Legal Question in Family Law in Washington

Re: Custody

Yes, it is the law that says children under the age of eighteen are minors. When they get to be eighteen, they are grown ups and can decide what they want. But before that, their parents are responsible for them and make decisions for them.

That said, a guardian ad litem can be appointed by the court to talk with the child and the court will take their wishes into consideration. But family court judges are perfectly aware that sometimes kids are unduly influenced, or sometimes they think it would be fun to live with the parent who has no rules or structure in their household.

Hope this helps. Elizabeth Powell