Legal Question in Family Law in Washington

WA State Childs Age To Choose Residence

I would like to know if there is a age a child (of sound mental and health quality) can choose the residence or custodian they desire. I have been the legal guardian of my 12 year old daughter all her life. I have been in a custody dispute for almost 2 years, where the GAL went against the childs wishes (thinking the child is just brainwashed.) The Judge ruled in Jan. That I have 1 year, to keep clean and up to snuff with Deffered Pros. (2 mo.s left) He also req'd my ex to use case worker and counselor to repair any alienation problems (of which he will say he hasn't done because his dad was dying)

This can go on and on, now he says he is back on track and making up accusations, and wanting to Supena my Treatment info. If he inquires, it can bring up some possible neg. repercussions. I can't afford all the responses, lawyer fees, and additional testing- I still owe another 1000.00 from Jan.

What can I do but cave in, do I have hope that this could be short term? How long? My girl turns 13 in Oct. 00


Asked on 5/25/00, 1:31 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Britton Buckley Law Offices of Britton A. Buckley

Re: WA State Childs Age To Choose Residence

There is no set age for a minor child to choose which parent to reside with. The court will consider a number of factors in weighing a child's wishes, but will never just accept what the child wants as final. If the court finds that one parent is unsuitable then even very strong wishes by the child will not outweigh that finding.

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Answered on 7/07/00, 2:16 pm


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