Does my daughter have the ability to refuse to visit her father?
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Does my daughter have the ability to refuse to visit her father?
My 14 year old daughter was presented to me at the pick up point for visitation, with her 2 other sisters. Howeve, for the first time in 3.5 years she refused to come for visitation. Is there an age at which a child can stop vistation with their father non-custodial Parent?
Asked on September 5, 2012 under Family Law, Washington
Answers:
FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
Under the laws of all states in this country the court system recognized a point in time of a child's life where he or she may not want to be with a particular parent in a split home situation. Typical age of a minor where the courts give greater credence to his or her desires is around age 13.
If your 14 year old daughter has valid reasons for not wanting to see her father, then perhaps the court will not force the issue with her. I do suggest that you speak with the father face to face with the daughter so she can express her desires and reasons for not wanting to visit him.
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