Legal Question in Family Law in California

Age of child to decide which parent they want to live with.

In the State of California, specifically, Stanislaus County, what is the determining age that a minor child can mediate and make a decision of which parent he/she would like to live with? I have heard age eleven (11) and age thirteen (13). Please advise.


Asked on 3/09/00, 12:20 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Lyle Johnson Bedi and Johnson Attorneys at Law

Re: Age of child to decide which parent they want to live with.

In California the court is to consider the desire of a child of suitable age. Suitable age varies with the child. However, regardless of the age of the child the court does not have to honor the child's desire. But can make the decision based on what the court perceives to be the child's interests.

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Answered on 3/22/00, 4:07 am


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