Custody fights tug at the heart—especially when your kid has an opinion. Many dads ask: Can my child pick me? In California, it’s not a straight yes or no. At Reel Fathers Rights, we help fathers decode custody rules and secure fair deals for their kids.
Does a Child Get to Decide?
Kids don’t have the final say in California custody cases. But their voice can matter, depending on age and maturity:
- Per California Family Code § 3042:
- ✔️ Age 14+: Courts must weigh their preference unless it’s bad for them.
- ✔️ Under 14: Judges might listen, but they don’t have to follow it.
It’s not a free-for-all—wishes only count if they fit the bigger picture.
Schedule a Case Evaluation call 951-339-3826
How Much Does a Child’s Opinion Matter?
A kid’s preference is just one piece of the puzzle. Courts greenlight it only if it’s in their best interests. Judges dig into:
- Which home’s safer and steadier?
- Will school or routines take a hit?
- Is a parent pulling strings or pressuring them?
- ⚖️ Any abuse, neglect, or alienation at play?
If the choice doesn’t add up for the child’s well-being, it’s a no-go.
How Courts Pick Custody
Judges zoom in on the best interests of the child, looking at:
- Your bond with your kid.
- Who’s got the stable setup?
- Proximity to school and friends.
- Red flags like violence or drugs.
If your ex is turning your child against you, that can backfire on their custody chances.
Click to contact us today
What If My Child Picks Me?
Kid wants to live with you? Prove it’s right with:
- ✔️ Better emotional, school, and physical support.
- ✔️ No coercion—just their honest choice.
- ✔️ A rock-solid home base.
You might need a custody modification to make it official.
Complete a Case Evaluation form now
What If My Ex Is Manipulating Them?
Suspect coaching or alienation? Fight back:
- Log it—texts, talks, witnesses.
- Get a neutral custody evaluator involved.
- ⚖️ File to change custody if they’re breaking rules.
Reel Fathers Rights stops exes from using kids as weapons.
Can Kids Speak in Court?
Sometimes, kids get their say:
- ✔️ A custody evaluator might chat with them.
- ✔️ They could talk to the judge privately (not in open court).
- ✔️ Counselors or therapists might weigh in too.
Want their voice heard? We’ll make it happen the right way.
Contact Reel Fathers Rights Today
Custody on the line? Don’t wing it. We’ve got offices in Corona, Irvine, San Bernardino, San Diego, and Riverside, serving dads across Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego Counties.
Click the link HERE to schedule your Consultation or call us 24/7 at 951-800-3390
Call or text 951-339-3826 or complete a Case Evaluation form
