Can 14 yr. old hire his own attorney?

My Grandson has always wanted to live with his Mom but because of her job promotions and moving the Judge has left him with his Dad. Nov. 99 he became adamant about living with his Mom. She contacted Dad and then her Attorney who told them to wait untll Brandon was 14 then he would have a choice. In Feb.he pushed his Mom to get a court date which she did. They go to court and do the he says she says stuff and the Judge talked to the boy. Brandon came out excited because he thought the Judge understood him and he was told it would be a couple of days. The decision came back saying the pschologist was given 60 days to make a reccomendation. Brandon was upset but we convinced him to handle it well but his problem is he is sitting in limbo. He wants to play sports at his Moms and wanted to settle in before school started. Now he is in the first year of high school and participating in nothing giving his Dad trouble and has a couple minor incidents with police. He needs someone to make a decision and get his life moving in a constructive direction. Can he hire his own Attorney and is that advisable at this time?

What state are you in? In TX at that age of 12 a minor may petition the court his/herself for change of custody.

[Illinois Parent]

Rather than going out and 'hiring' his own attorney, you could help him get a 'Guardian Ad Litum'. This person acts as the child's voice in court, insuring that the child's best interest is served.

I'd go to the court house and request info on this 'person'.

[Jenifa]

I am sorry I cannot do this research for you, as I am 8 months pregnant and sitting in this chair is killing my back. However, there is a website I can refer you to, which you can research the links.
It's [url="http://www.vachss.com"]http://www.vachss.com[/url]

it has links to children's law advocates in different parts of the country. Some with websites and some with telephone numbers. I hope this helps you help your grandson somewhat. Good luck.