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At What Age Does a Child Have a Say in a Custody Case

Posted by Gordon Shayne | Mar 09, 2016 | 0 Comments

I want to discuss with you what can motivate a child to switch homes as his primary residence, and at what age in Florida does a child have a voice. There's different ways that a child of a certain age can have a voice in a custody case or in their parents' divorce.

Are you preparing to file for divorce? Looking for answers on how the divorce process works? Visit www.ShayneLaw.com to find your answers. Get in touch with us today for any of your Florida family law needs.

I want to discuss with you what can motivate a child to switch homes as his primary residence and at what age in Florida does a child have a voice. There's different ways that a child of a certain age can have a voice in a custody case or their parents divorce.

Most of our judges do not allow children to come to court and testify in their parents divorce or custody case. Courts are very sensitive to protecting children from the conflict between their parents in their divorce or their custody case. But there are some exceptions where a child's voice can be part of the legal process.

One of the ways is when a parenting expert is allowed in these kinds of cases. A parenting expert such as a doctor of psychology will normally interview the children in a custody case and interview the parents. And then file a written report regarding that interview and make recommendations that are very specific as to the wishes of the children under certain circumstances.

 It's always important to talk to a lawyer who is well qualified and knows the laws in Florida as to what kind of input and what age a child's input may be considered. Keep in mind that in Florida's law, there is nothing specific that states that a child at a certain age will have a say as to where that child lives or what kind of parenting time that child would prefer.

About the Author

Gordon Shayne

Gordon N. Shayne Family Law / Divorce Lawyer Phone: (904) 544-6855 Gordon N. Shayne's field of practice is devoted to Family Law/Divorce case throughout the State of Florida

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ABOUT GORDON N. SHAYNE

With over 35 years of experience, Mr. Shayne has had a legal career fighting for the rights of his clients while focusing his practice exclusively on Divorce, Child Custody and other Family Law Matters. Our services are available throughout the State of Florida.

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