Children often have the most vital information that is relevant to their parents’ divorce. But does that mean that a child testimony in family court should be included in your divorce hearing?

Our New York divorce lawyer will discuss whether minors can testify in court for a divorce, whether it is in their best interests to do so, and common alternatives to child testimony.

What Happens at a New York Divorce Hearing? 

During a divorce hearing, a judge may ask you about your basic information, residency, and how long you and your spouse have lived apart. Other questions include whether property rights need to be decided upon, whether children are involved, and about any arrangements for child support. At a final divorce hearing, the process will often involve summarizing the separation agreement and confirming that both parties agree to it.

At What Age Can a Child Testify in Court?

Many parents wonder can a minor testify in court and if their children should testify even if it is legally permissible. Children as young as three to four years old may be able to testify in court, but children this young are often too immature or emotional to be effective witnesses. In criminal cases, a child can be ordered to testify if he/she is a victim or witness to a crime. But in divorce cases that do not involve abuse or neglect, parents must carefully weigh the risks and benefits of child testimony in family court.

Effects on a Child of Testifying in Court child saddened as parents go through divorce in New York

Having to choose between parents or testify against a parent can take a big emotional and psychological toll on a child. Parents should consider how having to testify will affect the child long-term because it is often best for the child to have a healthy relationship with both parents. Think about whether your child’s testimony is really necessary and gauge your child’s interest in testifying in court after explaining in simple terms what that means.

How a Testimony of a Child is Handled in a New York Court

If a child is needed to testify in a divorce case, the judges will typically insist that lawyers are more restrained in their questioning than with an adult witness. Child witnesses should be treated with respect and not talked down to or unnecessarily doubted just because of their age.

Alternatives to a Child Testimony in Family Court

To avoid placing a child in the messy middle of a divorce, a judge will often speak privately with the child in court chambers rather than in open court in front of the parents. Parents are not allowed to attend this private interview, but the parents’ attorneys may be present. This is a way to solicit an honest opinion about the parents without fear of punishment. Another strategy is to have an attorney appointed to the child to speak for him/her if the child is too young or unable to personally testify.

Pursuing a Divorce in Brooklyn, New York

If you are pursuing a divorce in New York that involves children, you need a trusted and experienced local divorce attorney on your side to ensure that children’s best interests are put first at divorce hearings. Whether you have a contested or uncontested divorce, the Alatsas Law Firm can advise you of the best ways to get a favorable outcome from your divorce and discuss with you how much your children should be involved in the proceedings.

Schedule a Consultation Today with our New York Family Law Attorney

Alatsas Law Firm is conveniently located for residents of Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island. Our ground floor office is handicapped accessible with a subway stop and two bus lines nearby.

We know that dealing with legal issues affecting your family can be stressful, but we will proactively work to provide you with peace of mind as you move forward. If you’re in need of assistance with a divorce or family law concern, contact us today at 718-233-2903 to schedule a free, no-obligation initial consultation.  

Ted Alatsas
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Trusted Brooklyn, New York Family Law Attorney helping NY residents with Elder Law and Asset Protection