In parental alienation cases, we often see the child suffering from mental stress. So today, we will describe how to win a parental alienation case for child custody. If you do not know that parental alienation is a form of child abuse, we would suggest you look for a parental alienation case study.
There are several things you can do to win a child custody case if you are the targeted parent in a parental alienation case. For that, you must know the impacts of parental alienation and the winning process step by step from this article.
What is Parental Alienation?
Parental alienation is a complex phenomenon. In this process, one parent influences the child’s relationship with the other parent in negative ways. Parents can use various tactics for it. Some of the parental alienation syndromes are negativity, discouragement, physical prevention, and manipulation.
- Negativity: Making negative comments about the targeted parent
- Discouragement: Discouraging contact between the child and the targeted parent
- Physical Prevention: Preventing the child from seeing the targeted parent
- Manipulation: Turning the child against the targeted parent
What is the Impact of Parental Alienation?
Parental alienation can have a devastating impact on both the child and the targeted parent. It can lead to emotional problems, such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem in the child. It can also make it difficult for the targeted parent to maintain a close relationship with the child.
What Evidence Do I Need For Parental Alienation?
You need to compile as much evidence as possible to support your claim. Your evidence must include witness statements, text records, the child’s therapy records, and an expert’s opinion. In short, you could win the case by showing 5 to 17 signs of parental alienation.
Statement
You need the witness statements from friends, family members, or professionals who have seen or heard the alienating parent engage in alienating behaviour
Messages
Collect the emails, text messages, or other communications from the alienating parent to show that they are trying to turn the child against you.
Visit Records
You need the records of missed or cancelled visits between you and the child to make strong evidence.
Documentation
Show the documentation of the child’s emotional state, such as therapy records or school reports. Also, collect expert testimony from a psychologist or other mental health professional specialized in parental alienation.
What Do Judges Think of Parental Alienation?
Judges understand the seriousness of parental alienation and its impact on children. There have been several high-profile cases in which targeted parents got custody. Even when the alienating parent can lose custody when he or she is the caregiver.
Judges’ views on parental alienation will vary from case to case. Some judges may be more skeptical of parental alienation claims than others. So, it is important to work with an experienced lawyer who will present your case convincingly.
Importance of Keeping Records of All Encounters With Your Child
Keeping encounter records is the best strategy to win a parental alienation case. You can keep detailed records of all interactions and improve your winning chances. The records include phone calls, texts, emails, visits, and other communication.
You should also keep a record of any missed or cancelled visits. These encounter records will assure the court that you are a good parent and that the alienating parent is trying to interfere with your relationship with your child.
How Do You Fight Back Against Parental Alienation?
There are several things you can do to fight back against parental alienation, like becoming patient, avoiding negativity, expressing feelings, and seeking professional help.
- Be Patient and Consistent: Become patient because it may take time to rebuild your relationship with your child.
- Avoid Speaking Negatively: Don’t say negative things about the other parent. You will make the situation worse if you do it.
- Focus on The Positive Side: Find the positive parts of your relationship with your child. Spend more time with your child to support them mentally.
- Encourage to Express Feelings: Let your child know that it is okay to love both of their parents. Do not show yourself as a competitor.
- Seek Professional Help: A therapist can help you and your child to cope with the effects of parental alienation.
Getting Court-Ordered Therapy for the Child
In some cases, the court may order the child to undergo therapy with a neutral therapist who specializes in parental alienation. This is definitely an effective way to help the child heal. It helps in rebuilding their relationship with the targeted parent.
See More, How Divorce Mediation Process Work In Canada?
Conclusion
Winning a parental alienation case for child custody can be challenging. But it is possible once you know how to win a parental alienation case. Just gather evidence, keep detailed records and stop fighting back against another parent. Overall, showing your ideal character in court will help you win the case.
FAQ
What is the parental alienation syndrome?
Parental alienation syndrome (PAS) is a situation in which a child becomes separated from one parent due to the influence of the other parent. The alienating parent may apply behaviours like negative comments, discouraging contact, or even preventing the child from seeing the targeted parent.
What would motivate a parent to alienate his or her children from their other parent?
There are some reasons for which one parent can cause parental alienation. These are anger towards the other parent, a desire to punish the other parent, and the need to control the child. These are signs of parental alienation syndrome.
Is parental alienation syndrome in the DSM-5?
PAS is not currently recognized as a distinct disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). But, some mental health professionals believe that PAS should be in the DSM-5. The reason is that it can have a significant negative impact on children and families.
What is the role of trust in the reunification process?
Trust is essential for the successful reunification process. The child must trust the targeted parent and feel safe in their presence. During separation, it may take time to rebuild the relationship. It is complicated if the child has been alienated for a long period of time.
Is parental alienation always a deliberate act?
Mostly, parental alienation is a deliberate act. A parent may alienate their children from the other parent without realizing the consequences. But they chose to do it anyway for personal revenge and anger. We suggest taking therapy in such incidents. The court will also give positive feedback if the parents do not fight personally.
