Nothing cuts through the heart quite like the strain of a divorce, especially when children are involved. Amid the turmoil of custody battles, many parents find themselves asking, “Can a judge interview my child in a child custody dispute?” In Georgia, the answer is yes, a phenomenon known as a custodial interview. This complex process may feel overwhelming, but with the guidance of divorce attorneys in Marietta, GA, navigating these waters becomes significantly easier.
What is a Custodial Interview With a Child?
In Georgia, a judge can indeed conduct a custodial interview with a child, a process initiated based on the judge’s discretion or upon the request of a party. According to O.C.G.A § 19-9-3(a)(6), judges in Georgia are vested with the power to speak with the child privately to get an unfiltered understanding of the child’s preferences and feelings about the custodial arrangement.
Reasons Why a Judge May Interview a Child
The judicial system in Georgia is firmly committed to ensuring the best interest of the child in any custody dispute. There are a few primary reasons a judge might decide to conduct a custodial interview:
- Ascertain the Child’s Desires: A custodial interview can provide valuable insights into the child’s feelings and preferences regarding their living arrangements.
- Determine the Child’s Well-being: The judge can use this interaction to evaluate if the child is in a safe and nurturing environment.
- Assess Parental Influence: These interviews help judges to discern if a child’s views are genuinely their own or if they have been unduly influenced by a parent.
Your divorce attorney Marietta, GA, at the Law Offices of William R. Pike Law, LLC, can help prepare you and your child for this process, ensuring your rights and your child’s best interests are protected. Our combined years of experience and compassionate approach ensure that you and your child’s needs are prioritized. In the midst of these challenging times, you don’t have to feel alone. Contact us today to learn how we can serve as your guide and advocate during your child custody dispute in GA.
