Bill > H1312

This bill, concerning family court proceedings, aims to give children a more direct voice in divorce cases. Specifically, when a child reaches the age of 12, the court will be required to consider the child's preferences regarding their custody arrangements. The bill mandates that children aged 12 and older have the option to express their wishes either orally or in writing, either directly to the judge in court or in chambers, or through a representative like an attorney for the child or a Guardian ad Litem (a court-appointed advocate for a child). Furthermore, if a shared custody plan is being developed, it must now incorporate the child's preferences concerning the duration, frequency, and specific dates of their visits. This legislation seeks to ensure that a child's perspective is a factor in decisions that significantly impact their lives during divorce proceedings.