Teenager wants to change custody to live with noncustodial parent

[ebbtide]

I have a 151/2 year old that has written a letter to the judge that I attached to my pettition to change custody for him. This young man is an honor student in high school and makes straight A's in AP classes. The child spends at least 2 days a week with the noncustodial parent and every other weekend as well. The problem is this that the primary custodial parent went and retained a lawyer and has filed to dismiss the case based on the fact that the minors letter is considered heresay. Recently, I filed a motion to appoint a guardian ad litem for the minor. Is there any other option that I have to get this minor into the mediation or into the general magistrate hearing to speak on behalf of himself?

[Attorney Howard Iken]

It is hearsay at this point.

You must file a motion for testimony of a minor and hold a hearing on that matter. If granted the judge will meet privately with the child.

Attorney Howard Iken
The Divorce Center

[ebbtide]

I have filed a motion to have a guardian ad litem appointed, will that work also??

[Attorney Howard Iken]

That may help. But in many jurisdictions, GALs are not available for this type of purpose.