What is the age in Massachusetts that a child can decide which parent to live with?

What is the age in Massachusetts that a child can decide which parent to live with?

Can a 16-year old decide which parent to live with in Massachusetts? On the surface, the question above is simple: the age of majority in Massachusetts is 18, which means that a 16-year old is a child who is subject to the custody decisions of the Probate and Family Court.

At what age can a child refuse to see their parent?

The court can modify a custody order if (1) the child is at least 12 years of age and expresses a preference of which parent he or she prefers to live with in chambers to the court, and (2) it is in the best interest of the child.

Can you choose who to live with at 16?

There is no rule about how old you have to be to choose who you want to live with. You can have an opinion at any age and your parents should listen to what you have to say. To help your parents understand why you have made certain decision, it is important to try and explain how you feel.

Can my parents call the cops if I leave at 14?

Parents or legal guardians can report a runaway to the police at any time.

Can my 15 year old refuse visitation?

Most judges understand that once a child reaches their teens (14 /15 /16 /17), it certainly is difficult to force them to visit with a noncustodial parent when they are adamant about not seeing them, but it truly is not the child’s decision.

Can a 13 year old refuse visitation?

Understanding a Parent’s Role in Visitation A child custody order requires parents to make a child reasonably available for visits. An older teen may outright refuse visits and there’s not a lot that a parent can do. Yet, parents with younger children will need to play a more active role in ensuring that visits happen.

Can my 16 year old refuse visitation?

No matter the reason for not wanting to see their other parent, custodial parents are responsible for making sure that their child sees their other parent. When it’s a teenager who is refusing visitation, the court may look at the situation differently than they would if it was a young child.

What do I do if my child doesn’t want to see a parent?

Talk to your child about why they don’t want to go Try to get to the bottom of why your child doesn’t want to spend time or stay with your co-parent. Let your child express their feelings to you without judgment. When it’s your turn to respond, do so with kindness and understanding.

Should you force a child to visit a parent?

Some parents have asked me whether they have to “force” their child to visit. Having said that, if you have a family court order that provides for a visitation schedule, then the safest answer is “yes” you must make the child go. If you fail to abide by the court order, there can be several legal consequences.

What to do when your child refuses to do what you ask?

If they don’t begin doing what you asked or don’t complete the task, calmly ask them “What did I ask you to do?” Make sure the child is clear about what is expected. If they can correctly tell you, say, “That’s good, now please get to it.”

Can a 14 year old choose where they want to live?

No, a 14-year old may not decide where she wants to live without going to court when there are existing Orders. When you are dealing with children in court, competent legal representation should always be sought, as the subject matter of the litigation is so very important.

What is considered harassment by a co parent?

It’s essential to let your attorney know if your co-parent is harassing you with endless texts or phone calls or if he or she is speaking negatively about you or spreading rumors behind your back or on social media. No one should criticize or berate a co-parent in front of their children.

Is texting an ex harassment?

Text messages are short and quick, and they can be less likely to lead to extended arguments than a phone call. On the other hand, sending repeated text messages to an ex-spouse, ex-lover or ex-partner can sometimes be considered harassment – especially if the texts are insulting or have a threatening undertone.

How do you deal with malicious mother syndrome?

Though most commonly called malicious mother syndrome, both mothers and fathers can be capable of such actions….You may be able to:Have custody and support agreements modified;Seek court-ordered counseling for the malicious parent; or.Obtain supervised visitation.