? Because time with the noncustodial parent is important, and kid's don't always know what is best for them or know how to prioritize. Court's tend to believe it is your job as parents to help them do that, and your job as the custodial parent to show your child that you think time with the other parent is important. If you believe your child is in distress, then I encourage you to work with the other parent to figure out why and if there is something the two of you can do. The exception is if there is reason to suspect abuse. Then you need to consult with a lawyer.