At what age can a child refuse visitation in Tennessee?

12 years old
In Tennessee, the child must be at least 12 years old. That would be the legal age at which the child could express a preference of a parent to live with over the other. Children should never be pressured to take sides or choose the more loved (or permissive) parent instead of the other parent (or disciplinarian).

Can a 14 year old decide which parent to live with?

At what age can a child decide? In law, there is no fixed age that determines when a child can express a preference as to where they want to live. However, legally, a child cannot decide who they want to live with until they are 16 years old.

Is Tennessee a mother or father state?

In Tennessee, an unmarried mother automatically has both physical and legal custody of the child until the father establishes paternity. … Unmarried fathers who are committed to playing an active role in their children’s lives may face some obstacles when it comes to shared custody of their children.

Can a child say where they want to live?

The answer to the question ‘what age can a child decide where they live’ is never. A child does not get to choose their living arrangements. … A child’s wish is just one of many factors a court has to consider in determining what orders are in the child’s best interests.

Can a 10 year old decide which parent to live with?

A child cannot legally decide who they want to live with until the age of 16. However, this may extend to 17 or 18 if there is a child arrangement order in place that specifies where a child should live.

What do you do when your child doesn’t want to see their dad?

Encouraging Visitation
  1. Remember your role as a parent. Keep in mind that you are the one calling the shots, not your child. …
  2. Talk to your child about why they don’t want to go. …
  3. Get your co-parent involved. …
  4. Make parenting time transitions as smooth as possible.

How old do you have to be to choose which parent you want to live with in Australia?

There is no set age at which a child can choose who they live with, or choose when (or whether) they see the other parent. A child is legally a minor until he/she turns 18.