Can My Child Decide Which Parent To Live With In Michigan?

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Learn more about child custody in Michigan.

A custody fight might be one of the most unpleasant experiences a parent can have, but children caught in the middle of the conflict may find it just as stressful. While children must realize that both parents love and want them, coping with a lengthy custody struggle on top of the pain, loss, and rage that comes with a parent’s divorce may be too much for them to bear.

For most children, the thought of having to choose between their parents is even more distressing. There will also be times when the child prefers one parent over the other because that parent is more suited to the child’s needs. The question now is: can children pick which parent they want to live with?

Child Custody Factors in Michigan

Contrary to popular belief, a child cannot simply decide which parent to live with before the age of 18 in Michigan. However, when deciding on child custody or parenting time, the court will consider several factors, including the child’s preferences.

When deciding on child custody, courts consider twelve factors concerning the child’s best interests. This includes the relationship between children and parents, each parent’s capability to provide (financially, emotionally, etc.); the stability of the home setting; the willingness to co-parent, and more. Furthermore, a judge may consider the child’s preference if the court finds that the kid is of the appropriate age to articulate a preference.

The child’s preference is one factor the court must consider when addressing custody and parenting time concerns, but it is not the only factor. In reality, the court is not required to examine all of the best interests elements equally. A child’s preference will be given the significance it deserves depending on the child’s age and the “soundness” of the decision under the circumstances.

Court and Child’s Preferences

In Michigan, judges may consider a child’s preference only when the court believes the youngster is of suitable age and maturity to make such a decision.�� The court must then examine several other considerations before making a final judgment on custody, parenting time, and other aspects of family law.

When a child is mature enough to voice his or her preferences, the court must hear his or her views before making a decision. The court will only talk with a minor if the judge believes he or she is old and mature enough to do so.

There is no minimum age requirement. Instead, it boils down to the child’s maturity level. The more mature the child is, the more the court will value the child’s views while deciding on custody and parenting time.

Hire a Michigan Child Custody Lawyer Today

If you have questions concerning custody or parenting time or have any other family law problems, do not hesitate to call the competent custody lawyers at Goldman and Associates. Contact us today and set an appointment with one of our attorneys.