Do minors have the right to refuse counseling?

[drystan]

I live in California and my mother is trying to force me to go. It's family counseling, so it is not geared towards one individual. Also it is not court mandated. I am against it because I think it is a waste of time and money. Is there any law that grants a minor the right to refuse? Thank you for your help.

[hanan]

you are required to go if your mother wants you to go, you are also however NOT required to talk if that is what you wish..but that would just make you a brat and waste your moms money like you said, but you dont have a choice in the matter so talking would be in your best interest

[nemausus36]

No, you do not have the right to refuse counseling. As others have said you have the right to refuse to speak to the counselor, however that could be seen as a sign of family problems that will trigger further intervention.

If you want this thing to end off fast, the best thing to do is to go to counseling and act normally so that the counselor can see that there is nothing wrong with your family. If you go and refuse to talk or say strange things, then the counselor will figure there are problems and call you back.

[barend31]

You don't have to, but for the sake of family and your Mother it could be a good thing. I've never been to any type of counseling, have seen persons try it as a last resort. Some say they learn a lot about other members and are able to relate to reason of counseling, and some claim success. Won't hurt you to try it...and like you say, it's not geared toward one individual.

[andor25]

No you have to go but you are not required to talk.

[han]

No.

[sayre]

You have to go.