INTERVIEWING CHILDREN

One factor the Court must consider when determining the best interest of minor children is the child’s wishes and concerns. Ohio Revised Code 3109.04(F)(1) and (2). The Court may decide to interview minor children and at the request of one or both of the parents the Court shall interview the minor children.

If a request has been made to interview the children, the Court, in its discretion, may and upon motion of either parent, shall appoint a guardian ad litem for the child. The Court must also determine the reasoning ability of a child.

The interview of minor children takes place in chambers. The child, the judge, the child’s attorney, and any necessary court personnel will be present for the interview.