Child custody - Do judges tend to listen to children?

J

JaneDer

New member
This may vary from state to state, but do judges tend to listen to the children if they disagree with the custody arrangements? Are they required? Can you provide any sources?
 
After12 years old, judges with have a private conference with a child. What happens depends on what you tell him. He will rule for your safety and not what you "want".
 
sure---here in Jersey, if the child is over 7, they can tell the courts who they prefer to live with. A lot of times it comes down to the child's preference, actually.
 
sometimes, depending on their age.

The problem is that oftentimes children wish to go to the other parent because the other parent is more fun (no chores, no groundings, no being made to do homework).
 
Really depends on how old the children are. If they are under 12 generally a judge will not even allow them to testify and will often bar them from the proceedings. If there is a question about what is in the child's best interest the court will appoint a guardian ad litum to meet with the child(ren) and to make a report to the court.

It is up to the court if they are willing to listen to the desires of the child. Courts know that children often ask to be placed with parents that may not serve their best interests. Children can often be swayed by a parent to appeal for them.
 
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