Legal Question in Family Law in Florida

What age is a child legally able to speak for themselves? I recently separated from my ex-husband (we tried getting back together, didn't work). However, his sister passed away and he took custody of her children whom we raised together for two years. I have known these children since they were infants, now ages 7 & 8. My ex decided he didn't want me to see or talk to the children anymore just to be hateful. The children and I are very upset about this - we were very close and they took to me as their step mom since their mom had passed away. He told them when they are old enough they can talk to who they want. What age is legally "old enough" for them to be able to communicate with me and do I have any legal rights as far as seeing or talking to them. I was basically the only positive influence in their lives!!!


Asked on 10/03/10, 11:27 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Lucreita Becude Lucreita D. Becude, P.A.

Usually 10 or 11. However, under the current circumstances, I would contact the Dept of Children and Families and have them investigate the situation. He may be causing the children emotional harm and may not be the proper person to have custody of them.

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Answered on 10/08/10, 2:19 pm


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