General question...

[KSMama11]

Jurisdiction

Missouri

Can a 17 year old in Missouri choose where they want to live, such as with a legal guardian vs a parent? Or does a judge make that decision?

 

[army judge]

Can a 17 year old in Missouri choose where they want to live, such as with a legal guardian vs a parent? Or does a judge make that decision?

Anyone can express his or her preferences, if the judge chooses to listen.

Ultimately, the judge decides, an order is issued, all should obey the order.

The good news for the 17 year old, even a 7 year old, is if they live to reach their 18th birthday; no one can tell them what to do.

That is, if they continue to OBEY all of THEIR laws.

 

[KSMama11]

Anyone can express his or her preferences, if the judge chooses to listen.

Ultimately, the judge decides, an order is issued, all should obey the order.

The good news for the 17 year old, even a 7 year old, is if they live to reach their 18th birthday; no one can tell them what to do.

That is, if they continue to OBEY all of THEIR laws.

Thanks for your reply, Army Judge. Apparently some in MO think a child can choose, regardless, once they turn 17. I know the age of majority is 18 in MO, so was wondering .

 

[army judge]

Thanks for your reply, Army Judge. Apparently some in MO think a child can choose, regardless, once they turn 17. I know the age of majority is 18 in MO, so was wondering .

You're welcome.
I've learned that many myths, legends, and fairy tales exist about many things. LOL

 

[KSMama11]

You're welcome.
I've learned that many myths, legends, and fairy tales exist about many things. LOL

Sorry to be a bother but could you point me to where I can find the specifics of the law in this matter? I have been searching & am unable to locate it. Thanks again.

 

[adjusterjack]

Sorry to be a bother but could you point me to where I can find the specifics of the law in this matter? I have been searching & am unable to locate it.

Because there is none. A child is an adult at the age of 18. Before that a child cannot "decide" where to live. At best, a child can express a desire to live with a parent or guardian but the final decision rests with a judge after reviewing all of the factors that it takes to decide what is in the best interest of the child. Among those factors, the child's wishes are dead last on the list, if it's on the list at all.

Why do you think you need a "law" in this matter?

 

[shrinkmaster]

There is no law because the age of majority covers this issue. Far as choosing where this minor should live there first has to be an open custody case. Then the Judge "may" listen and even rule on placement based on this. However its Judge's job to do what is in minors best interest which rarely links up to the minors desires. If there are issue within home that concern the minor then he/she should talk to a trusted adult or children's services