In this article, you will discover:
- Whether age is a factor in determining a child’s custody preference in Maryland or D.C.
- The weight a child’s opinion carries in Maryland and D.C. custody cases
- Whether children need to testify in Maryland or D.C. custody cases
At What Age Can A Child Express A Custody Preference In Maryland Or D.C. Family Court?
There’s no age limit. The child’s maturity level would be a determining factor. It’s never advisable to put children on the stand to testify against a parent.
When a child is young, the judge typically speaks with them alone, without the presence of parents or attorneys. The judge questions the child, but you don’t know what the child has told the judge. This arrangement is preferable because the child doesn’t feel pressured.
How Much Weight Do Maryland And D.C. Judges Give To A Child’s Opinion In Custody Cases?
It’s a factor, but it doesn’t weigh that heavily, especially when the child is young. If the child is 16 or 17, they go where they want to go. Even with a custody order dictating that a child visit a parent on a specific day, if a teenager doesn’t want to go, a judge will not force them to do so.
Does A Child Have To Testify In Court When Stating A Parent Preference In Maryland Or D.C.?
It’s up to the judge, but the judge will almost always interview the child alone.
Attorney Andre Batson is a skilled lawyer based in Washington, D.C., who has helped numerous clients, just like you, navigate the complexities of child custody law. With years of experience, he is prepared to assist you with child custody issues involving your child's custody preference to ensure their best interests are protected.
Still have questions? Ready to get started? Contact the Law Office of Andre L. Batson today to schedule a free initial consultation.
How Can Parents In Maryland Or D.C. Support Their Child’s Voice In Custody Decisions Without Applying Pressure?
A parent can support a child’s voice by not telling them what to say. Judges are trained to recognize when a child or a witness has been coached. It’s never a good idea for a parent to tell a child what to say regarding a custody preference.
Case Study: Have You Ever Encountered A Situation Where A Child’s Stated Preference Was Influenced By Manipulation Or Pressure?
Young children are easily influenced. Often, the parent who’s taking care of them, frequently the mother, can influence the child against the other parent.
I see that a lot: a child doesn’t want to go to the other parent. They want to stay where they feel more comfortable, in whatever environment they’re accustomed to.
If the father has a new home across town, the child doesn’t want to go to the father’s new home. They don’t care how nice it is. They are unfamiliar with the neighborhood, and the home is unfamiliar to them. This kind of situation is a crucial reason to get your children into therapy as soon as possible.
Still Have Questions? Ready To Get Started?
For more information on a child’s custody preferences in Maryland, an initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (202) 253-5922 today.
Attorney Andre Batson is a skilled lawyer based in Washington, D.C., who has helped numerous clients, just like you, navigate the complexities of child custody law. With years of experience, he is prepared to assist you with child custody issues involving your child's custody preference to ensure their best interests are protected.
Still have questions? Ready to get started? Contact the Law Office of Andre L. Batson today to schedule a free initial consultation.
