Under custody determinations, can a judge interview the child in private (in camera)?

• A. No, the judge must rely only on reports.
• B. Yes, the judge may interview the child in camera.
• C. Only with both parents' consent.
• D. Only if the child is over 12.

Answer: (B)

The key idea is that in custody cases, the judge can speak with the child privately to learn the child’s preferences and to help judge what arrangement will best serve the child’s interests. This interview is typically conducted in camera, meaning out of the presence of the parents, to protect the child and encourage honest responses.

That makes the option correct because it reflects the judge’s discretionary power to gather firsthand input from the child rather than relying solely on reports or testimony from adults. The private interview is not contingent on both parents’ consent, nor is it limited to a specific age like 12; courts may interview younger children as appropriate and weigh the child’s views along with other factors to determine the best custody arrangement.