Assumption: "Whatever my child says about the other parent must be their genuine, unprompted view."
1 min readThis content reflects observational insights and lived community experiences. It does not constitute legal advice — always consult a qualified professional for your specific circumstances.
What People Expect
A parent may treat their child's stated wishes and feelings as automatically reliable and free of outside influence.
Court Reality
Courts are alert to the risk that a child's expressed wishes can reflect a parent's negative comments, direct pressure, or a child's own incomplete understanding of the situation, rather than the child's own settled view. This is part of why the court retains discretion over how much weight to give a child's wishes, rather than treating them as decisive.
This insight was contributed by someone who has been through the family court system. Bridge The Gap is deeply grateful to everyone who shares their experience — your honesty helps bridge the gap for the next person still in it.
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The Gap?
"Whatever my child says about the other parent must be their genuine, unprompted view."
Court Reality
Courts are alert to the risk that a child's expressed wishes can reflect a parent's negative comments, direct pressure, or a child's own incomplete understanding of the situation, rather than the child's own settled view.
Seen a gap between what you thought and the reality? Share yours.
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