Legal Question in Family Law in Texas

Legal Age

In the state of Texas at what age can a child decide which parent he wants to live with? Also, how old must he be to move out of either parent's home?


Asked on 6/16/07, 10:12 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Bobby Warren Patel & Warren, PLLC

Re: Legal Age

Once a child reaches the age of 12, that child may submit a written statement to the court expressing a desire to live with a specific parent. Generally, unless there is a strong reason to not follow the child's wishes, the court will decide based on that written statement.

As for moving out of the home of both parents, a child must generally be 18 years old or have received legal emancipation from a court, which can only be done if the child is at least 17 and has a means of financially supporting themselves.

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Answered on 6/17/07, 7:33 pm


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