At what age in Virginia can a child choose which parent to live with?

At what age in Virginia can a child choose which parent to live with?

Children between 7 and 13 sometimes are asked what they want. Their preference sometimes is given weight, depending on the age and maturity of the child. Children 14 and older must be asked what they want. Their preference usually is given great weight, unless it is unreasonable.

Can you legally move out at 16 in Virginia?

In Virginia, a minor child of 16 years of age can petition the court to become emancipated. A petition for emancipation must be initiated by a legal filing with the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court for the county of city in which either the minor or his/her parents or guardian resides.

Is running away illegal in Virginia?

In the Commonwealth of Virginia, a child who is a runaway is not considered a criminal. All runaway cases will be handled as a non-criminal matter.

What happens if I’m 17 and runaway?

The 17 year old runaways have the following legal options: Contact the local police or shelter to help them return home. The court may grant guardianship but the parents will still have to provide for the child. The child may ask for emancipation in an emancipation proceeding where they get to become adults.

Does child support stop at 18 in Virginia?

In Virginia, child support obligations normally last until the child turns 19-years-old, but can continue past that age if the child is still in high school, or has certain physical or mental conditions that require extra support.

Does having another child affect child support in Virginia?

“Actual monetary support for other family members” is one of the factors a court can consider. A new child certainly appears to fall into this category. However, your financial responsibility for a new child doesn’t automatically establish a material change in circumstances.

Can child support be waived in Virginia?

Do Virginia child support laws allow child support to be waived? Parents cannot take away the Court’s power (called jurisdiction) to order either of them to pay child support. Virginia’s laws are so strict that parents cannot even waive or limit a child’s right to child support.

How do I appeal my child support in Virginia?

A request for an appeal from an action of the Division of Child Support Enforcement must be made in writing and mailed to the Virginia Department of Social Services, Appeals and Fair Hearings Unit, 801 E. Main Street,Richmond, Virginia 23219.

What is child support used for in Virginia?

“Support” means at least paying for food, clothing and shelter. But under VA Code 20-108.2, the source for child support laws in Virginia, support can also include medical coverage, dental expenses, and even psychological services such as a counselor or therapist.