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torybrown2 · Jul 19, 2012, 11:02 PM

My mom and dad got a divorce when I was 5 years old. I am 16 years old and I want to live with my mom. However, my mom has been in trouble with the law a few times. She ran away for a couple years when she got in trouble,and she came back. I know she isn't allowed to have weapons because of this, but I know she's changed. She's been around for 6 years now with a job. I haven't seen her in these past 6 years, because my dad lied to her and told her I didn't want to see her. I never once said that. She's my mom and I love her so much. I want to move in with her now, but I don't know if my dad will let me or how to go about it.

teacherjenn4 · Jul 19, 2012, 11:31 PM

Maybe you need to spend some time getting to know her again before you decide to move in with her. You should talk to your Dad about it first. You haven't seen her in six years, so you really don't know what type of home life she can offer you. Take it very slowly and start with a visit.

Alty · Jul 19, 2012, 11:39 PM

If your father has custody it's not as easy as you deciding you want to live with your mom. Your mother would have to petition the courts for custody. Considering her past issues with the law she may have a hard time obtaining custody.

Have you spoken to your father about this? Does your mom know you want to live with her? Is she prepared to have a teenager she hardly knows in her life?

ScottGem · Jul 20, 2012, 03:43 AM

As noted, you can't just move. Mom has to petition the court for a modification of the custody order and prove to the court she is capable of caring for you. At 16 your preference will be taken into account, but a court will make the decision.

When you are 18, you can make the decision yourself. In my opinion you should try getting to know your mom by spending some time with her starting with a few hours a week and building up to as much as Dad allows. If dad doesn't allow visitation then Mom can go to court for that.