Parental Alienation is a newer concept for the courts. While many people
claim alienation is taking place by one parent against the other, many
times this is not the case. When alienation is really occurring it is
a traumatic event in both the lives of the parent who is being alienated
as well as the children. Both Mothers and Fathers are equally responsible
for the acts associated with alienation.
When alienation occurs it does so in such a way that may be very apparent
to everyone or can be done in such a subtle way that it becomes very hard
to identify. The first step in identifying whether or not parental alienation
is actually occurring is to have a forensic evaluation whereby a psychologist
evaluates all members of the family to determine the family dynamics.
If alienation tactics are deemed to be taking place then the Courts must
determine how the alienation should be dealt with. Sometimes an adjustment
to the Order and therapy needs to be ordered for the parties as well as
the children to address the behavior. However, if this is not successful
then the courts have determined that a parent who continues to engage
in parental alienation is deemed to be taking place, the parent who is
engaging in the acts of parental alienation is deemed to be unfit to be
the custodial parent of the children.
In some cases, the parent who is engaging in alienation has visitation
suspended while they seek treatment for the behaviors they are engaging
in. When a parent is truly engaging in parental alienation they are actually
engaging in child neglect, due to the detrimental effect on the children.
If you need help with a family matter, schedule a consultation today!