When does our child have a voice in determining where he/she wants to live?

The Court will generally determine a child's preference when they have the required age and maturity to make such a decision. Although the Family Code does not specify an age, the general age is approximately 14, but varies according to the child's ability to understand the realities of his/her preference. However, it is important to note that the child's preference is only one factor the Court may consider. It is not conclusive or absolute. Therefore, just because a child indicates that he or she wants to live with one parent over the other does not mean that they will.

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