My child is 11 years old and I want her to live with me, her mother. She currently lives with my ex- husband, her father in Indiana. I live in cheviet, Ohio. I can't afford a lawyer.. wha do I do.. she wants to live with me, but her dad won't allow it.. HELP ME!:( :( :mad:

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Originally Posted by Simone411

My child is 11 years old and i want her to live with me, her mother. She currently lives with my ex- husband, her father in indiana. i live in cheviet, ohio. i can't afford a lawyer.. what do i do.. she wants to live with me, but her dad wont allow it.. HELP ME!:( :( :mad:

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I am no expert, but my sister-in-law, who lives in Tennessee, had a similar issue two years ago. In their situation, the court said at the age of 12 the child could choose which parent they would reside with, but with visitations to the other parent as well. My sister-in-law did have a lawyer, so I don't know if this will be much help, but she did get her 12 year old daughter full time, and her older boys chose to stay with their father full time. Sorry it was't more helpful.

Sorry but no there is no age where the child can just decide where they can or will live.

At around age 12 they can testify in court and the judge will consider it.
But you will always have to go to court and file for a change in custody.

So you need to talk to legal aid or try to get an attorney, it really is not going to happen without one.

Beyond what the child "wants" the court will look at what is best for the child, the safety of the child and so on.