Can a Child Decide to not have Visitation with their other Parent? And, At What Age?


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“In Florida, at what age can a Child decide that they do not want to visit the other parent?”

Question: Never, unless the child becomes emancipated. At 18, they have reached majority, and would also be able to make up their own mind. The logistic reality is that teenagers start to vote with their feet by not going on Court-scheduled visits. And yes, you can call the police for a civil standby to force your kid to come to see you, but that does not reflect a healthy relationship, and may scar your child. Turn the question back to yourself by figuring out why your child does not want to come for visits, and also trying to figure out what is in your child’s best interests. As .38 Special said: “Hold on loosely, but don’t let go; if you cling too tightly, you’re gonna lose control.”