Categories: DivorceChildren

How Do Children Speak To The Court?

One of the best interests factors to determine where the children will live is the opinion of the child. The age of the child will determine how much weight the court will give the child’s opinion. But the court does not actually speak with a child. Their voices are heard by the parents’ testimony, a counselor, or a parenting conference. The most effective testimony is usually by a personal counselor who has seen the children for awhile. The counselor can give the view of the child to the court. Children who are 16-17 are usually not ever forced to see one parent or the other. Children younger than 7-8 are not usually involved in the process and are not interviewed. If the children are interviewed they are not asked to choose between their parents, they are usually just asked open ended questions like” what do you like about your father/mother, what do you do when you are with them”, and so forth. An experienced family law attorney will help you help your children have their voices heard.

Cindy Best

Recent Posts

Corroborating Evidence and a Hearing in French

Arizona's Alec and Lydia Act does not require exhibits or another witness to corroborate domestic…

7 days ago

My Ex Is Filing For a Modification. Can I Bring Up The Domestic Violence From Our Marriage In My Response?

Your ex filed to modify custody. You can raise the domestic violence from your marriage,…

2 weeks ago

What Can You Do About Step Parent Abuse?

If someone in your ex’s household is abusing your child, that is domestic violence against…

3 weeks ago

Does the Alec and Lydia Act Apply to My Case If I Filed Before June 22, 2026?

Why Best Law Firm believes the Alec and Lydia Act applies to Arizona custody cases…

4 weeks ago

My Children Want to See Their Dad. Does That Matter If There Is Domestic Violence?

Why a child's desire to see an abusive parent does not override safety under the…

4 weeks ago

I Never Called the Police. Do I Still Have a Case for Domestic Violence?

How domestic violence can be established without a police report, and what records, timelines, and…

4 weeks ago